On a flat site on the outskirts of Abu Dhabi, slightly in retreat of the Persian Gulf, this 15-storey, 422 room, luxury hotel is intended by the client and architect as a ceremonial and recreational center for Abu Dhabi. A marina and port are fully developed at the waterfront, and the public areas at the main hotel level cater to a wide range of social and official functions. The plan on the ground levels is conceived as a series of spaces affording optimal advantage of their proximity to the sea and the planting scheme for the grounds is extensive. Response to the harsh climate has been made, particularly in the orientation of public areas and the abundant use of wooden screens and trellises. The ornamentation of interior surfaces is given great importance.
The construction is a cast-in-place, re-inforced concrete beam and slab system. All structural and finish materials are imported.
Source: Aga Khan Trust for Culture
