Trisha Wilson, Founder/CEO, Wilson Associates
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When asked to be the interior architectural designer of Atlantis, The Palm Jumeirah, we jumped at the challenge.
It would mark my 14th project with my dear friend, Sol Kerzner, executive chairman of Kerzner International, and another unforgettable design experience. There was just one hitch –the design had to have hints of Arabian influences and be exponentially grander than what we had previously designed at the Atlantis Paradise Island in the Bahamas during phases I and II. Our design team was off and running, with a goal to redefine the Dubai resort experience with the creation of this mythical Atlantean fantasy.
I just love designing big projects with Sol! He is constantly pushing the envelope. He never settles. It is very exciting as a designer to use your creative energies to the fullest. What amazes me is the way he interprets and understands the drawings. He motivates us to really look into the design and evaluate it with him. Communication was the key to making sure the vision was executed.
It is said that the Atlanteans were the first to discover the power of the quartz crystal. These crystals were not only used for healing, but to store information and energy. This theme of crystal and light energy is creatively revealed throughout the design of the resort to incorporate moments of unexpected wonder. We commissioned a team of artists and artisans to make this happen.
Renowned artist Dale Chihuly constructed the awe-inspiring nine-metre crystal sculpture, symbolising the energy source of the Atlantis, rising below the grand dome. Spanish artist Albino Gonzalez hand-painted eight murals around the dome telling the story of the ancient mythical city.
Months of research were involved in sourcing the world’s most exotic materials and ancient artifacts.
Shimmering semi-precious stones and intricate fossilised shell and fish stone are seen throughout this luxurious escape. Hints of Arabian architecture are revealed both in the exterior and interior of the resort. We consciously used geometry as a design tool, from space planning to intricate pavement patterns, which is very classical and Arabic.
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The Lost Chambers Suite is the ultimate underwater haven within the resort, and one of my favourite spaces.
These three-floor underwater suites allow the guest to experience the magical aquatic feel above and below the lagoon. One of the most talked about aspects of this resort is this opportunity to literally ‘sleep with the fishes’ – the master bedroom and bath all have views into the Ambassador Lagoon.
A playful element within this space is an entertainment lounge where guests can enjoy Nintendo Wii on the flat-screen TVs.
You might think that it would be a challenge to take the cultural aspect of the design and the Islamic architecture and reinterpret this into the Atlantis, but I believe what was so beneficial to our team was our strong presence in the Middle East.
Over the years, we have learned so much through our work on both phase I and II of the Only&Only Royal Mirage, the Park Hyatt Dubai, The Palace Old Town and the Four Seasons Cairo at the First Residence.
Blending experience and innovation with indigenous design traditions has always been my focus.
Thinking back, the one thing I would have loved to have seen developed would be another infamous Bridge Suite. However, we would have needed two more towers! During construction there was so much buzz around the site about it. You could feel the excitement! I knew it would be a huge success and I hear it has been booked ever since the opening. The dazzling, custom-crystal chandeliers, precious stone accents and shimmering hand-embroidered silk fabrics all truly remind the guest that they are at the heart of Atlantis.
Six years and almost half-a-million air miles later, I found myself at the Atlantis grand opening, listening to the hits of pop sensation Kylie Minogue, at what was rumoured to be the world’s most expensive private opening. I was truly living large in this world that we had helped inspire.
Who could ask for more?
Founded in 1971 by Trisha Wilson, Wilson Associates employs over 350 professionals in its offices in Dallas, New York, Los Angeles, Singapore, Johannesburg, Shanghai and an associate office in Cochin, India. For more information, visit www.wilsonassoc.com.
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FEATURED COMMENT
Back during phase II I was a consultant onsite. What an amazing project. Anyway, I loved the shell sconces in the bathro