An ITP Business Publication
JANUARY 2012 / VOLUME 6 / ISSUE 1
NEWS, DATA, ANALYSIS AND STRATEGIC INSIGHTS FOR ARCHITECTS IN THE GCC
ANALYSIS Urban planners and expert speakers scrutinise the lack of pedestrian space in Dubai
INSIGHT Profiling the biggest and best projects that are set for delivery across the Gulf region in 2012
FEATURE Locally-based architects pick their favourite UAE buildings from the past four decades
BACK TO BASICS AK Design reinterprets the traditional Arabian courtyard
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JANUARY | CONTENTS
JANUARY 2012 VOLUME 6 ISSUE 01 2
FRONT
Top stories in the world of architecture including Meraas’ fast-track retail complex in Dubai
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THE BIG PICTURE
Capturing Zaha Hadid’s amazing Sheikh Zayed Bridge in Abu Dhabi
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OPINION Hisham Youssef on the road ahead for the region’s clients and advisors
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FEATURE Locally-based architects select their favourite UAE buildings from the past 40 years
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THE WORK
A detailed reference section covering the projects MEA has looked at in recent months
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THE LAST WORD
6 PROJECTS A round up of the latest project news from MENA and the rest of the world
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ANALYSIS Urban planners conclude that Dubai needs to be more pedestrian-friendly
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INSIGHT Profi ling the landmark projects that are set to be delivered in the region in 2012
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CASE STUDIES AK Design’s lovely Dubai villa project, GAJ’s resort in Tunisia and the Natural History Museum of Utah
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CULTURE Cool products, clever ideas, and some of the latest gadgets in the design world
Eamonn Kerr, international managing director of Sweett Group,
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FRONT | JANUARY
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0
Angle of lean on Capital Gate towerr (page 26)
DEWAN TO DELIVER DUBAI RETAIL SCHEME THIS YEAR Fast-track programme set for Meraas’ slick shopping complex near Al Wasl Road
12,800
Dewan Architects & Engineers has been awarded the design and supervision contract for The Avenue, a retail development in Dubai by local developer Meraas. Situated on a 350m promenade between Al Wasl Road and Sheikh Zayed Road, The Avenue will contain a mixture of retail brands, an anchor supermarket, restaurants and a healthcare clinic, with extensive lanscaping and water features. The fast-track project is scheduled for completion by the third quarter of
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The Avenue is the first segment of a three-phase project.
TOTAL BUILT UP AREA IN SQUARE METRES world-renowned retail
2012 and will cover a total built-up area of 12,800m2 on a plot that is approximately 53,000m2. The Avenue is the first segment of a three-phase project covering 1,100m. Meraas announced earlier this month that it has appointed Al-Futtaim Carillion as project contractors for phase one. Omar Delawar, chief technical officer, Meraas, said: “The Avenue [is] a distinctive project that will add a new dimension to Dubai’s
MIDDLE EAST ARCHITECT | 01.12 | www.designmena.com
landscape.” Said Mohamed Al Assam, founder, chairman and managing director of Dewan, added: “Dubai’s retail property sector is proving increasingly stable and sustainable after the financial crisis, a fact that has led to a boost in investor confidence “This, in turn, is providing impetus to the industry’s growth momentum. With reports indicating significant growth in the sector, we are optimistic about the future.”
JANUARY | FRONT
3,900M2
1979
Area of copper panels in Natural History Museum of Utah (page 46)
Completion date of Dubai World Trade Centre (page 34)
DESIGNMENA.COM
China to win i ‘megatall’ ‘ ll’ building race by 2020
This month’s top stories • Dewan wins contract for Dubai retail • LW Design’s Centro Barsha wins Best Hotel
The 606m Wuhan Greenland Centre.
By 2020 China will have the largest share of buildings over 600m, according to the Council on Tall Buildings and Urban Habitat (CTBUH). It said that, by 2020, China will own 10 of the world’s 20 tallest towers while the Middle East will have five. However, the Middle East will be home to the two tallest buildings in the world – Dubai’s Burj Khalifa and the 1km+ Kingdom Tower in Jeddah. China’s tallest towers will include the 606m Wuhan Greenland Centre. The report coined the official term ‘megatall’ to describe buildings over 600m in height.
Interior award • Steven Holl wins AIA Gold Medal for 2012 • Daniel Libeskind designs limited edition chandelier for Zumtobel • SOM’s Nada Andric in Interior Design Hall of Fame • 25 essential iPad apps for interior design students
WEIRD PROJECT OF THE MONTH Dutch firm MVRDV caused controversy with its proposed tower scheme for Seoul, South Korea, which was thought by many in the US to resemble the 9/11 attacks on the World Trade Centre in New York. The practice promptly apologised for the unintentional resemblance.
UAE’s stalled construction projects total $958bn The value of construction projects scrapped or on hold in the UAE soared to $958bn in the 12 months to October 2011, according to a Citigroup report. It found that $604bn worth of projects were planned or underway, a decline of 33% on the previous year. Just $14bn worth of new projects were announced in 2011, representing a 58% fall year-on-year. Citigroup said Saudi Arabia and Iraq had replaced the UAE as the region’s dominant construction market. Saudi has $648bn worth of projects in the pipeline, the report said, which represents a 90% increase on 2010.
DATASTREAM DEWAN - GLOBAL STAFF NUMBERS
145
ABU DHABI
93
DUBAI
27
IRAQ
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NORTH AMERICA
Citigroup noted a decline in activity.
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LIBYA/EGYPT
3
5
10
PHILIPPINES
SAUDI ARABIA
QATAR
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FRONT | JANUARY
PEOPLE
Postmodern master Michael Graves picks up top award
Holl is behind a major Beirut scheme.
Steven Holl wins AIA Gold Medal for 2012 Steven Holl has won the 2012 Gold Medal from the American Institute of Architects (AIA), one of the most prestigious prizes in the industry. Holl will be honoured at the 2012 AIA National Convention in Washington, D.C. The AIA highlighted Holl’s “humanist approach to formal experimentation” and his ability to “tackle the urban-scale planning and development conundrums that define success in the built environment throughout the world.” Holl’s portfolio includes the Kiasma Contemporary Art Museum in Helsinki, Finland and the Simmons Hall at MIT in Cambridge, Massachusetts. In the Middle East, Holl’s practice worked on the Beirut Marina and Town Quay project, which is currently under construction in Lebanon.
By the time the 2022 World Cup is played here, Doha will be a new c city, and Qatar wil will be a new country.” Osama Hadid, Ha managing director of Qatar based firm, rm AlJaber Engineering, Engineerin shows faith in the state
US architect Michael Graves, one of the top exponents of postmodernism, has picked up the annual Richard H. Driehaus Prize. Born in 1934, Graves is most famous for the seminal Portland Building in Oregon, completed in 1982. His Middle East work includes buildings in Egypt and Lebanon, including the Steigenberger Hotel in El Gouna, Egypt. Graves was part of the ‘New York Five’, a group of New York City architects (Graves, Peter Eisenman, Charles Gwathmey, John Hejduk and Richard Meier) whose work appeared in a Museum of Modern Art exhibition in 1967. In 2003, an infection of unknown origin left Graves paralyased from the waist down. He is still actively working in his practice, Michael Graves & Associates.
60 SECOND INTERVIEW TAREK N QADDUMI PRINCIPAL, TNQ
What are you working on? In the next few weeks we will deliver the Enshaa sustainable labour housing project, as well as Park Corner, a mixed-use development in Jumeirah, and Al Nahda, a residential development in Sharjah.
Has the UAE market arket k h improved since the crisis? The large availability of real estate space will continue to govern the construction r r, market. However, projects are faciny y ing greater scrutiny ic from an economic perspective which ch is a ctural a best e driver for architectural practice.
How so?
Graves has worked in Egypt and Lebanon.
Masdar has been doing a great job for us. It is developing technology for the country and the whole world.” HE Dr Rashid Ahmed bin Fahad, UAE Minister of Water and Environment
A competitive economic climate may seem restrictive for an architect yet it helps to challenge an architect’s creativity. This environment certainly encourages more innovative ways to approach the design of space, and a more measured and calculated approach to experimenting with materials.
Abu Dhabi is promoting the whole package in terms of the sustainability of the public realm.” Michael Stott, UPC senior advisor
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FRONT | JANUARY
MENA PROJECT SNAPSHOT
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1 TURKEY
2 QATAR
3 DUBAI
BDP unveils Turkish leisure and shopping resort
Work set to start on homes for nursing staff
Solar-powered scheme launched in Dubai
UK-based BDP has revealed details of a shopping and leisure project on the outskirts of Izmir, Turkey’s third largest city. The firm has produced the masterplan and concept design of the Vaha project for local developer Megapol. The scheme contains over 175,000m2 of retail, leisure, education, social and religious buildings. A central external space, overlooked by cafés and restaurants, acts as a natural focal point for the project.
Construction is set to start on Doha’s Sidra Village in January, following the completion of enabling works. Designed by Allies & Morrison, the scheme will provide 1,165 flats for the nursing staff of the new Sidra hospital, as part of the wider Education City development. Backed by Mazaya and Qatar Foundation, Sidra Village will be delivered in phases over the next two years, and includes a mosque and a community centre.
Indian developer Pacific Real Estate Development has launched its first property venture in Dubai, a 28-storey green-minded scheme in Dubai. Pacific Waterfront will be a mixed-use luxury development, in Tecom Media City, that utilises solar technology for most of its energy requirements. The developer is also in the process of acquiring new projects in Dubai’s Business Bay area and Dubai Sports City.
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MIDDLE EAST ARCHITECT | 01.12 | www.designmena.com
FRONT | JANUARY
GLOBAL PROJECT SNAPSHOT
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1 UNITED KINGDOM
2 MALAYSIA
3 GEORGIA
New vision for Battersea Power Station
Ole Scheeren reveals Kuala Lumpur tower
UNStudio unveils futuristic Georgia airport
Terry Farrell and Partners has revealed a stripped-down scheme to rejuvenate London’s Battersea Power Station, a derelict landmark on the banks of the Thames. Farrell’s vision involves the demolition of two walls while preserving both the front and back sections, complete with the trademark chimneys. The structure will be surrounded by housing and parkland while the area inside will be redeveloped at a later stage.
Former OMA partner Ole Scheeren has unveiled his design for a 268m skyscraper next to the Petronas Tower in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. The tower, Angkasa Raya, was commissioned by local developer Sunrise Berhad and is made up of three cubic volumes that appear to float above horizontal layers. The project will contain residences, premium offices and a hotel and construction is set to begin in the first quarter of 2012.
Top Dutch architecture firm UNStudio has revealed its impressive design for the new Kutaisi Airport in the former Soviet state of Georgia. The 4,000m2 terminal building is structured around a central exterior space which is used for departing passengers. A sculptural 55m-high air traffic control tower is clad with a transparent skin which can change colour. Operations are set to commence in September 2012.
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MIDDLE EAST ARCHITECT | 01.12 | www.designmena.com
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FRONT | JANUARY
GLOBAL PROJECT SNAPSHOT
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1 INDIA
2 UK
3 CHINA
Mumbai’s undulating Bollywood museum
Cambridge ‘eco mosque’ moves forward
National Art Museum to reflect local culture
Los Angeles-based Yazdani Studio of Cannon Design has revealed its conceptual design for the Bollywood Museum at Film City in Mumbai. Warehouse-like volumes accommodate exhibits ranging from actual sets to film memorabilia. The undulating form will be engineered by Arup while the landscaping service will be provided by SWA. Families can picnic among set reproductions and watch screenings in the movie garden.
A planning application has been submitted for a 1,000-capacity mosque in Cambridge which utilises sustainable techniques. The brick building, by Marks Barfield Architects, incorporates heat pumps, heat recovery systems, water recycling and green roofs. With sixteen interlaced glue-laminated timber columns, the design strives for an ‘English idiom’ while being inspired by nature and Islamic art.
Holland-based architecture firm UNStudio has released its design for National Art Museum of China in Beijing, which takes references from Chinese culture. The 99,700m2 museum offers fi xed and temporary exhibition spaces, educational facilities, offices, restaurants and shops. Composed of two volumes that reference ancient Chinese stone drums, the scheme will feature a media facade with art projections.
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FRONT | JANUARY
THE BIG PICTURE
Sheikh Zayed Bridge, Abu Dhabi Zaha Hadid’s sculptural deck bridge in Abu Dhabi is now one of the most recognisable landmarks in the emirate. This shot, by ITP staff photographer Lester Ali, was taken from a vantage point that shows the bridge at its best. The 842m-long structure is perhaps one of the most artistically beautiful bridges ever constructed, and rivals the work of uber-engineer Santiago Calatrava. As seen in the photograph, the bridge makes use of a dynamic lighting design that ows across the entire structure.
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JANUARY | FRONT
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NEWS ANALYSIS | URBAN PLANNING
WALK THIS WAY ANALYSIS
Is more pedestrian space needed in Dubai? Oliver Ephgrave investigates
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URBAN PLANNING | NEWS ANALYSIS
W
ith a multi-lane highway bisecting the entire city, Dubai residents are much better off investing in a set of wheels than a pair of walking boots. Although pedestrian-friendly areas exist - such as JBR Walk, Downtown Dubai and the older neighbourhoods surrounding the creek - it is either dangerous or inconvenient to traverse most districts on foot, in contrast to many Western cities. The populations’ penchant for the automobile and the scorching summer months are often cited as reasons for the emirate’s urban makeup. Dubai’s lack of pedestrian facilities came under scrutiny in two recent industry talks, firstly November’s Green Build Congress, which ran alongside The Big 5 show. Keynote speaker Andrew Olszewski, AO Director, International Urban Systems, gave a speech entitled ‘Transforming urban environments to create economically successful, liveable, sustainable communities.’ Olszewski asserted that Downtown Dubai has shown that it’s possible to create a successful pedestrian environment. “In front of Dubai Mall, you see Emiratis walking by the Dubai Fountain. This is exactly how public spaces should be done.” The urban spaces between Dubai’s landmarks were analysed in detail at the recent Design Road workshops, organised by Creative Dialogue Association, and held in Al Quoz. An urban design workshop, run by Christoph Leuder - principal lecturer in architecture and urban design at Kingston University London -
observed an area around Baniyas Square, near the creek, at different times of the day. Leuder explained: “We’ve been going to the site and observing it during busy hours when the shops are open, and during quiet times. We looked at the site through two different viewpoints. One considered the dimensions and proportions of the enclosure - essentially public space surrounded by private buildings - and compared it to London. “We also used a second set of parameters which would be termed ‘intensive’ - these included temperature, light, frequency of traffic and more. We’re curious about how connective tissue can be strengthened.”
Leuder believes that the landmark buildings are successful, but that the connecting spaces need to be more pedestrian-friendly. “The next stage of development might need to focus on making those spaces more connective and friendly to the pedestrian, with more awareness of what we call intensive parameters,” he added. He observed that the citizens of Dubai orientate themselves through landmarks rather than streets or squares. “It’s a fascinating phenomena that taxi drivers get by without street names - you have to point at landmarks. The image of the city is very much landmark-based. “I compare it to China where the tendency is to build skyscrapers with
Pedestrian environments around JBR (left) and Dubai Mall (above).
In front of Dubai Mall, you see Emiratis walking by the Dubai Fountain. This is exactly how public spaces should be done.” Andrew Olszewski, AO Director, International Urban Systems
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NEWS ANALYSIS | URBAN PLANNING
heads or hats or crowns to symbolise something. But in Dubai, these towers are literally new and not replacing anything. It’s completely uncharted territory and that might exacerbate the condition of the urban tissue and how one struggles to connect things and form the tissue. It is obviously a bit problematic if the urban tissue between landmarks is overlooked.” Leuder believes that London is a “useful counterpoint to Dubai” with its hierarchy of public spaces and a “reluctance to mix iconic buildings”. He asserted that both approaches have pros and cons. “Both London and Dubai can learn from each other, but we might not want to have a situation where Dubai is imitating the European model. “Yet the connecting tissue could be strengthened by looking at the activities of people - when they go shopping, how they deliver goods and cross the street.”
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Leuder conceded that the European alfresco model might not be applicable due to the hot summer climate in the Gulf. However, Olszewski disagreed. In his presentation at the Green Build Congress, he remarked: “We often hear that the Middle East is too hot for public spaces. Yet Toronto has a tremendous amount of pedestrian spaces, but for six months of the year it is too cold.” Olszewski believes that many of the region’s urban planning woes stem from the preference for masterplanned developments. He asserted: “In this region, everything is masterplanned. It’s an extremely inflexible model – it’s very time consuming and it creates more problems than it solves. Authorities like it because it gives the whole picture, but we are working on projects that are constantly evolving.” He advocated the use of an urban framework plan as an alternative.
MIDDLE EAST ARCHITECT | 01.12 | www.designmena.com
“By not defining everything too early gives us a chance to understand the project better. “It is a way of defining the vision without limited outcomes, ensuring synergy between specific projects and urban systems.” The speaker cited Melbourne, Australia, as a highly livable, walkable city that has turned itself around through good urban planning. According to Olszewski, a key element in the transformation was the redevelopment of the Yarra River area to provide an attractive pedestrian promenade and a contemporary public space, Federation Square. He remarked: “It is critical to have an example that is live and which is happening. From a post-industrial city, Melbourne has become one of the most advanced cities in the world. So much so that in 2011 it was deemed to be the most liveable city in the world by The Economist.”
COMMENT | EDITOR’S LETTER
IN THE PIPELINE EDITOR’S LETTER
The Emirates’ portfolio is set to grow further
GOT A COMMENT? If you have any comments to make on this month’s issue, please e-mail oliver. ephgrave @itp.com
O
ne of this month’s features is a celebration of local architecture, to mark the recent 40th anniversary of the UAE. Accordingly, local architects and engineers were asked to pick their favourite completed buildings from the past four decades. It was interesting to note that all six experts picked buildings in Dubai. This got me thinking about the great buildings in other emirates, namely Abu Dhabi. Of course, the UAE’s largest emirate contains several much-loved structures such as Sheikh Zayed Mosque, Emirates Palace, Aldar HQ, Yas Hotel, Ferrari World and Sheikh Zayed Bridge.
Yet the fact remains that Dubai has been the driving architectural force in the past four decades. This is also demonstrated by the fact other famous Dubai buildings were not picked, such as the supremely elegant Emirates Towers and Atkin’s Burj Al Arab, the former icon of Dubai before Burj Khalifa stole its crown. However, Abu Dhabi is quickly catching up with its neighbour in the landmark stakes. In addition to the icons listed, Abu Dhabi will gain many showstopping projects, a couple of which will be completed in the coming year. The fi rst of these to be delivered is Capital Gate, designed by RMJM, which has already become an icon
Twist and shout: Abu Dhabi’s Capital Gate.
The UAE’s largest emirate will gain many showstopping projects, a couple of which will be completed in the coming year.”
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for the capital. ADNEC’s flagship project is preparing for its grand opening this month, and has entered the Guinness Book of World Records as ‘World’s furthest leaning manmade tower’. Another great building to be completed later in the year, in the wider Abu Dhabi emirate, is the Sheikh Zayed Desert Learning Centre in the Al Ain Wildlife Park & Resort. Not only is it a distinctive architectural form, it’s also a benchmark in sustainability; the cultural centre is the fi rst project to achieve a Five Pearl rating in Estidama at the design phase. Further down the line, Abu Dhabi will gain a major chunk of icons in the upcoming cultural district on Saadiyat Island. The whiz-bang designs by ‘starchitects’ Frank Gehry, Zaha Hadid, Norman Foster, Jean Nouvel and Tadao Ando are certain to be landmarks that are recognised throughout the world. The recent news of the delays is a big disappointment to say the least. It’s also worth noting that Dubai’s nearest equivalent to Capital Gate, the spiralling Infi nity Tower by SOM, is due for completion in 2012. The audacious tower in Dubai Marina was delayed by 18 months due to a site flood and the topped-out form is very welcome sight. All in all, 2012 looks to be an exciting year for architecture across the UAE and I look forward to visiting and writing about the flagship buildings at the earliest opportunity.
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COMMENT | HISHAM YOUSSEF
THE ROAD AHEAD OPINION
How should the industry move forward?
Hisham Youssef AIA, is project director at Gensler and a founding board member of the American Institute of Architects’ Middle East Chapter.
A
s architects flock to both Qatar and Saudi Arabia seeking lucrative contracts and a plethora of opportunities to realise new buildings and cities, it is prudent for clients and their advisers to consider a few things. They would be wise to bear in mind the experiences of the UAE, as well as analysing the appropriateness of the project for the context along with its sustainable attributes. As Dubai and Abu Dhabi led the development of international style projects in the region - pinning a place for themselves on the world map as centres of real estate developments and leading architectural projects - they both demonstrated that design can be home-brewed in the MENA region. It is pressing, however, that clients and their advisers in Qatar and KSA heed the lessons learned by focusing on proper planning, rather than succumbing to the glitzy and flashy architecture, just because it can be realised. This is crucial for ensuring that projects do not stand as empty monuments in the sand. Large scale developments that look more suited to other leading cities like New York, London or Tokyo,
Great projects need to be relevant to the local context.
should stay there. More appropriate responses to the harsh climate and regional cultural contexts should be planned, not in the vein of historicists copying from the past, but more as a modern interpretation and application of the concepts that have proved successful over the years. Needless to say, blindly copying projects in completely different contexts is equally inappropriate.
Cities and clients, as with children growing up, make the same mistakes until they mature in their thinking and develop a sophisticated view of their world.”
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MIDDLE EAST ARCHITECT | 01.12 | www.designmena.com
Cities and clients, as with children growing up, make the same mistakes until they mature in their thinking and develop a sophisticated view of their world. It is crucial to take heed of mistakes made by neighbours, as well as possessing pride and appreciation of a country’s legacy of real estate, and developing a keen understanding of the environmental context, in order to develop responsible architecture and planning responses. The ingredients for success are all there: well-funded clients in several countries in the MENA region, international design talent, and the need for developments in some contexts. What may lack is the appropriate vision for good planning and the type of projects to be developed. To be sure, there are visions drafted and being implemented. A reassessment of these ‘vision documents’ is perhaps in order, as well as a more rigorous review of the planning and approval process for new projects. So what lies ahead? As professionals in the design service industry, we are often not in a position to direct the project vision. But, we bear the responsibility to provide appropriate advice that befits the context. The burden of responsibility, however, is collective - one that requires clients, their advisers and their design professionals to join hands to develop the region responsibly. It is not too late yet.
What keeps us moving. The TWIN elevator system at ThyssenKrupp’s headquarters building Dreischeibenhaus in Dusseldorf (Germany):2 cabs, 1 shaft, 0 crowds. | Accept no Limits.
FEATURE | 2012 PROJECTS
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2012 PROJECTS | FEATURE
LANDMARK LOOKOUT
MEA previews the high-profile schemes that are set to be completed this year
I
n terms of flagship projects, Awards for Architecture in Emerging it could be said that 2011 was Markets 2011. Designed by RMJM a quiet year, certainly in the for ADNEC, the 160m mixed-use UAE. The Emirates gained a tower claimed first prize in the number of low-key gems yet there was categories of ‘Commercial/Mixed nothing on the par with Burj Khalifa, use Future’ and the most prestigious Dubai Metro or The Palm, to really prize, ‘Overall Project of the Year’. capture the world’s imaginaFrom an engineering pertion - either positively or spective, it rivals projects such as the Burj Khalifa negatively. However, it and SOM’s twisted Incould be argued that finity Tower in Dubai 2012 will see a greater LEAN OF Marina. When viewed number of landmarks ABU DHABI’S from the foot of the opening their doors. CAPITAL GATE structure, peering up The first of these is at the gob-smacking Abu Dhabi’s much-antici18 degree lean, it’s a pated Capital Gate - the world’s wonder how the building actually most inclined structure - which is stands up. preparing for its grand opening . It will house the five-star Hyatt Capital Gate has already picked up Capital Gate hotel, as well as around a brace of accolades at the Cityscape
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15,000m2 of office space. Client ADNEC is certain that the building is a bona fide classic. “Capital Gate is an icon for Abu Dhabi. The global acclaim the project continues to attract pays tribute to the team work and outstanding commitment of all those involved in making this visionary project a reality,” said HE Ali Saeed Bin Harmal Al Dhaheri, ADNEC’s managing director. On the exterior, a sculptural stainless steel ‘splash’ flows up the tower. This provides solar shading to the most exposed façade and forms a new shaded canopy to the historic grandstand that is used for outdoor events. A free-form internal atrium with a dynamic glass roof brings natural light deep into the tower. External lighting is designed to minimise both
www.designmena.com | 01.12 | MIDDLE EAST ARCHITECT
Abu Dhabi’s leaning Capital Gate tower will house a five-star Hyatt hotel and offi ce space.
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FEATURE | 2012 PROJECTS
Trust Tower (right) and Sowwah Square (below) are also taking shape in Abu Dhabi.
278m HEIGHT OF TRUST
light pollution and TOWER IN ABU DHABI energy consumption. This year, Abu Dhabi will deliver another landmark tower project, which, although not as technically challenging or as pioneering as Capital Gate, will receive worldwide attention simply due to its famous designer, ‘starchitect’ Norman Foster. The Pritzker Prize-winning architect is months away from completing the imposing Trust Tower in the Central Market scheme by Aldar, which is scheduled for a Q2 delivery date. ‘intelligent’ façade that controls light Standing at 278m it is one of the levels into the building for cooling largest and tallest office towers in purposes. Three double-deck lifts Abu Dhabi, with a third more space provide high-speed access occupants than MZ Architects’ landmark Aldar to all levels of the building. headquarters building. There is also flexibility in the It is part of three planned towers ceiling height, adding to the design featuring smooth reflective façades flexibility so tenants have the freeintended to require little maintedom to customise their office space. nance despite the dusty climate. The building offers 59 levels and While the towers are grouped 72,000m2 of office space. Rami Nasser, director of sales and together, they have different appearcommercial leasing at al Aldar, reances and sizes according to their vealed the timeframe for the Central respective functions, whether office, Market project, which already boasts residential or hotel. the completed ‘Souk’ mall. The development was designed “The Trust Tower will be comwith layers of internal shading on the pleted in Q2 2012 and the Emporium towers to minimise glare and utilise shopping mall in Q3 2012. The solar energy. residential component, comprising Trust Tower also boasts the latest 474 premium residential units, will in building technology, including an
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be completed later that year,” said Nasser. “The entire project will be finished by 2014, including the fourstar Marriot Courtyard Hotel and the five-star Marriot Renaissance hotel,” he added. The emirate will also gain a huge commercial, yet sustainable, project in the heart of the city: Sowwah Square. The scheme, developed by Mubadala, is located on the previously undeveloped Sowwah Island, which was identified in Plan Abu Dhabi 2030 as the city’s new Central Business District, in addition to the adjacent edges of Mina Zayed and Reem Island. Sowwah Square provides the new headquarters for the Abu Dhabi Securities Exchange and comprises four office towers overlooking water.
FEATURE | 2012 PROJECTS
The Sheikh Zayed Desert Learning Centre in Al Ain will be a cross between a museum and a science centre.
Designed by Goettsch Partners, it contains over 290,000m2 of office space and integrates two levels of retail and two parking structures. According to the architects, the four-level stock exchange building projects an image of strength and solidity. Glass-enclosed, with a roof the size of a football field, the building rises 27 metres above a water feature on four massive granite piers. The piers house the stairs, mechanical risers and service elements. Surrounding the stock exchange building are four tall office towers which range from 31 to 37 storeys in height. The first full office floor of each building starts 34 metres above the ground level. With sustainability a main focus for the development, Sowwah Square is the first project in Abu Dhabi to be pre-certified LEED-CS Gold. Ventilated, double-skin facades provide insulation while solar shading reduces heat gain and light. The roof of the exchange building contains 2,550m2 of photovoltaic panels to capture solar energy for use throughout the project. The design also incorporates condensation collection from cooling coils to supply the water feature as well as providing irrigation for the landscaping. An stunning upcoming cultural project, that is set to give Sowwah Square a run for its money in the sustainability stakes, is the Sheikh Zayed Desert Learning Centre, which is taking shape in the vast Al Ain Wildlife Park & Resort (AWPR). Designed by Austrian practice Chalabi Architects and Partners (CAP) the project is the first building
29.4m
LENGTH OF CANTILEVER IN SZ LEARNING CENTRE
to achieve a Five Pearl rating for the design stage in Estidama. “The centre is one of the pilot projects for Estidama and it’s one of the most sustainable projects in the whole country,” said Humaid Al-Hammadi, associate planner for the Abu Dhabi Urban Planning Council (UPC). Set for an August or September 2012 delivery date, the building will contain a wealth of energy saving measures to cut consumption by 40%. The roof is covered in photovoltaics which will generate 236MWh a year and shave 17% off the total energy usage. The building’s architecture is no less impressive, with a huge 29.4m
Many people are waiting for the Sheikh Zayed Desert Learning Centre to be finished. The centre is one of the pilot projects for Estidama and one of the most sustainable projects in the country. It’s the subject of national pride.” Humaid Al-Hammadi, associate planner for Abu Dhabi’s UPC
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cantilever over the entrance, luxurious marble cladding and a Frank Lloyd Wright-esque spiralling circulation route. “I’m convinced that this project will be one of the UAE’s landmark buildings when completed,” said Bassam Al Otaibi, director project management at AWPR. “Many people are waiting for this project to be finished. It’s the subject of national pride,” added the UPC’s Al-Hammadi. Abu Dhabi’s flashier neighbour Dubai will not see as many high-profile launches this year, but one of the most anticipated deliveries, at least in the architectural world, is the twisted Infinity Tower in Dubai Marina. The structure is topped out and work is underway on the interiors. Designed by SOM and developed by Cayan, the project has experienced its fair share of problems, with an 18-month delay due to a flood on the site. Nevertheless, its completion will add another engineering marvel to the UAE’s project portfolio. Each
2012 PROJECTS | FEATURE
1.08
0
ROTATION OF EACH FLOOR IN DUBAI’S INFINITY TOWER
floor rotates 1.08 degrees around a cylinder core and the 73 floors will make a cumulative 90 degree turn. There are no pillars in the tower; instead it is supported via a complex column structure that works with the core to hold the building up. It is also encouraging to see that developer Meraas will deliver a slick shopping complex called The Avenue, located near Al Wasl Road. The scheme, designed by local practice Dewan, will be built in an impressively swift timeframe, with a
scheduled completion date penciled in for the third quarter of the year. Containing a mixture of retail brands, an anchor supermarket, restaurants and a healthcare clinic, The Avenue will cover a total built-up area of 12,800m2 on a plot of approximately 53,000m2. It is part of the a three-phase project and will include outdoor seating with extensive landscaping, water features and green spaces. Meanwhile, Saudi Arabia is putting the finishing touches on a contro-
versial mega-tall tower, the Abraj Al Bait in Makkah. Also known as the Makkah Clock Tower, the 601mhigh structure looms over Masjid Al Haram, the holiest site in Islam. The staggeringly-scaled building has claimed numerous world records including tallest hotel, tallest structure in Saudi Arabia, largest clock and largest floorspace at 1,500,000m2. The building certainly caused a stir with readers of Middle East Architect. A comment on designmena.com, for the story ‘Arabian Nightmare’,
www.designmena.com | 01.12 | MIDDLE EAST ARCHITECT
Dewan’s retail scheme The Avenue (top) and SOM’s twisted Infi nity Tower in Dubai Marina (bottom).
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FEATURE | 2012 PROJECTS
Saudi Arabia’s controversial Makkah Clock Tower (top) and Qatar’s Msheireb (bottom).
stated: “Would a monstrosity like the clock tower in Mecca be allowed in any European city? Absolutely not. Biggest is not best and in many cases is certainly not required.” However, another reader’s post on the same article read: “Whilst I agree that the Holy City of Makkah should stand as an icon in its architectural design and heritage, I very much support the development of the grand clock of Makkah, to beacon the accurate time to the Muslim World.” The title of tallest building in Saudi Arabia, indeed the entire world, will eventually go the 1km-high HEIGHT OF MAKKAH Kingdom Tower in CLOCK TOWER Jeddah. According to architect Adrian Smith, construction is due to start this month. Another high-profile scheme that is taking shape in the Kingdom is King Abdullah Financial District, outside Riyadh. Master-planned by Danish firm Henning Larsen, the district contains many buildings designed by New York-based firm FXFOWLE. A spokesperson for the company revealed that the practice is hoping to complete several projects and parcels Cup in 2022, the gas-rich state has by the end of the year, including its been touted as one of the region’s hotgleaming marble mosque which won test construction markets. the Community Future Award at Yet according to a recent report Cityscape Global in 2010. by Citigroup, the country has almost It is also nearing completion on $214bn worth of construction projparcels 4.07 and 4.08, which contains ects planned, marking a 19% drop on two towers (88m and 133m-tall) last year. connected by a retail podium across Qatar has also cancelled $7bn a shared landscaped plaza. However, worth of projects in the last 12 the spokesperson added that the months, raising the value of its canbuildings, even if completed in 2012, celled and delayed projects by 4% to will not be occupied until a later date $156bn, according to the report. due to the lack of surrounding infraDespite this, Qatar will see structure. He also revealed that exthe completion of phase 1A of the cavation work is currently underway US5.5bn Msheireb Downtown in on the shimmering Museum of Built Doha in 2012. Environment, with construction to The scheme at large will revive start in 2012. the old commercial heart of the Since Qatar was controversially city across a 31 hectare pedestrianchosen as the venue for the World friendly site. UK-based architecture
601m
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practice Allies & Morrison is a key player in the project. Phase 1A contains the Diwan Amiri Quarter (Diwan Annex, Amiri Guard and National Archive), as well as heritage buildings and infrastructure components such as the district cooling plant and substations. Phase 1B - which is due for a later delivery - comprises 15 buildings, including the country’s first Mandarin Oriental Hotel, two office buildings with 52 retail units and 12 residential buildings providing a total of 180 apartments. Completion on the entire Msheireb project is expected in 2016. Although the number of GCC project deliveries will be markedly lower than recent times, in terms of landmark schemes, 2012 promises to be an exciting year.
FEATURE | UAE ARCHITECTURE
PAST AND PRESENT Following last month’s 40th anniversary of the UAE, Middle East Architect asked locally-based professionals to pick their favourite building from the past four decades
BURJ KHALIFA ARCHITECT: SOM DATE: 2010
This building is a magnificent piece of structural engineering, and demonstrates a great synergy between the architects and the engineers. You can see that because all the vertical structural elements are allowed to go down in a straight line to the foundations. There are no transfer beams or slabs and this clearly is the secret of the engineering success of this building. As a result the tower is extremely stiff, both laterally and torsionally. The ‘Y’ shape plan of the tower makes the structure not only relatively simple but it also causes reductions of the wind forces on the tower. As you go up the building each tier moves back in a spiral stepping pattern. This results in a change in the tower’s width at each setback. Because of this, the wind vortexes are kept in check as each new tier offers a different building shape. The extreme stiffness combined with the reduced wind loads make the Burj Khalifa an engineering masterpiece.” Bart Leclercq, Head of Structures, WSP Middle East
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UAE ARCHITECTURE | FEATURE
A view of the Dubai Creek area, taken in March 1958.
Deira’s Clock Tower is visible in the bottom left of this photograph.
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FEATURE | UAE ARCHITECTURE
DUBAI MUNICIPALITY BUILDING ARCHITECT: Civic Design Studio/ Pacific Consultants International DATE: 1979
The Dubai Municipality Building could easily be overlooked as an iconic landmark in Dubai but it is one of the few culturally sensitive developments. The viewer is immediately mesmerised by the warren truss space frames that block 80% of direct solar radiation and create a pleasant shaded micro climate. The Dubai Municipality building is a monument that eff ectively addressed today’s issues of sustainability and green buildings 32 years ago and is more relevant today. It is a truly timeless masterpiece that was decades ahead of its time.” Ahmed Bukhash, chief architect and founder, Archidentity
DUBAI METRO ARCHITECT: Aedas/Atkins DATE: 2009
Dubai is one of the fastest growing cities in the world, making the provision of high quality infrastructure facilities absolutely imperative. The metro is a modern day gem, enhancing the culture and business of the emirate by providing an efficient conveyance system. It is at once a symbol of innovation while the station architecture reflects Dubai’s identity and character. These uniquely shaped shell roofs, while modern and iconic, invoke the heritage of pearl diving. The design required skill and bravery, brought early prosperity, and is an integral part of Dubai’s modernism.” Mohamed Alaa Mandour, founder, KMA
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UAE ARCHITECTURE | FEATURE
ROLEX TOWER ARCHITECT: SOM DATE: 2010
I ďŹ nd the Rolex Tower on Sheikh Zayed Road to be a wonderful architectural statement. The tower is an elegant mixed-used building with apartments on the upper level and offices below. Its simple form contains beautifully detailed fritted glass exactly what you come to expect from SOM. The building does not try and make a statement with strange forms, shapes, colours, textures and materials. Instead, the design is completely stated with sharp corners, an elegant slot on the upper face, and perfectly located set back at the rear. Rolex Tower is beautifully illuminated at night in the same simplicity as it reects the sunlight during the day. Commissioned by Ahmed Seddiqi and Sons, it has a lot to say about the successful cooperation and understanding of planning and design by an owner and architect working together. Steven W Miller, regional manager, Perkins Eastman
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FEATURE | UAE ARCHITECTURE
DUBAI WORLD TRADE CENTRE ARCHITECT: John Harris DATE: 1979
As with anything that weathers the test of time and matures, the Dubai World Trade Centre tower has slowly and gracefully aged into a quiet icon in a veritable city of icons. Admittedly, the beehive façade is not much to look at by comparison to the more modern looking buildings but it represents a turning point in the development of Dubai into a world capital of design and architecture. While discussions about sustainability abound, the DWTC façade seems oddly forward thinking, and more responsible in that respect. I admit that I was not particularly enamored by the building when I first saw it in 1998, but since I made Dubai my home in 2006, it has grown on me. How we feel about architecture is inexplicably visceral. Such is how architecture impacts each and every one of us.” Hisham Youssef, Gensler, and founding board member of AIA’s Middle East chapter
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UAE ARCHITECTURE | FEATURE
NATIONAL BANK OF DUBAI ARCHITECT: Dubarch with Carlos Ott and Norr Architects DATE: 1998
The headquarters building for the National Bank of Dubai is one of the emirate’s first deliberately iconic modern buildings, situated on the creek in the heart of the city. The structure of this modern tower is expressed very clearly and the shapes are simple and powerful; it is a ‘bridge’ supported at the sides by two massive granite columns. On the creek side, the curtain wall curves gracefully from top to bottom, like a billowing sail. The reflections of the creek shimmer on this glazed facade, and change with the light. With its clearly modern yet subtle interpretation of the hull and sail, The NBD building maintains a reference to its context. As it mirrors back to Dubai Creek, the lifeline and origin of Dubai’s beginning as a trading hub, it stands as an elegant reminder of the city’s heritage and history.” Sumaya Dabbagh, principal at Dabbagh Architects
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AL MIZHAR VILLA | CASE STUDY
AL MIZHAR VILLA Architect: AK Design Location: Dubai
CASE STUDY
THE PROJECT Designed by local fi rm AK Design, Al Mizhar Villa is a contemporary play on the traditional courtyard houses of the Gulf region. The constraints of the long, narrow site led to the form of two ‘living tubes’ sliding past each other to create a central landscaped courtyard. The northern tube contains common, family-oriented functions while the bedrooms are housed in the southern tube and accessed via a fully-glazed gallery. Both tubes are anchored by a central living/family room which has been located to maximise views and cross ventilation.
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CASE STUDY | AL MIZHAR VILLA
THE SITE Surrounded by a 2.4m-high concrete wall, the 26m by 72m site is located in the relatively at Al Mizhar area of Dubai. It is situated close to Al Mushrif Park, an old Ghaf tree forest. The building is orientated with the short elevations to the east and west, with recessed glazing to control low sun angles. The long north facade GROSS FLOOR AREA aff ronting the internal courtyard is fully-glazed yet protected from direct solar heat gain by a Ghaf tree.
575M2
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AL MIZHAR VILLA | CASE STUDY
THE CONCEPT The plan revolves around the central landscaped courtyard, which allows natural light to penetrate all key areas of the building. Due to the large perimeter wall, the courtyard always remains a private sanctuary. Bedrooms contain private terraces and direct landscape access, protecting and concealing the private courtyard while maximising COST OF THE VILLA views. Cross ventilation becomes a viable cooling method, as the axis is aligned with prevailing westerly winds.
AED 7M
THE DETAILS Ghaf trees are referenced in the building design through timber cladding and screening. The ‘tubes’ are fi nished in a white, jointless render system, which is cut and peeled away at recesses and balconies to reveal softer, warmer timber fi nishes.
The villa uses various techniques to save water and energy, including internal water-saving fittings, lowwater landscaping, insulated walls, ‘Low E’ glazing to both exterior and interior panes, and openable windows for cross ventilation.
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TOZEUR RESORT | CASE STUDY
TOZEUR RESORT Architect: GAJ Location: Tozeur, Tunisia CASE STUDY
THE PROJECT Runner-up in the Hospitality & Leisure category at the 2011 Middle East Architect Awards, this boutique 63-key resort in Tunisia is designed by regional favourite Godwin Austen Johnson (GAJ). The resort master plan contains a destination spa, a banqueting and conference centre, as well as a cultural village. Other facilities include local craft studios, NUMBER OF ROOMS retail outlets, restauAND SUITES rants, nightclubs and an Arabian Nights outdoor dining experience.
63
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CASE STUDY | TOZEUR RESORT
THE CONCEPT Envisaged as a contemporary adaptation of the traditional environment, the project is nestled into the site. By elevating the structure slightly above the natural ground level, the individual buildings become part of the landscape linked by walkways and palm groves. These walkways and connections, although ‘contained’ by soft landscape, offer glimpses of the surroundings. Entering through the main entrance doors, the reception lobby has purposely been kept stark to direct the guests’ view towards the strikingly barren landscape.
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TOZEUR RESORT | CASE STUDY
THE DETAILS Finishes hint at the richness of the local materials and traditions. As with the external treatment, the internal spaces are designed to capture the essence of Tozeur and Tunisia as a whole without resorting to pastiche and lip service.
Externally, the ‘streets’ and walkways are one of the project’s defi ning characteristics. The paths meander through palm groves, as well as formal streets and courtyards. They offer glimpses of the
buildings and landscape beyond, but never a full view of the development. The resort also contains an outdoor amphitheatre - located on the outer perimeter the site - which affords 180 degree views.
160
LENGTH OF CHOTT EL JERID IN MILES
THE SITE The resort is located along the western boundary of Tunisia, adjacent to Algeria, on the edge of the Chott El Jerid – a natural salt lake. The flat hostile environment stretches for 160 miles. GAJ’s design maximes views over the landscape, as well as bringing a sense of “calm order” over the stark beauty of the Chott. The design intent was to translate and evolve the language of the indigenous architecture in both the usage of local materials and the massing of the buildings in the resort.
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NATURAL HISTORY MUSEUM UTAH | CASE STUDY
NATURAL HISTORY MUSEUM OF UTAH Architect: Ennead Architects Location: Salt Lake City, Utah, USA CASE STUDY
THE PROJECT This spectacular scheme, which opened in November 2011, provides a stunning home for the Natural History Museum of Utah, as well as housing research facilities for undergraduates and graduates at the University of Utah, on the edge of Salt Lake City, USA. The building was designed by Todd Schliemann of New York-based Ennead Architects. Schliemann was supported by Ennead partner Don Weinreich in association with David Brems and John Branson of Salt Lake City’s Gillies Stransky Brems Smith (GSBS).
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CASE STUDY | NATURAL HISTORY MUSEUM UTAH
THE SITE Located on the campus of the University of Utah, just a few miles east of downtown Salt Lake City, the museum is positioned on a seven-acre site in the foothills of the Wasatch Mountain Range, overlooking the Salt Lake Valley. Conceived as an abstract extension of the landscape, the museum rests on terraces that step up the hill with minimal AREA OF EXTERIOR disruption to the site. COPPER PANELS At its base, board-formed concrete marks the transition from earth to the manmade.
3,900M2
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NATURAL HISTORY MUSEUM UTAH | CASE STUDY
THE CONCEPT Before the design process began, Schliemann took a journey around Utah. He explained: “I saw an extraordinarily unique landscape – one that was timelessly natural, but also very architectural. At that time it became clear that the architecture should be of the landscape and belong to the landscape.” This ethos is clearly HEIGHT OF THE reflected in the buildCENTRAL ATRIUM ing’s striking copper skin which recalls Utah’s geological and mineralogical history. It consists of 3,900m2 of copper panels with accent panels of copper-zinc alloy that enhance the subtle variegation of the material’s natural patina.
18M
THE DETAILS Internally, the museum contains a 18m-high central space, dubbed ‘the canyon’, which divides the building into two sections and offers views across the basin. The private north wing contains research labs, conservation labs, collection storage and administration, while the south wing houses the public exhibits. In the canyon, bridges and vertical circulation organise the visitor sequence.
With respect to the natural world it champions within, the museum has been designed to achieve LEED Gold Certification. Weinreich outlines the sustainable measures in the project. “The artful integration of ‘green’ initiatives - incorporating the use of recycled materials, local resources, photovoltaic energy, radiant cooling and the implementation of an extensive storm water catchment and management system - underscores the museum’s respect for the natural world and human engagement.”
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MIDDLE EAST ARCHITECT | 01.12 | www.designmena.com
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PROJECT UPDATE | THE WORK
THE WORK PROJECT UPDATE
AL SHAQAB EQUESTRIAN ACADEMY
8,000
SPECTATOR CAPACITY OF THE ARENA
Architect: Leigh & Orange Location: Education City, Qatar
THE VERTICAL MEDINA Architect: SOM Location: King Abdullah Financial District, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
THE URBAN CROSSING
24,678M2 TOTAL AREA OF THE SITE
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Architect: Aedas Location: Shanghai, China
One of the largest show horse facilities in the world, this equestrian complex in Qatar covers a total area of 800,000m2. Centred around a 350m long performance arena with a double facing grandstand, the scheme also caters for the training and breeding of Arabian horses. The project was official completed in September 2011 with Leigh & Orange providing master planning, architectural design and interior design.
One of many Middle East projects by Chicago-based titan SOM, the Vertical Medina is a mixed-use scheme in Saudi Arabia. It uses the traditional Arab medina city form – with its interlocking alleyways and courtyards – to create a ‘vertical network’ with residential, office and retail components. Clad in limestone from local sources, the residential and commercial project is slated for completion in late 2012.
Aedas’ “boutique urban” project in Shanghai provides office and retail components, as well as a gallery, conference centre and a water promenade plaza. It is conceived to be a landmark hub with a strong civic presence and a vibrant mix of commercial and public elements. In addition to maintaining daily commercial and retail activities, the Urban Crossing is capable of hosting multiple major events.
337
Architect: DWP Location: Abu Dhabi
TOTAL NUMBER OF APARTMENT UNITS
EKO ATLANTIC CITY Architect: MZ Architects Location: Lagos, Nigeria
MIRDIF CITY CENTRE Architect: Hyder Consulting/ RTKL Location: Dubai
AINO MINA
2M
METRES2
TOTAL AREA OF THE SCHEME
Architect: Aedas Location: Kandahar, Afghanistan
Currently in the design development phase, Maysan Residences is a pair of striking residential tower buildings in the Al Najmat district of Reem Island, Abu Dhabi with an expected completion date of 2013. Designed by dwp, the project aims to achieve a 2 Pearl Rating with Estidama. The roof structure contains solar energy technology while the tower forms are devised to minimise the exposure to excessive heat gain.
This ambitious new city in Nigeria responds to coastal erosion and aims to relieve pressure on the congested city of Lagos, which is currently inhabited by 15.5 million people. Estimates of urban use predict that Eko Atlantic City will be home to a quarter of a million people when complete. MZ Architects is the urban planner for the new city and will also be responsible for a number of towers in the scheme.
The fi rst LEED Gold accredited retail outlet in the Middle East, the AED3 billion Mirdif City Centre opened in March 2010 and achieved its green certification in May 2011. At the peak of construction, 22 cranes and 10,000 workers were on site. Developed by mall specialist Majid Al Futtaim Properties, Mirdif City Centre features a gross floor area of 300,000m2, with 450 shops and parking for over 7,000 cars.
This two million m2 community scheme, which won both the Residential Project and Sustainable Project of the Year at the Middle East Architect Awards, will provide over 2,000 homes. Situated in Kandahar, the site gently slopes and has a backdrop of mountains. A wide central park runs through the masterplan and links the retail area at the southern end with the Friday mosque at the northern end.
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THE WORK | PROJECT UPDATE
MAYSAN RESIDENCES
PROJECT UPDATE | THE WORK
200,000 METRES2 TOTAL SURFACE AREA OF THE ROOF
FERRARI WORLD ABU DHABI Architect: Benoy Location: Yas Island, Abu Dhabi
DOHA TWIN TOWERS Architect: GHD Global Pty Ltd Location: Lusail, Qatar
DUBIOTECH RESEARCH LABORATORY Architect: HDR Location: Dubai
185 METRES
EXPECTED HEIGHT OF THE RENAISSANCE TOWER
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RENAISSANCE TOWER Architect: FXFOWLE Location: Istanbul, Turkey
Winner of the Hospitality & Leisure Project of the Year, Ferrari World Abu Dhabi is the world’s largest indoor theme park. Designed by Benoy for Aldar Properties, the project features over 20 rides and attractions including the world’s fastest rollercoaster. The total surface area of the colossal red roof is 200,000m2, while the perimeter of the building is 2,200m2. The highest point of the structure is 45 metres.
This billowing twin tower project in Qatar was designed by GHD Global and is designed to meet the client’s target net floor area ratio of 398%. Overall water consumption will be reduced by 40% though the use of native plantation, water reducing fi xtures, storm water re-use and grey water treatment strategies. The building also aims to produce 5% of its energy from renewable sources, such as photovoltaics.
This US$25m complex was the fi rst research facility to be completed in DuBiotech, a huge freezone dedicated to the life science industry. Architect HDR was also responsible for the masterplan, as well as a headquarters building which is under construction. A common requirement for DuBiotech facilities is the achievement of LEED certification; the research laboratory received Silver status at the end of 2010.
Designed by New York-based architecture fi rm FXFOWLE, Renaissance Tower is the headquarters for a construction and development company in Istanbul. With sustainability well and truly on the agenda, the tower has an ambitious target of LEED Platinum - the highest rank in the international rating system. Standing at 185 metres, Renaissance Tower will be the tallest building on the Asian side of Istanbul.
TOTAL AREA OF OFFICE SPACE
Architect: Goettsch Partners Location: Abu Dhabi
TRA HEADQUARTERS Architect: HDR Location: Dubai
AL FATTAN HOUSE
31,000 METRES2 TOTAL FLOOR AREA OF THE COMPLEX
Architect: DSA Architects International Location: Dubai
MUSEUM OF BUILT ENVIRONMENT Architect: FXFowle Location: King Abdullah Financial District, Saudi Arabia
Pitching for LEED Silver status, Sowwah Square will provide the new headquarters for the Abu Dhabi Securities Exchange and comprises four office towers overlooking water. The complex contains over 290,000m2 of office space and integrates two levels of retail and two parking structures. The centerpiece of the development’s fi rst phase is the business centre, which includes a 22,670m2 stock exchange building.
In December 2007, the UAE’s Telecommunications Regulatory Authority (TRA) commissioned architect HDR to design its headquarters for both Abu Dhabi and Dubai. The Dubai project is located in a neighbourhood of low rise residential and cultural buildings and is looking to attain LEED Silver Rating. The facility will be officially opened in October 2011 while the Abu Dhabi project will be completed next year.
Al Fattan House is the third building by developer Al Fattan Properties in Dubai Marina. The client wanted to complement the existing Al Fattan residential and hotel towers development with a commercial building and chose architects DSA to design the scheme. The striking project is a prominent landmark, despite being dwarfed by the glassy Al Fattan towers and the soaring concrete cityscape of Dubai Marina.
One of the stand-out buildings in the King Abdullah Financial District, the glistening Museum of Built Environment has been designed by New York-based fi rm FXFowle. Due to the fast-track construction schedule, the architects are currently working on detailed design, while site excavation is underway and completion is slated for November 2012. The museum will focus on education with four sub-categories.
www.designmena.com | 01.12 | MIDDLE EAST ARCHITECT
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THE WORK | PROJECT UPDATE
290,000 METRES2
SOWWAH SQUARE
LAST WORD | EAMONN KERR
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SWEET STRATEGY THE LAST WORD
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Inevitably this market has been very difficult. There is no such thing now as a fixed or firm project.
With this uncertainty, one has to be light on your feet and flexible. You need to be able to provide the right calibre of people and be able to deliver on what you say you are going to deliver.
You do not want to be in a position where you have got 100% of your work 80% done. It is about making sure your quality of service and delivery capability is of international standard.
You want to get repeat business, which is of course the best business of all.
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We see Libya as an emerging market – even more so now.
Audited by: BPA Worldwide Average Qualified Circulation: 5,153 (January - June 2011) Cover image SOM | Hedrich Blessing ©Nick Merrick
We are in Egypt and Morocco, where we are already undertaking quite
However, I see those locations as opportunistic rather than strategic.
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Our primary focus remains the UAE and Saudi Arabia in the short and
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significant projects there.
medium term.
By the end of 2012 we will be in Qatar, as we will be in Kuwait. I think the competition in Qatar is huge.
That has driven down some of its commercial attractiveness.
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