ENVI Al Nakheel

  • Prize
    Winner in Architectural Design Lodge
  • Company/Firm
    Fractal - Architecture & Design
  • Lead Designer
    James Atkinson
  • Architect
    Fractal - Architecture & Design
  • Interior Designer
    Kristina Zanic Consultants
  • Hospitality
    ENVI Lodges
  • Location
    Al Ahsa, Eastern Province, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
  • Project Date
    Estimated March 2025
  • Developer
    Afyaa Holding
  • Project Link

Our design for the ENVI Al Nakheel Lodge will be set within a working date plantation, located within the largest oasis in the world and also part of a UNESCO world heritage site. The project entails 25 guest pods designed to blend with the landscape and entails multiple guest experiences spread across the two plots.

The lodge is focused upon creating a sense of place with strong connections to nature. Our initial research delved into the traditional crafts and architecture of the region as well as its agricultural history. There is an intentional element of variety in the architecture that will provide guests with added interest, however the natural tones and finishes of our ‘plant based architecture’ are what binds them altogether.

The farm is split between two plots in close proximity to one another. This gave us the opportunity to designate one plot as ‘Passive’ and the other as ‘Active’. This was achieved by distributing functions accordingly with the wellness centre, farm to table restaurant and adult pool on the passive side, whilst the Nest kids club, art workshop, adventure centre and café are positioned on the active side to give it a more family orientated feel.

Bio
Fractal is a boutique architecture and design studio.

We have teams in Thailand and Vietnam. The practice was established in 2017 by James Atkinson to provide architectural services both locally and internationally.

Fractal’s portfolio encompasses a broad range of project typologies and scales covering all major sectors including residential, hospitality, commercial, cultural and high rise.

With no set stylistic approach our projects commence with each unique location, client brief and climate. Our motivation is to create beautiful, practical and enjoyable spaces to live, work and play.

Other prizes
VMARK Design Award, Vietnam Moon Bridge – Hoi An, Vietnam Best Public Space Design Golden Winner 2023 VMARK Interior Design Award, Vietnam Ocean Plaza Restaurant & Bar – Phu Quoc, Vietnam Best F&B Concept Interior Golden Winner 2021 Vinfast Global Showroom Design Competition Runner up 2021