09/10/2025
The proposed hotel lobby is conceived as a space where architecture and environment converge. At the heart of the design lies the spiral glass atrium, which not only serves as a visual and spatial anchor but also functions as an integrated rainwater harvesting system. Rainfall is collected along the atrium’s glazed surfaces and channelled into a concealed storage system, where it is treated and reused for landscape irrigation, water features, and other non-potable needs. This dual role transforms the atrium into both a symbolic and practical embodiment of sustainability.
The lobby capitalises on the site’s natural ventilation potential, drawing in sea breezes from the north and mountain winds from the south to maintain thermal comfort with reduced reliance on mechanical cooling. The atrium further introduces abundant daylight, creating a luminous and uplifting atmosphere across the lobby and its corridors.
The deep corridors framing the atrium double as circulation routes and shaded multifunctional zones, offering protection against sun and glare while encouraging informal gatherings and social interaction.
Reinforcing the connection to the local ecosystem, the atrium celebrates the presence of the yellow butterfly species (Eurema hecabe), abundant on site. Their seasonal presence enlivens the atrium, bringing a delicate and poetic natural rhythm into the architectural experience.
This holistic approach positions the hotel lobby as a sustainable landmark—a naturally ventilated, daylit, and ecologically responsive environment where water, air, and light are harnessed to create a memorable sense of place.
A proposal by Helmi Hanif Architect