Case study: Shaza – Doha (Built)

Shaza Doha, an architectural gem nestled in Qatar‘s vibrant capital, is a testament to the seamless blend of modern luxury and rich cultural traditions. It is a contemporary landmark hotel located in the heart of Doha, Qatar. It was designed by SOMA Architects, a leading design firm based in the Middle East. The hotel’s design is inspired by Islamic art and architecture, with a focus on sustainability and environmental protection.

Part 1: Planning

The planning process for Shaza Doha was a journey through Qatar’s culture, history, and environment. Before any construction, the architects and designers delved deep into the essence of the Qatari way of life.

This thorough understanding of Qatari culture allowed the design team to infuse the hotel with traditional elements that resonate with the local community. The result is a hotel that stands as a symbol of cultural immersion.

Design Solutions

One of the key design solutions used is the parametrically modified glass facade. The Shaza Doha hotel is instantly recognizable by its stunning facade, an embodiment of art and innovation. This iconic feature is crafted from silk-screened glass panels arranged in a traditional arabesque pattern, which in itself is a work of art. However, what truly sets it apart is the parametric modification of the pattern. This ingenious design enables the hotel to regulate the entry of natural light by adjusting the pattern’s density, significantly reducing the need for artificial lighting. Beyond aesthetics, this feature is a testament to the hotel’s commitment to energy efficiency and sustainability.

 Another key design solution is the use of recycled materials in the hotel’s construction. The hotel’s team used recycled materials in a variety of ways, including in the flooring, ceilings, and furniture. This helped to reduce the hotel’s environmental impact.

The exterior of the hotel showcases exquisite Mashrabiya screens, paying homage to the region’s rich architectural heritage. These screens serve both a functional and an aesthetic purpose, providing shade from the intense desert sun while creating a visually captivating facade.

Inside Shaza Doha, the interior design is a celebration of Islamic art and architecture. Public spaces are adorned with traditional Islamic motifs, including arches, domes, and intricate geometric patterns. These meticulously crafted elements not only create an atmosphere of aesthetic wonder but also serve as a profound nod to the cultural heritage of Qatar.

Guest rooms, in contrast, exude a modern and luxurious ambiance. However, the influence of Islamic art remains subtly integrated into the design, ensuring that guests remain connected to the timeless beauty of the region.

Design Philosophy

The Shaza Doha Hotel was designed to be a reflection of Qatari culture and heritage. The hotel’s design team wanted to create a space that would be both welcoming and luxurious, while also showcasing the unique beauty of Islamic art and architecture.

The hotel’s design is also based on the principles of sustainability and environmental protection. The team used several innovative design solutions to reduce the hotel’s energy consumption and environmental impact.

The design philosophy of Shaza Doha is built upon three fundamental principles:

1. Arabian Elegance: Shaza Doha exudes Arabian elegance, drawing inspiration from Qatar’s architectural heritage. The warm color palette, traditional fabrics, and intricate Arabian patterns create a captivating ambiance, allowing guests to immerse themselves in the local culture.
2. Sustainable Luxury: Sustainability is at the core of Shaza Doha’s design philosophy. The hotel features large windows that maximize natural light, reducing the reliance on artificial lighting. Reflective materials and carefully planned shading techniques ensure a comfortable indoor environment, reducing the need for energy-intensive cooling.
3. Cultural Immersion: Shaza Doha’s design ensures that guests experience a profound connection to Qatari culture. Every aspect of the hotel’s interior is meticulously crafted to transport visitors into the heart of local traditions and heritage.

Part 2: Materials/Construction – Building Innovation in the Desert

Shaza Doha’s construction involved the use of innovative techniques and materials, carefully chosen to thrive in Qatar’s challenging desert climate.

Innovative Construction Techniques:

1. One of the most innovative construction techniques used in the Shaza Doha hotel is the use of the parametrically modified glass facade. This facade is made up of a series of silk-screened glass panels that are arranged in a traditional arabesque pattern. The pattern is parametrically modified to create different densities, which allows the hotel to control the amount of sunlight that enters the building. This helps to reduce the hotel’s energy consumption.
2. The use of prefabricated concrete panels was another technique. These panels were manufactured off-site and then transported to the hotel site for assembly. This helped to reduce the construction time and waste.
3. Recycled materials were also used in the construction of the Shaza Doha hotel. The hotel’s team used recycled materials in a variety of ways, including in the flooring, ceilings, and furniture. This helped to reduce the hotel’s environmental impact.
4. Qatar’s climate is known for its powerful winds and sandstorms. To ensure the structural stability and the comfort of guests, Shaza Doha underwent comprehensive wind tunnel testing during the design phase.

Part 3: Sustainability – Greening the Desert Oasis

Shaza Doha’s commitment to sustainability is commendable, especially in a region where climate change is a pressing concern.

1. Energy Efficiency: The hotel incorporates state-of-the-art energy-efficient technologies, including motion-sensor lighting and smart climate control systems. Additionally, solar panels on the roof harness the abundant Qatari sunlight, significantly reducing energy consumption and the hotel’s carbon footprint.
2. Water Conservation: Shaza Doha has implemented a sophisticated water recycling system. It captures and purifies rainwater for landscape irrigation and reuses graywater, significantly reducing water wastage in a region with limited freshwater resources.
3. Local Sourcing: The construction of Shaza Doha prioritized the use of locally sourced materials, reducing the carbon footprint associated with transportation and supporting the local economy.

The Shaza Doha Hotel is committed to sustainability and environmental protection. The hotel’s design team used several innovative design solutions to reduce the hotel’s energy consumption and environmental impact.

CONCLUSION

Shaza Doha’s journey from concept to reality is a remarkable case study in modern architecture. Its meticulous planning, innovative construction techniques, and unwavering commitment to sustainability set a new standard for luxury hospitality in Qatar. The hotel stands as a testament to the seamless integration of modernity and tradition, serving as a modern oasis in the heart of the desert, where guests can experience the best of both worlds.

Reference

1. Shaza Hotels. (n.d.). Shaza Doha. [online] Available at: https://www.shazahotels.com/en/our-hotels/shaza-doha/ [Accessed 13 Oct. 2023].
2. redboxmedia, P. / (n.d.). Shaza Hotel Doha / Pascall+Watson. [online] www.pascalls.co.uk. Available at: https://www.pascalls.co.uk/work/leisure-and-hospitality/shaza-hotel-doha/ [Accessed 13 Oct. 2023].