DSA Digest Issue 14

DSA DIGEST Latest Project Updates Press launch for highly anticipated Aquaventure waterpark and DSA awarded DoubleTree Jeddah

DSA @ Cityscape Team impress with stand at Dubai’s premier property exhibition

Multiple Awards DSA take home IPA Leading Designer Award & Luxlife Most Outstanding Architectural Practice

Q4 2019 www.dsa-arch.com

CONTENTS

In this issue...

6 DSA Open Swing Against Cancer series was in full swing at Emirates Golf Club, with Ruud Gullit joining the pack.

5

Onwards & Upwards See our newly promoted team members and new DSA joiners.

16

Aquaventure Update Atlantis The Palm’s new attraction is set to make Aquaventure one of the biggest waterparks in the world.

10

Cityscape 2019 DSA host guests at one of the largest and most influential real estate events held globally.

2

DSA Digest | Q4 2019

CONTENTS

Continued...

14 DSA Social Event From football and cricket tournaments to the MJL team lunch, see what DSA have been up to out of the office this quarter.

8 One to One With Estelle Benson

12

Project Awards

Exploring the fundamentals of capturing the vision of the client.

DSA take home multiple project awards in the Middle East, including Best Architecture Multiple Residence in Dubai.

18 New Projects DSA’s latest projects include luxury hotels in the UAE and Saudi Arabia

DSA Digest | Q4 2019

3

WELCOME

Welcome A very warm welcome to the latest edition of DSA Digest.

Welcome to the latest edition of the DSA Digest.

Firstly, I would like to extend my welcome to all of the new joiners here at DSA. For us to be able to enhance an already highly efficient and successful team is a great feeling and I hope you settle in well.

This quarter has seen DSA achieve multiple project wins including; Scheme Design for Magna Radisson Al Marjan, Saffron Restaurant refurbishment at Atlantis The Palm and The Doubletree by Hilton in Jeddah, where we are ready to close out the Concept Design stage and commence Scheme Design.

It’s also great to see a familiar face in Floris Smith, who has returned to DSA in a consultancy role for the Grand Hyatt Jaipur project.

We are also very excited about the huge potential for opportunities that are arising in emerging markets, in particular Saudi Arabia. Our team has already commenced work on a Wellness Centre and Boutique Hotel for Amaala and we plan to expand works further within the Kingdom.

Other new projects on the horizon include Cheval Blanc for North25 and Dubai Mall Regeneration for Emaar.

In September we welcomed Ballon D’Or winner Ruud Gullit, as guest of honour for the DSA Open, in partnership with the Swing Against Cancer initiative. This high-profile event underlines our wider responsible role in society. The deep connections we have forged with our stakeholders illustrates the unique style of our company in understanding that there is more to business longevity than just winning and completing a contract.

These successes are a reflection of BOTH our technical ability and excellence and our strong corporate personality. In short, people want to work with DSA Architects.

Winning new projects, along with the excellence of our project management and delivery of existing developments is of course a priority and crucial to our future success, however it is all achieved through teamwork, positive cross functional internal and external collaboration.

Steve Kelshaw Managing Director DSA Middle East

4

DSA Digest | Q4 2019

CAREERS

Welcome to the DSA Family...

Welcome to the new DSA joiners.

1. Binu Raj, Senior Accountant 2. Amy Varghese, Project Coordinator

8. Namrata Honnanagoudar, Project Coordinator

DSA Staff more than 10 years of Services:

9. Ranjithkrishna Nair, Site Architect

1. Joanne Maravillas, Document Controller (13 years)

10. Ruta Ambewadikar, Junior Architect

Date joined: 24th October 2006

3. Hanan Ibrahim, Design Manager

11. Sanne Bokna-Pronk, Design Manager

2. Maher Boussaad, PRO / Office Assistant (12 years)

4. Jaya Phulwani, HR Administrator

12. Shine Babu, Commercial Officer

Date joined: 17th October 2007

5. Julie Ann Llemos, Document Controller

13. Utkarsh Kumawat, Junior Architect

3. Shernan Mayoyo, Architect Inspector (11 years)

6. Michael Warren, Senior Site Architect

14. Marie Joan Lou Gertes, Accountant

Date joined: 7th October 2008

7. Moin Abassi, Site Architect

DSA Digest | Q4 2019

5

DSA CARES

DSA OPEN 2019 As the scorching UAE summer neared its end, it could only mean one thing, the hotly anticipated return of the popular DHL Swing Against Cancer Golf Series in the shape of the DSA Open which took place on Emirates Golf Club’s iconic Majlis course on September 19 with none other than former Ballon d’Or winner Ruud Gullit lined up as the star attraction.

DSA CARES

Event organisers Worldwide Golf and Sixteen10 are aiming to raise more vital funds this year to help 13-year-old Randolph Palomar, who is recovering from a brain tumour.

A huge thank you to Emirates Golf Club and all our incredible sponsors for your ongoing support.

“When I was asked to be part of this fantastic initiative I jumped at the opportunity” - Ruud Guillit

“We were delighted to be able to put our energy and support behind the Swing against Cancer series again this year”, said Steve Kelshaw. “To have Ruud Gullit, the 1987 Ballon d’Or winner with us for the day was amazing and really highlights that giving back is realised at the very highest level.”

“Our partners, colleagues and friends yet again put their heart and sole into the day, contributing to ensure that we raise the bar, making the day special for all involved.”

DSA Digest | Q4 2019

The DSA Open is the penultimate event on the DHL Swing Against Cancer Golf Series’ schedule following the successful seasonopening DHL Open and the Fearnley International Open in Scotland, which was the first event

to be held outside of the UAE. The two events raised over US$50,000 with the help of former Liverpool FC legend John Barnes at both days while Dean Holdsworth lent his support at Dubai Creek Golf & Yacht Club for the DHL Open.

The DHL Swing Against Cancer Golf Series has now raised over US$250,000 since it launched in 2017.

It has captured the imagination of the UAE’s golf and business communities as well as gaining support from a string celebrities from the worlds of sport and entertainment including Harry Redknapp, Mike Tindall, Michael Campbell, Teddy Sheringham, Robbie Fowler, Matt Le Tissier, Ian Bell and Brian McFadden.

The DHL Swing Against Cancer Golf Series has now raised over US$250,000 since 2017

7

One to One with

Estelle Besson Associate, DSA Middle East

Originally, I am from France but have spent many years living across the world, from Africa, The United States and most recently the Middle East.

Throughout my life I have always enjoyed an outdoor lifestyle and as you can see, I have travelled a lot. Having an active life is very important to me, whether that be through things like mountain biking and water sports or even camping at the weekend.

My education began at the School of Versailles in Paris. It was a great school to study at, but I also loved it because of its location. Paris is such a diverse city that is always evolving.

If you accompany that with decades of stunning architecture, it really becomes and place like no other.

I have been interested in seeing things grow and develop since a very young age. As a girl I would build sandcastles and tree houses with my brother. Over time that interest developed further and by my teens I knew I wanted to be an architect.

For the last 5 years I have been with the DSA team and my role consists of managing projects from design to creation. As a Project Architect, I am positioned between the design team and the client. It’s a role that I 8

love because it can be so varied from project to project.

Each client has their own particular requests, and it is critical that I understand them at an early stage.

Not only does this help ensure that all team members keep to what the client wants, but also it means that any design hurdles can resolved at a swift pace, avoiding lengthy delays.

When a project begins, inspiration for design is never too far away.

From looking back at past successes and evolving those ideas further, to examining the surroundings of the project location. It’s fundamental to capture the vision of the client, taking multiple elements and combining them to create a strong identity.

Spending some quality family time with my husband and son is extremely important to me. When I’m not immersed in a project, I like to spend as much time with them as possible. I also have a great passion for cooking and maintaining a healthy diet. I am always researching new and exciting recipes.

However, the excitement for designing is always with me and currently I am designing a villa for my family and I in France during my spare time.

DSA Digest | Q4 2019

TEAM

DSA Digest | Q4 2019

9

EXHIBITION

DSA @

Cityscape Global 16th edition is recognised as the annual barometer for the real estate industry in emerging markets and is one of the largest and most influential real estate events held globally.

His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, President of Dubai Civil Aviation Authority (DCAA), officially opened Cityscape Global 2019 - the 19th annual edition of the gateway event for regional real estate investment - at Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC).

its Building Information Modeling (BIM) and automated code checking systems, which cover all construction projects in the Emirate of Dubai.

DSA’s stand was hosted throughout the event by Steve Kelshaw and Peter Davison, with Chairman, Clive Shepherd, and other Directors and Associates also on hand to meet our many guests. It was a pleasure to discuss opportunities with clients and partners, both old and new!

HH Sheikh Ahmed was joined by a delegation of top-ranking VIPs, including His Excellency Sultan Butti bin Mejren, Director General of the Dubai Land Department, and His Excellency Helal Saeed Almarri, Director General of the Dubai World Trade Centre Authority (DWTCA) and the Dubai Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing (DTCM), amongst others.

During the opening tour, HH Sheikh Ahmed stopped for detailed briefings at numerous exhibitors’ stands, including the Dubai Municipality, where he received an update on

10

DSA Digest | Q4 2019

Photo Above and Bottom Left: His Highness Sheikh Ahmed Bin Saeed Al Maktoum opens Cityscape Global in Dubai.

Photo Above Left: DSA Director Peter Davison welcomed guests to view the DSA stand at the exhibition.

DSA Digest | Q4 2019

11

AWARDS

Madinat Jumeirah Living is an exclusive collection of freehold residences located opposite the iconic Burj Al Arab.

Latest Recognitions

Best Architecture Multiple Residence Dubai International Property Awards Dubai 2019 - 2020 The International Property Awards are

DSA take home multiple project awards in the Middle East, including Best Architecture Multiple Residence in Dubai.

open

to

residential

and

commercial

property professionals from around the globe.

They celebrate the highest levels of achievement by companies operating in all sectors of the property and real estate industry. An International Property Award is a world-renowned mark of excellence.

DSA

Architects

International

Dubai

Office were contracted by Jumeirah Hills Development LLC as the Lead Consultant to undertake multi-disciplinary design services for the Madinat Jumeirah Living located on the sought after Jumeirah district in Dubai, UAE.

12

DSA Digest | Q4 2019

Madinat Jumeirah is envisaged to be an exclusive collection of freehold residences situated just opposite the icon of Luxury, The Burj Al Arab Jumeirah.

The development is primarily residential use, apartment living, however will also have a mixed use / commercial & retail element to service visitors & residents alike.

The landscape treatment will need to cater to both, activating the

public

&

commercial

spaces, while ensuring privacy & exclusivity for residence.

Leading Designer & Most Outstanding Architectural Practice

operators and local investors. DSA are

Luxlife Magazine Dubai 2019 - 2020

properties worldwide, including brands

Established in 1985, DSA Architects

and Nikki Beach ‘to name a few’.”

recognised as one of the leading hotel and resort architects in the world and we are proud to have delivered over 100 associated with Hilton, Marriott, Accor, Jumeirah, Hyatt, Kerzner, Four Seasons

International are a leading architectural design practice with offices in the Middle

“DSA are very proud to have been

East, Africa and Europe. As a result of

recognised as ‘2019’s Most Outstanding

their exemplary record and reputation in

Architectural Practice in the UAE’ by the

the industry, DSA were

LUXlife Leading Designer Awards, and

named ‘Most Outstanding Architectural

this is testimony to the hard work, effort

Practice in the UAE’ in LUXlife’s 2019

and creative ability of our team, as well as

Leading Designers programme.

the opportunities afforded to DSA by our esteemed Clients. We would like to take

There are few firms around the world

this opportunity to thank everybody that

that can celebrate the level of success

has played a part in this success.”

that DSA Architects commands in the architectural

sphere.

As

undisputed

experts, they have amassed a varied and broad portfolio that showcases a singular ability to design simply transcendent spaces that push the boundaries on conventional elements

design.

come

easy:

Here,

luxury

grandiosity

is

seamless and elegant, sophistication permeates every surface, line and curve.

DSA’s clientele have shaped their work, allowing them to organically develop, adapt and grow over the last three decades. “We work with many types of

client

from

multi-national

blue-

chip companies to governments, hotel

DSA Digest | Q4 2019

13

SOCIAL

SOCIALS

Fit On Click Corporate Football Tournament

The DSA Football Team featured the following all star line-up

The Fit On Click Football Tournament was organised with the aim to promote corporate wellness among employees and saw 16 leading companies in Dubai go up against one another over one week in an indoor 5-a-side format played at Dubai Starz, Mirdif.

• • • • • • • • • •

One rule which kept fans on the edge of their seats was the rolling substitutions which ensured that the players were always full of energy and ensured there was never a dull moment on the pitch.

Fayas Kilsingantakam Peter Davison Rashaad Jogie (C) Sabeer Nambalakkandi Ginu George Petru Visagie Saifudheen Elembilatt Harkeerat “Harry” Singh Reuel Kissinger Karthik Kandula

DSA were very unlucky not to reach the final and with star players like Jogie and Visagie they will undoubtedly be among the favourites to lift the trophy next year.

14

DSA Digest | Q4 2019

SOCIAL

Fit On Click T10 Corporate Cricket Tournament Muhammad Ashfaq was the star of the show as DSA Dragons produced a masterclass with the bat and ball despite narrowly losing both games in their first appearance at the Fit On Click Corporate Cricket Tournament.

The 16-team tournament was established to promote the cricketer hidden behind every employee to stimulate teamwork, enhance confidence, improve communication and relationships.

This was certainly the case for DSA Dragon’s whose confidence grew as the tournament progressed and will certainly be considered among the favourites when the tournament resumes next year.

•

Vinoj Velappan

•

Sabeer Nambalakkandi

•

Fayas Kilsingantakam

•

Sibu Koduvathara

•

Muhammad Ashfaq

•

Hameed Hussain

•

Gijo Johny

•

Aby T Alex

•

Rashaad Jogie

•

Jophy Thomas

•

Suji Sugathan (C)

•

Shahwaj Khan

•

Pappu Keshari

•

Ginu George

•

Sreeraj Sukumaran

•

Reuel Kissinger

MJL Team Lunch Following the success of the Madinat Jumeirah Living project acquisition, the DSA project team celebrated with a team lunch.

DSA Digest | Q4 2019

15

PROJECT UPDATE

Expansion Revealed for Aquaventure Atlantis The Palm’s new attraction is set to make Aquaventure one of the biggest waterparks in the world.

Atlantis The Palm’s Aquaventure Waterpark is set to expand, becoming one of the biggest waterparks in the world by 2020. The 34-metretall Trident Tower will be built, introducing 12 new rides by next summer, it has been announced.

Competitive sliders can also tackle the ProSlide RallyRacer 32, which allows you to battle it out with your friends.

Trident’s Tower will also feature two updated versions of the

existing Leap of Faith ride, each dropping more than 34 metres.

On top of all that, a new children’s area will be introduced to the existing

This includes the new world’s longest ProSlide MammothBlast, a 449-metre water coaster. Rafts will speed through back-to-back curves, drops and uphill climbs powered by patented waterpropulsion technology.

Next, there’s the first-ever high-speed ProSlide Dueling PipelineBlast/FlyingSaucer 20 hybrid ride, which is driven by jets and pushes sliders around mammoth turns and a wideopen saucer.

The Middle East’s first action river will also open in which a current takes guests through half a kilometre of twists and turns while enjoying views of the Dubai skyline.

16

DSA Digest | Q4 2019

Splasher’s Island family zone, featuring Splasher’s Mountain and nine waterslides. Four mini versions of the ProSlide rides will feature, as well as a competitive mat racer (“two lanes of head-first downhill

fun”) and a serpentine adventure. Braver little ones can try the Kidz Tornado 24 funnel or the Kidz Bowl 14, which offer gentler, childfriendly versions of the adult rides.

whose restaurants have gained multiple Michelin stars, will open the Middle East’s first Dinner by Heston Blumenthal, the world’s third iteration of the restaurant.

The Middle East’s first action river will also open, in which a current takes guests through half a kilometre of twists and turns while enjoying views of the Dubai skyline.

“We have carefully curated each attraction to ensure that we deliver first-of-its-kind ride technology for children, families and thrill-seekers alike,” commented Tim Kelly, executive vice president and managing director of Atlantis The Palm and The Royal Atlantis. “Trident Tower and its record-breaking slides will be a thrilling addition to the Atlantis experience, and we look forward to the unveiling in summer 2020.”

The unique architectural design of the property has made international headlines, as has the bevy of dining outlets it’ll bring with it. Famed British chef Heston Blumenthal,

DSA Digest | Q4 2019

David Riley (Above) is the Project Manager with responsibility for Client liaison and Katherine Chambers (Below) leads the design team as Project Architect.

17

NEW PROJECTS

New Global Projects Magna AMI Hotel Ras Al Khaimah, UAE DSA are pleased to announce their appointment by the Client, Magna Property Development FZE as both Lead Design and Architectural Consultant to develop the Magna AMI Hotel in Ras Al Khaimah, UAE. The hotel is to be operated by Radisson as a 5-Star Radisson Collection Hotel.

Magna Property Development FZE are represented by Crowngate Project Management who are a consultancy appointed as Project Managers and Cost Consultant.

18

With a total plot area of 12,870 sqm and total BUA of 40,870 sqm, this 434-key resort hotel development is set to become one a distinctive addition to Al Marjan Island attracting both millennial and family guests.

The Hotel, although aimed at overnight guests is also targeting a broad wealth of hybrid custom, which will extend to residents, day guests and tourists from outside the UAE. The target for the Client is to create an exceptional “Instagrammable” destination and experience for all guests.

DSA Digest | Q4 2019

DoubleTree Hilton Hotel Jeddah, KSA DSA are delighted announce our appointment as Lead Consultant and Architects for the DoubleTree by Hilton in Jeddah, KSA. The brief is to design and deliver an iconic hotel which will be a landmark for Jeddah.

The site is located on a prime location near the King Abdullah bin Abdulaziz square overlooking the Red Sea and is just 20 minutes’ drive away from the newly opened Jeddah International Airport. It boasts views of some of the city’s most prominent landmarks including the Jeddah Flag and King Fahd Fountain.

Jeddah benefits from yearround tourism attracting international as well as local guests as it is the principal gateway to Mecca and Medina.

DSA are currently finalising the concept design in conjunction with the client and operator, Hilton, which will form the basis for further developing the design with the project team.

DSA Digest | Q4 2019

19

Designed to Deliver.

Address Office No. 204 Level 2, Convention Tower Happiness Street Zabeel, Dubai United Arab Emirates Telephone +971 4 329 2288 Online E: dsa.dubai@dsa-arch.com W: www.dsa-arch.com