With the recent closing of Marbella Design 2024, it is the perfect time to share with you some curiosities and details of Al Ula, by Antonio Calzado Studio. Today we want to reveal to you all the secrets that make it so special.
The Story of Al Ula: Inspiration and Concept
As we already told you in our previous entry (discover it here), space Al Ula for Marbella Design takes its name and inspiration from the historic ruins found in the middle of the Saudi Arabian desert. Conceived as a versatile environment adaptable to different uses. From a boutique cafe to an area attached to a home, office or hotel. Here, each element invites a sensory experience that encourages disconnection and well-being.
The design reflects the organic and fluid essence of the desert nature itself, combining natural textures and soft curves that contrast with defined geometric lines.
La Barra: Exclusive design for Marbella Design 2024
One of the most outstanding pieces of the space is the center bar, designed exclusively for Marbella Design 2024 by Antonio Calzado himself.
Inspired by Lihyan TombThe most iconic of the Al Ula ruins, this bar captures the essence of this monument that is also known as the lonely castle. The structure achieves a perfect balance between the historical and the contemporary, uniting past and present in a single piece.
The Al Ula Banquette: Art and Design in a single piece
Another gem of the project is the Al Ula sidewalk, this represents the two main concepts of this event, art and design. Featuring a digital print fabric also designed in our studio and inspired by the geometric carvings found at Al Ula, this piece reflects the studio's ability to reinterpret Arabic and Andalusian style into the contemporary.
The Gradient on the Walls
The two-tone gradient that adorns the walls of Al Ula It is not simply decorative; It has a double meaning. On the one hand, it represents the passage of time, evoking the majesty of ruins that have endured for millennia and whose value is born precisely in their history. Secondly, the coating, made with ecological materials from Ecoclay, represents the sandy texture of the desert, providing a unique finish that invites those who enjoy this space to a unique tactile experience.
Connection between the Earthly and the Spiritual at Marbella Design
Among the most unique elements of the space are the original Nigerian hats, handcrafted pieces that not only provide a touch of exoticism, but also symbolize power and spirituality. This type of hat is usually used for religious ceremonies and represents the connection with the celestial. In the Al Ula space, they evoke the connection between the earthly and the divine, transforming the environment into a more transcendental experience.
and design of the pedestal sink embodied in solid surface plays with shapes reminiscent of rock formations and totems, reinforcing the spiritual connection of the project.
In Antonio Calzado Studio, we take care of every detail of our projects, from the textures of the walls to the design of unique pieces that give life to the spaces we create.
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Until the next entry!
