The Makers District

Ramboll provided lead consultancy and design, supervision, and management services over a three-year period for the first phase of the Makers District in Abu Dhabi, collaborating with international architects BIG and MVRDV. The 18-hectare mixed-use development aims to foster creativity of its residents through the designed spaces.

The first phase comprises 13 mixed buildings ranging from mid to high rise with a maximum of 24 storeys with a built up area of approximately 390,000 square metres, including 11,000 square metres of retail space and over 1,000 residential units.

Environmental services included the preparation of waste management strategies for 10 mixed-use buildings and the public realm, aligning with Estidama guidelines to achieve a 1 Pearl rating. This rating signifies adherence to sustainability principles for construction and operation of buildings.

The Makers District aims to become a landmark community in Abu Dhabi, responding to the artistic maker, which is a global social movement with an artisan spirit, while promoting sustainability practices. Key objective of this project is meeting the sustainability standards set by Abu Dhabi's 2030 Plan through the Estidama initiative.

One's first glance at 'Pixel' reveals its signature façade elevations, adorned meticulously with brick screens in 14 pastel shades. These subtle hues evoke the gentle, iridescent tones of a pearl, crafting an unmistakable identity that is both soothing and striking. The design not only stands out in its creative vision but also in its execution, thanks to our façade team's commitment to optimized and innovative engineering solutions.

To bring the vision to life, our façade team employed a range of cutting-edge systems and materials, each selected to complement and enhance the overall aesthetic. A key feature is the pre-cast insulated grid façade, which not only delivers superior insulation and durability but also contributes to the project’s distinct pixelated appearance. Glass Reinforced Concrete (GRC) frames were introduced to provide both stability and visual interest, offering a unique texture and versatile form. The ceramic pixel screens are perhaps the most defining element of the design, adding granular texture and subtle colour variations that truly capture the essence of the pixelated concept. This theme continues even on the rooftops, where pixel tiles provide shading for the balconies while maintaining visual coherence across the structure. Every detail—from the windows and doors to the ground floor curtain walls and terrace balustrades—was carefully planned and executed to ensure both functionality and architectural harmony.

Ramboll emphasises the physical, social, and cultural dimensions alongside enhancing liveability aspects of the project. Sustainability strategies and technologies are employed to reduce energy consumption, ensuring compliance with carbon reduction targets, and helping create an environmentally sound development that thrives over its lifetime.

While 'Pixel' is undoubtedly a visual masterpiece, it is also a testament to Ramboll's commitment to pioneering sustainable and practical engineering solutions. The collaborative effort between architects and engineers has resulted in a structure that not only captivates the eyes but also stands as a model of efficiency, resilience, and forward-thinking design.