DESIGN & ARCHITECTURE
When the Art of Storytelling Meets Luxury Hospitality
- W DUBAI - MINA SEYAHI BY BLINK DESIGN GROUP -
storytelling , one of the most sublime and respected forms of art that run through Arabian culture .”
BLINK Design Group , the global interior design visionaries and high priests of placemaking , have been tasked with the creation of the UAE ’ s latest W Hotel ; W Dubai Miina 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 .
Once a thriving hub of the copper trade , where Al- Halqa storytellers would weave their yarns to circles of spellbound travellers , the Port of Travellers has been BLINK ’ s overarching inspiration for the hotel , together with the graceful swooping shape of the traditional Dhow boats .
The 31-storey eclectic yet retro property houses 291 guest rooms and 27 opulent suites , a spectacular lobby facing the marina , an infinity pool and lavish BAR-B spa , four meeting rooms and a selection of innovative dining concepts . An utterly unique creation , at W Dubai – Mina Seyahi ancient tales will be given new life through its guests .
He adds that the project had proved an eye-opener 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 . 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 ”.
“ 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 ” adds Nagata .
The hotel ’ s signature restaurant , Ginger Moon , has been conceived as a lively space for international travellers , traders and digital nomads to connect . It features a spectacular split-level ocean deck opening up to the bay , with a pool bar overlooking The Palm Island . The storytelling theme continues into BAR-B , the uniquely exotic spa experience , where socializing and being pampered go hand in hand .
BLINK ’ s founder and creative partner , Clint Nagata , explains : “ Dubai transformed quickly from an ancient outpost into an ultra-modern city and one of the most famous travel destinations . Despite this rapid modernisation , the thread of history is kept alive down the generations through the traditions of
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