Gulf Construction Online - Work commences on picturesque Oceano

Northern Emirates

Oceano’s design breaks away from conventional forms, embracing fluidity with its curved architecture.

Work commences on picturesque Oceano

01 November 2024

A striking waterfront landmark is set to take shape on the picturesque shores of Al Marjan Island in Ras Al Khaimah following the award of the main construction contract for the AED1.5-billion ($408.3 million) Oceano development.

Luxe Developers, a leading real estate firm in the UAE, has appointed China State Construction Engineering Corporation (Middle East) to take charge of the main construction works, completion and maintenance of the project, ensuring it meets the stringent standards of quality and sophistication expected by its ultra-high-net-worth clientele. The Beijing-headquartered China State Construction Engineering Corporation is claimed to be the largest construction company in the world by revenue.

All enabling works, including shoring, piling and excavation, have been completed by S S Lootah Foundations.

Slated for completion in 2026, Oceano offers a collection of 206 homes spread across 18 storeys, including a diverse range of residential options such as one-, two-, three-, and four-bedroom apartments, six penthouses, and two exclusive sky villas.

Nestled in a unique corner plot on the shores of Al Marjan Island, the 79,000-sq-m Oceano epitomises architectural excellence, blending timeless sophistication, innovation, and respect for the cultural and historical essence of the stunning island, says the developer.

Floor-to-ceiling windows blend the living spaces with the island’s natural beauty.

Siddharta Banerji, Managing Director and Co-owner of The Luxe Developers, comments: “At The Luxe Developers, we are dedicated to building unique homes that create extraordinary living experiences that inspire and elevate. Every project we undertake underscores our commitment and dedication to craftsmanship and attention to detail while pushing the boundaries of design. Our vision is to redefine the standards of exclusivity and transform spaces into architectural landmarks that stand the test of time.”

Critically acclaimed Dewan Architects + Engineers is responsible for developing Oceano’s striking design, which revolves around creating an oasis of serenity where residents can cherish their privacy over 3,000 sq m of private shoreline.

Commenting on Dewan Architects + Engineers’ vision for the project, Chief Design Officer Mohammed Adib tells Gulf Construction: “Our vision for Oceano was to create an iconic building that embodies a trendy, exclusive lifestyle on the up-and-coming Al Marjan Island. The design features two independent towers connected by slender glass bridges, enhancing lightness and elegance. We aimed to capture uninterrupted panoramic sea views through transparent glass façades, with minimalist white frames that wrap around the apartments and free-flowing floor plates rotating on different planes to maximise views.”

Design Philosophy

Set amidst the island’s breathtaking waterfront promenades, luxurious hotels, and resorts, Oceano presents a vibrant community and an idyllic island escape with world-class amenities.

The architecture of Oceano features seamless glass facades, ultra-thin frames, and dynamic lighting to establish an ambiance of tranquility and elegance. Rounded curves and panoramic floor-to-ceiling windows blend the living spaces with the island’s natural beauty.

The design aims to offer residents panoramic sea views through glass façades, with minimalist white frames that wrap around the apartments and free-flowing floor plates.

Oceano’s timeless design breaks away from conventional forms, embracing fluidity with its curved architecture, which is free of sharp corners, says its designer. The building features private terraces that extend from the facade, enhancing the connection to the lush surroundings. The uppermost floors host exclusive sky villas, offering a unique luxury experience with cascading living spaces, private elevators, outdoor terraces, and unmatched panoramic views.

“A defining element of Oceano is its animated skin, which endows the building with a constantly changing facade and dynamic shape, ensuring each unit has a unique appearance and enjoys quality sea views,” says a spokesman for Dewan Architects + Engineers. “Despite its avant-garde design, a rational approach guided the entire process, maintaining a regular structural grid to ensure seamless services and logical modularity for the residential units.”

Elevated on a 5-m-high podium, Oceano’s grandeur is further accentuated by a mezzanine-level main entrance, providing an impressive arrival experience. Beneath the elevated structure are concealed services, parking and amenities, ensuring a pristine and welcoming drop-off area. Sky bridges elegantly connect the two 18-storey towers, featuring luxurious duplex units and the Cuban Cove sky lounge. The crowning jewel of Oceano is its top-floor infinity pool, offering breathtaking sea views and completing the epitome of high-end island living.

Elevated on a 5-m-high podium, Oceano’s grandeur is further accentuated by a mezzanine-level main entrance.

Beyond its luxurious accommodations, Oceano boasts a host of world-class amenities often associated with five-star hotels, including a state-of-the-art gym, a cigar lounge, a library, a yoga room, a children’s play area, and a chauffeur’s lounge. The infinity pool overlooking the Arabian Sea connects the twin towers, while cutting-edge fitness facilities and rejuvenating spa services cater to residents’ wellness needs. The development’s distinctive design attributes, such as free-flowing glass facades and minimalist frames, create a sense of elegance and sophistication, and with each floor rotated on different planes, every resident can maximise the uninterrupted panoramic views across the Arabian Gulf.

Outdoors, in addition to the extensive green spaces and lush landscaping, residents have access to a resort-style swimming pool, a dedicated children’s pool, a private beach, and a jetty for those mooring yachts.

A dedicated retail level will feature 12 units offering the best in hospitality, F&B and leisure, Dewan Architects + Engineers states.

An in-house spa at Oceano.

The interiors have been designed by Hirsch Bedner Associates (HBA), a leading hospitality design firm, where a focus on marble finishes and unique accents within each of the units enhance the luxury offering.

Sustainability is a core element of Oceano’s design philosophy. The architecture integrates energy-efficient solutions, responsible resource management, and a harmonious relationship with the island’s natural environment. Compliance with local regulations, site constraints, and budget considerations was meticulously managed, ensuring the project’s feasibility and longevity.

Oceano stands as a symbol of architectural excellence, elevating the standards of luxury living on Al Marjan Island. Merging craftsmanship, refined aesthetics, and a deep appreciation for the island’s heritage and natural beauty, the luxury development is designed to offer a unique residential experience.