Innovative and unique
At the southern end of the Israel-Jordan border lies Aqaba, where lasting peace has paved the way for construction of the Ayla Oasis. The renowned architects from Oppenheim Architecture, Chad Oppenheim and Beat Huesler, opted for a visually attractive and functionally convincing approach that banishes memories of this “stressed setting”.
Strength lies in peace
The characteristic wavy design gives the various building types a sense of charisma and calm. With this in mind, Oppenheim Architecture speaks of a “silent monumentality” as seen in a range of other spectacular projects such as the wastewater treatment plant in Muttenz, Switzerland. This specific roof design also defines the building's interior. As a result, there is a complete lack of exact angles and alignments. Instead, the architects consciously used organic shapes that openly highlight the traces of the construction process.
Learning by doing
As the process of concrete spraying was widely unknown to those on site, the construction of the two toilet facilities was used as practice and accompanied by two experts from Switzerland. As a result, the larger academy building which will take on the role of the clubhouse until the building is finished –was built in its entirety by the local workforce.
“Most of the furniture, such as the benches, was mad especially for this project. The design is inspired by the earthy tones of the Jordanian mountains. The same also applies to smaller items, such as the actuator plates. Geberit was one of very few companies who were able to offer a suitable design”. Rasem Kamal Project architect at Oppenheim Architecture.