Architecture Moments™ 2: Fairmont Bab Al Bahr
Would you love to live in a luxurious hotel if given the chance?
Well, after tasting this architectural gem in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), I wouldn't hesitate to say - OF COURSE!
For this second episode of Architecture Moments™, my two hands were becoming really restless as I couldn’t wait to type all the words on my keyboard that would reveal to you my unforgettable experiences at the Fairmont Bab Al Bahr, a highly sophisticated establishment of hospitality situated at the heart of Abu Dhabi, the UAE's capital city.
So, are you excited? Let's proceed!
A Design Masterpiece in a Modern Oasis
The UAE used to be my home away from home for several years. While I've personally witnessed, with my very own eyes, this country's meteoric transformation from a barren desert to an ultra-advanced metropolis, writing about her architectural wonders is simply not enough. You've got to be there in person to truly experience this nation's marvelous collection of built masterpieces. There's just no other way!
Nevertheless, I'm going to do my best in being as vivid, clear, and realistic as possible in this post when talking about my cherished memories there. Without a doubt, there are unquestionably plenty of gorgeous landmarks in this part of the world. Yet for now, let's just focus on this specific Abu Dhabi branch of the Fairmont brand of hotels, Join me as we unwrap its hidden secrets and discover what valuable treasures reside within its doors.
Heartwarming Greeting
What's the first thing you would like to see when you enter a hotel? Aside from its appealing interiors, the first thing that catches my immediate attention is the big smile from the human being that greets me upon entry, that is if there's one. Sure enough during my visit on that day, I was approached by a lovely smiling face who had an equally charming voice.
"Good afternoon Sir, and welcome to Fairmont Bab Al Bahr!" The gorgeous lady said. "Oh hello, thank you!" I replied while also giving her a big grin on my way inside.
As I strolled through the lobby, the next features that attracted me were the blue and beige wave-like patterns on the wall panels. They appeared like waterfalls dropping down from the ceiling! These decorative elements were eye-catching and had a calming effect due to the colorfully refreshing sensation they produced!
Receptive Atmosphere
Before checking-in, I made myself at home for a while. The air temperature outside the building was hot and dry - increasing my body heat. So, why not rest a bit to cool me down? "What a relief - just what I needed at that instant! There's no need to hurry," I thought. Their lounge chairs were smooth to the touch and were definitely inviting that I went ahead and sat down on them. As I continuously caressed the soft fabrics of the leather-textured seats, the feeling was so comfortable that I almost fell asleep on the sofa!
The surrounding interior space was the kind of environment I was looking for in a hotel's receiving area. With its modern design through its minimalistic use of materials and finishes, it still ended up as friendly, cozy, and welcoming.
Delightful Treats
Aside from the ample number of furniture arrangements for serving hotel guests, there was also an adjacent gallery of artworks and paintings. Great! It was time to feed my eyes with the wonderful displays of interesting artifacts. My steps hastened as I approached this section of the hotel lobby.
One of the exhibited pieces there was from a featured artist named Su Blackwell. She is famous for transforming books into remarkable 3-dimensional pieces. I took the time in admiring her outstanding works for they truly deserved all the appreciation and praise they can get.
It was like a mini-museum, so to speak. Therefore, my eyes were busy staring at the amazing artful objects that laid there. Yet, there was more to be experienced during those moments!
Homely Ambiance
The entire hotel lobby had a touch of class! It sported elegance and a sophisticated theme. I bet the architect, designers, and their team spent a lot of effort on the intricate details you see in the attached photos. What do you think of the interior?
Personally, I couldn’t get enough of it that I planted more of my presence there just to relax and pose for more photographic opportunities. It was simply a feast for the senses and was astounding!
Rejuvenating Escapes
"Here's your room access Sir. Enjoy your stay here! " The manager at the front desk spoke as she eagerly handed to me my keys. Well, I was already a bit tired during that afternoon thus, I couldn't wait in proceeding to my guest room to take a nap. But, I suddenly changed my mind when I took a quick peek at the other facilities within the vicinity.
Wow! Who doesn't love Mother Nature, yeah? As I peeped beyond the building's massive glass windows, I saw other interesting exterior amenities that were directly connected to the natural surroundings like the outdoor dining platforms, lounge cubicles, lush landscapes, green gardens, stunning panoramas, sandy coastlines, and the vast expanse of the open seas. It was indeed the perfect setting for a truly restful afternoon where I could chill out and be merry!
"Hmm, I'm going to have my breakfast here tomorrow. This place is absolutely awesome!" I told myself as my eyes were fixed on the creative layout of chairs plus other furniture items on this open-air hotel section across the beachfront.
Refreshing Leisure
Since I was still inside the hotel lobby, my feet immediately became itchier when I learned from hotel staff that a swimming pool was nearby and was one of the favorite areas for guests to hang-out and spend the day. Without hesitation, I hastily went outside the hotel lobby to check the said facility. And there it was!
Almost forgetting that I wasn't in my correct swimming attire, I was about to jump straight on the tantalizing blue waters of the pool! (Oh well, I'm just kidding but you get my point…haha!)
"I'm going to come back for you later! So, bye for now, okay?" I silently whispered to the swimming pool as if it was a person while playfully stroking its cold waters with my bare hands.
It was already getting late in the afternoon. And I was already beginning to get excited about my hotel room. From there, I went straight to the hotel elevators to transport me up to my floor.
Seductive Transition
As soon as I entered the lift lobby on the desired level, a sense of serenity overpowered me. The surrounding wall colors and ambient lighting of the space caused me to yawn! It wasn't bedtime yet, on the other hand, I was slowly hypnotized by the entire scene as it lured me closer to my room.
The guest room corridors were also designed in a way to prepare guests for the ultimate slumber. Even its carpeted floors were easy for my slow stride that I could sleep on them!
At the end of the hallway was a special artwork where I stopped for a second to appreciate. As far as I can remember, my room was also situated at the far end of the corridor. What a wonderful coincidence! Since the establishment was a modern hotel, key cards were the standard devices to gain access to the rooms. Traditional keys were not used as compared to other older accommodations.
Come here, let me show you inside!
Private Moments
Now, isn’t that an absolutely gorgeous bed? The guest room incorporated all the ideal natural brown colors that would provide the necessary experience of warmth and comfort. The surrounding tones of the ceiling, wall, and floor were also pleasing to the eyes and offered me an aura of intimacy! Smooth as well as soft surfaces were everywhere from the pillows, blankets, cushions, window curtains, and king-sized bed as I felt their silky textures on my bare skin. Can you feel it too?
"I think it's time for me to take a short nap before I go downstairs for dinner tonight," I thought as I laid peacefully on the large bed. But wait, allow me to finish showing you around the remaining areas of this exquisite space.
Reliable Support
A hotel guest room would never be complete without its support systems and services. Helpful technologies and the latest gadgets such as a work/study table, a Wi-Fi connection, a digital cable TV, safety deposit box, telephone access, smart controls, lighting and temperature devices, etc. all played crucial roles during my stay here.
Yes, there was a built-in bar and fridge with various beverages plus a coffee pot! And last but, not least, there were also complimentary fruits, chocolates, and potable water. Could I ask for more?
Healthy Hygiene
These may be considered common areas required for a luxurious hotel room, but the toilet and bath here need no further introduction.
Having said that, just look at the photos showing the spectacular amount of care given to all the significant details, materials, and items here. Would you even complain?
Okay, friends, that's it! Please excuse me, it's time to sleep!
My Parting Words
Did you enjoy my virtual tour?
The hospitality industry is an extremely competitive market. This is due to the overwhelming abundance of hotels, accommodations, and related businesses that have rapidly emerged over the years to collect their profitable share of guests. The tough race currently goes on in providing the most luxurious amenities, best customer services, and reasonable room rates just to lure more visitors to their establishments. Hence, there are many tempting options to choose from.
While those vital factors I've mentioned are fundamental in providing complete satisfaction for hotel guests, the Human Experience is still my number one priority when doing bookings, at the end of the day! At least for me, it is! I don't know about you but, what's the purpose of staying in an expensive hotel if it doesn't meet your needs and satisfy you, right? I'd rather invest in a budget accommodation that offers me priceless activities that eventually evolve into memorable moments! Would you agree?
I look forward to sharing with you more awesome hotel experiences in future episodes of Architecture Moments™. So, please watch out for these exclusive editions on the Architecture+Design Community, and thanks a lot for joining me on this marvelous journey!
#Hive, what are your thoughts about the Hotel Fairmont Bab Al Bahr?
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