Malek Alqadi Designs the Folly Mojave Series in the Desert
Amy Duong — August 6, 2024 — Art & Design
References: follycollection & dezeen
California studio Malek Alqadi unveils the Folly Mojave series which is a range of monumental hotel suites made from concrete materials located in the Mojave Desert. It is inspired by Middle Eastern archaeological sites and comprised of standalone structures in the desert. There are five in total -- one of which is a single-story amenity space and the other four have two storeys with different suites.
Alqadi explains, "Rooted in the ancient architectural principles of archaeological wonder, as a child I explored near my birthplace Petra, Jordan, and the enigmatic allure of Al-Ula in Saudi Arabia, my ongoing vision is to seek to create spaces that are both reverent, resilient, and rooted in my origins. Rooted in the agrarian heritage of my upbringing and informed by rigorous academic research, my approach seeks to bridge the chasm between ancient architectural principles and modern technological advancements."
Image Credit: Johnny Prehn
Alqadi explains, "Rooted in the ancient architectural principles of archaeological wonder, as a child I explored near my birthplace Petra, Jordan, and the enigmatic allure of Al-Ula in Saudi Arabia, my ongoing vision is to seek to create spaces that are both reverent, resilient, and rooted in my origins. Rooted in the agrarian heritage of my upbringing and informed by rigorous academic research, my approach seeks to bridge the chasm between ancient architectural principles and modern technological advancements."
Image Credit: Johnny Prehn
Trend Themes
1. Archaeological Inspiration - The Folly Mojave hotel series leverages the timeless appeal of ancient Middle Eastern architecture to create a unique guest experience that merges historical aesthetics with modern comforts.
2. Desert Hospitality - Set within the Mojave Desert, these concrete hotel suites offer a novel way for travelers to experience luxurious accommodations surrounded by stark and serene natural beauty.
3. Standalone Structures - By employing standalone concrete structures, the series emphasizes privacy and a deep connection to the remote desert environment, setting a trend towards secluded and immersive lodging options.
Industry Implications
1. Hospitality - The integration of ancient architectural styles into modern hotel design opens new avenues in the hospitality industry for creating culturally rich and immersive travel experiences.
2. Construction - Utilizing concrete as the primary material for luxury accommodations signifies a shift in construction practices, promoting the durability and aesthetic versatility of concrete in upscale developments.
3. Tourism - The unique combination of historical inspiration and modern amenities in a desert setting can attract tourists seeking distinctive, culturally reflective, and eco-conscious travel destinations.
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