First Place In HD Awards Goes to Miraval Arizona

6/18/2009 by Sipco News Network Email this article to a colleague

A t the Hospitality Design Awards earlier this month, Miraval Arizona Resort and Spa won first place in the “Luxury Guestrooms or Suites” category for their fifth annual event. Miraval also received the “Best in Show” tribute, honoring the Catalina Suites, designed by Mithun and Clodagh Design.

The ecologically-sensitive design of the 16 new suites parallels the resort’s commitment to environmental responsibility and respect of the natural environment. The durable, natural materials, such as rammed earth walls made from the desert’s sandy soil, evoke the natural surroundings and create efficient thermal shells that regulate temperatures. Deep overhangs with patios create shaded spaces, and careful water conservation principles were employed to ensure a low environmental impact. Furthermore, non-toxic, low-VOC paints and water-based adhesives were used throughout the rooms in order to tread lightly on the earth.

Positioned on the resort’s desert edge, the rooms offer views of the Catalina Mountains. Private star-gazing bedrooms and outdoor shower gardens offer guests the opportunity to sleep and shower outdoors.

“Our goal in designing the guestrooms was to heighten awareness of the subtleties and richness of the Sonoran desert environment without sacrificing luxury,” said Antonio Pares of Mithun. “We used natural materials and traditional construction practices to keep the experience authentic and connect to the landscape in a way that deepens the feelings of well-being that people seek at Miraval.”