The Zigzag Resort, located in Albania along the coastline of Himare, was designed by JA Joubert Architecture in collaboration with UNS Architects. The resort’s zigzag form was designed thoughtfully, adopting and following the existing topography of the Himare coastline, with minimal alteration to the existing landscape.
The resort’s design showcases the maximum utilization of the surrounding views of the breathtaking landscapes and the sea. The configurations enable each unit to engage with the views without obstructing the other units. The architecture unfolds with linear terraces and pools with built forms and natural landscapes.
The resort follows a linear Zig-zag configuration along the existing landscape and topography, which helps preserve both the visual and environmental continuity. The architecture of the Zig-zag resort is a bold yet sensitive design that is zoned across Albania’s rugged coastline. The characteristic features of the resort are its linear terraces and its infinity pools along the coastline.
The design of the resort incorporates passive environmental strategies, such as utilizing solar orientation, natural ventilation, and rainwater management through integrated systems, to reduce overall energy demand.
The energy-efficient strategies used in the design focused on creating sustainable architecture while reducing the overall carbon footprint. The architectural team also respected the site’s context by using locally sourced Berat stone, which enhanced the durability of the resort.
Zigzag resorts Zoning
The Zigzag resorts feature linear staggering zoning of the masses, with circulation throughout the entire resort, to facilitate intuitive movement. The resort’s design formed an interactive dialogue between architecture and the surrounding landscapes and environment. The design has been planned with vertical levels and transitions between gardens, terraces, and pools, featuring integrated pathways that provide accessibility vertically for all levels.
The resort units have been planned with circulation in mind, ensuring that service areas are separated to create pedestrian-friendly spaces. The design of the zig-zag resort responds to the existing site conditions rather than imposing on them.
Zigzag Resort in Albania project details:
Project name: The Zigzag resort
Location: Himare Coastline, Albania
Architect: JA Joubert Architecture and UNS Architects
Year: May 2025
Photography: JA Joubert Architecture and UNS Architects
