Project Highlight
Résidence Prestige Nakâra sets new standard for seaside architecture
Jacques Ferrier Architecture challenges convention with their design for a hotel located close to the Mediterranean sea in the south of France . Photos : Mathieu Ducros
CAP D ’ AGDE is an ancient town founded by the Greeks and is now famous as a summer holiday destination on the Mediterranean coast of France . Its popularity has resulted in a surge of hotel developments along the coastline , competing with existing residences for space .
One of the newest developments is Résidence Prestige Nakâra , part hotel and part residences , with amenities like swimming pool , sauna , restaurant and fitness centre , among others . Most of the units are selfcontained with kitchenettes and en suite bathrooms while some have their own balconies or terraces
Beachfront architecture has often been distinguished by its fresh inspirations and ability to innovate without appearing to do so . Since the 1950s , the contemporary style has been expressed in a light , unconventional manner from the coast of the French Riviera to Venice Beach in California . But with globalisation and the onslaught of tourism , coastal developments has deteriorated significantly in terms of style and design .
Unlike so many recent resorts which are either luxurious or strictly functional , Nakâra focuses on the quality of the holidaymaker ’ s experience and aims to create a sense of place . The project is therefore in keeping with a Mediterranean vision and does not subscribe to the design trends catering to mass tourism .
Large “ openwork ” walls in white concrete cohesively punctuate the various spaces . They function as filters , putting distance between the shared areas like the gardens and swimming pool terraces – and the more intimate room area .
The dual facade system creates an inbetween space . The balconies project into this
ambiguous space and give a feeling of being simultaneously inside and outside .
Large white trellises provide depth to the facade and trap light and shade with a continuous kinetic effect . They create a vibrant background for the joyful ballet of holidaymakers ’ silhouettes , and are illuminated at night to create a soft and subtle ambiance .
The architect ’ s aim is to develop a calm , peaceful setting with this project , going against the conventions of mass tourism . The animation does not come from the buildings themselves but from the manner in which they allow themselves to be penetrated by the life of the seaside and their ability to react and respond to the Mediterranean light . �
More information at www . jacques-ferrier . com
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