Location: Al Furjan, Dubai
Date completed 28/03/2022
Architect: NAGA Architects
Interior Designer/ Designer: Paul Bishop
Hotel Group: HMH Hotel Group
Other companies involved? A&T Group Interiors fit out contractor for public area | Al Shafar Interiors fit out contractor for guest rooms
Photographer Credit: Marko Zirdum

Located in Al Furjan, Dubai, this lifestyle hotel development was intended to be the first of its kind, forward-thinking social hub within the area. It offers 314 guest rooms, all-day dining, rooftop pool, gym, laundry room, business hubs and a dedicated coffee bar. Bishop Design’s work on the interiors shows intelligent design and thought-provoking solutions that instigates a new standard of lifestyle establishment. ECOS is understated, fun, smart and provides guests with affordable luxury.

Boasting an array of ‘instagrammable’ features, the space endorses exploration. Travelling through the space, Bishop Design’s broad use of diversifying materials and cultural installations enhance the experience. A multitude of patterns, shapes, forms, and textures are accentuated using current materials. The juxtaposition between both vibrant and restrained colour palettes neutralises their patterned counterparts. The beauty of the venue is in the selection of the fixtures and accent pieces which flaunt a contemporary hint.

One of the main characteristics of the ECOS Hotel is its visual side. Geometric flooring binds the colour components that lead guests into the Restaurant area. Opulent green fabrics diverge against pastel hues, formulating seating arrangements and seamlessly complementing their neutral equivalents. Raw materials are introduced through timber woods harnessing together Banquettes, and corrugated grey-stone cladding encapsulating zone defining pillars. The three-tone porcelain chevron flooring is replicated in a muted three-dimensional form on the ceiling above, equally complimented by gold accents to elevate the luxury intent. Contrasting inlay is used to transition between spatial zones with the pattern widening as guests move into the restaurant, a classic Paul Bishop trademark, and it eventually breaks away to open the area.

The driving sentiments in creating this new evolution of lifestyle hotels required unification of Dubai’s desirable ethos coupled with the forward-thinking drive of the brand. This has been achieved through innovatively created installations, exhibited throughout the hotel. Demonstrating flexibility of spaces by providing comfortable seating, accessible workstations, and plenty of power points was imperative to keep the design not only aesthetically pleasing but ensured a unique experience whilst adhering to the demand to stay connected. It is a Lifestyle Hotel revolutionised by smart technology; an establishment which effectively engages guests and continuously makes them feel comfortable and interactive in their surroundings.