W Hotels enlisted Blink Design Group to design the newly opened W Dubai Mina Seyahi.
Located in the heart of Al Mina al Seyahi – the legendary Port of Travellers district of Jumeirah Beach, home to Dubai International Marine Club and its 300-berth marina – the modern yet bohemian hotel is inspired by traditional Dhow boats, the romance of travel and the ancient Arabic storytelling tradition of Al-Halqa.
The 31-storey eclectic-yet-retro property houses 291 guestrooms and 27 opulent suites, a lobby facing the marina, an infinity pool and lavish BAR-B spa, four meeting rooms and a selection of innovative dining concepts.
“Dubai transformed quickly from an ancient outpost into an ultra-modern city and one of the most famous travel destinations,” explains Blink Design Group’s founder and creative partner, Clint Nagata. “Despite this rapid modernisation, the thread of history is kept alive down the generations through the traditions of storytelling, one of the most sublime and respected forms of art that run through Arabian culture.”
The project proved to be an eye-opener for Blink in terms of what was possible within the vivid brand universe of W Hotels. “Hints to the Arabic tradition and craftsmanship are peppered across the hotel, from treasure-chest-like bedside tables to white leather bed headboards – with ribs and shapes inspired by Dhows – fabrics with motifs drawn from local calligraphy and lights that resemble the Arabian Nights’ ancient lanterns,” says Nagata. “The suites have been envisioned as a place to gather with friends for pre-dinner drinks or casual meetings. The bedrooms have a luxurious seating area, with a tilted minibar in brass and dark blue lacquer, a social space where drinks can be served and a perfect place for lazy grazing.”
He adds: “The element of surprise extends to the walk-in closets, closed with billowing curtains in a gradient of sunset colours, echoing the hues of the bay. We play with the idea of the secrets behind the veil. The storytelling theme extends to the bathrooms via a calligraphy theme, with bold black and white colours to echo ink and paper. The bathrooms also feature a seating area, encouraging long bathing rituals, and conversation.”
The hotel’s signature restaurant, Ginger Moon, has been conceived as a lively space with a spectacular split-level ocean deck opening up to the bay, and a pool bar overlooking The Palm Island. The storytelling theme continues into BAR-B, the uniquely exotic spa experience, where socialising and being pampered go hand in hand.
