- Type: Modern Contemporary
- Bedrooms: 5
- Bathrooms: 6+
- Built: 2018
A sculptured monolithic residence designed to impress foreign dignitaries and inspired by the traditional Bahraini courtyard houses, typically oriented to catch prevailing winds via their wind towers, this seafront guesthouse funnels the NW breeze into its captivating yard and around its volumes.
The clients’ brief called for a five-bedroom guesthouse and entertainment facilities, taking full advantage of the site’s spectacular sea views while safeguarding the privacy of celebrity guests and diplomats.
Designed to immerse up to 200 guests into a transcendent experience, away from the generic local context while providing refuge from the unremitting demands of modern living, the building sits on reclaimed land and a hundred piles: its spartan composition of travertine, concrete, wood and glass sewn seamlessly together in a story of bespoke details and balanced proportions.
Spacious lounge, dining and pool areas together with spa, gym and event facilities were required to host individuals, groups and special events such as formal occasions and live concerts. The result is a seamless and theatrical amalgamation of all the above; a sequence of spaces overlooking both sea and inspiring outdoor spaces, large enough to comfortably accommodate small to medium sized groups in a remarkable and unforgettable setting.
Beyond the sleek and dramatic exterior entrance of the Reef Guesthouse, lies a calm and captivating haven that never fails to inspire the awe of its visitors. Its magic lies in its perfectly calibrated proportions, the interaction of its simple lines and shadow play, and the harmonious marriage of beauty and utility.
The simplicity of the Reef Guesthouse belies the complex design process required to incorporate the client’s many demands of the space, as well as to house the extensive back-of-house facilities needed to service this sanctuary of hospitality. The meticulous attention to detail is apparent in every corner of build, and the sober selection of materials brings it all together in a true poetry of form and function.
- Architect: Jalal AlNajjar Architect, Chris Briffa Architects
- Photography: Aldo Amoretti
- Location: Reef Island – Road 4652, Manama, Bahrain
