© Oppenheim Architecture / Photography: Rory Gardiner

Playing golf in the Jordanian desert may not be the top priority of seasoned travellers, but they may very soon reconsider. We’re talking Ayla, a luxury resort complex just outside the port city of Aqaba in Jordan. Currently still in development, it’s a true oasis which will eventually comprise of an area of 4.3 million sqm. (46.2 million sq.ft.) featuring a plethora of facilities and venues. The latest venue to have emerged on the landscaped grounds is the Ayla Clubhouse & Golf Academy designed by American practice Oppenheim Architecture. The architecture takes cues from the rugged mountains surrounding the complex and Bedouin culture, resulting in a striking building with an undulating shotcrete roof and which at the same time effortlessly blends into the landscape.

Given the specific roof shape, large openings allow sweeping views of the aforementioned Aqaba Mountains. Corten steel perforated screen filters the light, similar to the traditional mashrabiya. Jordanian patterns inspired the triangular pattern of openings while the tones of the surrounding mountains are reflected by the colours of the shotcrete and the metals. Measuring 1,200 sqm. (12,917 sq.ft.) it’s part of the Ayla‘s first development phase, featuring residential, hotel and commercial space, all centred around an 18-hole signature golf course. The clubhouse itself features retail, dining, bar and lounge, banquet, fitness, and spa components, while the golf academy includes additional retail, dining, and also an indoor and outdoor swing analysis studio components. Location: Ayla Clubhouse + Golf Academy, Al Farouq Street (Al Nakheel).

© Oppenheim Architecture / Photography: Rory Gardiner