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MVRDV has created a 76,000-square-metre tower precinct that will become the centrepiece of a new Makers District in Abu Dhabi. Called 'Pixel,' the project designed in tandem with local practice Dewan Architects + Engineers has also nabbed Bjarke Ingels Group, who has woven the neighbourhood with a variegated landscape and public realm plan.
The development will facilitate a range of uses in seven towers wrapping around the BIG-designed central plaza. Retail space, offices, co-working and community areas will occupy 15,000 square metres of the lower levels, while 480 residential apartments rise above.
MVRDV has redefined what they call the "typical penthouse approach" by offering studio apartments on every level, and shifting the larger units across the third, fourth and fifth floors, where they look onto the pedestrianized plaza below.
Architecturally, the development takes the form of a series of stacked cubes that move away from the central plaza and are then extruded vertically. Ceramic and concrete facades respond to the climatic realities of Abu Dhabi, and the orientation of the towers has been optimized to consider natural sunlight and views.
The project marks MVRDV's entry into the United Arab Emirates. IMKAN Properties, the developer behind the project, is targeting a 2020 completion date. Additional images and information can be found in the Database file linked below. Want to get involved in the discussion or share your photos? Check out the associated Forum thread or leave a comment in the field provided at the bottom of this page.
