INTAI - THE RESORT AND TOURISM CENTRE

City University Malaysia

Idea projektu

The INTAI - Resort and Tourism Centre is an architectural initiative designed to integrate sustainable tourism with marine conservation. Rooted in the “ INTAI ” philosophy—emphasizing discreet observation and harmony with nature—the project provides visitors with immersive yet non-intrusive experiences. Through hidden observation spaces, sustainable infrastructure, and carefully planned eco-tourism programs, INTAI creates a destination where guests can witness marine life and turtle conservation efforts while ensuring minimal environmental disruption. The resort merges modern comfort with ethical tourism practices, fostering a deeper appreciation for the surrounding coastal ecosystem.

The project is situated in a coastal environment critical to turtle conservation, where nesting sites face threats from habitat destruction and human interference. INTAI envisions a tourism model that protects these fragile ecosystems while offering educational and research opportunities. By incorporating passive cooling strategies, rainwater harvesting systems, and locally sourced materials, the design supports sustainability at every level. The vision extends beyond tourism, encouraging responsible visitor behavior and fostering a connection between the local community and global conservation efforts.

The primary goal of INTAI - The Resort and Tourism Centre is to preserve turtle nesting habitats while promoting ethical tourism. To achieve this, the project will establish protected nesting areas with hidden observation spaces, reducing human impact while enabling scientific monitoring. The integration of sustainable architecture, including shading walls, water misting systems, and elevated pathways, will minimize land disruption while maintaining ecological harmony. Visitors will engage with interactive conservation hubs, workshops, and guided experiences, fostering awareness and education about marine ecosystems. Additionally, the project aims to support local communities by creating eco-tourism employment opportunities and skill-building programs, particularly for women, empowering them to contribute to conservation and hospitality efforts. A dedicated marine conservation research station will provide biologists and environmentalists with resources to study coastal ecosystems, advancing sustainability and protection initiatives. By blending modern hospitality with conservation-driven design, Intai - The Resort and Tourism Centre sets a new benchmark for eco-tourism, ensuring an immersive and responsible travel experience that safeguards the environment while enriching visitor engagement.

Popis projektu

THE INTAI - Resort and Tourism Centre aims to establish a sustainable eco-tourism destination that supports marine conservation while providing an immersive experience for visitors. The project integrates turtle nesting protection, hidden observation spaces, and sustainable infrastructure, ensuring minimal environmental disruption. The architectural framework focuses on elevated pathways, shading walls, water mist systems, and rainwater harvesting, creating a resort that blends seamlessly with nature.

The scope covers visitor engagement through educational hubs, marine research stations, and interactive conservation programs. These spaces allow guests to observe turtles responsibly while participating in rehabilitation efforts. The women empowerment center within the project promotes local involvement, offering skill-building opportunities and eco-tourism careers to enhance community participation.

Additionally, the resort prioritizes sustainable hospitality, integrating passive cooling systems, locally sourced materials, and modular accommodations that align with eco-conscious design principles. Advanced waste management solutions and renewable energy sources further support its commitment to environmental preservation.

By offering a balance between conservation and tourism, INTAI - The Resort and Tourism Centre sets a benchmark for responsible travel, ensuring biodiversity protection while enriching visitor experiences through ethical and engaging interactions with nature.

Technické informace

The INTAI - Resort and Tourism Centre is designed as an eco-conscious structure that harmonizes with its natural surroundings while ensuring durability and sustainability. The building features three distinct levels—ground floor, first floor, and mezzanine—along with a specially designed bridge that connects key areas while minimizing environmental disruption.

Materials and Construction
The resort incorporates locally sourced timber, recycled steel, and bamboo composites to create a sustainable yet strong framework. Rammed earth walls help regulate indoor temperatures, reducing reliance on artificial cooling. The roof structure utilizes double-layered timber with insulated panels, allowing passive cooling and preventing heat buildup. PVC piping is integrated into a rainwater harvesting system, supplying misting fans and irrigation for shaded turtle nesting areas.

Ground Floor
The ground level houses the main conservation hub, visitor center, hatchery, and rehabilitation zones. It features elevated platforms built with steel-reinforced timber to prevent ground disruption, ensuring a seamless transition between natural terrain and built structures.

First Floor
The first level is dedicated to guest accommodations and interactive learning spaces, offering views of turtle nesting areas through filtered glass panels that minimize light pollution. Open-air corridors use slatted timber walls to enhance ventilation.

Mezzanine
The mezzanine level consists of hidden observation pods and research areas, constructed using lightweight bamboo composites to reduce structural load. These spaces are designed for marine biologists and conservationists studying turtle behavior.

Bridge Design
The elevated bridge, built with steel-timber hybrid trusses, connects the first-floor observation deck with research zones, ensuring visitors can move between areas without disturbing the coastal habitat. The bridge integrates wind-break panels to enhance stability while maintaining scenic visibility.