Location: Yanbu, Saudi Arabia
Client: AWN Enterprises
Scale: 5600 m2
Cost: 30 million SAR
Design Team:
BACA architects (Architecture and Landscape) in partnership with Wells International (Interior Concept)
The Yanbu Wellness Retreat stands as a bold example of wellness resort architecture, nestled on Saudi Arabia’s Red Sea coast in the city of Yanbu.
Through combining regional identity, sustainable waterfront resort design and cutting-edge building strategies, the Retreat offers a model of modern architecture that equally celebrates nature, wellness and the built environment.
The Retreat is designed to immerse guests in a tranquil, thoughtfully crafted environment, from the spa, speciality dining and accommodation clusters to the arrival spine crowned by a delicate canopy.
Every element is shaped to evoke a sense of calm, renewal and connection to the sea while ensuring long-term durability, energy efficiency and architectural integrity.
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We began with an in-depth site analysis of the Red Sea coastline, prevailing breezes, sun pathways and the regional material economy.
Using locally sourced stone, elevated structures and permeable landscaping to ensure both climate responsiveness and lasting performance.
The spa pavilion, treatment zones, swimming pools and cabanas were all configured to deliver specific conditions aligned to wellness programming.
With the architectural spine linking all guest experiences, close collaboration with interior designers, engineering and operations teams enabled a consistent and calm guest experience from arrival to suite.
The material palette, curves and flowing forms create an inviting atmosphere that supports relaxation and adventure alike.
Elevated structural platforms lift accommodation clusters above the sea-laden air and occasional coastal surge levels.
Passive ventilation, large overhangs and natural light integrate with the local climate to reduce mechanical cooling loads.
The arrival canopy, composed of lightweight materials, shades the central boulevard and frames the turquoise waters as the focal point, guiding guest movement and visual focus toward the horizon.
The resort’s spa building features interconnected volumes for treatment rooms, saunas, swimming pools, whirlpools and more, each zone crafted for specific wellness atmospheres.
The villas over water provide direct sea access, private plunge pools and seamless transition between interior and exterior spaces.
