Ambergris Caye is the largest and one of the most exquisite islands of Belize. Easily accessible and offering temperate weather throughout the year as well as gorgeous coastlines, Ambergris Caye is a mecca for fishing, scuba diving, and snorkeling enthusiasts. The island has largely remained off the tourist grid, but this is about to change.
Partnering to Build a Marriott Hotel in Belize
Joel Nagel and Michael Cobb announced last year that they would be collaborating with Marriott Hotels together with RAD Architecture Founder and President Rafael Amuchástegui to construct a stunning resort property on Ambergris Caye by 2021. The project is a perfect example of ECI’s commitment to delivering “inspired residences for adventurous souls.” The new Marriott intends to make sure that Ambergris Caye no longer remains just a hidden gem.
Being Faithful to Tradition
Nagel, Cobb, and Amuchástegui stressed their commitment to creating a property that will capture the rich British colonial architectural history of Belize. The design of the hotel is intended to reflect the character of a property similar to what might have existed on the island during that time. The design will seamlessly blend indoor and outdoor environments, creating a radical departure from the typical boxy hotel design.
RAD Architecture Holds Impeccable Credentials
RAD Architecture is an international boutique firm that specializes in designing unique residential, commercial, and hospitality properties. It is the perfect partner for this exclusive Marriott resort.
RAD was founded by Rafael Amuchástegui of Argentina. After completing his studies at the University of Cordoba, Amuchástegui earned an MBA in architecture in the United States. He then went on to work at Wilson and Associates, a design firm in Dallas. Amuchástegui was assigned to several high-level projects, including the Burj Al Arab in Dubai and Atlantis Paradise Island in the Bahamas. After working as an architect and developer for Nichols Brosch Sandoval with projects in the Caymans and the Carolinas as well as at Turks and Caicos, Amuchástegui opened his own company, establishing offices in Cordoba and Miami.
On-the-Ground Conditions Require Creativity
The project does not come without its share of challenges. The island is beautiful and temperate, but also humid and salty. Special construction materials are required to withstand the elements, including hurricanes. The project also needs to take into consideration the current reality of construction manpower on the island. Therefore, the hotel will be built with lightweight steel materials that are easier to use and do not require such a long curing process.
Protecting Nature
The local reef system of Belize and particularly Ambergris Caye is a national treasure. ECI will do everything possible to protect this fragile resource as it has been doing for the past 20 years. All efforts are being made to create a resort property that will be a luxurious haven for the tourists that are starting to come to Belize while ensuring that the natural resources that attract them are sustained far into the future.
