Alila Diwa

Architect: STAPATI
Location: Goa, India
Design team: Tony Joseph, Mohandas.P, Anupama, Bonnie Mathew and Nikhil Mohan
Completion Year: 2010
Photographer: George Seemon, Sujith G.S and Carlos Chen
Client: Seabird Resort Pvt. Ltd

Fabulous sandy beaches, monumental churches, swaying palms on glimmering waterfronts, carnivals, flea markets, strong colonial influences and a vibrant nightlife; all that is Goa! It is a heady concoction of old world charm and cosmopolitan outlook. This context provides the ideal setting for the expression of a unique hospitality experience. One of the first impressions, while exploring the spaces of the Alila Diwa resort is the well-articulated architectural vocabulary rooted in Goan sensibilities and contemporary styling.

The design is a celebratory exploration of sensory perceptions. The arrival into the thematic entrance lobby with its dramatic wooden truss-work sets the tone for an opulent hospitality experience, defined by the careful architectural orchestration of spaces and elements. Nature is integral in the grand scheme of things with large porous courtyards and beautiful old trees offsetting the built volumes. Seamless transitions are created from interiors to exteriors, bringing in the unique visual tapestry of nature as the integral design element.

The inherent respect for the site and its features is evident in the planning of the spaces.  The existing trees on the site are strategically integrated into the spatial design, with the spaces woven around the larger trees in a symbiotic relationship. Microclimatic considerations, visual axises, movement lines, and the various views out of the resort; all these contribute to the evolution of captivating spatial sequencing.

A unique feature is the usage of colonnaded covered pathways that are used to guide movement and to help define spaces. These pathways are porous, and their efficient layering helps in avoiding rigid built-up areas. The spatial syntax is in tune with the elements of nature. This is brought about in the open planning of the resort, with spaces flowing freely into each other. However, one does not feel lost in the large expansive spaces as all these are carefully detailed out with elements evolved from the vernacular architecture, which helps in imparting a human scale to the large built-up areas.

The microclimatic considerations are carried forward in the positioning of the swimming pool. The analysis of the wind direction has helped in optimally orienting the swimming pool so as to bring cool air into the courtyards and the main spaces of the resort. Views extend out from the infinity pool onto the terraced paddy fields in the distance, with layers of relaxation decks articulated around the pool. 

A series of linear planes in beautifully detailed laterite articulates the entrance and common spaces of the spa. Courtyards provide the open spaces around which the volumes unfold. Careful manipulation of the movement lines creates a sequentiality of movement with continuously varying visual focus. The treatment rooms are organized on either side of a linear axis, with water bodies on either side. The inside spaces open out to beautifully landscaped open courtyards on three sides, with the vibrant green enlivening the soothing surroundings. 

The restaurant extends out from the intersection of the colonnaded passage of the large central courtyard and opens out to the green lawn in front and the infinity pool beyond. A landscaped water body on one side, with a protruding wooden deck, creates a visually soothing layer where activities spill out

Borrowing cues from the regional architecture, the spatial quality is elevated by detailing that references the vernacular but which is interpreted in a contemporary aesthetic. The material palette is a refined combination of predominantly local materials like laterite combined with the textures of the regionally available stones and woods. Laterite walls, wooden brackets, copper light fixtures, large slender trusses, wooden pergolas and walkways, stone flooring – all come together to create a truly exceptional spatial experience.