Aqua Gulf Resort is a luxury 22-story high-rise resort condominium that takes advantage of the challenges offered by an unusually long, thin ocean front site. With minimal beachfront space, we created one of Aqua’s strongest assets by integrating portions of the pool environment within the building’s design. Embracing water as the unifying theme, a series of fountains, pools, and runnels flow from the entrance though the lobby, connecting to the outdoor pool.
The incorporation of additional sheer walls to ensure the stability of this exceptionally narrow structure was an added priority. Strong focus was placed on the use of native materials that are salt tolerant, such as the natural split-face quarried limestone that clads and grounds the base of the building.
Another unique and notable feature is the use of ornamental metal trellis elements. Mounted on the rooftop, these artful trellis elements provide dynamic light play on the face of the building. They capture the natural movement of the sunlight and reflections off the ocean, creating a connection between the structure, sea, and sky.
Parking was accommodated by developing a parking garage on the opposite side of a very busy and somewhat dangerous highway. A safe and secure connection was accomplished with a 1,660 SF, 200 ft long bridge over the busy highway.
