< Previous| QATAR SPECIAL REPORT | 30 MAY 2024 IN THE DETAIL… A deep dive into the intricate tapestry of Qatari architecture, from towering monuments to the subtle nuances of the country’s built environment Qatar is home to some of the world’s most iconic architectural projects that push forward innovative concepts, forms, and play in materials. It therefore comes as no surprise when said projects are accompanied by global recognition and appreciation. In this article, we delve into several of these renowned projects, with a particular emphasis on abstract detail moments. Let’s explore the intricate nuances of Qatari architecture, celebrating the shapes, colours, textures, and Words by: Everlyn Kerubo varying thickness and diameter. GIFT SHOP AT THE NATIONAL MUSEUM OF QATAR Designer: Koichi Takada Master Carpenter: Claudio Devoto The ceiling’s canyon eff ect is made up of 40,000 oak pieces CNC-cut horizontally then carefully stacked on site by hand much like a three-dimensional puzzle piece. Combined with strategically placed spotlights with either narrow light distribution or fl ood lighting; another layer of dynamism is added to the ceiling design. DOHA METRO STATION Architect: UNStudio Lighting engineering: ag licht The railway station’s interior showcases complex geometries, play on linear ligh, and material fi nish to achieve a mother-of-pearl iridescence. The triangular-shaped 3D interior fi nish is a subtle reference to the parametric design used in the building form. These refl ective fi nishes incorporate curved modular elements on a triangular grid form similar to the layout of the overall station design. OXYGEN PARK Landscape Architect: AECOM This park features looping undulating running patterns that compose these iconic structures. NATIONAL MUSEUM OF QATAR Architect: Jean Nouvel Engineer: Werner Sobek Cladding panels made of Glass fi bre Reinforced Concrete (GRC/FRC) are mounted on a steel structure and double curved to create the crisp knife edge detail as pictured. 80,000 FRC panels come together like puzzle pieces and are distributed among the 539 diff erent discus-shaped components of Gift shop at the National Museum of Qatar National Museum of Qatar| QATAR SPECIAL REPORT | MAY 2024 31 tracks shaded by overhanging canopies, which in some sections, and as pictured, is fully enclosed to form a tunnel. Natural stone interspaced with refl ective tiles clad the curvilinear interior creating a dynamic mosaic display. Combining matte and refl ective material fi nishes gives an opportunity for great play of light. Furthermore, stone is a great material to use for its cooling properties. QATAR FACULTY OF ISLAMIC STUDIES Architect: MYAA (Mangera Yvars Architects) Facade Contracting: (TGAC) Technical Glass & Aluminium LLC The maximalist look of the soffi t exists adjacent to the detailed carved stone tiles. The multi-layered organic roof consists of a 22mm plaster layer poured wet on a steel grid substrate covered by an expanded metal layer and clad with GRC panels in some sections. The adjacent wall is clad in natural stone that serves as a canvas for calligraphy relief coatings showcasing Quran texts. This selection of wall fi nishes and façade treatment is material poetry at its best—successfully complementing each other and leaning more on the maximalist side of the spectrum. CONCRETE PERIMETER WALL NEXT TO MSHEIREB MOSQUE Architects: Allies and Morrison, AECOM, Arup The juxtaposition of using a heavy material in a light way gives this perimeter wall it’s wow-factor. The weaved concrete elements are subtly supported by a frame running along the inner side creating an illusion of a self- supporting woven wall. Qatar Faculty of Islamic Studies Concrete perimeter wall next to Msheireb Mosque Doha Metro Station Oxygen Park| OPINION | 32 MAY 2024 EMBRACING SUSTAINABLE DESIGN FOR A BRIGHTER FUTURE Steve Blandford, Head of Cost Management, Project and Development Services at JLL UAE, on shifting towards greener practices in real estate development, underscoring the nancial and environmental bene ts of such initiatives With buildings accounting for more than 60% of carbon emissions in cities, sustainability has emerged as a critical priority for businesses worldwide. Driven by factors such as tenant demand, regulatory pressures, and the escalating costs of unsustainable practices, companies are increasingly recognising the need to adopt sustainable strategies. JLL’s comprehensive research on “The retention, and enhanced property value. This demonstrates the clear business case for sustainable offi ces, encouraging stakeholders to invest in greener practices. In the UAE, businesses recognise the urgency of reducing carbon emissions in the building sector. JLL’s “The green revolution: A call for sustainability in real estate” emphasises UAE’s transformative net zero plans. It further highlights how developers, corporations, and investors are taking proactive steps towards achieving their own net-zero targets. For instance, Aldar’s Haven project in Dubai aims to obtain LEED Gold and Fit-Well 3 Star ratings. From a commercial aspect, ICD Brookfi eld Place is one of the tallest and largest offi ce buildings in the EMEA region, and it has achieved the LEED Platinum rating. With an occupancy rate of over 90%, it highlights the ongoing commitment of its investors and tenants towards achieving their sustainability goals. commercial case for making buildings more sustainable” reveals a signifi cant gap between demand and availability, presenting a valuable opportunity for owners and investors. Moreover, according to JLL’s “Decarbonising the built environment” report, 63% of leading investors strongly agree that embracing green strategies can lead to higher occupancy rates, increased rental revenues, improved tenant | OPINION || OPINION | MAY 2024 33 Steve Blandford, Head of Cost Management, Project and Development Services at JLL UAE AFFORDABLE SUSTAINABILITY Contrary to common belief, sustainable design does not need to break the bank. Organisations can achieve quick wins without signifi cant capital investment. Here are some cost-eff ective strategies: • Energy audits: Energy audits uncover simple fi xes like lighting upgrades and heating/cooling adjustments. These yield immediate energy and cost savings. • Eco-conscious choices: Opt for sustainable materials and responsibly designed and sourced furniture. Repurposing existing furniture during offi ce relocations is both environmentally friendly and cost-eff ective. • Low-energy appliances: Installing energy- effi cient appliances reduces consumption and utility bills. • Renewable energy: Sourcing renewable energy contributes to long-term sustainability and saves costs through reduced energy bills, participation in feed-in tariff programmes, and net metering. NAVIGATING ACCREDITATION While an increasing number of jurisdictions across MENA have developed their own local standards (most notably Estidama in Abu Dhabi), US-based LEED has gained prominence across the region, with LEED Silver widely regarded as the minimum standard for most markets. Our experience suggests that LEED Silver is feasible without additional expenses. Upgrading to LEED Gold or Platinum may require a ‘sustainability uplift’ of 3%-5% per grade of capital expenditure based on various factors. For example, passive design components like massing, orientation, structural form, fl oor plate depths, and façade materiality and active components such as renewables (typically PVs), smart power, lighting controls, and leak detection systems. ROLE OF COST MANAGERS Cost managers play an important role in ensuring sustainable design goals are achieved within budget constraints. A central role of the cost manager for high sustainable projects, is the understanding of the ‘sustainable scorecard’ as created by the sustainability consultant and how the targeted credits aff ect cost. This scorecard comprises an ‘environmental cost- benefi t analysis’, setting out the costs and the potential benefi ts of alternative elements of sustainable design. By using the sustainable scorecard, the project team can make informed decisions and choose elements that provide the most cost-eff ective way to obtain the required number of credits, ensuring that the targeted accreditation rating is achieved. Additionally, cost managers can develop a digital ‘life cycle cost analysis’ tool that evaluates the impact of alternative sustainable design features. This helps the design team decide which features will signifi cantly aff ect the project’s sustainability rating while managing expenses. THE WAY FORWARD The majority of expenditure for construction projects in the UAE is still predominantly focused on new builds. This will change over the next decade as the market continues to mature, with greater opportunities for the repositioning and redeveloping existing assets. One thing that will remain constant is the focus on achieving improved sustainability. As these emerging trends drive the real estate market, cost managers will face new challenges. The key to success in this evolving market will be their ability to provide clients with increased insight into the trade-off between sustainable design and project cost. They must identify and demonstrate the most cost- eff ective ways, both upfront and lifecycle costs, to achieve the desired sustainable design and demonstrate the payback on sustainable implementation. | OPINION | 34 MAY 2024 BEYOND THE FLOODGATES: UNCOVERING THE IMPACT OF FLOODING ON BUILT ASSETS IN THE MIDDLE EAST Nick Constantine, Director - Built Asset Consultancy at Rider Levett Bucknall, sheds light on the underlying causes of ooding in this typically arid region Flooding poses signifi cant challenges and risks for property owners and tenants alike, profoundly impacting infrastructure and communities. In addition, the ramifi cations of water damage on built assets may surpass initial expectations if not investigated fully. WHAT CAUSES FLOODING IN THE MIDDLE EAST? Flooding in the Middle East is often triggered by irregular rainfall patterns, exacerbated by the region’s semi-arid climate. Extensive urbanisation has also altered natural drainage systems and led to the expansion of impermeable surfaces. The result is a reduction in natural infi ltration and an increase in surface runoff , rendering areas even more susceptible Water infi ltration can cause extensive property damage, including the deterioration of building materials and the growth of mould. Properties may even suff er structural damage that compromises the integrity, safety, and habitability of the building. For asset owners, fl ooding can lead to signifi cant fi nancial losses, property devaluation, and insurance complications. Tenants can face displacement, loss of possessions, and challenges in accessing basic amenities and services. Businesses are also aff ected, with many experiencing loss of revenue due to property damage, interruption of operations, and decreased customer footfall. The inconvenience and cost to multiple stakeholders can, therefore, be substantial. to inundation. This vulnerability is especially pronounced in low-lying coastal regions, as evidenced by recent events in the UAE. The geographical landscape of the Middle East also presents unique challenges, such as the occurrence of sandstorms, whose sediment can obstruct drainage systems and compound fl ooding during periods of heavy rainfall. Add to this the spectre of climate change that looms large, exacerbating existing risks and potentially ushering in a future marked by more frequent and severe fl ooding incidents. THE CONSEQUENCES FOR BUILT ASSETS Flooding can have devastating consequences for built assets. | OPINION | MAY 2024 35 “One often-overlooked aspect of ooding is the potential for hidden defects and subsequent damage within affected properties” The responsibility for managing ood risk and minimising the impact of ooding on properties is a shared one HIDDEN DEFECTS One often overlooked aspect of fl ooding is the potential for hidden defects and subsequent damage within aff ected properties. Even after fl oodwaters recede, properties can still harbour hidden issues. Severe water damage has the potential to compromise building foundations, weaken structural components, and corrode electrical and plumbing systems. Moisture trapped within walls, fl oors, and ceilings provides an ideal breeding ground for mould spores, posing health hazards to occupants—a scenario no asset owner wants to face! Asset owners and tenants must, therefore, be vigilant in inspecting their properties for signs of potential hidden defects and post- fl ood damage. In response to the severity of water damage, comprehensive measures are necessary, such as conducting meticulous moisture inspections, scrutinising the integrity of electrical and plumbing systems, and evaluating the structural soundness of buildings. Seeking guidance from qualifi ed professionals, such as Chartered Building Surveyors, is vital for pinpointing potential hazards, and formulating appropriate remediation strategies. Regrettably, I have often encountered situations where attempts at repairs were subpar and inadequately executed or where incorrect diagnoses led to ineff ective solutions. These scenarios waste money and resources and lead to redundant work. Unfortunately, building defects are often underestimated and overlooked, and this complacency comes at a cost—usually to the asset owner. WHO’S RESPONSIBLE? The responsibility for managing fl ood risk and minimising the impact of fl ooding on properties is a shared one. Developers are responsible for developing fl ood-resilient buildings and communities that include proper drainage systems, elevation of critical infrastructure and, where required, installation of fl ood barriers. Asset owners are responsible for undertaking regular maintenance and inspections to ensure that properties remain resilient to fl ooding after handover. Tenants also play a crucial role in fl ood risk management by taking proactive measures to protect themselves and their belongings. Tenants should always report any signs of water ingress or drainage issues within the property, even when these issues are minor, to prevent more severe consequences when conditions are worse. In the face of escalating fl ood risks across the Middle East, the imperative for asset owners and tenants is crystal clear. Through a keen grasp of the roots and repercussions of fl ooding, coupled with proactive risk management strategies, all stakeholders can mitigate the devastating eff ects on properties and communities alike. But the true strength lies in collaboration—a united front among developers, asset owners, and tenants is the cornerstone for building and sustaining fl ood- resistant properties, safeguarding livelihoods as well as ensuring the safety and wellbeing of occupants. Nick Constantine, Director - Built Asset Consultancy at Rider Levett Bucknall| INNOVATION | 36 MAY 2024 FROM SEA TO SIP: HOW WATER DESALINATION COULD BEAT WATER SCARCITY Satisfying the world’s thirst for clean water with the latest advancements in seawater desalination and reverse osmosis (RO) technology The ocean, without ceasing to be an ocean, could potentially become a freshwater lake and an inexhaustible resource to quench human thirst. Tens of millions of people released from water stress prove this every day. With a leap in the scale of reverse osmosis many more may join them. Those scientifi cally curious Greeks who guessed at the marine-based origin of life, wondered about the paradox that almost all water of Earth is brackish and that this life, Words by: Julio de la Rosa, Middle East Business Development Director for the Water Business of ACCIONA membranes, the most effi cient, sustainable, and economic system known. But how do these reverse osmosis membranes work? Very easy: the salty water is passed at very high pressure through an osmotic membrane that separates the H20 from the dissolved chemical components, including sodium chloride. But the important thing is what is its purpose. Together with water reuse, reverse osmosis is held up as one of the greatest hopes for tackling several simultaneous challenges: to combat the water stress that is advancing with global warming, while ensuring supply to a growing population and closing the circle by decarbonising the economy to curb the climate change that exacerbates water scarcity. GAP BETWEEN SUPPLY AND DEMAND The 2.2 billion human beings without access to drinking water will seem insignifi cant if solutions are not made widely available at least terrestrial life, cannot fi lter it. It was not until 1872 that the Aristotelian dream materialised with the fi rst facility capable of desalinating water using solar heat, from wells in the Chilean Atacama Desert. Later, after World War II, the fi rst industrial plants that enabled evaporation by means of large amounts of thermal energy, were built. In the mid-sixties in the middle of our way to the moon, another technological leap occurred: the invention of reverse osmosis | INNOVATION | MAY 2024 37 The reverse osmosis process generates 6.5 times less CO2 emissions than conventional desalination solutions The recovery of metals from wastewater and brine could increase the stocks of these materials Julio de la Rosa, ME Business Development Director for the Water Business of ACCIONA today. Increasing demand for water and dwindling supplies, exacerbate its scarcity in most regions of the world, including in the Middle East. Conventional approaches based on rainfall and river runoff are no longer enough. Unconventional water resources such as desalination are expected to play a key role in bridging the gap between supply and demand. Only six years ago, in 2018, around 95 million cubic metres per day were sourced this way, with almost half of that amount produced in stressed regions such as the Middle East but using practices that are clearly ineffi cient, if not directly counterproductive: about 70% if the desalination in the Persian Gulf was done through evaporation with an intensive use of fossil fuels. The rapid reduction in costs of electricity-generating renewable energy allows it to be used to power the reverse osmosis process which in turn reduces the environmental impact and hands desalination a crucial role to play in addressing the water crisis that is coming. The Reverse Osmosis process generates 6.5 times less CO2 emissions than conventional desalination solutions, making it possible to produce 1,000 litres of drinkable water at a cost equivalent to that of a fi ve-litre bottle in the supermarket. To desalinate this amount, we use the same energy as an AC uses for one hour in a conventional house. TURNING WASTE INTO A REEF The treatment of brine (the by-product of desalination) done by ACCIONA, has managed to reduce its impact through long- distance discharges away from the coastline in controlled environments. But a new process promises to reduce that footprint to almost zero by taking advantage of strategic minerals and metals. Our eff orts in this process are aligned with European projects whose objective is to convert seawater desalination plants into water materials mines using crystallisation, separation, and concentration technologies. The recovery of metals from wastewater and brine could increase the stocks of these materials, although more information and guidance are needed on which metals to prioritise or on how technologically and economically feasible the extraction processes are. Researchers prioritise the scarcest and most crucial metals used in basic industries as renewables, for example, lithium. This process introduces a new circular element into the cycle: the desalination plants are powered by renewables, which lowers their costs, and at the end of the cycle they produce metals to be integrated into those same renewable facilities. LATEST TECHNOLOGY TO OPTIMISE REVERSE OSMOSIS PROCESSES We implement digital solutions that optimise reverse osmosis processes by using digital twins, artifi cial intelligence, and machine learning in order to reduce energy consumption. This way, it improves coordination between desalination plants and the renewables that supply energy, resulting in the benefi ts of complying with sustainability regulations, lowering costs, and accelerating the return on the investment. We have built close to more than 10 reverse osmosis desalination plants in the Middle East with a total capacity of almost 3.902.000 million m3/day and supplies a population of around 16.065.000 million. In conclusion, water scarcity remains a signifi cant challenge in the GCC countries, but eff orts are underway to address it through sustainable water management practices and the development of alternative water sources. The success of these eff orts will depend on strong political will, public participation, and regional cooperation. | PROJECT PROFILE | 38 MAY 2024 EXPANSIVE URBAN DEVELOPMENT: THE KAFD PROJECT MARCO is committed to delivering a mixed-use development destination at KAFD, along with providing an additional 2,350 parking spaces for residents and visitors Earlier this year, the King Abdullah Financial District Development and Management Company (KAFD DMC) announced a series of groundbreaking partnerships and collaborations at the second edition of the Public Investment Fund’s (PIF) Private Sector Forum, held at the King Abdulaziz International Conference Centre in Riyadh. Parcel 3.01 encompasses a multi-level car parking facility intertwined with retail outlets, cinema theatres, and a supermarket. Parcels 3.02 and 3.06 extend the parking infrastructure, while enhancements to existing recreational areas, and the construction of new skywalks, such as S.49 & S.55, further augment the district’s connectivity and accessibility. STAKEHOLDER COLLABORATION •KAFD, the client, is pivotal in driving the project towards its strategic goals. •Parsons, the project management consultant, ensures smooth progression and adherence to timelines. •Saud Consultant, the supervision consultant, monitors compliance with regulatory standards and construction quality. •MARCO, the main contractor, is tasked with the architectural and construction responsibilities, ensuring the project’s vision is realised eff ectively. Cementing its development trajectory, KAFD DMC has awarded MARCO a major design-and-build contract. The contractor will undertake the comprehensive design, procurement, construction, testing, commissioning, and handover of works for Buildings 3.01, 3.02, 3.06, and the rooftop area of Building 3.11, in addition to two sky bridges. | PROJECT PROFILE | MAY 2024 39 KAFD DMC has awarded MARCO a major design-and-build contract PROJECT OBJECTIVES The primary aim of the KAFD P3.01, P3.02, and P3.06 projects is to establish a multifunctional complex that serves as a commercial and recreational hub, and an additional 2,350 parking spaces within the fi nancial district. This initiative is set to bolster the district’s appeal by providing essential services and entertainment while promoting ease of access and community engagement. PROGRESS AND PROJECTIONS The project remains on track, with a targeted completion date projected towards the end of 2025. Notably, parking levels 3.02 and 3.06 are expected to be completed by the end of 2024. MARCO has demonstrated commitment to prioritising the project’s progress, nearing completion of the structural elements for P3.02 and P3.06, with structural works underway for P3.01. Notably, the project has achieved a signifi cant milestone, celebrating 1,000,000 man-hours without incidents. INNOVATION AND CHALLENGES Integrating diverse facilities within a single complex presents unique challenges, particularly in maintaining cohesion with the KAFD’s Public Realm and Green Spine. Nonetheless, the company noted that MARCO’s adoption of advanced technologies and stringent quality controls have been instrumental in navigating these complexities. QUALITY AND SUSTAINABILITY Adherence to rigorous quality standards and safety protocols is non-negotiable. MARCO conducts regular inspections to ensure the highest levels of construction quality and safety. Furthermore, sustainable materials and eco-friendly practices are employed throughout the project, underscoring a commitment to environmental stewardship. IMPACT AND FUTURE OUTLOOK Upon completion, the project is expected to signifi cantly enhance local amenities and accessibility within KAFD, positively impacting the community. According to MARCO, the lessons learned from this project in terms of eff ective stakeholder coordination and resource management are invaluable and will infl uence future projects, driving improvements in effi ciency and client satisfaction. CONCLUSION The KAFD P3.01, P3.02, and P3.06 parcels showcase MARCO’s commitment to a hands-on approach and thorough attention to detail. Project milestones were achieved through the expertise of MARCO’s talented team, ensuring the client receives the best technical proposals. This eff ort is poised to redefi ne the KAFD project’s landscape and establish new benchmarks for future urban development projects. | PROJECT PROFILE |Next >