Located on a pristine white beach, the St. Regis Saadiyat Island Resort, Abu Dhabi has opened its doors as the first of three hotels for the brand opening this year in the Middle East. Architectural firm Woods-Bagot, Northpoint Architects, and interior designers HBA collaborated on the design, which boasts a blend of Mediterranean and Arabic influences.
Implementing local products and elements, HBA created an overall light and airy palette with a number of natural and earthy materials, colors, and shapes, including sand roses and sea swells. A stone floor hand selected from local quarries covers much of the floor, while lighter woods boast a wide grain and a natural finish. A golden recessed dome serves as the main floor’s ceiling and features concentric circles of custom-designed crystal in the grand chandelier which cascade into a form reminiscent of a delicately curving seashell.
Meanwhile, high recessed ceilings make guestrooms and suites feel expansive. Rustic finishes, honed stone, and a slightly arched balcony serve as distinctive details. In the Iridium Spa, gold, cream, and darker tones if slates and marbles set a relaxing tone, complemented by dome recesses finished in silver leaf.
Seven distinctive F&B venues include signature restaurant 55 & 5th The Grill, a classic grill and lounge inspired by the original St. Regis New York; the Manhattan Lounge, is inspired by the customs and signature beverages reflecting New York’s elite society; the hotel’s lobby lounge, known as the Drawing Room; Sontaya, a Southeast Asia restaurant with floating glass-walled pavilions set amidst interconnected ponds and pools; the Mediterranean-influenced Olea; Turquoiz, a beach restaurant opening later this year; and Sucré, the resort’s pastry.
Meanwhile, Iridium Spa features three individually designed luxurious spa suites-Moroccan, Thai, and Contemporary-each with private terraces and pools. Other leisure facilities include an athletic club equipped with tennis and squash courts and five pools. The resort also offers extensive function facilities highlighted by the Regal Ballroom, featuring an outdoor terrace with seaside views.
