In the heart of Expo 2020 Dubai, lies Al Wasl Plaza, acting as the centerpiece of Expo 2020 Dubai and accommodating the world’s largest projection surface—which is believed to make a dramatic impression not only during but also after the long-awaited international event.
Expo 2020 Dubai started three days ago, October 1st, and the millions of visitors are impressed by the dramatic display of culture and architecture. The mega-event takes place in Dubai, UAE and houses 86 pavilions offering what looks like endless experiences!
Courtesy of Expo 2020 Dubai
Designed by the Chicago-based firm Adrian Smith + Gordon Gill Architecture, Al Wasl Plaza follows the theme of Expo 2020 Dubai -“Connecting Minds, Creating the Future”- in more than one way, including the literal—Al Wasl is an Arabic word that literally means ‘the connection’, and the place connects the three Thematic Districts of the Expo designed by Hopkins Architecture.
The first thing that catches the visitors when they approach Al Wasl Plaza is the 67 meters high framework that forms the gigantic dome. However, it is much more than just the dome—the plaza is formed by the garden and the surrounding five buildings: three office buildings and two hotels.
“Al Wasl is a new typology: an active, living, public space. When we designed it, we did not imagine an object, but rather a space for people to gather together, for children to play and for everyone to enjoy. Al Wasl is an urban room; a room that offers a spectacle of architecture and experience.” -Gordon Gill, Design Partner at Adrian Smith + Gordon Gill Architecture
Al Wasl Dome acts not only as an urban hub but also as a projection screen. Between the elements of the dome’s framework, the architects embedded fiber-glass that transmits light—with this feature, any image being projected inside the dome is visible outside. With the dome’s gigantic size and the living pictures being projected, it draws the attention of the neighborhood and the whole city of Dubai.
Courtesy of Expo 2020 Dubai
“As a place, Al Wasl is designed to enhance community life twenty-four hours a day. It is the intersection of day and night, nature and technology, space and architecture; a seamless continuum of experience.” -Gordon Gill
The architects thought of a plaza that lasts beyond Expo 2020 Dubai. Regarding the legacy of Al Wasl Plaza, it will still act as a space to contemplate, engage, and connect with nature. The technical characteristics of the plaza include a lowered landform, the shade of the trellis, and some water features—transforming it from just a plaza into an “oasis with its own optimized microclimate”.
These features lower the average temperature by around 9ºC and enhance the thermal comfort hence the overall quality. To further enhance the economic and social elements of the sustainable plaza, cafes and retail spaces will surround the garden, offering a space to communicate and enjoy a unique shopping experience.
Courtesy of Adrian Smith + Gordon Gill Architecture
“In order to make the park more comfortable and to extend its use, we wanted to shade it. In the process of doing this, we realized that the trellis and its beautiful veiled surface could come to life when bathed by the sunlight and also through the night-time projections, transforming and connecting the relationship between the gardens and the public space during the day and at night. This community venue could thus become educational, spiritual, and beautiful – constantly changing and adapting over time.” -Gordon Gill
Courtesy of Adrian Smith + Gordon Gill Architecture
During the day, Al Wasl Dome casts shade on the garden. At night, the dome acts as a “vast canvas”; a 360º projection surface, drawing the attention of Expo 2020 Dubai visitors and more. Different categories and people, from places across the city, can enjoy the projections of Al Wasl Plaza—from rooftops, hotel rooms, highways, and even the sky!
Courtesy of Expo 2020 Dubai
“Our process was deeply rooted in how Al Wasl could serve the people of Dubai, with the idea of creating a type of urban venue that Dubai has not had before. In addition to being an amazing structure, Al Wasl Plaza was designed as a commentary on public space. Dubai has gone through a lot of transformations over the years, from being a place that has often been transient to a home where communities are formed, where people work, learn, and play.” -Gordon Gill
Courtesy of Adrian Smith + Gordon Gill Architecture
Expo 2020 Dubai will run from October 1st, 2020 till March 31st, 2022, under the theme “Connecting Minds, Creating the Future”. It is the first World Expo to take place in the Middle East, c, and South Asia (MEASA). It is now celebrating all kinds of human achievements and inspiring the next generation to achieve more.
