The architectural inspiration for Amangiri was rather romantic. Taking a break from the drafting table, Al-Sayed, one of the property’s architects, coincidentally happened upon a Mexican poem by Octavio Paz titled ‘Wind, Water and Stone’. Sparking epiphany, he concluded that the property’s designs should be profoundly elemental. Where wind, water and light interact and negotiate with the striated rock faces and anfractuous riverbeds, the architecture must do so too. Once they had established their plan to accentuate and respect the landscape, rather than impose upon it, their architectural visions blossomed into an impressive reality. 

Designing the hotel to be discreet within the landscape, the architects created multiple low-rise blocks in an intentionally minimal style so as not to disrupt the sweeping topography. By developing a custom concrete mix that incorporates local sand particles, the angular structures imitate the shades and contours of the natural rock formations in a decidedly striking manner. The interiors are all custom made from concrete and wood, designed to capture the day’s light which morphs from honeyed amber to luminous pink, a subtle reminder that Amangiri is run by nature’s clock. 

Arriving at Amangiri is like stepping back in time to the era of Western cowboy adventure, where neither house nor human disrupts the sprawling panoramic views and the feeling of being totally disconnected. The hotel structure is based on ancient Native American settlements which underlines the indigenous heritage of the region as well as the environmental stewardship that guests are encouraged to practice while staying. 

The pool is designed to respect the contours of the land, wrapping around a rock escarpment to join with a hot tub at the foundation of the cliff face. Rather than hanging artwork on the wall, the windows and doorways frame the landscapes to give a viewfinder perspective. Lighting is kept low to avoid light pollution in the vast night sky and daily yoga is led in the pavilion against the backdrop of the Utah vistas. 

Book a stay at Amangiri with ASMALLWORLD Collection and you will be able to enjoy VIP benefits such as room upgrades, hotel credit and more at no extra cost.