Arch Hotel
The hotel sits on reclaimed land in Manama. The podium and 17-floor tower building sit on a corner site. An island is closely connected to its landscape of sea and shore. The architectural form takes inspiration from this landscape, and the design develops into a form of curves.
Although the building seems sculptural, the form is generated from a careful understanding of the sun and the wind in this hot and humid weather. The white exterior is broken into sinuous floors with inset windows. The podium is cut in the corner to carve out a grand entrance.
The curves of the sands and shells of the sea inspire an architecture of sensuous form.
A shadow analysis leads to a form that keeps most windows in shade and the pool deck in shade as well through most of the year. Projecting slabs are articulated to shape the form. No extra cladding or ornament is wasted on the building.
The structural design is worked intelligently to serve the context of reclaimed land and the seashell inspired form. Pile foundations keep the building stable, and post tension slabs are designed with columns set inside, so that that facade is smooth and neat.
The interior design gives each space its narrative - a simple lobby that has a chic energy, restaurants that have specific character, soft and warm feeling spa and rooms. An ornate ball room is located in the top floor. The decor is restrained but articulate.
