Into the Wild

The "Into the Wild" resort seamlessly integrates with the local landscape and culture of the nearby Dhermi and Dhermi Beach villages, establishing a new sanctuary for elite guests.

The "Into the Wild" resort is located near the village of Dhermi and Dhermi Beach, overlooking the Adriatic Sea, in a region rich with Albanian and Greek cultural influences. Our team was invited to create a proposal that would seamlessly integrate with the local landscape and culture, establishing a new sanctuary for elite guests.

The primary goals of the project were to embed the development within the landscape and local culture, foster a sense of community, and maximize sea views. The architectural forms and language are inspired by local construction methods and traditional space organization. Each volume's orientation is carefully chosen to capture optimal sunlight and sea views, creating a design that feels both modern and deeply rooted in its surroundings.

One of the key challenges was the steep landscape, which was transformed into an opportunity to work harmoniously with the terrain rather than against it. This approach allowed the architecture to blend seamlessly with the environment, enhancing the natural beauty of the site. Architectural elements are designed to frame views of the sea, creating a series of inspiring moments as one moves through the project. These thoughtful design choices make the resort a one-of-a-kind destination.

The development includes villas, hotel rooms, pools, a spa, and all the elements of a high-end resort, tailored to the aesthetics and hospitality of the Albanian coast. Villas are arranged along a main access spine - a staircase that follows the gentle undulations of the landscape. The front of the development features a podium with a generous swimming pool, offering stunning views of Dhermi Beach and the endless sea horizon. The main access to the development is from the beach road, ensuring convenience and enhancing the arrival experience

In line with our design philosophy, the key objective was to blend the development into the unique landscape. The four top villas, distinct in their material language, gently blend into the surrounding environment, creating a sense of harmony with nature. In contrast, the base villas are solid and monumental, providing a striking presence that anchors the development.

The architecture plays a crucial role in making "Into the Wild" a unique resort by harmonizing with the landscape, drawing inspiration from local traditions, and creating an immersive experience that honors the natural beauty and cultural heritage of its location. This thoughtful integration of architecture and environment ensures that "Into the Wild" is not just a resort but a destination that offers a luxurious and deeply connected experience for its guests.

Location
Dhermi, Albania
Size
108,000 SF
Year
2023
Status
In progress
Scope
Architecture, Interior Design, Landscape Design
Project Team
Chad Oppenheim, Beat Huesler, Tom Mckeogh, Rasem Kamal, Borislav Angelov, Maria Diego, Adriana Faisca, Gorka Álvarez Palacios
Image Credit
Fat Tony Studio

Into the Wild

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