We’re pleased to have submitted our significant cultural heritage work at Al Seef on the Dubai Creek to the Public Landscape category of the Landezine LILA Awards 2022.
In the 1980’s much of the original Al Bastakiya village in Old Dubai was demolished but a passionate campaign saved the remaining buildings. Developers Meeras saw the potential to strengthen Old Dubai by redeveloping an adjacent 1.6km Creekside stretch; Al Seef (meaning coast/shore in Arabic) would respectfully celebrate the story of the City’s vibrant maritime roots and the ever-evolving multi-national culture.
Al Seef recreates the architectural heritage of Dubai’s local vernacular. The design philosophy was to show the city’s development history. Starting with the architecture of the 1890s, the idea was to create public realm that captured different decades of Dubai’s history through natural weathering & construction. With considerable research and attention to detail, materials were used to appear as if they had been laid over time.
The navigable & walkable routes of Al Seef now link the character & experiences of the pungent and colourful souks & have increased circulation between & around both sides of the Creek’s heritage districts & in so doing have helped to regenerate the heart of Old Dubai.
Since completion in 2018, Al Seef has become a treasured space. It is a popular destination with tourists & ‘Instagrammers’ & importantly is a regular part of the City’s cultural calendar, providing an enriching link to the City’s trading route past through a public realm that serves the local community & visitors alike.
You can view the submission in full here.
Award announcements are expected mid-June.
Photography by Alessandro Merati/Copyright Cracknell
