Bicycle tourism around the world is growing rapidly and not only as an extreme sport but also as an amateur and family activity.
The awareness to this old vehicle is increasing constantly. More and more people use it on daily basis and become addicted. That projects on the way these people spent their free time..
Today, the only places cyclists can find a place for rest, refill, water etc. are ingas stations or local kiosks. Usually cyclist gather information at home and go in organized groups well equipped and accompanied with a jeep.
This situation prevents others that are less devoted and addicted, amateurs, to go out and travel. Regional and local centers that provides tailor made services for cyclists, amateurs and professionals, are crucial for the development of bicycle tourism.
These centers will provide information and guidance on routes and cycling, will offer resting and refreshing that will include food, coffee and even showers. Another important service will be the air refill and washing point but also a repair and equipment shop.
The inspiration for the design came from two, very local, sources.
The first is the desert oasis that can be seen from a distance and plants hope for relief to the desert voyagers. The place that concentrated all desert habitats trough their journeys as the resting and refill point.
The second is the historical Khans that where common through the last centuries along the roads. The Khans provided shelter in the night from bad weather and thieves. Usually it was built around an inner court that could accommodate people and beasts and had a water source in the center. The Khan provided food and water and also a place to sleep. Since anyone that passed trough, stopped there, it became an info point for travelers and “message board”.