Imagine a hotel suspended between colossal granite cliffs, dangling high above a road that snakes through imposing mountains. This isn’t a scene from a dream, but the reality of the Ice Cube Hotel, situated in Saudi Arabia’s Tabuk province at the entrance to Wadi Tayyib Al Ism. Here, guests will be treated to unparalleled views of the Gulf of Aqaba below, redefining the very concept of luxury tourism.

Project Name: Ice Cube Hotel
Studio Name: Kalbod Design Studio
Principal Architect: Mohamad Rahimizadeh
Architect: Mehrdad Akhlaghi
Technical Director: Kamyar Mahbobi
Visual & Presentation: Ziba Baghban – Melika Ekhlasi – Mahdis Shadbash
R&D: Pardis Ahmadi

Ice Cube Hotel by Kalbod Design Studio-Sheet1
©Kalbod Design Studio

Inspired by Neom’s mission to revolutionize living and environmental stewardship, the Ice Cube Hotel emerges as the crown jewel of Neom’s tetralogy of tourism destinations (Wellness, Oasis, and Adventure). Each room boasts breathtaking panoramas of the Gulf and the dramatic cliffside, solidifying the hotel’s place as a must-visit for discerning travelers.

Ice Cube Hotel by Kalbod Design Studio-Sheet2
©Kalbod Design Studio

The secret to the hotel’s weightless feel? Transparent cement. This innovative material forms the floors, ceilings, and walls, creating the illusion of massive ice blocks stacked upon each other. This unique design not only defines the individual units but also maximizes the breathtaking views.

But the innovation doesn’t stop there. To harness natural ventilation at its +46-meter elevation, the accommodation levels cleverly split as the building rises. This ensures privacy between units while a mesmerizing sheet of water cascades across each terrace. This water feature flows elegantly from the highest point to the lowest, culminating in a signature waterfall that plunges back into the Gulf, completing a visually stunning cycle.

Ice Cube Hotel by Kalbod Design Studio-Sheet5
©Kalbod Design Studio

Seamlessly integrated with the captivating natural beauty, the Ice Cube Hotel also features dedicated boat docks, allowing guests to further explore the wonders of the surrounding area. This visionary project promises an otherworldly experience, solidifying its position as a worthy addition to Neom’s extraordinary collection of structures that redefine the future of living.

Ice Cube Hotel by Kalbod Design Studio-Sheet6
©Kalbod Design Studio

This rewrite retains all the information of the original text but uses a more engaging and evocative tone. It highlights the unique features of the hotel and emphasizes the luxurious experience it offers.

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