Atlantis, The Palm

Atlantis, The Palm is an iconic resort situated on the man-made Palm Jumeirah Island in Dubai. With its Atlantean-themed design and integrated entertainment offerings, the resort has become a flagship destination that redefines luxury tourism in the region.  

The designers were tasked with capturing the essence of Atlantis, the legendary island mentioned in the works of Plato. The architectural design weaves together elements of Arabian aesthetics with the mythical Atlantis theme. Inspired by traditional Middle Eastern vernacular architecture, the resort features sun-kissing spires, Moorish archways, Arabian-inspired lamps, and palm-shaped pillars. The integration of intricate details, such as hand-wrought iron columns adorned with flowers, leaves, and buds, adds an authentic touch to the design. 

The Grand Lobby serves as a breathtaking focal point, offering an enchanting interplay of water, light, and sound. Towering at 19 meters, the lobby boasts a wall of windows that provide stunning views of the azure waters of The Palm and the surrounding beaches. As guests traverse the travertine marble floors, they are greeted by the soothing sound of a water wall cascading into a babbling pool, reminiscent of the nearby sea. 

A highlight of the Grand Lobby is the captivating glass sculpture created by Dale Chihuly. Commissioned specifically for Atlantis, The Palm, this 10-meter-high masterpiece consists of over 3,000 intricately blown glass pieces in vibrant colors. The sculpture symbolizes the energy source of Atlantis and took nearly two years to create. Surrounding the sculpture, a reflection pool and architecturally developed sea urchin columns enhance its visual impact. Dale Chihuly himself meticulously installed the sculpture piece by piece over a two-week period. 

The lobby’s arched ceilings feature a series of hand-painted murals on canvas by Spanish artist Albino Gonzalez. Measuring up to 6.5 meters in height, these murals portray Arabian mythology, constellations, planets, and the story of the mythical city of Atlantis. Gonzalez’s artwork, with its distribution of calendars representing seasons and elements, adds depth and meaning to the lobby’s ambience.