A new signature landmark for the Musandam region

Architecture & Masterplanning

Musandam, Oman

Area - 200 000m²

Set against the dramatic backdrop of Oman’s northern fjords, Club Med Musandam reimagines the resort typology as a sensitive insertion into one of the Gulf’s most extraordinary landscapes. Perched between mountain and sea, the project is conceived less as an object and more as a terrain—one that grows from, folds into, and ultimately disappears within its natural surroundings.

Notre proposition pour le Gymnase Krizna, conçu avec un profond respect pour le contexte dans lequel in s'insert - ce gymnase s'intègre harmonieusement avec l'école existante, s'affirmant comme un point de repère dans le tissu urbain environnant. Notre proposition répond de manière réfléchie aux besoins de l'école et du public grâce à une subdivision efficace des programmes. La durabilité est mise à l'avant, notamment dans le choix des matériaux inspirés par l'architecture de l'école existante ainsi que le patrimoine architectural existant dans la région. La répartition stratégique des volumes et des ouvertures optimise l'efficacité énergétique du bâtiment, favorisant la ventilation naturelle et l'utilisation de la lumière naturelle, complétée par une toiture végétalisée. Cette proposition de projet assure une ouverture vers le jardin accolé, avec des vues sur la rivière et la vieille ville.

Set against the dramatic backdrop of Oman’s northern fjords, Club Med Musandam reimagines the resort typology as a sensitive insertion into one of the Gulf’s most extraordinary landscapes.

Perched between mountain and sea, the project is conceived less as an object and more as a terrain—one that grows from, folds into, and ultimately disappears within its natural surroundings.

The façade, a blend of perforated metal and wooden slats, adds a striking visual dimension, allowing for diffused daylight to infiltrate the interiors, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere during the day. At night, the building transforms, radiating a gentle glow as interior lights permeate through the perforations.

The wooden slats, with a triangular cross-section, provide an ever-changing appearance from different angles. One side exhibits exposed wood, while the other showcases vibrant colors inspired by the existing school buildings. The colors and patterns on the wooden facade draw inspiration from the Czech tapestry technique of Gobellin, infusing the sports hall with a touch of cultural richness.

The gymnasium we’ve designed prioritizes immersive and enriching visual experiences, featuring strategic viewpoints that enhance the overall building experience. From the public’s view into the courts, the sightlines extend to the serene garden from the courts, outdoor seating overlooking the racing track, and the welcoming view from the public entrance towards the garden. Additionally, the architectural framing captures the noble silhouette of the nearby church and offers classrooms a dynamic outlook onto the playing courts, enriching the educational environment with natural beauty and community connection. These carefully considered views not only elevate the aesthetic appeal but also foster a deeper connection between the users and their surrounding environment.

Interior view towards seating areas and classroom window

In our gymnasium project, the program distribution is meticulously planned for optimal functionality and flow. School programs are strategically placed on the west facade, stacked vertically to facilitate a seamless transition from educational spaces. The teacher’s room, overlooking the main hall, allows for supervision and interaction. On the north side, the public area unfolds with a welcoming foyer on the east facade, enhancing accessibility. The plant room, positioned near the west facade, ensures easy maintenance access, adjacent to the parking and the school canteen’s back-of-house. The grandstand, accessible from both the public foyer and the school sector, underscores the gymnasium’s dual-use capability, blending community and educational functions. Key amenities like dressing rooms and technical spaces are strategically placed for convenience, with separate entrances for visitors and athletes ensuring smooth operations and enhancing the functionality, safety, and welcoming atmosphere of school and public spaces.