The 395,000m² scheme is a key part of Al Habtoor City, a major new mixed-use development next to Sheikh Zayed Road, within one of the most high profile plots in the city.
Atkins will be delivering architectural, structural, MEP and ground engineering design for the project, comprising two 75-storey residential towers and a third 52-storey tower, which will together house up to 1,460 apartments and 11 penthouses with leisure facilities for residents. Each penthouse will include its own private sky garden and swimming pool, while the two taller blocks will feature a four-storey penthouse incorporating more than 3,000m² of living space.
Atkins’ principle design architect, Kourosh Salehi, said: “Our client’s aspiration was for classical elegance with efficient contemporary overtones. In order to achieve this, our design inspiration was sourced from early 20th century art deco architecture.
“The need for high quality landscaping and public realm has also been of particular interest to Al Habtoor. Great care has been taken to achieve a harmonious design which responds to the immediate context and environment, in order to encourage greater public participation within this special setting.”
The orientation and massing of the buildings seek to maximise sea and canal views, while reducing energy consumption by taking advantage of natural light.
The Al Habtoor City site is next to the planned Dubai Water Canal project, announced last month. “The launch of Dubai Water Canal has added a completely different aspect to the project, enabling Al Habtoor City to become one of the city’s go-to destinations where people can live, work and play,” said Shaun Killa, Atkins’ director of architecture.
Atkins is now undertaking detailed design for the project, with enabling works already under way. The project is due for completion in 2015.
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