THE JOURNEY OF SELF DISCOVERY AND FREEDOM
location: Sokhna, Egypt
function: Resort
area: 32370 м2
OYA Resort is located in Ain Sokhna, Egypt, overlooking the breathtaking Red Sea. The site is distinguished by its unique terrain, with a natural slope of 18 meters descending from the Cairo–Hurghada Road down to sea level. This natural landscape becomes a central driver of the architectural concept, shaping both the resort’s character and its spatial experience.
Form Generation Concept
The design begins with a pure extruded mass, which is then rotated 30° towards the sea to ensure that every unit enjoys an open, panoramic view. To preserve usable areas, the mass is carefully realigned, followed by applying a pixelated grid system. From this grid, pixels are subtracted, reducing the footprint, introducing variety into the skyline, and creating distinctive unit typologies.
The design begins with a pure extruded mass, which is then rotated 30° towards the sea to ensure that every unit enjoys an open, panoramic view. To preserve usable areas, the mass is carefully realigned, followed by applying a pixelated grid system. From this grid, pixels are subtracted, reducing the footprint, introducing variety into the skyline, and creating distinctive unit typologies.
Between units, voids and partition walls provide privacy while also functioning structurally, accommodating external staircases that lead to the elevated first-floor studios. Each studio is crafted with terraces, extending the interior experience outward and offering a sense of freedom as they overlook the sea.
Horizontal slabs with bamboo shading,a material sourced locally from Sokhna,define the terraces, filtering light while adding a natural, bohemian texture to the architecture.
Unit Typologies
To achieve this flexible form, the resort includes multiple studio variations:
To achieve this flexible form, the resort includes multiple studio variations:
Two-floor loft studio with a single terrace.
Two separate stacked studios across two levels.
Double-floor studio with dual terraces.
The architectural identity blends bohemian Mediterranean aesthetics with the pixelated massing and external stair circulation. The result is a composition that merges luxury with nature and soul, creating a resort that feels both crafted and free-spirited, deeply rooted in its context yet open to the horizon.
Landscape & Atmosphere
The landscape design follows a sandy, arid style, using gravel, cactus, olive trees, and palms to respect the local ecology while minimizing water consumption in a location where fresh water is limited. This natural palette of resilient plants reinforces the harmony between architecture and environment.
The resort also transforms with time: at sunset and night, OYA offers a magnificent atmosphere, where warm lights, soft shadows, and the horizon’s glow create a sense of serenity and magic by the sea.
