ARABIC By Hala Barakat

Published in : ISSUE304

Some of the eco-lodge’s structures are built on and use pre-existing ruins, keeping the main hall’s form in line with the area’s vernacular style.  The new additions have straighter lines which stand subtle contrast yet blend in seamlessly because of common materials and finishes. The building can barely be seen from a distance despite containing seven sleeping rooms (each named after a native animal), a communal bathroom complex, a kitchen, dining room and living area.

Karm was built from hand-selected stones, using a mixture of ruins and organic materials from the local area. The walls are thick and furniture is mostly built-in, while double ceilings and intelligently placed windows ensure a comfortable level of natural ventilation. After sunset, candles are the only source of light. The only really ‘modern’ technology is the solar powered water heating system. Even the water (which is drinkable) is from a natural well. Nothing is cutting-edge. From a plateau looking towards the mountains, guests can watch the sunrise, revealing the mountains, ruins and palm trees in the surrounding wadi.  The chaos of the modern world is far away. No mobile coverage. No electricity. No real road roads or manicured landscaping. Karm is not a destination, it’s an experience.Caption:Karm’s reception area, with a backdrop of sunlight percolating through the mountains at sunrise.