Located along the coastline of Himare, Albania, ZigZag Resort is designed by JA Joubert Architecture in collaboration with UNS Architects. The resort adopts a linear zigzag configuration that follows the existing topography, maintaining views across the site while minimizing alteration to the landscape. The formal strategy enables each unit to engage with its surroundings without obstructing others, preserving both visual and environmental continuity.

The design incorporates passive environmental strategies, including solar orientation and natural ventilation, to reduce energy demand. Rainwater is managed through integrated systems, supporting on-site ecological balance. Locally sourced Berat stone is used in the construction, selected for its durability and relevance to regional building traditions.

all images courtesy of JA Joubert Architecture and UNS Architects

ZigZag Resort’s Architecture in Dialogue with Landscape

Circulation throughout the resort is organized to facilitate intuitive movement. Vertical transitions between terraces, gardens, and pools are addressed through integrated pathways and a funicular system. These connections are designed to provide access across levels while limiting impact on the terrain. Drop-off points and circulation routes are planned to separate guest pathways from service areas.

Interior spaces extend outward into gardens, decks, and terraces, maintaining a continuous spatial experience. Infinity pools blend with the coastline, and private coastal access deepens the resort’s connection with its surroundings. The architectural approach emphasizes a cohesive relationship between building and site, aligning structural and material decisions with the existing conditions of the coastal landscape. ‘Architecture should not dominate the land; it should respond to it,’ explains Marc Joubert, founder of JA Joubert Architecture.

ZigZag Resort stretches along the Himare coastline, following the natural terrain

the resort’s linear zigzag form preserves site topography and uninterrupted views

architecture and landscape interlock without major disruption to the land

each unit is oriented to maintain privacy and maximize coastal exposure

infinity pools align with the sea, extending the horizon visually

terraced forms create a stepped rhythm across the site’s slope

circulation pathways connect terraces, gardens, and guest spaces

garden terraces extend directly from interior spaces

outdoor decks and loggias are part of the continuous spatial layout

the architecture emphasizes environmental continuity and local adaptation

JA Joubert Architecture aims for a design that responds to the land

the resort’s terraced form merges with the coastal landscape

an infinity pool carved into the hillside provides an uninterrupted view of the Albanian Riviera

project info:

name: ZIG ZAG

architects: JA Joubert Architecture | @ja_joubertarchitecture, UNS Architects | @unsarchitects
design team: Marc Joubert, Foti Prifti, Erjon Gjyli & Team, Images: Vero Universe
location: Himare, Albania

designboom has received this project from our DIY submissions feature, where we welcome our readers to submit their own work for publication. see more project submissions from our readers here.

edited by: christina vergopoulou | designboom

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e.Re studio architects builds Lenirra Villa, a small-scale resort development situated on a mountainside adjacent to expansive rice fields, approximately two hours from Jakarta. The architectural approach focuses on integrating built structures within the existing natural context to preserve and enhance the site’s environmental characteristics.

The design organizes the villas as separate building volumes connected by a network of pedestrian pathways. These pathways are embedded within the landscape and follow natural contours, creating spatial sequences and visual connections throughout the site.

the built area occupies a small portion of land, preserving its surrounding paddy field | all images courtesy of e.Re studio architects

e.Re studio architects composes stone and exposed brick facades

Material selection by e.Re studio architects’ team emphasizes a natural palette, including stone, exposed brick facades, and dark-toned roof shingles. These materials are chosen to establish a contrast with the surrounding vegetation while maintaining coherence with the site’s rural character.

A key component of Lenirra Villa project is the retention and incorporation of the existing rice fields as both landscape feature and experiential element. This includes the integration of a small river that traverses the site, serving as a functional overflow channel for excess irrigation water from the adjacent paddies. This strategy supports the continued operation of local agricultural systems while contributing to the resort’s environmental character.

pathway to the villa is shaped and marked by natural elements

landscape design visually and physically connects the blocks of separated buildings

the roof extends down as an exterior facade to reduce daylight and sun heat

stone benches form a circular gathering area around the bonfire

the guest villa features terracotta brick, stone, and bitumen sheet roof shingles

asymmetrical gabled roofs define the villas’ architectural language

lush greenery contrasts with exposed terracotta brick facades

man-made channel directs excess water from nearby rice fields, doubling as a landscape feature

dark-toned roof shingles contrast with green surroundings

project info:

name: lenirra villa
architect: e.Re studio architects | @erwin_regina

location: Jakarta, Indonesia

designboom has received this project from our DIY submissions feature, where we welcome our readers to submit their own work for publication. see more project submissions from our readers here.

edited by: christina vergopoulou | designboom

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Rising from the verdant mountainside of Dhërmi, Albania, Bofill Taller de Arquitectura’s Red Sol Resort commands attention with its bold hue and fortress-like silhouette. From afar, the striking geometric massing appears to float above the lush terrain. Winding exterior stairways, rooftop terraces, and dramatic walkways carve out a labyrinthine journey through the cascading volumes of the resort, offering guests a variety of vantage points overlooking the shimmering Ionian Sea.

all images courtesy of Bofill Taller de Arquitectura

stairs, bridges, and pathways define Red Sol Resort in albania

Designing for the Albanian Riviera, the Spanish firm Bofill Taller de Arquitectura begins by addressing its formidable topography: jagged rock formations, steep mountain slopes, and dense undergrowth rooted by pine and cypress trees. Red Sol Resort responds by overlaying a precise fine grid on the ground plane, organizing a series of squares in a plan that systematically adapts to the challenging contours of the site. In section, these volumes shift up and down, producing the diverse spatial qualities needed for the hotel pavilions, apartments, and villas of the resort.

As the architecture zigzags down toward the water, its vertical movement mirrors the rhythm of the surrounding mountains. Painted in a vivid earthy red, the resort with its fortress-like presence contrasts with the green and blue around. Interconnected by a network of exterior stairs, bridges, and pathways, the various blocks include pools, patios, and secluded lookouts. 

the resort rises from the verdant mountainside of Dhërmi, Albania

Red Sol Resort commands attention with its bold hue and fortress-like silhouette

winding exterior stairways, rooftop terraces, and dramatic walkways carve out a labyrinthine journey

offering guests a variety of vantage points

Bofill Taller de Arquitectura begins by addressing the topography

Red Sol Resort responds to the terrain by overlaying a precise, fine grid on the ground plane

a series of squares systematically adapts to the challenging contours

from afar, the striking geometric massing appears to float above the lush terrain

project info:

name: Red Sol Resort

architects: Bofill Taller de Arquitectura | @bofillarquitectura

location: Dhërmi, Albania

The post bofill taller de arquitectura’s fortress-like resort cascades down albanian coastline mountains appeared first on designboom | architecture & design magazine.

French architecture studio Raum completes the renovation and extension of a public swimming pool and spa in Saint-Méen-Le-Grand, a small town in Brittany. Addressing the increasing demands of residents and young learners, the project introduces a sports pool and aqua-leisure area while restructuring the existing leisure pool. 

The design team builds upon the existing cluster of compact wood and slate structures found on the site, unifying them under a thermally insulated black wooden skin. This material enhances the energy performance of the building, establishing, at the same time, a clear visual identity within the heterogeneous context. Inside, the new pool area opens generously to the landscape, with a solid volume appearing to float above the space.

all images © Charles Bouchaïb, unless stated otherwise

consistent materiality and color scheme tie elements together

Situated near a listed heritage building, the Nantes-based studio Raum balances restoration and expansion, ensuring environmental and architectural continuity. Informed by a resource-conscious approach, the renovation strategy preserves as much of the original superstructure as possible. Three key principles guide the intervention: adapting to the volumetric diversity of the existing buildings, reinforcing structural coherence through an insulated envelope, and enhancing spatial connections to the topography of the site. 

The existing buildings were carefully studied to identify embedded volumetric qualities, ensuring the transformation remained coherent and sensitive to its surroundings. Interior spaces follow the same logic, with a unified material palette ensuring harmony between old and new elements. Exposed structural layers and a curated color scheme reveal the building’s evolution over time. This design approach extends to the exterior, where the varied outer volumes are unified through consistent materiality.

Raum completes the renovation and extension of a public swimming pool and spa in Brittany

the project introduces a sports pool and aqua-leisure area while restructuring the existing leisure pool

the new pool area opens generously to the landscape

Raum builds upon the existing cluster of compact wood and slate structures found on the site

large windows allow swimmers enjoy the view

the renovation strategy preserves as much of the original superstructure as possible

adapting to the volumetric diversity of the existing buildings

exposed structural layers reveal the building’s evolution

the new pool is located inside a solid volume that appears to float

project info:

name: Renovation and extension of a public swimming pool and spa in Britanny
architect: Raum | @atelier.raum
location: Saint-Méen-Le-Grand, Brittany, France

photographer: Charles Bouchaïb | @charles_bouchaib

designboom has received this project from our DIY submissions feature, where we welcome our readers to submit their own work for publication. see more project submissions from our readers here.

edited by: thomai tsimpou | designboom

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Oppenheim Architecture’s Desert Rock resort in the Hejaz Mountains, Saudi Arabia, finally opens. It is part of the Red Sea Project, dubbed the world’s most ambitious luxury tourism development currently under construction on the Saudi Arabian Red Sea coast. The Desert Rock is the recently completed architecture on site. The team has designed it as a resort nestled within the ancient mountains of Hejaz in the region of western Saudi Arabia and along the Red Sea coast. Oppenheim Architecture draws inspiration from the Nabataean civilization, which once inhabited the Arabian Peninsula and is renowned for its rock-carved architecture.

Visitors arrive at a hidden valley, which is the access point to the resort. The architecture sprawls across 30,000 square meters of land. The accommodations range from ground-level villas to suites embedded within the mountains. All of them benefit from natural light as they are raised from the ground as well as due to the large openings of the windows to mimic the cave mouths. Oppenheim Architecture says that the construction of the Desert Rock resort, now open to the public, has not obstructed the historic Hejaz Mountains.

all images courtesy of Red Sea Global and Oppenheim Architecture

Accommodations from cliff hanging to hidden villas

Oppenheim Architecture has worked with the developer Red Sea Global for the completion of the Desert Rock resort in Saudi Arabia. It has different villas with varying design features. The Wadi Villas have private pools and spacious living areas. There are also Cliff Hanging Villas that perch high above the resort for aerial views. For more private spaces, visitors can stay in the Mountain Cave Suites and Mountain Crevice Villas. They have cliffside pools suspended on the edges of the Massif. As for the Royal Villa, it cocoons in one part of the valley for a private retreat.

For the construction of the Desert Rock, Oppenheim Architecture says to have repurposed excavated materials. The architectural team then adds that they have used ‘passive cooling and efficient systems to reduce energy consumption’ and native plants to embed greenery within the rocky spaces. ‘By respecting and enhancing the natural environment, we have created a sanctuary that allows guests to experience the beauty and power of the landscape in deeply personal and meaningful ways,’ says Chad Oppenheim, Founding Principal of Oppenheim Architecture. 

the architecture graces within 30,000 square meters of land

visitors arrive at a hidden valley, which is the access point to the resort

in detail, the Cliff Hanging Villas perch high above the resort for aerial views

there are also private spaces such as rooms with cliffside pools suspended on the edges of the Massif

the accommodations range from ground-level villas to suites embedded within the mountains

Oppenheim Architecture says to have repurposed excavated materials for the construction

project info:

name: Desert Rock

architects: Oppenheim Architecture | @oppenheimarchitecture

developer: Red Sea Global | @redseaglobal

location: Saudi Arabia

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Located in the village of El Cuyo, Yucatán, Mexico, The Trillium by Awakening is a villa designed by Awakening, Fernando Artigas, and Jorge Berea as one of the Awakening Sanctuary retreat accommodation sites. The project embraces a nature-focused approach to hospitality, placing sustainability and comfort at the heart of its design.

At its core is a bamboo dome, whose organic design mirrors the surrounding jungle. This feature underscores the architects’ commitment to creating harmony between the structure and its verdant setting. Bamboo columns provide structural support while showcasing the use of renewable materials. Locally sourced plaster and stone finish the petal-shaped roofs and flooring, grounding the design in its regional context. Inside, the villa prioritizes energy efficiency and natural comfort. Cross-ventilation eliminates the need for air conditioning, while passive lighting strategies maximize natural light. 

all images by Santiago Baravalle, courtesy of Awakening, Fernando Artigas, and Jorge Berea

private spaces flow into The Trillium by Awakening’s social areas

Upon entering The Trillium by Awakening, visitors are greeted by a bamboo-encased spiral staircase. The architect team sets this central element as the functional and symbolic core of the villa, diffusing natural light into the interiors while connecting the social and private spaces. 

The bedrooms are designed with relaxation and sustainability in mind. Large windows frame jungle views, allowing occupants to feel immersed in the surrounding landscape. Each room features a centrally placed bed that maximizes the vistas, along with private bathrooms finished with natural materials. The layout effortlessly flows into the villa’s shared spaces, creating a smooth transition from intimate retreats to social areas. The social zones are crafted to foster connection and relaxation. The swimming pool and jacuzzi are positioned at the edge of the property, offering uninterrupted views of the lush environment, while a spacious deck with lounge chairs enhances the experience, inviting guests to unwind amidst nature.

The Trillium by Awakening is as one of the Awakening Sanctuary retreat sites

at its core is a petal-shaped bamboo dome

the project embraces a nature-focused approach to hospitality

bamboo columns provide structural support

the organic design mirrors the surrounding jungle

the swimming pool and jacuzzi are positioned at the edge of the property

the bedrooms are designed with relaxation and sustainability in mind

a spacious deck with lounge chairs enhances the relaxing experience

the social zones are crafted to foster connection and relaxation

project info:

name: The Trillium by Awakening | @awakeningtrillium

architect: Awakening Experiencias | @awakeningsanctuary

location: San Manuel km 11, Tizimín, Yucatán, México

design team: Awakening Experiencias, Fernando Artigas, Jorge Berea

interior design: Awakening Experiencias
bamboo design, structure, engineering, construction, and project execution: Arq. Felipe Alejandro de la Cruz Urtilla and Martin Löffler

technical team: Felipe Alejandro de la Cruz Urtilla

civil engineer: Felipe Alejandro de la Cruz Urtilla
architectural concept & design: Awakening Experiencias

owners and visionaries: Awakening Experiencias Founders: Martin Löffler and Adriana Chardi

client: Awakening Sanctuary

photographer: Santiago Baravalle | @santiago.baravalle

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Vector Architects has completed the Wulingshan Eye Stone Spring, a unique new hot spring spa hidden within the forests of Wuling Mountain in Hebei, China. Located in a river valley of the Yanshan Mountains, the site is characterized by its rugged cliffs, lush poplar trees, and serene alluvial plains. Visitors approach the spring house by crossing a steel arch bridge and traversing a forested path, arriving at the structure’s entrance surrounded by reeds and a slow-moving stream.

To preserve the natural topography, Vector Architects designed the spring house to touch the landscape lightly. The main concrete structure is elevated on ten columns driven into the earth, minimizing its footprint on the forest floor. This elevated approach serves to protect the site’s delicate ecology while creating a dynamic interplay between the building and its surroundings.

image © Liu Guowei, unless otherwise stated

Vertical Organization Across Three Levels

The Beijing-based studio Vector Architects vertically organizes its Wulingshan Eye Stone Spring. The building’s tower is situated along the west housing bath spaces, and transportation and service facilities found within the eastern core. These elements are connected by bridge-like corridors on each level. By stacking programs, the architects reduced the building’s footprint while crafting distinct spatial experiences. As visitors ascend, they encounter shifting perspectives of the poplar canopy, the rock cliff, and distant mountain vistas.

The spring house is divided into three functional levels. The ground floor serves as a transitional zone, with a central teak-clad space housing the reception, locker rooms, and showers. This area prepares visitors for their bathing experience while furthering the building’s minimalist aesthetic.

Vector Architects’ hot spring spa is hidden in a forested valley in Wuling Mountain

bathing under skylit light wells at wulingshan eye stone spring

On the second floor of Vector Architects’ Wulingshan Eye Stone Spring, a relaxation lounge is enclosed by floor-to-ceiling glass, offering panoramic views of the surrounding forest. Positioned within the densest section of the tree canopy, this space connects visitors to nature year-round. Operable windows enhance the experience, inviting natural air and seasonal views into the lounge.

The third floor features bath pools of varying temperatures and treatments, illuminated by eight skylit light wells. These eight-meter (26-foot)-high wells diffuse sunlight through bush-hammered concrete, creating a serene, almost meditative atmosphere. Strip windows along the west facade allow bathers to enjoy views of the nearby valley cliffs and surrounding treetops while immersed in the calming waters.

the building is elevated on ten columns to minimize its impact on the natural landscape

programming is stacked vertically to reduce the building footprint

the ground floor includes reception, lockers, and showers in a teak-clad central space

the second floor is a glass lounge surrounded by tree canopies with operable windows

the design blends architecture and nature to create a serene retreat in a forested setting

the third floor features bathing pools under skylit light wells that diffuse sunlight softly

project info:

project title: Wulingshan Eye Stone Spring

architecture, interiors, landscape: Vector Architects | @vectorarchitects

location: Chengde Xinglong County Wulingshan Aranya, Hebei, China

completion: 2024

photography: © Liu Guowei, Tian Fangfang

principal architect: Dong Gong

project architect: Zhao Liangliang, Tan Yeqian

design management: Zhang Han

construction management: Zhao Liangliang, Li Jinteng

site architect: Tan Yeqian, Zhang Zhiyi (Intern), Wang Weichen (Intern)

design team: Li Jiahui, Sun Yingyi, Zeng Zihao, Wang Feiyu, Zhang Liwen

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Architect Bian Baoyang, leading the team at PLAT ASIA, introduces the Silk-Road Dreamland Steppe Resort as a model for ecological tourism and cultural integration on the Xilamuren Steppe in Baotou, Inner Mongolia. This project centers around the Live-by-Water planning strategy, which draws inspiration from the natural water routes found in the region, linking Swan Lake in the northwest to the Xilamuren River in the southeast. The architectural layout mimics these water flows, creating interconnected settlements across the steppe and a branching circulation system that evokes the traditional relationship between nomadic culture and water. At the heart of the resort, a multi-functional core zone houses a theater, exhibition hall, all-nations fair, commercial hall, and food alley, unified in a single building that serves as a communal hub.

In the core area, structures pay homage to the traditional Mongolian Ger, modernized with high-performance PTFE (polytetrafluoroethylene) membranes that offer insulation, skylights for natural ventilation, and reduced concrete and steel. The team chooses these materials to retain cultural significance while achieving a low-energy, decarbonized approach.

all images by Arch-Exist Photography courtesy of PLAT ASIA

Silk-Road Dreamland Steppe Resort follows natural contours

Beijing-based PLAT ASIA emphasizes steppe aesthetics through low-tech design principles and mindful use of materials to promote environmental recovery alongside cultural experiences. A central sunset axis guides views northwestward, anchoring the layout and connecting the south-north visitor center axis to the Live-by-Water strategy, creating a harmonious masterplan.

The Following the Wind installation captures the essence of the elements of the steppe. Starting at the visitor center, the installation follows the natural contours of the landscape, marked by white steel columns adorned with blue cloth that shifts with the wind. Representing the Tengri River, this structure visually ties the architecture to the land, extending toward the children’s wonderland and ending at the terrace in the core function zone. It invites visitors to experience the steppe’s natural elements—wind, sky, and grassland—engaging all the senses in an immersive connection to the landscape.

Silk-Road Dreamland Steppe Resort aims to become a model for ecological tourism and cultural integration

this project centers around the Live-by-Water planning strategy

drawing inspiration from the natural water routes found in the region

PLAT ASIA emphasizes steppe aesthetics through low-tech design principles

a branching circulation system evokes the traditional relationship between nomadic culture and water

the architectural layout mimics water flows

structures pay homage to the traditional Mongolian Ger

fluorescent lighting shows the way

project info:

name: Xilamuren Silk-Road Dreamland Steppe Resort
architect: PLAT ASIA | @platasia

location: Xarmuren Hasar Steppe, Baotou, China 
area: 50,000 sqm
building area: 8,000 sqm 

principal architect: Bian Baoyang
project architect: Nandin
design team: Guo Lulu, Yang Lu, Liu Xinwei, Bi Baihui, Liao Yuanyu
clients: Baotou Jiu Zi Tourism Ltd., Co.
construction design: Shang Run Zhong Yi (Dongying) Design Ltd., Co.
construction contractor: Inner Mongolia Kaituo Construction Ltd., Co.
membrane company: Beijing Jinshengjie membrane Structure Technology Ltd., Co.
lighting company: Beijing Zhanxin Design Studio
photographer: Arch-Exist Photography | @archexist
video: Nandin@PLAT ASIA

designboom has received this project from our DIY submissions feature, where we welcome our readers to submit their own work for publication. see more project submissions from our readers here.

edited by: thomai tsimpou | designboom

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In this episode of ABB’s Frozen Music video series, viewers are taken on a journey to the St. Regis Red Sea Resort on Ummahat Island, Saudi Arabia. This resort, designed by the renowned Japanese architectural firm Kengo Kuma & Associates, is not only a luxurious space but also a pioneering example of regenerative tourism. Episode #23 explores the intricate design and sustainable practices that make the retreat a model for eco-conscious development, highlighting its architectural beauty and the careful consideration given to preserving the island’s environment.

Watch Episode #23 on the St. Regis Red Sea Resort here!

Episode #23 of ABB’s ‘Frozen Music Series’ explores the intricate design and sustainable practices that make St. Regis Red Sea Resort a model for eco-conscious development | all images courtesy of ABB, © The St. Regis Red Sea Resort

Kengo Kuma & Associates craft Sustainable Luxury on Ummahat Island

Kengo Kuma & Associates, the globally acclaimed architecture firm behind projects like the V&A Dundee in Scotland and the Hans Christian Andersen Museum in Denmark, took on a new challenge with their first project in Saudi Arabia. As seen on ABB’s ‘Frozen Music’ video series, episode #23, the St. Regis Red Sea Resort is part of the Red Sea Project, one of the Kingdom’s ambitious giga-projects aimed at transforming the coastal region into a world-class tourism hub. For Kuma and his team, the opportunity to design in a new landscape presented an exciting blend of challenges, including working in a remote, untouched setting and adapting to the local climate and materials.

The resort’s architectural concept draws inspiration from the natural surroundings—desert dunes, coral reefs, and the tranquil waters of the Red Sea. With shell-like villas perched on stilts above the turquoise waters and wooden beach houses nestled among the sandy landscape, the design aims to create harmony between the built environment and the island’s untouched beauty. The use of European spruce wood as the primary construction material plays a central role in this vision, with the timber prefabricated in Switzerland by Blumer Lehmann before being shipped to the site. This choice not only adds a warm, natural aesthetic but also significantly reduces the resort’s carbon footprint by minimizing concrete use.

designed by Kengo Kuma & Associates, the resort is not only a luxurious space but also a pioneering example of regenerative tourism

An Architecture That Embraces Regenerative Tourism

The design of the St. Regis Red Sea Resort goes beyond aesthetics, embedding sustainability into every facet of the project. The island itself faced existential threats due to rising sea levels and tidal erosion, which risked the disappearance of vital habitats for local wildlife, including turtle nesting grounds and a vast mangrove forest. To address this, the development team implemented a sand infill to elevate the island’s terrain, protecting the biodiversity and ensuring the longevity of its ecosystems.

The resort features 90 villas, divided into two groups: 47 on the beach and 43 over the water. The strategic placement of the overwater villas on the west side of the island not only offers guests stunning sunset views but also minimizes the environmental impact on the coral reef located on the east. This careful consideration of the natural surroundings extends to the resort’s commitment to regenerative tourism – a philosophy that seeks not just to sustain but to actively improve the surrounding environment.

the resort features 90 villas, divided into two groups: 47 on the beach and 43 over the water

The resort’s energy system is entirely off the grid, utilizing 100% renewable energy. ABB, a global leader in electrification and automation solutions, provided critical components for the resort’s power infrastructure. The photovoltaic (PV) panels located on the northern part of the island are coupled with a substantial battery storage facility on the mainland, ensuring a reliable energy supply. ABB’s System Pro E power switchgear and Minicenter boards, along with an asset management solution, were designed to meet the unique challenges of the offshore site. These technologies provide efficient energy distribution and a seamless experience for guests, while aligning with the resort’s sustainability objectives.

The project’s dedication to minimizing environmental impact also extends to its construction methods, with a heavy reliance on prefabrication. This approach reduces the need for on-site concrete pouring, further lessening the ecological footprint. The use of wood, treated specifically for the marine environment, is not only a design choice but also a sustainability strategy that supports the resort’s regenerative mission.

the use of European spruce wood as the primary construction material plays a central role in this vision, with the timber prefabricated in Switzerland by Blumer Lehmann

ABB, a global leader in electrification and automation solutions, provided critical components for the resort’s power infrastructure

Ummahat Island faced existential threats due to rising sea levels and tidal erosion so the development team implemented a sand infill to protect the biodiversity and ensuring the longevity of its ecosystems

the strategic placement of the overwater villas on the west side of the island not only offers guests stunning sunset views but also minimizes the environmental impact on the coral reef located on the east

the special openness between interior and exterior typical in Japanese traditional architecture further enrich these concepts

the project’s dedication to minimizing environmental impact also extends to its construction methods, with a heavy reliance on prefabrication

for Kuma and his team, the opportunity to design in a new landscape presented an exciting blend of challenges, including working in a remote, untouched setting

the resort’s energy system is entirely off the grid, utilizing 100% renewable energy

WATCH HERE: HTTPS://NEW.ABB.COM/BUILDINGS/FROZEN-MUSIC

project info:

brand: ABB | @abbgroup

series: Frozen Music

episode: #23

project: St. Regis Red Sea Resort | @stregishotels

architects: Kengo Kuma & Associates | @kkaa_official

developer: Red Sea Global

main material: European spruce wood, prefabricated by Blumer Lehmann

location: Ummahat Island, Red Sea, Saudi Arabia

The post ABB frozen music episode #23: kengo kuma’s regenerative take on st. regis red sea resort appeared first on designboom | architecture & design magazine.

Albany is a 600-acre luxurious private resort crafted for the world’s elite, nestled in an exclusive corner of New Providence, The Bahamas. Since 2010, Albany has been more than a tropical getaway; it is an evolving community for A-listers shaped by starchitects, including Morris Adjmi Architects, Bjarke Ingels Group (BIG), and OOAK Architects, among others. Surrounded by turquoise waters and lush landscapes, Albany’s visionary architecture and bespoke interior design transform the island experience, offering residents a sanctuary where privacy meets unparalleled beauty.

designboom visited Albany to tour the resort’s unique architecture and interiors, speaking with Damien Michelmore, COO of Albany, and Mohammad Rajab, Director of Design of Albany.

one of the first three residences around the marina, Orchid by Morris Adjmi Architects, was inspired by the facades of New Orleans

image courtesy of Albany, Bahamas (top image credit Romain Reglade)

resort for stars, built by starchitects

From the outset, Albany embraced architectural innovation to elevate luxury. The resort’s marina, capable of docking 71-slip yachts, was designed by Robert A.M. Stern. Originally featuring three residences – Orchid by Morris Adjmi Architects, Gemini by HKS Architects, and Charles by Gwathmey Siegel & Associates Architects – the development has expanded with new additions: Lantern by Morris Adjmi Architects, Honeycomb and Cube both by BIG, Tetris by OOAK Architects, and Squire by Squire and Partners. Coral by BIG and Cirrus by Squire and Partners hand over first units at the end of 2024 and end of 2026 respectively complete the marina development. These world-renowned firms tie into the ethos of Albany, proposing new perspectives on luxury while embracing the natural beauty of its surroundings.

BIG collaborated with the team at Albany to create the Sanctuary recording studio, Honeycomb, Cube (pictured here), and Coral residences, with the latter set to hand over first units at the end of 2024

image credit Dana Hoff

Collaboration is key to Albany’s architectural success. Architects were selected through flexible decision-making to ensure the best fit for each phase of development, whether inviting firms or holding design competitions. For instance, BIG presented multiple designs for Honeycomb so that the final choice resonated with the resort’s aesthetic while pushing the boundaries with its sunken pool façade. This approach guarantees that each structure adds to the cohesiveness, creativity, and luxury of the community.

The marina residences are united by sleek white lines and expansive glass that open to sweeping views of the Bahamian waters. Over-water apartments blur the boundaries between indoor and outdoor living, with spacious balconies and floor-to-ceiling windows welcoming natural light and sea breezes. Sustainable design elements, like natural ventilation systems, deepen the connection between architecture and the island’s environment.

sunken pools in the Cube’s balconies connect residents with the sea views across the marina

image credit Romain Reglade

bespoke interior design decisions

While Albany’s architecture captivates, its customization options truly sets it apart. The resort offers residents the ability to tailor their homes to their exact specifications, making each unit a unique reflection of its owner. Whether it is a modernist, minimalist or maximalist style, residents have full creative control over the finishes, furnishings, and layout to create their home in The Bahamas.

Customization at Albany goes beyond just choosing fixtures or paint colors. 90% of homeowners work with Albany’s in-house design team in Orlando, Florida, to ensure their homes align perfectly with their lifestyle and taste. For those seeking even greater personalization, Albany allows the option to bring in external designers so that no detail is overlooked, from custom millwork to high-end plaster.

owners can tailor the finishes, furnishings, and layout of their home to fit their lifestyle and tastes (living room in Orchid pictured here)

image credit Julian Abrams

The construction process is designed to be seamless. A standard 4,000 sq. ft. home typically takes 12-16 months to build, while larger, more customized projects may take up to two years. Despite the logistical challenges of island construction, Albany well-established relationships with local subcontractors guarantee that every residence meets the highest standards of quality.

The in-house architects and designers, led by Mohammad Rajab, are constantly refining their approach and incorporating new ideas. The putting green atop one of Tetris’ penthouses is just one example of the innovation born from dynamic dialogue between designers and residents. This exchange keeps the resort at the forefront of luxury design.

a standard 4,000 sq. ft. home typically takes 12-16 months to build, while larger, more customized projects may take up to two years (living room in Tetris pictured here)

image credit Mario Nixon Photography

luxury amenities support year-round residents

As Albany has grown, so too has its masterplan. What began as a community of 20 beachfront villas has expanded into a thriving enclave with diverse amenities, catering to a growing population of celebrities, entrepreneurs, and elite families. In the early years, the focus was on creating a critical mass to support amenities, including multiple restaurants, a coffee shop, recording studio, financial center, and other communal spaces that fostered a sense of belonging among residents.

Albany’s team work with proven local contractors to ensure every residence meets the highest standards of quality

image credit Romain Reglade

Post-COVID, the resort has seen even greater demand, particularly as remote work has become more acceptable, making Albany an ideal choice for those looking for a luxurious escape while still staying connected. This shift has led to the development of a 25-acre campus complete with educational facilities, a sports complex, and a golf academy that complements its golf course that hosts Tiger Woods’ PGA Tour event. These additions have turned Albany from a vacation destination into a year-round haven where families can live and thrive.

The masterplan has adapted over time, remaining flexible to evolve with the needs of its residents rather than building all at once. New amenities are added based on member feedback, maintaining Albany’s place at the pinnacle of luxury, privacy, and exclusivity.

the over-water marina residences are united by sleek white lines and expansive glass that open to sweeping views of the bahamian waters

image credit Golden Dusk Photography

albany combines design and lifestyle in the bahamas

Privacy is paramount at Albany, given the high-profile nature of many residents. Strict policies prohibit photographs and autographs, ensuring a sanctuary-like environment. Residences are spaced to maximize privacy, with lush landscaping and secluded balconies enhancing the feeling of retreat. However, communal spaces such as restaurants, pools, and sports facilities still allow organic interaction within an exclusive, yet relaxed, setting.

both the BIG-designed Honeycomb (left) and Tetris (right) feature sunken pools in the balconies

image credit Golden Dusk Photography

Albany is not just a resort; it is a living, evolving community in paradise. Its architecture, shaped by world-leading firms, blends seamlessly with the tropical surroundings of The Bahamas while offering limitless opportunities for personalization. This unwavering commitment to privacy, luxury, and innovation cements its status as the ultimate destination for those seeking a lifestyle that transcends elegance. For its A-list residents, Albany is a sanctuary in The Bahamas where design and lifestyle unite, creating a space as unique as they are.

amenities foster a year-round sense of belonging among residents, ranging from educational and sports facilities to restaurants, shops, and financial offices (Sanctuary recording studio pictured front) / image credit Golden Dusk Photography

the spacious balconies in Squire embrace the tropical setting, extending the living area outdoors

image credit Ronnie Archer

the sunken pools of Honeycomb illuminate at night to highlight the building’s unique façade / image credit Golden Dusk Photography

Tetris by OOAK Architects features 25 residences configured on multiple floors between 2,500 to 15,000 sq. ft.

image credit Dana Hoff

development info:

resort: Albany | @albanybahamas

land: 600-acre
architecture firms: Morris Adjmi Architects, BIG, Gwathmey Siegel & Associates Architects, HKS Architects, OOAK Architects, Squire and Partners, and Robert A.M. Stern
management: NEXUS Luxury Collection | @nexusluxuryco

date of launch: 2010

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