ROOM WITH A VIEW

GODWIN AUSTEN JOHNSON’S VIDA CREEK HARBOUR OFFERS ONE OF DUBAI’S BEST VIEWS – WITH ARCHITECTURE AND DESIGN TO MATCH THE MESMERISING VISTAS

- OSCAR ROUSSEAU

As you drive up the winding road towards Dubai Creek Harbour, completed and under-construction skyscrapers rise from the ground as the emirate’s latest development begins to take shape. One of the newest buildings to open its doors at the waterfront destination is Vida Creek Harbour, a four-star hotel designed by Godwin Austen Johnson (GAJ).

The Dubai-headquartered practice – which has designed some of the region’s most prominent hotels – was the lead consultant for Emaar’s fourth Vida-branded property. Its scope of work included architecture, interior design, mechanical electrical and plumbing, and delivery of furniture, fixtures and equipment across all areas of the hotel, expect some retail areas and the top floor; this was designed as shell and core.

Vida Creek Harbour draws its nautical design inspiration from the marina the property overlooks. This theme is translated into an “elegant yet relaxed atmosphere with the characteristic simplicity that defines the Vida brand”, explains GAJ.

To mirror the marina lifestyle Dubai and its property developers are keen to promote, GAJ makes use of materials such as curved wood with accent elements in brushed bronze. Leather combined with textiles in undulating textures accentuate references to the ocean, water and maritime life. It also ties Vida Creek Harbour to the local heritage.

Situated on Dubai Creek, the waterway is the cornerstone of Dubai’s heritage and was once the city’s economic lifeline, acting as a hub for trade, fishing and pearling. Decades of development has seen the area evolve into one more familiar with superyachts than dhows. And GAJ has endeavored to reflect this with yachting details blending seamlessly into the hotel’s interiors.