Spectacular Design of The Dubai Mall
The Dubai Mall is a retail project that defies categorisation due to its massive scale. It is not just a piece of architecture; it is a construction in a space of vast scale, and it possesses the complexity of an urban centre.
Measured by covered area, it is among the largest malls in the world. Yet building a record-breaking mall was not the goal for DP Architects. Instead, the important principle throughout has been to develop a piece of architecture that will continue to be enjoyed by the entire family while giving retailers the most efficient and functional working environment. Catering to both the visitor and the retailer has created the best shopping experience in the world. Addressing the needs of such a large-scale retail project, DP Architects adopted a city design process and rethought every aspect of retail architecture design.
There are three primary planning conditions that were applied to the ‘urban design’ of The Dubai Mall. The first is the circulation and retail spaces. This aspect is of special importance when navigating in environments at the urban scale.
A quadrant circulation pattern with recognisable nodes was created for legibility. Nodes for rest and relaxation were choreographed in key locations along the walkways; these public spaces effectively created landmarks that aid in wayfinding and create attraction points that offer variety to the urban experience. Like any meaningful and rich urban setting, each node has something special and is given a specific name and theme. The scale of each node was considered in direct relation with the visitor’s journey.
Similarly, retailers can easily be seen from a visitor’s perspective so that when you are in an atrium space you can see the retailers on other floors. This visual connectivity allows for recognition and familiarity. Just as a miniature city.
The Dubai Mall is spectacular! I am extremely impressed by the lighting in this mall. Colors bounce around wonderfully plus the sounds of music is very entertaining. The floor plan is very much like a small city with so many little areas to lounge and take in the very best in design. This mall sets really high standards in design, it should win every design award, especially an award in Lighting Design.
This mall is awesome!
