Louvre Abu Dhabi

Abu Dhabi, UAE

Challenge

Working in tandem with the architects, the Buro Happold team evaluated a number of concepts by which to bring the element of water into the building, finally settling on the inclusion of tidal pools that reflect the light that filters through the glazed roof in dappled patterns on the interior walls, creating a gentle movement that correlates and responds to the museum’s unique natural setting.

Our water engineering experts provided specialist advice on the construction of these pools, using first empirical, and then numerical and physical scale modelling to ensure the tidal flow and water quality augmented the aesthetics of the building without risk of flooding or damage from the saline water.

Louvre Abu Dhabi
Louvre Abu Dhabi’s exterior © Louvre Abu Dhabi, Photography: Mohamed Somji

Solution

Situated on the northwest shoreline of the island, the intrinsic connection between the new Louvre and the surrounding sea is reflected in the architectural design. Realising this union presented some serious challenges for our team of engineers, who had to conceive and develop a variety of solutions that would give the appearance of a building effortlessly at one with its surroundings, while also providing adequate protection against both the environmental and security issues presented by its maritime location.

Louvre Abu Dhabi
Louvre Abu Dhabi’s ‘rain of light’ © Louvre Abu Dhabi, Photography: Mohamed Somji

Value

As VIPs and visitors alike will arrive at the Louvre by boat, mooring facilities were also a vital part of the design. These had to evoke a seamless experience of floating into the gallery on the sea, while also incorporating vital safety and security measures.

Carefully planned, intelligent design solutions from our team included the dual use of offshore breakwaters to both attenuate the power of the waves lapping into the port, taking into account the potential impact of future climate change, and serve as a vessel security barrier. By collaborating closely with the wider design team, we were able to incorporate these large structures into the architectural concept, extending out from the building as if they were reaching into the sea to welcome new arrivals.

It is features such as these, realised through the strategic yet sympathetic design so typical of Buro Happold, that will anchor the stunning new Louvre Museum in the minds of all who visit in years to come.

Louvre Abu Dhabi

Awards

2019

IESNYC Lumen Awards, Award of Excellence, Lighting Design: Winner

2018

MEED Projects Awards, MEED Quality Project of the Year: Winner

2018

MEED Projects Awards, Leisure & Tourism Project of the Year: Winner

2018

MEP Middle East Awards, GCC Project of the Year: Winner

2018

MEP Middle East Awards, Sustainable Project of the Year: Winner