As the travel landscape evolves, designers are now turning their creative lenses towards the art of crafting vacation rentals. What prompts this shift from conventional accommodations, and how do designers approach the task of redefining our homes away from home? The Oasis View in AlUla, Saudi Arabia, exemplifies this transformation. Beirut-based architect and designer, Elie Metni’s vision unfolds in the delicate balance between preserving architectural heritage and infusing contemporary design. STIR delves into the intricacies of the project where each space narrates a unique story, capturing the essence of AlUla’s charm.

AlUla, with its vast oasis and history embedded in every stone, stands as a testament to the natural beauty shaped by the passage of time. It is against this backdrop that the Oasis View rentals come to life. The idea of designing vacation homes in such a locale is not merely about creating spaces to inhabit; it is a deliberate effort to become a part of AlUla’s story. Elie Metni architects envisioned a project that would not only harmonise with the city’s traditional architecture but also offer visitors an authentic taste of the AlUla experience.

These properties go beyond conventional accommodations; they offer immersive experiences that unfold within the carefully curated walls of space. The process of designing projects like Oasis View involves deep exploration of the locale, understanding its cultural fabric and crafting a narrative that harmoniously blends tradition and modernity. Elie Metni, the visionary behind this project, explains to STIR, “Our approach involved both preserving and accentuating the building’s key architectural features, while also introducing contemporary vacation rentals. By balancing local aesthetics with modern lifestyles, our goal was to offer guests an authentic AlUla experience through thoughtful design."

Central to the project is a dedication to safeguarding AlUla’s cultural heritage. The project is strategically located in Al Jadidah city, overlooking the oasis and standing as a tribute to the city’s rich historical tapestry. Metni’s design philosophy revolves around a meticulous restoration process, adhering to the city’s building codes. “The strategic placement of the project was key to its development. The building sits in front of the dominant oasis in the heart of the city, next to AlUla’s old preserved town," says the architect.

A pivotal aspect of the project involved collaborating with local artisans and suppliers, a journey that proved both challenging and instructive. Metni emphasised the significance of this collaboration, noting that working with local artisans was very enlightening. Learning about assembly and colouring techniques, especially using palm leaves, left a lasting impression. The integration of traditional craftsmanship into the modern design not only honoured the city’s heritage but also created a unique and authentic experience for guests.

One of the most intriguing challenges faced during the project was the need to strike a balance between preserving existing architectural features and incorporating modern design in vacation rentals seamlessly. Metni shed light on this delicate equilibrium with STIR, expressing that the balance achieved came up after understanding the relation between the core architectonic components of the building and the randomness of the interior partitioning. When put together, they created a comfortable flow with locally inspired interior design

This hospitality architecture project required the application of two distinct construction techniques due to the presence of two adjoining buildings. The primary structure underwent meticulous restoration using conventional masonry methods with concrete architecture and bricks, while the adjacent annexe embraced the time-honoured tradition of mud-brick architecture construction. Metni clarified that it wasn’t a combination but more like a work in parallel since two adjacent buildings were combined, and the techniques were executed separately. This intricate interplay of construction techniques presented challenges, but through careful planning and execution, the result is a cohesive structure that seamlessly blends into the city’s landscape.

A highlight of the vacation rentals is the communal rooftop, designed to offer a panoramic view of the enchanting AlUla oasis, this rooftop enclave serves as more than just a picturesque setting; it’s a space crafted to foster camaraderie and relaxation among guests. It features seating zones, a dining area and a discreetly positioned petite pool. The pool area, strategically placed to preserve the privacy of each guest, is directed towards AlUla’s majestic mountains and oasis, providing a serene backdrop for a truly immersive experience. The architect detailed the design thinking, stating that the rooftop was designed mostly to become an observatory for the oasis, a destination within the guest’s journey. The layout was designed to always have visual communication between parties while enjoying the view and to avoid private clusters.

The project comprises a collection of vacation rental units, ranging from cosy studio lofts for two persons to spacious four bedroom apartments catering to families or groups of friends. The location of the building is strategically positioned between historical sites and vibrant restaurants, offering guests a central hub for exploring Alula. Metni emphasised the uniqueness of the hospitality design project, mentioning that its distinctiveness comes also from the randomness preserved in the units. Each unit is a canvas of local inspiration and modern comfort, providing guests with a truly authentic AlUla experience.

Metni’s vision for the Oasis View extends beyond the physical structures. He aims to offer guests more than just a place to stay, envisioning the stay as an immersive journey, where the surroundings, architecture and community converge to create an unforgettable experience. He shared with STIR that the project was about creating a space that not only respects the history and traditions of AlUla but also offers a contemporary and comfortable retreat for visitors in the Middle East. He hopes guests leave with a connection to the rich heritage and harmonious blend of the old and new. 

In the evocative landscape of AlUla, Oasis View emerges as a testament to the transformative power of design. Metni’s careful orchestration of tradition and modernity creates more than vacation rentals; it births a narrative that intertwines with the heartbeat of AlUla. As guests traverse through the curated spaces; each corner whispers stories of heritage and innovation. The hospitality interiors project isn’t just a destination, it is an immersive experience; an open invitation to embrace the rich tapestry of AlUla’s past and present.