An early wake-up call… No, it wasn’t all some crazy shisha-induced dream; We are in Dubai!! It is day 2 of the Dulux Study Tour and we have an epic day ahead….
Firstly, a meeting at Woods Bagot where Duncan, Julie and Karim chat with us about their practice and what it means to be a contemporary Western firm working in the Middle East. Sounds like the biggest challenge is to improve Dubai’s vast and desolate urban realm.
Next it is onwards to Atkins where Shaun Killa gives us an overview of their incredible folio of work; twisted towers, molecular structures, gravity-defying cantilevers… Our minds are seriously blown!! Afterwards, Simon Crispe shows us around the iconic Burj Al Arab hotel- externally a magnificent glass and steel structure, internally a rainbow-gold-leaf wonderland! A sneak-peak into an exclusive
suite gives an insight into the extravagant world of the ridiculously wealthy.
Back in the mini-bus and streaming along the freeway at a crazy 140km/hr (which apparently is normal) we’re on our way to the Grand Mosque. Firstly a quick stop at the Zayad Bridge by Zaha Hadid; the white concrete structure dives in and out of the river like the loch ness monster. Arriving at the Grand Mosque, the DST ladies don the traditional black robe and headscarf and we are led barefoot through the expansive courtyard and into the giant holy spaces decorated with floral patterns to resemble heaven (which is said to be a garden). The sun sets and the Call to Prayer echoes from the luminous mosque, across Abu Dhabi and into the night sky.
Posted by: Emily
