Construction of the World Trade Center should begin this summer in the eastern part of Abu Dhabi. At first glance, the bizarre sculptural forms of the new complex seem to be a typical example of an "iconic" building of the era of globalism, which has nothing to do with the cultural traditions and natural features of the country where it will appear. But the architect does not agree with this assessment: the project of this ensemble was developed with attention to the climate and landscape of this particular section of the UAE coast. In the future, the building will actively use sunlight to illuminate the premises, but there will be enough shaded areas needed in the tropics. Natural ventilation is expected, but at the same time, the Center will be protected from strong winds blowing from the desert. The functional side of the project, its rationality from the point of view of "green" architecture, are perfectly combined with its asymmetrical, expressive form.
The complex will be erected in the central part of the semicircular embankment of Al-Raha, and its buildings will form an artificial peninsula that revives the look of the seaside district. It will include buildings of offices and apartments, a hotel and shops, covered with a shell of shiny blinds, the angle of inclination of which depends on the cardinal points to which this or that facade of the building faces.
The main entrance to the Center will be on the south side; it will lead to a central atrium, sheltered from the wind and sun by office and residential buildings. It is on the south side that the volume of the building is somewhat concave in order to reduce the total area of the walls, which receive a maximum of sunlight. The least vulnerable parts of the building - technical rooms, elevator shafts and stairwells - face the southern facade.
At ground level, the complex is surrounded by a shady "gallery" for pedestrians, and the configuration of its roof ensures that air flows are captured and directed into the natural ventilation system.
