Set within the desert dunes outside Dubai, Bab Al Shams Spa was reimagined as a sanctuary of calm, luxury, and heritage. The lighting design was guided by a clear concept: to create an experience that felt restorative, intuitive, and deeply connected to its surroundings. Rather than imposing on the architecture, light was used sparingly and intentionally, supporting the spa’s narrative of stillness, renewal, and quiet luxury.
By day, the spa is defined by natural light. Sunlight reveals the rich textures of stone, timber, and hand-finished plaster, allowing the materiality of the space to take centre stage. The lighting design works in harmony with this, introducing soft accent lighting that gently deepens shadows and enriches surfaces without competing with daylight. As the day transitions into evening, the scheme shifts to warm, low-intensity illumination that mirrors the tones of the desert at dusk, creating an atmosphere that feels calm, intimate, and restorative.
The open-plan layout required careful definition without physical barriers. This was achieved through subtle contrasts in light intensity and carefully considered placement, allowing different zones to be defined while maintaining a seamless flow throughout the space. Quiet areas are distinguished from more social spaces through light alone, demonstrating a restrained and highly controlled design approach.
Throughout the project, light was treated as a medium for atmosphere rather than simply a functional requirement. Gentle shadowing brings depth and texture to surfaces, diffused light creates a sense of serenity, and warm tones convey comfort and intimacy. The design uses the full spectrum of light’s qualities – softness, contrast, and rhythm – to shape how the space is experienced.
Integration was key to maintaining the authenticity of the architecture. Luminaires were discreetly detailed into the building fabric, while custom decorative elements were introduced to add warmth and a sense of narrative. Intelligent lighting controls and dimming allow the system to respond to occupancy and available daylight, preserving visual comfort while reducing unnecessary energy use.
Sustainability was embedded into the design from the outset. High-efficiency, long-life LED fittings were specified throughout to reduce maintenance and energy consumption, while a passive daylight strategy minimises the need for artificial lighting during the day. Smart controls ensure light is only used where and when it is needed, reducing environmental impact while enhancing the guest experience.
At Bab Al Shams Spa, lighting became a tool for wellness – supporting stillness, mindfulness, and a sense of escape. The project demonstrates how thoughtful, restrained lighting design can elevate hospitality spaces, creating environments that feel luxurious, timeless, and deeply connected to place.
Project Credits
Interior Designers – LW Design
Client – Kerzner International
Awards and Nominations
CIBSE MENA Awards 2025 – Shortlisted – Sustainable Lighting Project of the Year category
Commercial Interior Design Hospitality Awards 2025 – Highly Commended – Best Use of Lighting in a Hotel Project category
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