14 minute read
FIT OUT
scale, Proportion, harmony &
Images courtesy of Khansaheb Ross Trivet, general manager, Khansaheb Interiors Fergal Reilly, project manager, Khansaheb Interiors
Leading fit-out specialist Khansaheb Interiors delivered Vox Cinemas at City Centre Al Zahia Mall in Sharjah. Know more about the fit-out journey to this project from start to finish.
In conversation with Ross Trivet, general manager and Fergal Reilly, project manager at Khansaheb Interiors, as they discussed the VOX Cinemas project at length:
COULD YOU TELL US MORE ABOUT THE VOX CINEMAS PROJECT FROM FIT-OUT POINT OF VIEW? The project is the fit-out of a shell and core cinema complex totalling approx. 5400sqm split across 3 levels within the new City Centre Al Zahia Mall in Sharjah (largest mall in the Northern Emirates). It compromises 16 auditoriums including two MAX screens and three GOLD screens. It also includes foyer and concourse areas, public toilets, back of house areas, three kitchens and two F&B outlets.
EXPLAIN THE SCOPE OF WORK? Scope of work compromises of all screeding and waterproofing, acoustic gypsum partitions and fire-lids, all floor, wall and ceiling finishes, fixed joinery counters, cabinets, servery counters and balustrades, marble and tiling works and decorative metals and mirrors. Works also considered all electromechanical fit-out works with approx. 14000sqm of AC ducting and HVAC services to be installed. WHAT ARE THE DESIGN PRINCIPLES YOU FOLLOW FOR A CINEMA/MULTIPLEX? Proportion, scale, and harmony are key principles to achieve. The project was self-delivered by all of Khansaheb’s specialist divisions (MEP, Joinery, Metals and Interiors) allowing greater collaboration and maintenance of these principles.
WHAT ABOUT SAFETY CONSIDERATIONS? By their nature, auditoriums are usually quite large with ‘working at height’ a key safety consideration for the team. Appropriate management of material procurement and men working safely during summer working hours in mass acoustic boxes was a highly important safety consideration for the project team. As the mall was also a live construction site, the delivery of our materials to site through a constantly evolving environment was an element of work which required careful appreciation and forward planning identifying all possible risks to materials, existing works and our people. >>>
of finish and ease of mobilisation
for the Client’s Operations team."
WHAT WAS THE MOST CHALLENGING PART OF THIS PROJECT? The key challenge was maintaining concurrent progress for both ID and MEP works considering the vast amount of birdcage scaffolding on site, also ensuring as much works were completed to negate the need to reerect scaffold at a later date. Building the team mindset that individual trades should not be looking to revisit works and areas post-handover ensured continuity of work fronts and ensured progress was maintained and aligned with client and programme expectations.
HOW IMPORTANT IS THE CLIENT’S FEEDBACK FOR YOU? The VOX Cinemas team and Majid Al Futtaim have a very clear vision of what their guests require from the endproduct. Their involvement throughout the design and delivery stage was essential to ensure the project completion was achieved. Khansaheb believe that the satisfaction of the end user is a gauge for how successfully a project has been delivered– and VOX Cinemas City Centre Al Zahia exceeded expectations with regard to quality of finish and ease of mobilisation for the Client’s Operations team. HOW DIFFERENT WAS THIS PROJECT COMPARED TO PREVIOUS PROJECTS THAT YOU LED? Extremely challenging given the immense amount of technical coordination to be undertaken and the quantity of material to be installed. It requires strong site management and progressive scheduling of different trades to allow continuity of works in all areas.
WHAT WOULD YOU SAY ARE THE DEFINING PHILOSOPHIES OF KHANSAHEB? We are a family business with family values. Our guiding principles are: First and foremost, delivering an excellent service for our customers, looking after our people which means keeping them safe, investing in training and development and enabling and encouraging our employees to have a long and happy career with Khansaheb.
Looking after our suppliers and sub-contractors is also very important to us. We try and ensure that they are treated fairly. We provide a professional service and aim to be fair and reasonable and easy to do business with. And at all times, in everything we do, we aim to live our values. HAVE YOU GOT ANY UPCOMING PROJECTS IN THE PIPELINE THAT YOU’RE ABLE TO SHARE WITH US? Some of the significant projects we are working on are Dubai Mall lower ground floor enhancement and atria upgrade and fit out works at One Zaabeel Link bridge – the largest cantilever link bridge in the world.
MAKING AN IMPACT
Since its establishment in 1971, Abu Dhabi Fund for Development (ADFD) has been playing a leading role in translating into reality the UAE’s vision to strengthen the economies of developing countries, as well as supporting the national economy and enhancing its competitiveness at the global level
Over the past 50 years, the Fund has financed thousands of strategic projects in 97 countries, creating major social and economic impacts. The volume of ADFD’s financing and investments doubled to reach about AED150 billion. SUPPORT AND DEVELOP THE NATIONAL ECONOMY Supporting the national economy and enhancing its competitiveness constituted a strategic objective for ADFD within the framework of the UAE’s pioneering policy of economic diversification. Over the past years, the Fund has launched initiatives and developed new tools that contributed to the growth of the national economy. This was done by enhancing the role of the private sector as an effective strategic partner in the development process. One of the main tools adopted by the Fund within its policy to support the national economy, is to expand the scope of work of national companies by enabling them to implement and develop projects in ADFD beneficiary countries receiving financing all around the world.
ADFD launched the Abu Dhabi Exports Office (ADEX), to support national companies and build a diversified and sustainable economy by providing financing solutions and guarantees to importers of Emirati products and services. This has contributed to increasing national export rates and opening new markets for them. The establishment of ADEX falls in line with many ambitious initiatives and plans, such as the UAE Vision >>>
2021, the Abu Dhabi Economic Vision 2030, and the UAE Centennial 2071, aiming to develop the national economy and achieve the policy of economic diversification.
PROMOTE RENEWABLE ENERGY SOLUTIONS To support the UAE’s policy aimed at promoting the adoption of clean energy at the global level and accelerating the pace of transition towards renewable energy, ADFD launched a global initiative to support renewable energy projects in cooperation with the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA), valued at US$350 million. The initiative enabled developing countries to use renewable energy technologies, which lead to the reduction of greenhouse gases and harmful carbon emissions causing climate change. Additionally, the Fund contributed to financing two initiatives to support energy projects in the 27 Pacific and Caribbean countries, with a total value of US$100 million.
MITIGATE THE IMPACT OF COVID-19 ADFD launched several initiatives to mitigate the impact of the pandemic on the economic activities in the UAE and developing countries. At the national level, an AED1 billion initiative was launched to support national companies operating in vital sectors that are mostly affected by the repercussions of the pandemic. Target sectors include health care, food security and industry. Globally, the Fund contributed to the pledge of the Arab Coordination Group to allocate US$10 billion to help developing countries recover from the economic stagnation caused by the pandemic. ADFD also launched a pioneering initiative that allowed the postponement of debt repayments by developing countries benefiting from the Fund’s loans during the year 2020. The initiative is in line with the position of the UAE government in support of the G20 resolution. It aimed at suspending debt payments owed by developing countries to help them meet their development needs, alleviating debt burdens and enabling them to address the effects of the pandemic without financial pressure.
HISTORICAL DECISION His Highness Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Presidential Affairs, and Chairman of the Board of Directors of ADFD, said: “Today, we celebrate the historical decision issued by the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, to establish the Abu Dhabi Fund for Development. Throughout its notable history, ADFD has achieved key milestones and is preparing for the next 50 years with an ambitious strategy to support the UAE’s role in achieving sustainable development locally and globally.”
HH Sheikh Mansour, added: “Under the leadership of Highness Sheikh Khalifa
bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE, and the continuous follow-up of His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces, the Fund has become one of the most prominent development institutions in the world, and a key contributor to building the economies of developing countries, all the while positively supporting people’s lives.”
HH Sheikh Mansour commended ADFD’s management and employees on the golden jubilee of its establishment and thanked them for their outstanding efforts in reflecting the image of the UAE and consolidating its prestigious position in the international community. Concluding, HH Sheikh Mansour noted that the Fund contributed to the UAE’s global position as the first and largest donor for development aid, a source of pride for every Emirati.
BROAD PROSPECTS FOR COOPERATION His Highness Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, praised ADFD’s role in supporting and strengthening the UAE’s relations with many countries that created solid prospects for socioeconomic development across the world.
“Economic and social growth is a title for the development of countries and the progress and prosperity of their people. Over the course of five decades, we in the UAE have created a unique model for development, leadership and excellence that helped us achieve top rankings in global competitiveness and human development indexes,” he said.
HH Sheikh Abdullah, added that ADFD plays an important role in stimulating the economic growth of the UAE and enhancing the ability and competitiveness of national companies and exports to access global markets. HH Sheikh Abdullah pointed out that looking to the future confirms our keenness to reach new horizons based on the ability of our national institutions to keep pace with developments and face challenges by applying international best practices to build a competitive economy based on knowledge and innovation.
STRATEGIC ECONOMIC PARTNERSHIPS Over the past 50 years, the Fund established crucial partnerships with regional and global financial institutions that enabled it to smoothly carry out its mission. These partnerships have also strengthened its position as a development institution and enabled it to achieve its economic objectives locally and globally. There is little wonder that UAE ranked first in the world for five consecutive years as an international donor of development aid, according to the Development Assistance Committee of the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD).
STRATEGIC PROJECTS The Fund works to strengthen partnership with the governments of developing countries to finance strategic development projects in vital sectors. It also manages and implements these projects in cooperation with the governments of the beneficiary countries to ensure their implementation in accordance with the plans set for them. The Fund’s projects focus on major sectors that directly contribute to achieving sustainable development. They include education, housing, water and electricity, agriculture, transport, industry and renewable energy.
STATE OF THE ART
LUXURY LIFESTYLE: TOP REASONS WHY ONE AT PALM JUMEIRAH WILL BE THE ONLY DESTINATION TO CALL HOME
As leaders in luxury lifestyle offerings, OMNIYAT is always at the forefront of high standard living. Excelling its own reputation with the latest address of fully serviced luxury lifestyle experiences, One at Palm Jumeirah, Dorchester Collection, Dubai, is an embodiment of the highest standards of both design and service. The project presents stunning beachfront living, situated on one of Dubai’s most iconic landmarks and managed by world-renowned hospitality brand, Dorchester Collection. Brought to the region by OMNIYAT, it is the first and only developer to offer such a heightened experience.
OMNIYAT presents five reasons why One at Palm Jumeirah, Dorchester Collection, Dubai, is the most iconic residential address to open in Dubai this year.
EMBODYING THE EXTRAVAGANCE OF PALM JUMEIRAH Globally renowned and first of its kind, Palm Jumeirah is an iconic landmark that is instantly recogisable across the aerial view of Dubai. Glistening against the blue waters of the city, One at Palm Jumeirah, Dorchester Collection, Dubai, reflects both the beauty of its home and the lavish lifestyle of its namesake. The project overlooks the magnificent Dubai skyline and tantalising stretch of Palm Jumeirah, offering an enviable location coveted by luxury seekers worldwide. The project stands out in a collection of Dubai’s most luxurious resorts that call Palm Jumeirah their home.
MANAGED BY THE HALLMARKS OF BESPOKE SERVICE: DORCHESTER COLLECTION Dorchester Collection is the epitome of luxury, known for refined elegance and the highest level of bespoke services. Leaders in luxury hospitality welcome One at Palm Jumeirah, Dorchester Collection, Dubai, to the first residential address managed by Dorchester Collection in the region. Demonstrating the meticulously tailored service of the brand, the project offers an ultra-premium offering for residents. Exclusive penthouses include a personal lobby and corridor, with no neighbours at all, for absolute privacy.
ENJOY UNPARALLELED AMENITIES AND FACILITIES With endless amenities available at your fingertips, One at Palm Jumeirah, Dorchester Collection, Dubai, is the number one destination for unfiltered luxury. Unwind at the in-house spa, complete with invigorating vitality pools and private treatment rooms. Dip into the refreshing 25meter/82ft temperaturecontrolled indoor vitality pool, as it seamlessly connects to the outdoor landscape, via visible full-height, operable glass doors. Immerse yourself in the indoor cinema, take business meetings in the business suite, or break a sweat at the state of the art gym. To top off the luxury experience, the building has a private jetty that provides direct access to the property by boat or yacht, allowing you to be ferried across the Arabian Gulf.
HOMES MADE IN OPULENCE For seekers of opulence and the detail-orientated, One at Palm Jumeirah, Dorchester Collection, Dubai, is a luxury home made to last. Every detail has been designed by the world’s most passionate and talented pioneers in the field, from architecture to interiors. A beautiful contrast of colours, textures and design, the project’s arresting layout complements its minimalistic interior. Each residence is carefully designed to maintain >>>
RENOWNED FOR ITS ARCHITECTURE, THE DEVELOPMENT IS COMPLETELY UNIQUE IN DESIGN. OUTSTANDING TO LOOK AT, THE PROPERTY DEMANDS ATTENTION AND TRULY STANDS OUT AMONGST ITS NEIGHBOURS ON PALM JUMEIRAH. INTENDED TO MAXIMIZE SEA VIEWS, THE PROJECT IS ENTIRELY DESIGNED WITH THE GUEST AND RESIDENT’S EXPERIENCE IN MIND.
ultimate privacy and optimum views of stunning scenery. Generously spacious throughout, from the residences and the exquisite public areas to the imposing lobby, One at Palm Jumeirah embraces the line where comfort meets luxury.
STRIKING ARCHITECTURE UNLIKE ANY OTHER Renowned for its architecture, the development is completely unique in design. Outstanding to look at, the property demands attention and truly stands out amongst its neighbours on Palm Jumeirah. Intended to maximize sea views, the project is entirely designed with the guest and resident’s experience in mind. The design also allows space for each apartment to share its lobby with up to only 1 neighbour, delivering only unmatched privacy that is now known to be expected of OMNIYAT.
Absolutely unparalleled, One at Palm Jumeirah, Dorchester Collection, Dubai, is unarguably the only destination to call home. Highly anticipated, keep your eyes peeled for the opening very soon.
ONE AT PALM JUMEIRAH BY OMNIYAT Located on one of the world’s most astonishing landmarks, One at Palm Jumeirah embodies modern-day architecture at its finest. Reflecting the beauty of the manmade island it calls home, One at Palm Jumeirah perfectly captures the essence of Dubai beachfront living through state-of-the-art facilities, illustrious designs, and sheer luxurious living spaces.
The project’s every detail was conceptualized by a group of passionate pioneers in the field. Acclaimed New York-based architectural firm SOMA Architects, avant-garde Japanese interior designer Super Potato, internationally renowned studio Elicyon and landscape artist Vladimir Djurovic came together to create a masterpiece in the world of architecture and design, breaking barriers and new grounds along the way. At the heart of One at Palm Jumeirah lies a beautiful contrast of textures, colors and designs. The project’s staggering layout perfectly complements its minimalistic interior. The backdrop of the development is equally surreal, with views overlooking the sparkling Dubai skyline and the Arabian Gulf.
Managed by iconic hospitality company Dorchester Collection, One at Palm Jumeirah residences offer a luxurious lifestyle experience like no other.
