NLA have been commissioned to design the five-star Vilamoura Golf & Garden Resort, in the Algarve. This resort, situated in the most southern region of Portugal, covers 68ha of land, of which 8ha is protected area and considered as non aedificandi, making this project extremely challenging.

The conceptual design of the resort is very much ‘Berber’ inspired, evoking an oasis of sophistication and discrete luxury, as well as by the memory of the region’s history, of which the influences are still very present today.

The resort, with a total built area of 116,000m² will be developed in three phases and will encompass a total of 702 luxury units.  These will include 472 two and three-bedroom apartments with communal pools, 106 linked three- and four-bedroom villas as well as 124 prestige villas in a choice of four- and five-bedroom configurations, both with private pools. The resort will also feature a wide range of on-site facilities and amenities including restaurants, bars, a gym, outdoor pools, children’s playgrounds, kids clubs and a convenience store.

The use of natural earthy colours, arches, patios and pergolas surrounded by gardens characterises the architectural style of the resort.

The landscaping of the 230,000m² and the gardens will be designed by the famous landscape designer Diarmuid Gavin and will provide a mysterious setting and relaxing environment with a succession of lakes and pools and outdoor retreats that further emphasise the Berber theme of the resort.

The first phase of construction will commence in March 2008 and will be completed in 2009.