Enveloped by winding roads, the ruins of the Murree Brewery, abandoned in the 1930s, have been overtaken by nature. The varying intactness, materiality, and building techniques of the ruins all share one thing: nature’s dominance. This observation inspired Rahima Yousaf’s concept of mirroring natural processes of growth and renewal seen in nature’s reclamation of the ruins. The design of the wellness resort and spa embodies the beauty of nature’s growth amidst man-made ruins. Visitors experience a transformative journey through the site, observing the evolving interaction between material and nature. The materiality transitions from least to most weathered as the journey progresses, creating increasingly introspective spaces. As materials weather, greenery flourishes, reflecting nature’s dominance and renewal of the ruins.

The materiality of the design required a weathering process, and Corten steel, with its mesmerizing patina, was chosen for its ability to create a gradual aging effect. This steel was used in various forms throughout the site to fill in the missing parts of the ruins, recreating their original mass and form. The least weathered material is placed at the bottommost ruins, with the most weathered at the top, representing the passage of time. The additions throughout the site are inspired by the architectural style of the ruins, ensuring harmony between old and new. The program is arranged to offer greater connectivity to the bottommost ruins in the northwestern direction, with public spaces located here, while more private and semi-private spaces are positioned towards the south. The circulation of the site is guided by stairs and bridges that follow an organic path, similar to the winding streets of Murree. The bridges not only support circulation but also represent the concept by gradually changing their patina as they wind through the site, enhancing the overall experience and making it cohesive.