Refuge

PROJECT NAME: REFUGE

LOCATION: Al wasl, Dubai, UAE

FUNCTION: Comunity Center

PLOT AREA: 30,000 Sqm

PROJECT THEME

The idea/ Theme of nature as refuge can be defined as a specific area surrounded by nature, which acts as an escape from the busy life in the city for people to refuge to when they are stressed. An escape to nature indicates that people tend to escape from their daily routine to nature to recover and destress. Having a public area dedicated for people either by living near it or viewing it, not only improves their mental health by having a deep connection with nature but also impacts their overall wellbeing.

SITE LOCATION

The chosen site is located in the urban Al Wasl neighborhood. It is located between the two pedistrian bridges, tolerance bridge and the twisted bridge. Surrounded by Sheikh Zayed Road (E11), the Dubai Water Canal, and Safa Park. Water and greenery are the pinnacle of calm environments. The closeness to each of these elements so fulfills the heterotopic goal of being both urban and calm.

SITE VIEWS

The surrounding region of the property is quite dense on the south-east side of Sheikh Zayed Road, while the north-west is a break in the social fabric with mid-low rise buildings and the quiet area of the water canal.

SITE ANALYSIS

PROGRAM

The program of this project is dedicated to become a Community center where people can benefit from having one place to play, interact and entertain. While still being surrounded with nature giving them the chance to destress and recover from their daily routines and busy lives. The program also gives a chance for people to stay overnight giving them options to choose between staying in suites , single bedrooms or double bedrooms.

The program exploits 4 different masses each unique with its own size and program. Here the first mass associated with nature as its refuge will include multiple suites for overnight stays. Second mass being the largest mass with water associated as its refuge will have multiple public areas including multipurpose halls, auditoriums and exhibitions. Moreover, the third mass associated with nature as its refuge will include single bedrooms located at the ground level in addition to multiple entertainment areas such as a chess room , dancing room and music room all located at the underground level. Lastly the 4th mass that is associated with water as its refuge will have double bedrooms located at the ground level as well as multiple relaxing and fun activities such as spas, gyms, yoga rooms and aerobics rooms. All which are connected with a main lobby located between the 2 masses in the middle at the ground floor.

CONCEPT PROCESS