One Za’abeel

One Za’abeel is a striking addition to Dubai’s skyline, designed by renowned Japanese architects Nikken Sekkei. Standing at the gateway to the city, the development features two towers connected 100 metres above ground by THE LINK, a 230-metre-long horizontal structure that sets a new benchmark for innovation in high-rise engineering.

A symbol of Dubai’s forward-thinking urban design, One Za’abeel integrates premium office space, luxury residences, and world-class hospitality, requiring shading solutions that enhance comfort while preserving the building’s architectural vision.

THE CHALLENGE

With floor-to-ceiling glazing throughout the towers and THE LINK, the project demanded large-scale, high-performance shading to regulate heat and glare while maintaining the panoramic views.

The unique angled façade design of THE LINK cantilever meant that standard solutions would not meet the aesthetic or technical requirements for the project.

Working alongside our partner Hunter Douglas Middle East, Guthrie Douglas engineered a custom shading system that addressed both functional and aesthetic requirements.

THE SOLUTION

An innovative arrangement of angled tension blinds was deployed diagonally in a criss-cross pattern across the façade, and large drop blinds were installed to the remainder of the façade, providing solar control for the expansive glazed areas.

CONCLUSION

One Za’abeel is a testament to engineering excellence and cutting-edge design. The shading solution plays a vital role in the overall energy efficiency and comfort of the space, aligning with the project’s vision for sustainable, high-performance architecture.