Anwar Gargash Diplomatic Academy UAE / Shape Architecture Practice + Research

Anwar Gargash Diplomatic Academy UAE / Shape Architecture Practice + Research

Anwar Gargash Diplomatic Academy UAE / Shape Architecture Practice + Research - Exterior Photography, Facade, WindowsAnwar Gargash Diplomatic Academy UAE / Shape Architecture Practice + Research - Interior PhotographyAnwar Gargash Diplomatic Academy UAE / Shape Architecture Practice + Research - Interior Photography, Facade, Windows, HandrailAnwar Gargash Diplomatic Academy UAE / Shape Architecture Practice + Research - Interior Photography, FacadeAnwar Gargash Diplomatic Academy UAE / Shape Architecture Practice + Research - More Images+ 30

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Anwar Gargash Diplomatic Academy UAE / Shape Architecture Practice + Research - Exterior Photography, Facade, Windows
© Phil Handforth

Text description provided by the architects. Established in Abu Dhabi, right at the heart of the city’s diplomatic district, this facility was conceived to support the country’s Foreign Affairs Ministry through the education of young diplomats and government leaders. Rooted in Arab tradition and culture, an introverted building was created, with the play of outer opacity and internal transparency serving as a major motif. Diplomacy requires an openness to the world. This characteristic has been expressed through the large, welcoming glazed portals on either side of the opaque cubic form, as well as the proliferation of communal and collaborative spaces, and the site’s borderless integration into its surroundings.

Anwar Gargash Diplomatic Academy UAE / Shape Architecture Practice + Research - Interior Photography
© Phil Handforth
Anwar Gargash Diplomatic Academy UAE / Shape Architecture Practice + Research - Image 24 of 35
Plan - Ground Floor
Anwar Gargash Diplomatic Academy UAE / Shape Architecture Practice + Research - Interior Photography, Facade
© Phil Handforth

The building’s envelope has been designed to combat the harsh elements of the regional climate, while also representing the nation’s strength. The simplicity of form can be seen in the cubic mass housing of both classrooms and offices for staff and faculty. Three portions of the mass extend outward, continuing the solidarity of the building’s shape.  

Anwar Gargash Diplomatic Academy UAE / Shape Architecture Practice + Research - Interior Photography, Facade, Windows, Handrail
© Phil Handforth
Anwar Gargash Diplomatic Academy UAE / Shape Architecture Practice + Research - Image 29 of 35
Section BB
Anwar Gargash Diplomatic Academy UAE / Shape Architecture Practice + Research - Exterior Photography, Brick, Facade
© Phil Handforth
Anwar Gargash Diplomatic Academy UAE / Shape Architecture Practice + Research - Interior Photography
© Phil Handforth

Concerns of sustainability are addressed via the double skin façade. A high-performance glazing system acts as the first defense against solar heat gain, doubled by an outer skin of perforated aluminum screens. These panels diffuse sunlight throughout the interior, without obstructing views. Each side of the building is encapsulated by different panel fold patterns, creating a unique rhythm of shadow and light that evolves throughout the day.  

Anwar Gargash Diplomatic Academy UAE / Shape Architecture Practice + Research - Beam
© Phil Handforth
Anwar Gargash Diplomatic Academy UAE / Shape Architecture Practice + Research - Image 26 of 35
Plan - 2nd Floor
Anwar Gargash Diplomatic Academy UAE / Shape Architecture Practice + Research - Interior Photography, Table, Chair, Beam
© Phil Handforth

Entry finds a central atrium that is expansive and well-lit, connecting every level. Wood-clad staircases wrap around the perimeter, encouraging movement. The main staircase widens near the student lounge to accommodate open gatherings. In the main auditorium, lighting, color, and texture all draw the eye toward the speaker’s stage.

Anwar Gargash Diplomatic Academy UAE / Shape Architecture Practice + Research - Exterior Photography, Facade
© Phil Handforth

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Project location

Address:Abu Dhabi - United Arab Emirates

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Location to be used only as a reference. It could indicate city/country but not exact address.
About this office
Cite: "Anwar Gargash Diplomatic Academy UAE / Shape Architecture Practice + Research" 23 Nov 2022. ArchDaily. Accessed . <https://www.archdaily.com/992578/anwar-gargash-diplomatic-academy-uae-shape-architecture-practice-plus-research> ISSN 0719-8884

© Phil Handforth

阿联酋 Anwar Gargash 外交学院 / Shape Architecture Practice + Research

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