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Set deep in the heart of the desert at the foot of Mount Alvaah, Al Faya Retreat — part of the Sharjah Collection by Mysk Hotels — is inspired by the infinite crimson landscape and enchanting dunes.
By Simone Schultz
Ashmore’s team designed an inviting open-air saltwater pool for cooling off from the desert heat
Ashmore’s team designed an inviting open-air saltwater pool for cooling off from the desert heat
Jonathan Ashmore’s Dubai- and London-based firm ANARCHITECT is behind the architecture, interiors, and furniture design of Al Faya Retreat, all of which are paramount to the experience. “The Al Faya Retreat offered us an exciting challenge given its extraordinary location,” says Ashmore. “The region’s history dates to prehistoric times, and Mleiha was nominated as a UNESCO world heritage site. We envisioned Al Faya as an homage to its intriguing past and captivating surroundings.”
Emphasizing the region’s prehistoric history, the boundless dunes appear to have been left untouched for centuries
Emphasizing the region’s prehistoric history, the boundless dunes appear to have been left untouched for centuries
With the utmost respect for context and locality, the architects reimagined two 1960s stone buildings, previously home to a clinic and grocery store, to become the five-room boutique lodge and restaurant, with the addition of a newly built saltwater spa. The lodge breathes new life into the historic buildings, as Ashmore says, by “reinterpreting the traditional buildings, local vernacular, and historical context, in this way promoting the Emirati history and traditions.”
The earth-toned guest rooms are outfitted with bespoke furniture and Kohler bathroom fixtures, as well as skylights for nighttime stargazing
The earth-toned guest rooms are outfitted with bespoke furniture and Kohler bathroom fixtures, as well as skylights for nighttime stargazing
What was once the grocery store is now the lodge, housing the breakfast and reception rooms, library, and guest rooms, while inside the repurposed clinic building are the restaurant, outdoor terrace, fire pit, and communal roof terrace — all of which, with panoramic views and atmospheric design, make for perfect spots to take in the dramatic landscape.
A materials palette of locally sourced stone and concrete, and weathering steel, hardwood, and aluminum reflect a contextual, modern approach to Middle Eastern architecture
A materials palette of locally sourced stone and concrete, and weathering steel, hardwood, and aluminum reflect a contextual, modern approach to Middle Eastern architecture
The materials palette is the result of deep sensitivity for local context and climate: Locally sourced stone and concrete bring the needed thermal mass to mitigate the eclectic weather conditions, while refined yet resilient weathering steel, hardwood, and aluminum were used for the extensions. Inside, interiors are designed to reflect the exterior architectural language; Ashmore’s team designed a collection of bespoke furniture complemented by carefully curated materials and products, including sanitary ware by Kohler Co.
Outdoor terraces and custom furniture create an inviting setting for rest and relaxation
Outdoor terraces and custom furniture create an inviting setting for rest and relaxation
“Al Faya Retreat pioneers contextual, modern architecture in the Middle East,” Ashmore explains. “It brings back into use two abandoned, historical buildings, championing local culture and tradition, and aims to rejuvenate guests and reconnect them with nature and their inner selves.”
The spa at Al Faya is housed in a separate building, and features a herbal sauna and salt inhalation room, among other facilities
The spa at Al Faya is housed in a separate building, and features a herbal sauna and salt inhalation room, among other facilities
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