UK firm to design desert eco-retreat in UAE

expat network

UK firm to design desert eco-retreat in UAE

Baharash Architecture, the award-winning design studio based in London has won the contract to design a solar-powered luxury desert eco-retreat in the Liwa region of the UAE.

The facility has been designed to be in harmony with the pristine and untouched desert-scape. It is completely energy self-sufficient; using solar panels, it will generate and store clean power in several battery units.

Its other features include smart glass windows to offer instant privacy at the flick of a switch, an indoor herb garden, and a central fireplace for social bonding which was a key part of the Bedouin heritage, said the London architect.

The eco-retreat is being built for one of Dubai’s highest profile individuals, the company said in a statement without revealing the identity.

According to Baharash Architecture, a stay at this facility – set up in the heart of a beautiful desert – will be a rejuvenating experience.

The retreat will provide genuine exclusivity and tranquillity in an area which has remained unspoiled for centuries, and is home to a thriving wildlife such as oryxes, gazelles and camels, said its top official.

“The UAE has some of the most beautiful natural landscapes in the region, such as Liwa, which is a perfect destination for eco retreats,” remarked Baharash Bagherian, the designer and founder of Baharash Architecture.

“We are seeing a new generation of Emiratis who are looking to lead a more sustainable lifestyle, in line with the UAE’s vision to become one of the most sustainable countries in the world. Thus eco-retreats are a great sustainable alternative to the usual jet-setting trips,”

Source: Trade Arabia

Moving Abroad Checklist

Initial Considerations

Will your partner be travelling with you?

If so, what will they be giving up in your present home and will they be able to continue with their career in your new home? You will need to check whether a separate visa is required for your partner to work or if your visa gives that right. If they are unable to work you will need to decide on the effect on your finances and what alternatives are available to give a fulfilling life (home business, training, voluntary work).

Are you taking family with you?

Moving with family raises many exciting opportunities, but also can create challenges. The HSBC Expat Explorer survey indicates that expat kids can take six months to settle in to their new country (see article). Getting young or even older children to prepare to move and leave their friends and family behind can be a challenge and should be thought through.

The options for education is another area that needs to be thought through.

Moving your child to a new country with a different education system can be a great opportunity to broaden their experience, but if they are close to key exams the timing can make this inadvisable. If you do take your family with you, it is important to decide between joining the local school system or choosing an international school.

Where will you be living?

Whether you will be living in a house or apartment, furnished or unfurnished, these decisions will affect what you need to take with you. The time you are planning to live overseas will also affect whether you should leave your property at home empty, rent it out or sell it. See the article Sell, Store or Ship.