Al Nasseem
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At a glance
- Project by: X Architects
- Location: Al Ain, United Arab Emirates
Preview image
© X Architects
Project images
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Aerial view © X Architects View project image |
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Central plaza is surrounded and activated by programs like contemporary mosque and a hotel resort that participate and activate the urban open space. © X Architects View project image |
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Plaza drop-off © X Architects View project image |
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Souk © X Architects View project image |
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Hotel © X Architects View project image |
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Villas © X Architects View project image |
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Banquet complex creates a shaded public entry and dissolves the boundary between pedestrian and vehicular traffic. © X Architects View project image |
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Edge condition © X Architects View project image |
Architect's statement
Al Nasseem aims were to create an active urban setting that responds to the climate that brings a sense of community and becomes a generator of public life. Community was the key driver for the project, the quality of life for residents and visitors alike will be positively impacted by the design approach to urbanity and climatic responsiveness.
The master plan for the Al Nasseem is inspired by the natural features of Al Ain and the dense urban fabric of traditional Islamic cities. It provides housing for approximately 1450 residents. The proposed development is envisioned to bring the ‘oasis condition’ to the fore and allow residents and visitors to feel the unique synergy between urbanism and a developed landscape. Densely packed traditional Islamic cities provide self shading and improve wind circulation using age old ‘passive’ techniques. These simple methods combat the harsh desert environment without complex technological aids. The master plan for Al Nasseem emulates these principles and brings them into a modern context for a sustainable neighborhood in Al Ain.
With sustainability being a key driver for the project, the proposed material are carefully chosen based on their contextual response. The buildings are predominantly made with concrete blocks with high Albedo finish. Locally available materials like copper are used in the façade of the mosque. The souk area is shaded by structures that use embedded PV panels for power.
Traditional open space requirements were creatively crafted into a range of small, intimate, shaded spaces using historic references and contemporary features which varied depending on location and function. The project’s programme uses public facilities in an innovative manner to activate the inner core to ensure that a balanced mix of uses prevailed. Uses that are typically separated, or developed on separate parcels are woven together seamlessly to activate public edges and spaces.
Details/Credits
- Client: Al Qudra Real Estate
- Location: Al Ain, UAE
- Design team: Ahmed Al-Ali, Farid Esmaeil, Mathan Ramaiah, Bashar Suliman, Luca Vigliero, Sven Van Loon
- Project type: Residential, Mixed Use, Masterplannnig
- Site area: 120,000 m2
- Built-up area: 103,000 m2
