The Grand Hyatt Palase Resort & Spa, situated in Dhermi, Albania, is a notable hospitality project designed by Emre Arolat Architecture. Completed in 2021, the resort spans a built area of 32,000 square metres and is currently under construction.
Located at the heart of the Albanian Riviera, the resort is nestled within a challenging, steep, and topographically specific site on the skirts of a captivating delta formation. The design draws inspiration from the principles of local settlement’s volumetric expression, aiming to harmoniously integrate with the natural landscape.
Instead of imposing a monolithic structure that disrupts the landscape, the project employs a fragmented volumetric strategy. This approach maintains the overall perception of the existing topography and preserves the natural texture of the delta. The building’s composition results from the dynamic interplay between natural formations and human interventions, blurring the boundaries between the two.
The primary layer of the resort subtly emerges from the stratum, settling harmoniously into the topography and echoing the rock formations. It gently fractures to sculpt light and shadow and is carved to accommodate a part of the hotel program. This layer serves as a base for the man-made layer, upon which the sharp-edged volumes are placed, recalling Mediterranean settlement compositions.
This design approach, reminiscent of Mediterranean villages with narrow and shaded streets opening towards the sea, enriches the guest’s experience by offering unexpected perspectives and vistas. The resort’s architecture reflects a sophisticated abstraction of local settlement forms, creating a harmonious blend of natural and built environments.
The Grand Hyatt Palase Resort & Spa exemplifies Emre Arolat Architecture’s commitment to contextual design, ensuring that the development enhances the natural beauty of the Albanian Riviera. By integrating traditional Mediterranean architectural elements with contemporary design principles, the resort offers a unique and immersive experience for its guests.
The resort’s design philosophy prioritises the preservation of the natural landscape, ensuring that the development enhances the existing topography rather than imposing upon it. This approach reflects a deep respect for the local environment and cultural heritage, aiming to create a sustainable and contextually appropriate hospitality experience.
In summary, the Grand Hyatt Palase Resort & Spa is a testament to Emre Arolat Architecture’s ability to blend modern design with traditional Mediterranean elements, creating a resort that is both contemporary and deeply rooted in its cultural and environmental context. Its design philosophy ensures that the development enhances the natural beauty of the Albanian Riviera, offering a unique and immersive experience for its guests.
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