GAJ were commissioned by Mawten Development to undertake concept design services for a mixed use development in Mecca.
The site is located adjacent to Jabal, in the lower part of Mecca to the south of the district of Misfalah. The client brief was to provide a mixed use development including hotel, residential and retail accommodation. The permitted FAR for the site was 3, however the client wished to increase this to 12, to meet development targets.
The golf clubhouse was designed to reflect a modern interpretation of a traditional dhow in full sail capturing the essence of Dubai's seafaring traditions and the majesty and simplicity of the lateen-rigged dhows as they sailed up and down the coastline of Dubai.
This level of density created a challenge in itself, however analysis of the urban fabric of other areas in Mecca demonstrated this density was achievable. The approved concept was then presented to the local planning authority in Mecca who commended the scheme, but advised that the overall GFA and building heights need to be reduced.
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