Wadi Resort by Oppenheim Architecture + Design
- By Ina
- Architecture
lorida-based practice Oppenheim Architecture + Design worked on a resort project in Wadi Rum, Jordan that includes 47 desert lodges. Chad Oppenheim is the International “green” architect which passed an important step in the architecture field with this project that will be complete in 2014. Their impressive pictures show lodges directly carved into the sandstone cliff face.
Located in the ancient city of the Nebataeans, it will be an hour and a half outside of Petra. The architects took full advantage of the mystical valley where desert sand meets desert stone in order to establish accommodations in an unique, luxurious way.
The lodges form was devised using the existing geological geometries of the rock. For other structures there was used rammed earth and cement mixed with the local red sand so that the buildings were created in a harmonious and balanced way.
It could sound odd but the project will be constructed in a primordial way with minimum effort but maximum impact, this will be possible taking full advantage of the natural cooling effect of the rocks. Also a proper position will minimize the energy consumption and maximize comfortable healthy living.
On the 80,000-square-foot architectonic form the local materials will be used carefully and they will take great care for the water conservation.
