Inspiration was found in the pioneering soul that is nature, The Westin Hotel's have their concept originating in the North West of America, The Rocky Mountains. WA International however have localized this concept by looking toward the Al Hajjar Mountains for inspiration.
The Al Hajjar Mountains border the UAE and Oman and are the highest range in the Eastern Arabian Peninsula. They separate the low coastal plain of Oman from the high desert plateau of the UAE.
In Arabic "Al" means "the" and "Hajjar" means "stone" or "rock", therefore the interpretation of Al Hajjar, is The Rocky Mountains. Made of cretaceous limestone and amphibolites, richly ruggered and textured with plentiful plant life as compared to the rest of Arabia, the mountains also boast a number of bird species. With this WA International dived deep into the concept. Peaceful and harmonious patterns transcend into the interior displaying a rich and energizing experience, leaving the guests with a sense of clam, both mentally and spiritually, an enhanced sense of well being that one can only get from nature.
The Westin guest becomes the center of this landscape with the belief that life should be lived to the fullest with a passion for both work and travel.
Layered to the concept , WA International found the ideals of design inspiration from Frank Lloyd Wright, America's far reaching architect who displayed great visionary in his work and who always used nature as the source of his inspiration. Frank's philosophy translates perfectly into the Westin's design philosophy.
"Organic manifested in a refined probing sensitivity to the environment, sustainability and the sensible use of space"
Frank Lloyd Wright believed that structures should be in harmony with humanity and the environment, a philosophy he called Organic Architecture. It was also during this time that the Art Deco movement became popular.
With this, WA International married the two to create something unique, refined with a timeless harmony.
Elements of nature as seen in oversized pots with lush greenery in the entry create a calm and soothing atmosphere. The colour palette is neutral and tonal with sensitive colours inspired by nature. WA International used turquoise to break up the palette, Materials are natural, warm and textured, creating a layered effect that makes for a comfortable hotel interior.
Stoneworks to the public area column cladding and flooring are complimented by the dark and rich timber ceiling. Metallic stylized Art Deco screens, back lit onyx and light fixtures all display the glamour of the 1920's era.
Original, abstract artworks behind the reception desks where commissioned locally, and are a representation of the Al Hajjar Mountains and Wadis. The timber staircase with pale grey marble treads and a geometric Art Deco patterned balustrade make this staircase a unique feature. Alongside the staircase is a series of 12 original charcoal sketches of the Wadis which link the concept back to nature.
The guestrooms too showcase a classic and glamorous style with a timeless quality. Art Deco patterns, as seen in the etched glass screens, carpet designs and light fixtures are elegant and refined. Rich eco sensitive colours and textures in fabrics, embossed leather, rich timbers and veneers all create the layers to this interior. Again WA International worked with a neutral colour palette, subtle accents of mauve hues and blue provide a colour pop to the scheme. Quite frankly who wouldn't want to submerge themselves in this beautiful interior with exquisite views of the canal, this hotel is more than a hotel, it is an experience.