In Harmony with the Landscape In Harmony with the Landscape In Harmony with the Landscape In Harmony with the Landscape

June 15, 2019

In Harmony with the Landscape

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The architecture of Ayla Golf Academy & Clubhouse by Oppenheim Architecture takes inspiration from the natural dunes and mountains of the surrounding desert landscape of Jordan as well as the architectural heritage of the ancient Bedouin.

Ayla Golf Academy Oppenheim Architecture

The project forms part the Ayla Oasis – a 44 sq km leisure development currently under construction in Aqaba, Jordan

The innovative and organic design of the building forms the iconic core of the Ayla Oasis mixed-use resort development. This building is designed by Chad Oppenheim and Beat Huesler of Oppenheim Architecture, an award-winning architecture, planning, and interior design firm specialising in hospitality, commercial mixed-use, retail and residential buildings worldwide. With projects spanning over 25 countries, the firm designs with sensitivity toward man and nature – harmonising with the surroundings of each context.

Ayla Golf Academy & Clubhouse by Oppenheim Architecture

This 1,200 square meter building is part of the first phase of a 44-square-kilometres leisure development currently under construction in Aqaba, Jordan. The development encompasses residential, hotel and commercial space, all centred around an 18-hole signature golf course. The clubhouse features retail, dining, bar/lounge, banquet, fitness, and spa components; while the Golf Academy includes retail, dining, and indoor/outdoor swing analysis studio components.

: Oppenheim Completes Vernacular Golf Academy in Jordan

The distinct architectural form of the Ayla Golf Academy & Clubhouse establishes a unique connection with nature by capturing the elemental, vibrant beauty of the rolling desert landscape. A massive concrete shell or shotcrete drapes over the programme areas, enveloping the interior and exterior walls of each volume. The curved shotcrete shell blends with the sand and the surrounding dune landscape instead of having conventional walls and ceilings. These shells also give way for grand views towards the spectacular Aqaba Mountains in the background. Corten steel perforated screen filters the light, similar to the traditional Arabic “mashrabiya”. Jordanian patterns inspired the triangular pattern of openings while the tones of the surrounding mountains are echoed in the colours of the shotcrete and the metals, according to the architect.

Ayla Clubhouse and Golf Academy by Oppenheim Architecture

Corten steel perforated screen filters akin to mashrabiyas of Gulf Architecture

“The building connects to the local vernacular both in its dune-like shape and it’s materiality. Local sand was integrated into the shotcrete mixture, and a local artist decorated the interior surfaces with gold, silver, and minerals found on the site,” says Chad Oppenheim.

The construction of the project is the result of a knowledge exchange programme between the European office of Oppenheim Architecture and local workforce. Shotcrete pouring techniques were taught to workers in the first phases so that they could take ownership of the construction and obtain specialised skills. A local artist also helped shape the building by applying a traditional pigmentation technique to the interior surfaces, granting a raw, unadorned look that stays true to its context and inspiration, he explains.

With over 70 firm distinctions, including over 45 AIA Awards, the firm’s work is built on both a physical and spiritual contextual sensitivity, supported by evocative and economic design solutions that all serve to enhance life. The firm’s projects are crafted to establish the perfect balance between artistry and economics — timeless architecture that is as beautiful as it is functional.