Shebara Hotel,
design: Takla Interior Solution LLC
Architecture today can not only shape space, but also respond to the needs of the environment and the changing climate. An example of this approach is the Shebara Hotel, a project awarded the Grand Prix in the 14th edition of the Saint-Gobain International Gypsum Trophy, the final gala of which was held on April 10, 2025 in Paris. The resort complex, made by Takla Interior Solution LLC, was built on the uninhabited island of Shaybara in the Red Sea. It is a unique development that combines state-of-the-art technical solutions with attention to the landscape and the delicate marine ecosystem.
The blocks take the form of an elliptical capsule
Photo: Taklah Interiors © Saint-Gobain
architecture as drawn by a wave
The hotel is composed of 73 independent solids, which take the form of an elliptical capsule with gently rounded edges. Their shape is reminiscent of objects sculpted by water - organic, fluid, without sharp angles. The structures are placed on platforms, so they do not interfere with the seabed. The exterior finish is made of high-gloss materials.
Shebara South Island Resort - bird's eye view.
Photo: Taklah Interiors © Saint-Gobain
thoughtful layout and balanced form
The entire development was designed so that the individual units remain independent, but form a cohesive spatial arrangement. They are connected by narrow, white piers that serve as pedestrian walkways. Their lightweight construction does not interfere with the perception of the architecture and allows the composition to remain transparent. Facades facing the sea are equipped with large glazing. The windows are set back from the facade, creating deep recesses that provide shade and privacy. These recesses, gently contoured, further emphasize the soft character of the blocks. The outdoor space around the capsules is occupied by terraces.
Shebara South Island Resort - the entire development was designed so that the individual units remain independent, but form a cohesive spatial arrangement
Photo: Taklah Interiors © Saint-Gobain
challenging project
Building the facility on a remote, uninhabited island presented a number of difficulties. A key task was the delivery of prefabricated villas - each weighing 120 tons - and building materials to the island. This required meticulous planning for shipping, while respecting the environment. Another challenge was the difficult weather. Stormy seas and changing weather conditions repeatedly forced contractors to adjust their work schedules. The availability of qualified personnel also proved to be a significant obstacle - very precise work organization and efficient team management were required. Technical conditions were also a significant impediment. The facility had to cope with very high wind loads, typical of the open sea. This applied to both the exterior ceilings and the interior partitions. In addition, the curvature of the ceilings required an unusual approach to installation.
Shebara South Island Resort - hotel interior.
Photo: Taklah Interiors © Saint-Gobain
innovation as a response to needs
The Shebara project is distinguished not only by its form, but also by its construction technology. A key element was the use of lightweight drywall systems from the Saint-Gobain portfolio. They enabled the construction of durable and resistant partitions and ceilings that met the demands of local climatic conditions. Prefabrication and prior preparation of the molds allowed waste to be kept to a minimum, significantly reducing the investment's impact on the local environment.
Shebara South Island Resort - photo during construction.
Photo: Taklah Interiors © Saint-Gobain
As a result, a facility was realized that not only meets high aesthetic and technical standards, but also fits in with the tenets of sustainable construction. It's also worth noting the high standard of safety - the entire construction process proceeded without accidents causing work stoppages, which is rare for projects carried out in such difficult conditions.
Shebara South Island Resort - construction of the facility on a remote, uninhabited island presented a number of difficulties
Photo: Taklah Interiors © Saint-Gobain
the result of cooperation and experience
The success of the project was made possible by close cooperation between the Gyproc and Takla Interiors teams. The exchange of knowledge and openness to non-standard solutions resulted in precise execution and completion of the project on time, despite numerous obstacles. The Shebara Hotel shows that modern architecture can be functional, technologically advanced and environmentally responsible at the same time. It is an example of how, through the selection of appropriate materials and conscious design decisions, one can create places that harmoniously coexist with nature.
