Located on the peninsula of one of the world’s most spectacular landscapes, Palm Jumeirah, an exclusive enclave of impeccable style is secluded amidst lush gardens, fountains and pools along the shimmering shores of the Arabian Gulf. Here, only a short journey by private water taxi or limousine, One & Only The Palm, Dubai, is an oasis of stylish energy and tranquillity designed to elevate the senses.
Taking it’s influence from the Andalusian architecture WA International has designed a contemporary Moorish interior. Once again working with One & Only and Mirage Leisure and Development, WA International’s brief was to create a luxurious destination retreat.
With a contemporary take on Andalusian architecture, WA International simplified traditional interior detailing to create pure architectural forms with clean lines and contemporary finishes. Utilising a diverse array of materials, such as marble inlay to the floors, decorative textured plaster walls, mashribiya screens, back lit etched glass and embossed metal, WA International has created an exotic, yet relaxed interior to this boutique resort hotel.
Design Director of WA International, Claire Craig said:
“For the reception lobby in the Manor House we were inspired by traditional Arabesque courtyards. The lobby is light and spacious, with a central fountain and tall arched colonnade, highlighted with subtle detailing in an Ottoman inspired floral motif. Combining Crema Marfil and white Thassos marble with Azul Macuba, reminiscent of the vibrant blue colour of the sea beyond, an oversized intricate Moorish – inspired floral pattern is water-jet cut into the lobby floor. This pattern effortlessly flows throughout the public spaces, and can be seen in the decorative frieze details or adorning the etched glass backdrop to the reception desk.”
Associate Helen Skea of WA International stated: “The lobby lounge with its striking views over the exquisitely landscaped gardens and sea beyond, offers a relaxed vantage point.
“We designed and specified oversized opulent furnishings in natural hues with accents of blue, hinting at the azure waters of the Arabian Gulf. Combined with hand crafted carpets to create a more residential and cosy atmosphere within the lobby lounge”, she continued.
WA International applied a contemporary take on the traditional conservatory for the One & Only’s ‘Zest’, the all day dining restaurant. Incorporating an orangery within the conservatory section of the restaurant, a fresh colour palette of white, silver and green has been used throughout the space, enhanced by an oversized Persian-inspired leaf pattern in ‘Ming’ green marble, which is inlayed into white Statuario marble to form the main floor finish.
Columns are encased in silvery fret-cut stainless steel, whilst silverleaf coffers are off-set by hundreds of hanging glass leaves, creating a sparkling canopy across the main ceiling. Handmade crystal chandeliers spiral throughout the conservatory ceiling, and combine beautifully with the classic contemporary style furniture used throughout.
Timbers are rich and add warmth and elegance to the freshness of the colour palette. Middle Eastern and Asian Cooking stations and the sculptural Juice Bar are embellished by unique finishes, such as embossed polished stainless steel, quartz stone and textured fused crystalline glass.
For One & Only The Palm’s signature restaurant ‘Stay’, WA International created a dramatic backdrop for Michelin 3-star chef Yannick Alleno. “This glamorous and exotic interior has been created with Baroque and Rococo inspired elements. With highly-polished rich ebony macassar timbers and a monochromatic palette of black and silver with hints of rich burgundy, the furnishings are lavishly opulent with a contemporary twist”, says Helen.
Creating an exclusive resort for the luxury hospitality company ‘One & Only’ was a wonderful experience for WA International and with guests arriving early November the company is confident the experience will be mutual.
One & Only The Palm, Dubai
Designer: WA International Full Hotel Spec listing: WA International
