Kristina Zanic designs Sofitel Al Hamra

Beach resort renovation introduces Sofitel’s first property in Ras Al Khaimah designed by Kristina Zanic

Kristina Zanic Consultants has brought a touch of French flair to Ras Al Khaimah, UAE, unveiling exquisite interiors for the city’s first Sofitel property.  

The design studio has crafted interiors that blend classic sophistication with contemporary allure for the new Sofitel Al Hamra Beach Resort.

The opening follows a comprehensive refurbishment of an existing hotel and its rebranding to a Sofitel, encompassing 292 guestrooms and suites, and all public spaces including lobby, dining venues, spa, and function areas. 

Drawing inspiration from both French finesse and Arabian aesthetics, the new interiors boast a harmonious fusion of styles, offering guests a fresh, vibrant, and uplifting experience.

Kristina Zanic, CEO of the design studio, explains, “Our vision was to completely transform the subdued and traditionally styled interiors, and bring in a sense of lightness that resonates with contemporary tastes as well as the property’s beachside location. We’ve blended elements of French art de vivre with Arabesque motifs, presenting a timeless elegance in a contemporary context.”

A dramatic black and white scheme throughout most of the spaces serves as a base for tones of mustard, sage, coral, and teal, drawn from the location’s terracotta mountains, lush mangroves, Arabian Gulf waters and white sandy beaches. 

The revitalized lobby sets the stage for the guest experience, with an expanded double height ceiling flooding the space with natural light and uninterrupted views. While retaining some of its original sandstone wall panels and columns, the majority of the space has been updated to reflect a modern design aesthetic.

Guests are invited to relax on luxurious velvet and leather lounge seating that sit atop a bespoke handtufted rug stretching 14 metres long. French paneling and a statement mural from Four Seasons Ramesh Gallery add visual interest to the walls, while an impressive 10-metre chandelier curves gracefully overhead, drawing the eye in towards the stunning ocean vistas.

The majority of the floor finishes have been sourced from RAK ceramics, with cream travertine floors exuding elegance in the lobby while graphic ceramic tiles add vibrant flair to several dining venues. 

Guestrooms and suites emanate warmth and charm, with open layouts, vibrant hues, and artistic touches. Nods to Emirati heritage can be seen in intricately patterned rugs inspired by Sadu weaving.

Sinuous sofas elegantly contrast with the geometric forms and patterns of the curated joinery and case goods that embody a modern Middle Eastern style. 

In the bathrooms, the walls are adorned with herringbone subway tiles in an array of neutral tones that elegantly offset the sleek black fittings. 

Guests get to indulge in luxurious pampering in the Sofitel Spa with Clarins, with its moody ambiance and geometric design details. Meanwhile, dining venues have been transformed into inviting culinary experiences, each with a distinct character and ambiance. 

The lobby café Citron offers a relaxing refreshment area, decorated with a dramatic black and white veined marble. Meanwhile, the Levantine restaurant East showcases the beauty of the region’s architecture through patterned floor tiles, pointed arches, and traditional lead windows. Guests looking for an elegant and intimate ambiance can retreat to the cigar and wine bar Veritas, while the Samphire swim-up pool bar offers a casual outdoor oasis for sun lovers to gather and enjoy drinks. 

Additional venues to be completed later this year include Reunion, a French brasserie featuring arched alcoves, banquette seating, and a feature ceiling. In addition, the beachside restaurant Waka, once open, will offer diners a taste of resort living with its natural textures and materials and a seamless indoor-outdoor flow.