The Dubai International Financial Center (DIFC) has appointed Gensler & Associates to design the 'DIFC Gate' building, which will be the headquarters for the DIFC and will symbolically serve as the gateway to the new Dubai Financial District. Construction is expected to begin in December 2002 and is scheduled for completion by early 2004.
At the beginning of August 2002 the DIFC revealed that it was undertaking a global design competition to fast track the development of the DIFC Gate building. Seven firms were shortlist and asked to present their vision for the building.
According to Marwan Al-Felasi, projects manager for DIFC Real Estate Development, Gensler's design vision delivered a structure that is truly iconic, expressing the core values of the DIFC, while at the same time providing a practical and state-of-the-art working environment.
Al-Felasi went on to explain that the winning design is a contemporary interpretation of the “Arc De Triomphe” in Paris. It will rise fifteen floors above a podium that will house retail and parking facilities. A composition of solid stone and stainless steel will form the main arch, while transparent glazed elements will emphasize the open space created at the center of the building. The top of the arch will be expressed by open steel lattice to symbolize transparency, the cornerstone of the DIFC offering.
As well as accommodating the offices of the DIFC, the DIFC Gate will house the Regulatory Authority and Regional Financial Exchange and offer office accommodation for other financial institutions and businesses. — (menareport.com)
© 2002 Mena Report (www.menareport.com)
