The 88-storey Burj Mohammed Bin Rashid Tower in Abu Dhabi has won the Council on Tall Buildings and Urban Habitat (CTBUH) regional Best Tall Building Award 2015 for the Middle East & Africa. The annual awards announce individual winners from four regions of the world – the Americas, Australasia, Europe and Middle East & Africa – which this year were chosen from 123 entries in total.
The winning entries were chosen for their “strong commitment to sustainability”, and “sculptural form and urban presence.” Referring specifically to the Foster + Partners designed tower, the jury showed their appreciation for the energy efficient “solar collectors and ventilated three-skin façade” and also expressed admiration for the refined formal aesthetic of the tower.
Located in the heart of the city, the tower – the tallest structure in Abu Dhabi – soars above the World Trade Centre Souk & Mall, a contemporary interpretation of the traditional Abu Dhabi market. The mixed-use tower combines offices, apartments, a hotel and serviced apartments, all under one roof. The smooth, reflective façade is designed for minimal maintenance in this dusty desert environment. Layers of internal shading in the tower control glare and solar gain.
The CTBUH Awards are judged by an independent panel of experts who review new-built towers around the world every year in an attempt to bring about a more comprehensive and sophisticated understanding of tall structures. The tower will now be put forward for the overall Best Tall Building Award, which will be announced at the annual Awards Symposium and Dinner in Chicago, to be held in November this year.
