Light and shade

While many of us know little of Dubai before it joined the United Arab Emirates in 1971, since the 1990 Gulf War it's hard to recall a time when the emirate was not making headline news. However, it comes as no surprise that the area brings with it many centuries' worth of history and culture.

It was this background of tradition that architectural firm Innovarchi drew on when commissioned by developer Emirates Sunland to design the podium canopy for its residential tower D1, says principal Stephanie Smith.

"The artistry of the craftsmen of Dubai and the traditional forms of the region's fishing nets were the impetus for the geometry behind D1's canopy," she says.

The wooden canopy made of Western Queensland spotted gum and its construction are reminiscent of the dhows associated with the Gulf region and its waterways. A network of interconnected boards, the canopy evokes traditional mashrabiya latticed windows, while the tower itself speaks of Dubai's future.

"Aesthetically, there was never any doubt that the canopy would pay homage to local tradition," says Innovarchi principal Ken McBryde. "And just like mashrabiya, there is a practical side to the structure in that it works as a shading device, a moderator between the air conditioned internal spaces and the bright and hot exterior."

Story by: Trendsideas