Header: Studio RAP / Riccardo De Vecchi
When guests enter the new Jumeirah Marsa Al Arab hotel in Dubai, they are greeted by two enormous ceramic walls. Created by Studio RAP from the Netherlands, these installations are located on either side of the entrance lobby. They define the path into the building and create a moment of arrival that is calm and full of character. The project, named “Blue Voyage,” sets a distinct atmosphere for the luxury hotel.
Waves, light, and flowing lines
The design for “Blue Voyage” takes its core idea from the nearby Gulf. The walls’ overall shape is curved, evoking the movement of ocean waves. As you get closer, the surface reveals more complexity. You can see flowing lines and layered ridges built into the tiles. These patterns catch the light and create changing shadows throughout the day. A special design detail is the set of large corner tiles, which were custom-made to wrap the pattern around the edges without a visual break. This makes the walls feel like large sculptures, giving them a clear presence in the space.
Designing and printing 900 unique pieces
Each wall is massive, measuring 6 meters high and 9 meters long. To build them, Studio RAP designed and 3D-printed approximately 900 unique ceramic tiles. Every single tile was generated using parametric design, a process where computer algorithms help create many different but related shapes. The studio produced all the tiles at its own facility in Rotterdam. This method gave them complete control over the form, the fit, and the material quality from the very beginning to the end. After printing, the tiles were sent to Royal Tichelaar for the traditional firing and glazing process.
A new way to build
“Blue Voyage” is among the largest 3D-printed ceramic installations in architecture worldwide. The project shows Studio RAP’s ongoing effort to unite computational design with physical craftsmanship. They use advanced manufacturing techniques to create architectural elements that are expressive, durable, and designed specifically for their location. This project demonstrates how new technology can be used to create solid, durable, and visually rich components for modern buildings.
Project info
Project Name: Blue Voyage
Location: Jumeirah Marsa Al Arab, Dubai (UAE)
Client: Dubai Holding Real Estate
Designer: Studio RAP
Architect (main building): Killa Design
3D Ceramic Printing: Studio RAP
Firing and Glazing: Royal Tichelaar
Photographer: Studio RAP / Riccardo De Vecchi
Source: v2com-newswire
