When it comes to extravagantly monumental projects, Dubai’s urban planners have always cleaved to the notion that ‘bigger is better’. Which goes some way towards explaining the World and Palm projects, both of which can literally be seen from space. Equally, with such a benign top-down attitude towards largesse, it’s only fitting that architects of independent projects have felt encouraged to also dream big. Such as P&T Architects’ work on the Five Palm Jumeirah.
Set on Palm Island, the 468-room pleasure dome is designed to amaze and impress, beginning with a colossal glass-cubed arrival zone that measures 15m by 15m around which are stacked white angled balconies; and continuing with an 80m pool that laps down the central axis. By contrast, Yabu Pushelberg has created intimate interiors by layering geometric patterns and volumes to create cocoons of light and shadow. The colours of the Arabian Sea are referenced in the mood-board of materials and furniture, particularly in the bedrooms which feature geometric marble floors, bas-relief headboards and mosaic tiled patterns. Similarly, the spa is a visual treat with back-lit glass perforations enrobing each white cubed treatment room.
Equally unexpected are Maiden Shanghai, a light-filled room that pairs views of sky and sea with roast duck and dim sum; and the Yabu Pushelberg-designed Quattro Passi where chefs Antonio Mellino and Giuseppe Pezzella serve up the cuisine of the Amalfi coast.
ADDRESS
No. 1, Palm Jumeirah
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