Anil Hira - Director, Buro Happold, Dubai, UAE
The Museum of the Future, Dubai
Our landmark projects include the Museum of the Future and the Morpheus Hotel, where advanced engineering techniques were used to realize ambitious design concepts. Both projects push the boundaries of architecture and engineering; they not only redefine the skyline but also set new benchmarks for what is possible in the world of design and construction. They are also testaments to the power of collaboration between visionary architects and innovative engineers, driving forward the boundaries of what can be achieved in modern architecture.The Museum of the Future stands out as a symbol of futuristic design and engineering. Designed to be an incubator for technological advancements and innovative ideas, the structure is a testament to the power of visionary design coupled with cutting-edge engineering.
The Museum’s design, crafted by architectural firm Killa Design, features a distinctive torus shape with a striking void at its center. This void is more than a design element; it represents a window into the future, a space for exploration and imagination. The exterior of the building is clad in a seamless, reflective façade inscribed with Arabic calligraphy that appears to float over the structure, giving it a surreal and otherworldly appearance.
The engineering challenges posed by the Museum’s unique shape were immense. The building’s complex geometry required innovative structural solutions to ensure its stability and safety. Buro Happold’s expertise in structural engineering was pivotal in developing the support systems that allow the museum to defy conventional architectural norms.
One of the major engineering feats involved in the project was the construction of the building’s curved and continuous façade. This required the development of a bespoke composite material to achieve the desired aesthetic while ensuring durability and weather resistance. The façade’s intricate design was supported by a network of steel and concrete elements, carefully calibrated to maintain the building’s stability without compromising its striking visual appeal.
Our deep understanding of both the local construction environment and the global standards of engineering enabled us to effectively address the challenges and ensure that the project met its ambitious design goals. Coordinating the various aspects of the project was essential in delivering a building that is as functional as it is visionary.
Our projects showcase the power of collaboration between visionary architects and innovative engineers, driving forward the boundaries of what can be achieved in modern architecture.
Anil Hira
Morpheus Hotel, Macau
The Morpheus Hotel’s design is characterized by its fluid, sculptural form. The building consists of three interconnected towers, with a central void that creates an open, airy space. This design not only sets the hotel apart visually but also poses significant engineering challenges. The lattice-like exoskeleton that supports the building’s unconventional shape is both a design highlight and a structural necessity.
Buro Happold’s expertise in structural engineering was applied to develop solutions for supporting the building’s complex geometry. The exoskeleton, which appears to float around the building, required precise engineering and fabrication to ensure stability and functionality.
The hotel’s design includes an innovative structural system that integrates the building’s support framework with its aesthetic elements. This required a high level of coordination between the architectural and engineering teams to ensure that the structural components were both functional and visually harmonious. Buro Happold’s role was essential in ensuring that the structural solutions supported the building’s unique design while meeting performance and safety standards.
The Morpheus Hotel’s design also incorporates advanced technologies to enhance the guest experience. The building’s distinctive appearance and innovative design have made it a landmark in Macau, attracting visitors and architectural enthusiasts from around the world.
