MARINA HOTEL

Location: Dubai Marina, UAE

Design Director: Raya Ani

Company Name: RAW-NYC Architects

Category: Architecture

Year: 2015

The  Marina  Hotel  project  is  situated  at  a prime a location in Dubai Marina as it  shares  context  with  JBR  Walk,  Marina  and  the  proposed  Dubai  Eye  project. The client requested three options for the building design to address project factors including the context, architectural character, facade articulation, orientation and accessibility.

Option 01

The first option was iconic where the massing of the building has been pixelated to form multiple terraces which help capitalize on the open views across JLT. The terraces provide shaded open spaces which can be used for public outdoor spaces for activities. A light weight ‘jewelled’ three dimensional frame encloses the building making it appear ethereal. 

Option 02

In this option, blocks of different floor plates are rotated in a ‘pin wheel’ concept allowing a spiral of outdoor spaces. The tower is sheathed with an outer screen of intricate lace - like metal mesh which ensures shading and privacy for the open spaces beyond.

Option 03

Although the most austere in terms of massing, the choice of wood for the cladding makes this option stand out from the others. This option draws its inspiration from vernacular and cultural elements and the building is split into three seemingly disjointed blocks. Each of the blocks are covered by screens to provide a ‘mashrabiya’ effect. The façade treatment is intricate and resembles traditional Arabic weaving patterns.