Baharash Architecture were tasked by Dubai-based eco resort group to design the world's greenest eco resort in Liwa, the southern region of the UAE. 

At the very early stages of the project, it was revealed that groundwater could be extracted using a deep well. This gave the design team an opportunity to create a story around a spring, which was of critical importance to Bedouins for trade and transportation routes. The spring will be used for crop irrigation, fish farming and recreational activities. The spring will also provide a natural habitat for various wildlife.

The accommodations and functional areas are distributed around the spring, which will be the tranquil heart of the resort. In total there are 84 interconnecting suites of various types, all of which provide amazing views and an outdoor terrace. Tranquil views can be enjoyed from all key spaces, including the fitness centre which is furnished with smart equipment.

The reception and back of house are located adjacent to drop-off. The restaurant and bar, provides guests with organic ingredients grown on site. The restaurant will offer indigenous delicacies as well as organic international fine cuisine. Guests will also be able to enjoy Dune dinning in the desert or dining by the spring or inside their suite. Guests are also able to forage organic produce from onsite allotments or catch fish from the spring, and with the help of a chef, incorporate the ingredients into a delicious meal. A wide selection of fresh fruits, vegetables, dairy and local meat will also be delivered from farms in the nearby village.

A business and research facility with state of the art technologies is also provided. The resort also provides health and Therapeutic spa facilities, which use organic ingredients. The therapeutic spa will provide a wide selection of wellness and beauty therapies. All spaces are equipped with smart glass windows, which offer instant privacy at a flick of a switch.

Some of the environmental benefits include recycling waste water on site for irrigation, onsite waste management, the enforcement of a zero emission zone and 157,000 square feet of solar panels. The ribbon-like roof is designed to maximize the area for solar panels, which are planned for optimum efficiency. The resort will also employ wildlife biologists and conservation staff.

Ultimately, the Oasis Eco Resort will provide more than environmental benefits, such as economic and socio-cultural benefits. The eco resort will create job opportunities for locals, creating a more diversified economy. It will also help preserve the regions heritage and provide greater interaction with native people.

For the full original article please see Baharash Architecture.