Cheungvogl present concept design for Sheik-Zayed-Library in heart of Dubai
Metaphorically, the structural design of the Sheik-Zayed-Library is rooted deeply into the ancient culture of Dubai. Respecting traditional disciplines and incorporating the significance of organic forms, symbols and patterns, the design seeks to redefine traditions as well as continuing to test new boundaries for the future.
Cheungvogl have applied a thin layer of secondary structural mesh to 'glue' the primary structure together. Here, the secondary structure - the skin of the facade – acts as bracing to the primary structure. The primary structure remains as filigree of thin elements. They become a series of load transporters, working together to transfer the loads down into the roots – the foundation. The circular plan renders equality in many perspectives. Wind and seismic load is also reduced in a circular form compared to a square or triangular form.
A light mesh consists of primary and secondary steel members wrapping around the 7.7m diameter concrete core, supporting the huge cantilever slabs forming three levels of the viewing platforms. On the top two levels, the structural mesh defines the space for the viewing platforms without entirely enclosing it. These spaces provide the visitors with 360 degree panoramic views of Dubai at 165m datum.
The project focuses on the need to provide a 'place' in the city of Dubai for people to pause and reflect. Located at the peripheral of the city's urban corridor - Sheik Zayed Road - the site captures the entire view of the city quietly from a distance. The new grounds for the structure are distinguished by a field of bamboo trees with solar lamps within the landscape.
The core is based on a 7.7m diameter structure that composes two passenger lifts with a feature helical stairs and a fire escape stairs intertwined around it. The two set of stairs are designed to be stacked on top of each other to maximize the core's efficiency, yielding 7.7m floor to floor height. The design of the core is consistent throughout the building with minor adjustments to cater to different requirements of each platform.
The structure expands and tightens fluidly and subtly at various datum, allowing one to document the city from different angles. Platforms at various levels will also allow one to document the changing of time. Platform 0.00m DTM Entrance sits proudly on a sheet of reflecting water.
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