CLIENTS BRIEF:

The site is at remote location in west Africa. Cotonou, Benin – not a significant tourist OR business visitors spot, but has substantial Indian community. Our clients wanted to make a hotel mainly catering needs to Indian culture, Indian lifestyle, for Indian community there. But with a modern elevation as the site is on one of the most popular road in heart of city, very close to airport. Currently there is no space catering to Indian functions requirements, Indian food, Indian music etc. We must appreciate the vision of our clients to make a hotel especially for Indian community.

CONCEPT NOTE:

Celebrations and gatherings is an unavoidable part of Indian culture. It could be for HOLI or DIWALI or any other festival. Each and every spaces are carved out considering the gatherings of Indian community. There is something for all age groups. Outdoor play area, Pool, Dance, bar etc.

DESIGN PROCESS:

We took a decision to have a steel structure building in fabrication - as this plot was a long lease plot, and it would give us good returns of steel structure even though clients would not continue the lease. Also reducing construction time was as added advantage. Considering the sun path directions and hot + humid climatic conditions we decided not to have big windows. All windows are vertical scattered shape making a unique character to building. Building is clad in ACP (Aluminium composite panels) with only two dominant colours White and Grey. Majority colour is white as it stands out / highlights the building from a distance. ACP cladding acts as good water resistance / thermal insulation material. Roof top lounge is created with informal parapet wall in continuation with random windows elevation. VIP lounge is further up to experience the best skyline of cotonou city. DOUBLE glazed windows – few openable and few fixed – adding soundproofing advantage.