There’s something inexplicably alluring about inconspicuous architecture; perhaps it’s the element of surprise that a building exudes or the mystery a structure is enshrouded in. It’s the unexpected that draws our consciousness to these buildings; especially those that seamlessly imitate their climatic and geographical location. One construction that possesses such elements is Zaha Hadid Architects’ project for leading UAE environmental and waste company, Bee’ah. Situated deep in the conservative emirate of Sharjah, amidst rippled heat mirages, lies the waste company’s brand-new energy-efficient, sustainable headquarters.
Futuristic yet discreet, the building’s dune-line configuration complements the surrounding harsh desert environment. Designed by British-Iraqi Architect Dame Zaha Hadid herself, before passing in 2016 – alongside Architect, Patrik Schumacher – Bee’ah’s headquarters is designed as a duo of assemblies in a cluster realisation. The two dunes interconnect via a central courtyard creating an oasis effect within the interior of the building. The unique project is a true reflection of Bee’ah’s ethos as an environmentally-conscious company and will enable the corporation to achieve further progression within the environmental sector of the UAE. Turn to page 12 of this month’s issue to view one of the last projects of the great Zaha Hadid.
Hopping across Khalid Lagoon, a five-minute stroll just west of Bee’ah’s new headquarters, brings us to our next project, the Butterfly Pavilion. Designed by German studio 3deluxe, this biomorphic-inspired build offers tourists and residents of Sharjah a multisensory experience responding to the senses in a dialect that declares tranquillity and relaxation.
As the name suggests, the crystalline glass structure acts as a butterfly aviary housing over 500 exotic butterflies in a biophilic interior immersed in flora and vegetation. For more information on how 3deluxe achieved the correct climatic conditions necessary for the Butterfly Pavilion’s inhabitants to thrive, flick to page 26.
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