Bringing this futuristic landmark to life presented many complex design challenges, not only because of its unusual shape and complex facade, but also due to the client’s wish for the building to receive a LEED platinum status.
Taking this into account, Buro Happold found the solution to the project’s unique challenges through the integration of computational design and digitisation of the design and construction process. The torus shaped building features windows in the form of Arabic calligraphy, citing a poem by the Ruler of Dubai, HH Sheikh Mohammed, about his vision for the city’s future.
The development of a 3D energy model of the building enabled the interaction of all 12 disciplines in real time; this ensured sustainability was put at the heart of more than 50 design decisions. With a 45% reduction in water use and total energy savings of 25% among the benefits, the Buro Happold team was able to create a high performance building and move the project towards achieving LEED platinum status.
Specialist engineers created an in-house parametric modelling tool to assess the potential options for the structure of the museum building. This enabled the project team to create the optimal design capable of accommodating the torus shape and the 1,024 stainless steel clad glass fibre reinforced plastic panels covering the exterior of the museum. The final bespoke structure ensured an optimum balance of buildability and structural member commonality.
This pioneering use of technology to develop both the design structure and energy model enabled the Buro Happold team to take the client’s and architect’s aspirational vision for the museum and turn it into a reality.
The Museum of the Future is a visionary cultural institution designed to showcase a new era, a centre of creativity and hope that combines elements of the exhibition, immersive theatre, and themed attraction.