The Albanian Riviera is set to welcome its most ambitious hospitality project yet, as JA Joubert Architecture, in collaboration with UNS Architects, announces the development of Zig Zag Albania in Himarë. This five-star resort represents a significant milestone for the region, promising to establish new benchmarks for sustainable coastal development whilst delivering an uncompromising luxury experience.
Currently in its design phase, the expansive 30,000-square-metre project embodies a philosophy that places environmental harmony at its core. Marc Joubert, founder of JA Joubert Architecture, articulates the vision succinctly: “Architecture should not dominate the land; it should respond to it.” This principle drives every aspect of Zig Zag Albania’s innovative approach, positioning the resort as a pioneering example of how modern hospitality can seamlessly integrate with natural surroundings.
Revolutionary design meets Albanian coastline
The resort’s signature zig-zag layout represents more than mere aesthetic choice; it’s a thoughtful response to the dramatic topography of the Albanian Riviera. This linear configuration ensures that each guest enjoys uninterrupted coastal views whilst preserving the landscape’s natural contours. Zig Zag Albania demonstrates how contemporary resort development can achieve both visual impact and ecological sensitivity.
Each accommodation unit has been carefully oriented to maximise privacy and coastal exposure, creating an intimate connection between guests and the spectacular Mediterranean setting. The thoughtful positioning extends beyond individual units to encompass the entire resort layout, ensuring that the development enhances rather than competes with the breathtaking Himarë coastline.
Sustainability at the forefront of luxury
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Environmental responsibility forms the cornerstone of Zig Zag Albania, with a comprehensive suite of sustainable strategies woven throughout the design. The resort incorporates advanced passive environmental systems, including strategic solar orientation and natural ventilation, significantly reducing energy demands whilst maintaining optimal guest comfort.
Construction materials reflect the project’s commitment to regional authenticity and environmental stewardship. Locally sourced Berat Stone has been selected not only for its durability and regional relevance but also for its exceptional properties in passive cooling and solar energy efficiency. This material choice exemplifies how Zig Zag Albania honours local traditions whilst advancing sustainable building practices.
The resort’s rainwater management systems demonstrate sophisticated environmental planning, capturing and utilising natural precipitation to support on-site ecological balance. Indoor-outdoor architectural flow further enhances the development’s environmental integration, creating spaces that breathe with their surroundings rather than operating in isolation from them.
Innovative guest experience design
Accessibility and environmental sensitivity converge in the resort’s mobility solutions, which include a state-of-the-art funicular system, carefully planned pedestrian pathways, and strategically positioned drop-off points. This comprehensive approach ensures seamless navigation across various levels whilst limiting impact on the sensitive coastal terrain.
The crown jewel of the guest experience is undoubtedly the sea-water infinity pool, designed to create a visual continuum with the coastline. This feature exemplifies Zig Zag Albania’s philosophy of extending rather than interrupting the natural horizon, deepening guests’ connection to the Albanian Riviera’s spectacular setting.
Private coastal access ensures that nature remains central to the guest experience, allowing visitors to engage directly with the pristine Mediterranean environment. Interior spaces flow effortlessly into gardens, decks, and terraces, creating a continuous spatial experience that celebrates the boundary between built and natural environments.
Setting new standards for Albanian tourism
Zig Zag Albania signals a new chapter for Albanian tourism, demonstrating that the country can compete with established Mediterranean destinations whilst maintaining its unique character. The project showcases how thoughtful design can create exceptional hospitality experiences without compromising environmental integrity.
The collaboration between JA Joubert Architecture and UNS Architects brings together international expertise and local understanding, ensuring that the resort respects regional traditions whilst incorporating cutting-edge sustainable technologies. This partnership approach reflects a broader trend towards responsible tourism development that benefits both visitors and local communities.
Quick summary – Zig Zag Albania
- 🌊 Zig Zag Albania is a new five-star resort planned for Himarë
- 🏗️ Designed by JA Joubert Architecture with UNS Architects
- 🌀 Signature zig-zag layout preserves the Riviera’s coastline views
- ♻️ Sustainable features include Berat Stone, passive cooling and rainwater systems
- 🚠 Funicular and pathways provide eco-sensitive mobility across the site
- 🏖️ Highlights include a sea-water infinity pool and private coastal access
- 🇦🇱 A landmark development aiming to set new standards in Albanian tourism
