Meet Martha, our Talented Architect at Johari Beach!
Welcome to another insightful blog interview with the Johari Beach Team! This time, we have the pleasure of speaking with Martha, our talented architect who has been overseeing the Johari Beach site along with other developments on the island.
Let's dive into the conversation and learn a little more about some of the project’s unique design elements, Martha's rewarding experiences, the project's impact on the local community, and a success story that showcases her dedication to client satisfaction.
Q. Can you tell us about any unique or interesting design elements that have been incorporated into the project? Why do you like these elements?
A. One of my favourite design elements in the project is the integration of biophilic design principles. This involves bringing elements of nature into the buildings, such as living green walls, indoor plants, natural lighting, and the use of wood and stone materials. I find these elements particularly fascinating because they create a refreshing atmosphere that connects people with nature. Not only do they enhance the aesthetics of the project, but they also contribute to improved indoor air quality, reduced stress levels, and an overall sense of well-being for the occupants. Some of the biophilic elements used in our design include;
The incorporation of native plants within the interior of the building
The use of light pockets on the roof slab to light up corridor spaces and enhance the feeling of an indoor outdoor experience.
The use of natural stones (coral rocks) on cladding the facades. Zanzibar is abundantly blessed with coral rocks, using them for facades can create a strong sense of local identity and cultural significance, while at the same time give a timeless appeal of natural aesthetics.
Another interesting feature is the use of the Niro technique, a traditional Zanzibari plastering method. We've applied this unique lime-based plaster to create smooth, waterproof, and visually appealing surfaces in bathrooms and other wet areas. Niro offers a luxurious and elegant finish with an organic appearance, and it aligns with our eco-friendly approach to design.
Additionally, the design has made clever use of the plot's slope and size, ensuring that every villa has a view of the ocean. By staggering the buildings vertically and horizontally, each villa's living room and master bedroom enjoy a picturesque view of the ocean. This thoughtful consideration adds a sense of exclusivity and appreciation of the natural surroundings.
Q. What has been the most rewarding aspect of working on this project for you as an architect?
A. As an architect working on this site, one of the most rewarding aspects has been witnessing the transformation of a vision into a tangible reality. It's incredibly fulfilling to take a piece of land and collaboratively shape it into a beautifully designed and functional space that people will call home. Moreover, being able to contribute to a project that aligns with my core values as an architect—creating aesthetically pleasing spaces that are environmentally responsible—has been immensely satisfying.
What I am most proud of regarding this project is the incorporation of sustainable design principles. We have dedicated ourselves to minimizing the project's ecological footprint and promoting eco-conscious practices. By integrating green building strategies like rainwater harvesting, passive cooling techniques, energy-efficient lighting, and the use of locally-sourced and eco-friendly materials, we are contributing to a greener and more sustainable future.
The positive feedback and appreciation we've received from future residents has also been incredibly rewarding. Knowing that our design has exceeded expectations and will provide an enhanced living experience for the community fills me with a real sense of achievement and purpose as an architect.
Q. How do you envision the project's impact on the local community over the coming years?
A. I envision the project having a significant and positive impact on the local community in the years to come. First and foremost, the project's development is likely to stimulate economic growth in the area. With new residents moving in and businesses prospering, there will be increased opportunities for employment and entrepreneurship, ultimately contributing to a thriving local economy.
The design of the project, with its communal spaces and emphasis on interaction among residents, will help to foster an increased sense of community and social cohesion within the neighbourhood. People will come together, building lasting relationships, and creating a vibrant and close-knit community.
Moreover, the project's diverse group of buyers will result in a multicultural and socially rich neighbourhood. The coexistence of different backgrounds, lifestyles, and perspectives will enrich the community, promoting a sense of harmony and understanding among its residents, which is something I’m really looking forward to being a part of.
Q. Can you share a success story where your involvement in client relations made a significant impact on a project's outcome or client satisfaction?
A. Certainly! There was a client based in the USA who expressed keen interest in investing in one of our villas. Due to the geographical distance, they couldn't visit the site in person, so they requested a virtual site tour to get a comprehensive understanding of the property. Recognizing the importance of this virtual tour in helping them make an informed decision, I took it upon myself to ensure their satisfaction and provide them with all the necessary information.
I coordinated with the on-site team to gather high-quality videos showcasing the villa's interior, exterior, and the surrounding areas. These videos were thoughtfully curated to highlight the key features and architectural details, giving the client a complete view of the villa.
In addition, I conducted thorough research on the neighbourhood, nearby amenities, and local attractions to provide the client with a comprehensive understanding of the area's lifestyle and investment potential.
Throughout the virtual tour preparation, I maintained regular communication with the client, addressing their preferences and concerns. This level of personalised service fostered trust and transparency in our client relations.
Upon completion of the virtual site tour, I presented the videos and information in a structured format, making it convenient for the client to review and share with other people who were involved in the decision-making process.
The client was deeply appreciative of the effort and attention to detail invested in the virtual tour. The experience gave them the confidence to proceed with the investment, and said that despite being physically distant from the site, they felt like they were a part of the vision for the project.
They were very thankful for the personal approach to service and say the virtual site tour played a pivotal role in their decision-making journey. So this is now something we offer to other interested prospects, and it works really well!
I feel like this success story shows the opportunities to leverage technology to overcome geographical barriers and ensure client satisfaction. It also shows how going the extra mile to provide detailed information and support can make a significant impact on the outcome of a project and ultimately lead to happier owners, which is what’s most important at the end of the day.
If you’d like to learn more about becoming an owner at Johari Beach, you can schedule an appointment here!