For the design of the expansive Westin Abu Dhabi, it was necessary to “understand the fascinating cultural elements and undertones” implicit in the location, says Chicago-based Gettys principal Meg Prendergast. At the same time, she and her firm were charged with creating an upscale destination resort aesthetic for the Abu Dhabi-based Tourism Development & Investment Company that was combined with a fitness/wellness identity, in keeping with its location in the Abu Dhabi Golf Club.

With that in mind, traditional Middle Eastern luxury applications (think majestic and glittering) were frowned upon, focusing instead on organic and authentic materials that reflected the local culture and environment. Thus, the highlight of the hotel’s lobby is a grand staircase-crafted from reclaimed wood and seeded glass balustrade panels-where guests may gaze through 45-foot-tall floor-to-ceiling windows at the golf course beyond.

In the guestrooms, high ceilings and a neutral palette with blue and orange accents make for a sunny and calm space. Warming details include stone, custom wool carpeting, and rich bronze accents. “We did not go with the standard Westin room design,” explains Prendergast. “We wanted it to be more indicative of the area; so while the overall feel is still neutral and clean, we went with a more custom, upscale design.” This approach continues in the guest baths, which feature tile surrounds made from a natural horn mosaic; a vanity washstand with a hand-hammered nickel finish complements the artisanal tiles.

The Westin Abu Dhabi offers a number of dining options, including Moroccan restaurant Agadir. Designed to capture Berber style detailing, the restaurant boasts layered finishes, found objects, and low, pillowed seating areas with collections of meze tables for an almost homey appeal. “[Agadir] was one of the more interesting processes of the project, because it changed a lot from the original intent,” says Prendergast. “It did not start out as a traditional Moroccan restaurant, but ended up that way. We worked with Moroccan craftsmen to design grills, rugs, and other pieces for an authentic, lived-in feel.”

And in a hotel with so much to offer, the highlight of the overall design for Prendergast is the “extraordinary feeling of space and light. The balance between absorbing and reflecting finishes gives every area its own distinct sense of place, its own voice.”