dubai design district selects foster + partners for phase 2 of its masterplan

dubai design district selects foster + partners for phase 2 of its masterplan
images courtesy of foster + partners

following the delivery of phase 1 of its masterplan, dubai design district (d3) has revealed development plans for a dedicated creative community which will cover around 1,000,000 square feet within d3. the development will sit alongside the newly developed ‘core buildings’ and act as a thriving cultural epicenter at d3, encouraging emerging designers and artists, and attracting visitors to the area.

designed by foster + partners, phase 2 of the project is expected to officially open its doors in 2017, serving as an incubator for emerging local designers and artists, as well as bespoke environment for art galleries and studios wanting to showcase their pieces. the creative community is designed to evolve organically, adapting to a variety of purposes and regular changes in its occupancy. the concept behind the developments is the result of an ongoing dialogue between d3’s management team and the region’s existing pool of creative talent, which included focus groups, workshops, and a series of one-to-one sessions.

the development will act as a thriving cultural epicenter at d3

during an official visit earlier this year to view the d3 master development, her highness sheikha latifa bint mohammed bin rashid al maktoum, vice chairman of the dubai culture & arts authority, formally endorsed plans to develop the creative community. the final design was chosen following a competitive process involving a number of highly regarded architecture firms. the winning design, produced by foster + partners includes flexible offices; communal coworking facilities; outdoor display venues; pedestrianized spaces; climate solutions; an emphasis on creating vibrant and attractive landscaping; and a contemporary approach to architecture. this will all be actively fused together with year-round place management and event activations.

phase 2 of the project is expected to officially open its doors in 2017

gerard evenden, studio head at foster + partners, said: ‘this is an exciting initiative, which supports young creatives, and allows dubai’s design scene to flourish from within. approaching the brief, our first step was to explore the balance of activities in a successful, youthful, creative hub, and to understand the aspirations of the different users. we analyzed the way that spaces were being used, and then brought a variety of functions together to encourage collaboration between disciplines. this, combined with the highly flexible modules, will help to create a thriving, self-sustaining community. we are honored to be given this opportunity to work on such a rewarding project and we look forward to collaborating closely with the d3 team to deliver a concept that helps support the growth of the emirate’s creative industries.‘