Oh My Gold!

in Architecture+Design3 days ago

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I've never experienced so much gold in my life!

Until I actually encountered this spectacular hotel in the Middle East…

Despite being personally exposed to lots of gold in dedicated marketplaces like jewelry stores, pawnshops, or a traditional souq, nothing compared to this enchanting place.

Why is the natural resource of gold one of Earth's most precious commodities? With so many valid reasons to mention, this sought-after element’s perceived value has been widely accepted globally - surpassing the passage of time.

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Although our featured accommodation might have or haven't used real gold or just gold-like themes in their architectural ornaments, the staggering amount of this familiar metal’s tantalizing color being showcased on most of its spaces was simply overwhelming! Isn't it obvious?

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The original name of this luxurious establishment was Emirates Palace Hotel located in Abu Dhabi, the capital of the United Arab Emirates. Today, it’s known as Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental Hotel with a 5-star category. In fact, my mesmerizing experience of gold began as soon as I stepped onto its entrance courtyard and outdoor hallway. My jaw dropped!

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Mere words were not enough to describe what I felt during those opening moments of discovery. As I entered the hotel’s primary lobby, I suddenly froze.

“Am I really here? Why is there so much gold present? Is this a king's castle? This seems too good to be true!” I giggled.

Everything in sight was unbelievably surreal. Majority of the physical surfaces had golden coatings, paints, or similar layers, emitting the sensation of mining gold inside a mountain cave. Everywhere I looked, this glittering substance had a magnetic effect. Wow!

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And then I directed my gaze upwards. OMG! The central dome was one of the most gorgeous works I’ve ever laid my eyes on! I couldn't fathom the amount of human energy injected into this architectural masterpiece. My stare was glued to this visual spectacle for a while until my neck stiffened.

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To relieve myself, I lowered my gaze and continued walking deeper inside, discovering more golden environments. Their hotel lobby and lounge had a luxurious ambiance fit for the distinguished members of society.

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I didn’t hesitate to sit and relax on one of their massive waiting chairs. As my hands caressed its smooth and impeccably tailored fabric, I felt like royalty being served by many servants. Not to exaggerate, but anyone in my shoes would have experienced it the same way. Right?

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I also imagined how ridiculously expensive the production costs involved would have been - not only for the hotel’s furniture and surrounding objects but for the entire project itself!

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Even the accommodation’s guest staircases and their supporting details were coated in gold. Treading on these lavishly adorned steps triggered the pure imagination of a dramatic entrance suitable for an elite entourage.

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The hotel’s welcome area was absolutely colossal. It appeared like a massive public park with green elements, yet it was surely dominated by the vibrant color of gold. Overhead lighting, wall sconces, table lights, and floor lamps illuminating with similar hues and tones amplified this majestic effect.

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Additionally, even their public restrooms were splashed with golden colors, revealing more hidden architectural treasures that could only be uncovered by a curious appetite like mine. What can you say, huh?

“Could the excessive use of gold, its related materials, and its sensory benefits be their secret weapon? If so, I guess they’ve truly succeeded in attracting lots of prestigious hotel guests with this extraordinary tool.” I pondered.

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The Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental Hotel surely knows how to captivate not only avid travelers searching for superb accommodations but also thrilled architecture and design enthusiasts from around the world who long for exceptional experiences like today’s interesting episode.

With a huge smile on my face, I proceeded afterwards to the hotel’s check-in counters to finalize my booking, further enjoying my satisfying stay at this exemplary destination.

And the rest is history.


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Architect | Environmentalist | Adventurer
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The title fits this place like a glove, I was very impressed! This place is pure magic and the truth is that I think this place could not even be quantified. It has been a real pleasure to visit it. 🪙

Thank you for your marvelous appreciation @dinaaczib! Definitely, this impeccable hotel is indescribable beyond our wildest dreams. Mere words are not enough. It's truly an enchanting place worth exploring and staying in. Cheers! ☺️

Oh, such a beauty. Did you try the coffee with gold flakes? I honestly haven't been there in my many years in AUH. Gotta visit that one day, even just the lobby. 😂

Yeah, this hotel is truly gorgeous. And no, that type of coffee wasn't available when I was there. This luxurious accommodation is highly recommended so go ahead - experience their incredible products and services, most importantly their mind-blowing architecture. ☺️

Wow stunning and splendid place! Really elegant and fully golden decorated 🤩

Thanks for the beautiful compliments @duvinca. This spectacular hotel is one-of-a-kind. Much appreciated! ☺️

Staying in a place like that must cost a fortune and no wonder, every corner of it is full of beautiful aesthetics and spectacular design.

Yes, this is certainly an expensive accommodation and it's clearly evident in its world-class architecture, not to mention the staggering amount of sophisticated project components used. Thank you @armasdiaze. ☺️

What a great experience you have shared with us, this place looks like a piece of heaven on earth, I can't even imagine the vibes and energy you feel being in such a structure.

Simply wonderful!

Thank you for appreciating our featured architecture! My personal encounter was certainly extraordinary, and words aren't enough to describe how I felt during those unforgettable moments. This highly admired hotel is a must-visit destination for people craving for exceptional experiences. ☺️

This hotel is impressive, lots of gold everywhere, it reminds me of the children's story, where the king wished that everything he touched would turn to gold. Glad you enjoyed this experience.

Yes, it was certainly an unbelievable experience. There's so much gold in this spectacular hotel that people might think that they're inside a fairytale kingdom. I thought so too at first. Thank you for engaging @doriangel. ☺️

 2 days ago  

Congratulations dear @storiesoferne! We are delighted to inform you that your outstanding publication was specially selected as an exclusive feature for our Curated Content Catalog and was awarded RUNNER UP in Architecture Anthology™ 86. More power!

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Thank you and more power @aplusd! ☺️

 yesterday  

More power dear @storiesoferne! 😀

Hello @storiesoferne, the hotel lobby is luxurious and elegant, the color definitely manages to attract the attention of visitors, it is like being inside a palace with so much opulence and brightness, each decorative element is very well placed, it is impossible not to stop at Observe them, the dome is really beautiful, definitely the center of attraction of the hotel. 😊🤗

Greetings and blessings!

Absolutely! This famous hotel, apart from being a sought-after travel destination, is also an architectural marvel. Never have I witnessed such an outstanding work of human hands as jaw-dropping as this prestigious project. The breathtaking dome is also one of my favorite details. It's the perfect example of defying the odds in achieving a nearly impossible feat of construction technology. Thank you for your awesome engagement @belkyscabrera and have a fantastic week! ☺️

The design of the Emirates palace hotel has not captivated you alone, watching those beautiful photos you took, has also make me realize how stunning ls the look of the place, worth spending time and visit, thank you.

Much appreciated, thanks! I'm glad that my showcased hotel has touched the hearts and minds of people interested in extraordinary works of architecture. Although the stunning photos celebrated its visual appeal, an actual experience on this gorgeous landmark would never fail to take your breath away. ☺️

You are very much welcome friend, have a great day ahead.

Oh The UAE has a lot of gorgeous hotels with marvellous architecture, it's luxury to an unimaginable level!

The UAE is absolutely blessed with world-class hotels, not to mention other classes of mind-blowing architecture that have evolved into legendary icons in their own right. Best regards. ☺️

So opulent! Love that gold.

Yeah, gold is wealth and luxury. Thanks. ☺️

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Thanks @worldmappin for this wonderful update. ☺️

Hey @storiesoferne you are welcome.
Thanks for using @worldmappin 😘

Wow, so elegant looking place

Exactly, it's a work of art.

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Wonderful! Thanks for this great news @hivebuzz. 😊

That's great @storiesoferne! We're excited to see your commitment to Hive! Keep it up!

when i was in that hotel with gold decoration, i was sure i would not leave the hotel room and explore the city. because i think it would be a shame to miss it @storiesoferne 🤣🤣🤣

Have you been here already @maytom? Oh yeah, this luxurious hotel is a grand destination in itself. You can decide to linger here for the rest of your vacation. 😂