DUBAI, U.A.E.—Zabeel Properties unveiled details of a new five-star landmark hotel and leisure development for Dubai. The Dubai-based luxury developer also confirmed the appointment of innovative LA-based architecture firm, GRAFT, whose team of design consultants for the project will include the Hollywood actor, Brad Pitt. The actor’s involvement in the design for the resort demonstrates his deep-seated interest in the project. It is set to become a flagship hotel complex for Dubai and a world leader in environmental sustainability. The proposed hotel and resort is striving for a minimum of LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) gold status.
The project will also be socially conscious, something that Zabeel Properties, the boutique developer, has quickly become renowned for in its commitment to create new working environments that enhance the communities within which they are situated.
At the heart of the project will be an 800-room five-star hotel, which will eventually play host to the most glamorous events and award ceremonies. Its precise location in Dubai is to be confirmed in the near future.
First of Similar Developments
“This project is in line with the vision of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, UAE Vice President & Prime Minister and Ruler in developing Dubai as one of the most dynamic and leading cities of the world,” said His Excellency Mohammed Ali Al Hashimi, Executive Chairman of Zabeel Investments. “Through this long term partnership with our friends, there are plans to launch similar such developments across other major global cities, but we are proud that Dubai will be the first.”
“Our master plan and design concept will be world-leading and we’re delighted to be collaborating with Brad Pitt and the team at GRAFT, which is recognized for its innovative building design,” said Robert Norton, CEO of Zabeel Properties. “This project will display our uncompromising focus and commitment for developing high quality and environmentally-sustainable real estate in this region.”
Pitt is currently building 150 new affordable and sustainable homes in New Orleans for residents of its Lower 9th Ward, an area of the city devastated by Hurricane Katrina in 2005. Pitt, together with film producer Steve Bing, have pledged $5 million each to the Make it Right rebuilding project. It is taking place in an area of the city that was once marked by dense housing but was then almost entirely demolished following heavy flooding by Hurricane Katrina.
Pitt Passionate About Architecture
“Whilst acting is my career, architecture is my passion,” Pitt said. “Selecting this development as my first major construction project has been a simple decision. It will underpin not only my values for environmentally-friendly architecture, but also embrace my career in entertainment. We will be unveiling precise plans in the next few months, but you can expect something that is not only stunning to look at, but that will also be an incredible attraction to visit or stay at.”
GRAFT was founded in Los Angeles and Berlin in 1998, and is involved in a range of activities, from architecture to urban planning, exhibition design and music.
“This project will become a lead attraction in its own right for Dubai, the region and indeed worldwide,” said Wolfram Putz, one of GRAFT’s founders. “Working in this rapidly expanding location, which is now at the forefront of tourism and commerce in the Middle East, and at the same time collaborating with Brad Pitt makes this a unique opportunity for us all.”
Zabeel Properties’ portfolio of development work also includes:
• A residential, hospitality and lifestyle project, Tiara Residence & Tiara Hotel, which is poised to become one of the premier properties on the Palm Jumeirah.
• Porto Dubai, a luxury residential development on a reclaimed peninsula featuring a pioneering tiered island design concept. Located in Umm Suqeim, each of the homes and exclusive beach club will enjoy unspoilt views of the iconic seven-star Burj Al Arab hotel thanks to the island’s innovative four-tiered design layout that is set for completion in 2010.
• The Tiara United Towers, a joint venture with United Holdings to deliver a landmark commercial and hospitality project on Dubai’s main Sheikh Zayed Road. The development’s visually striking twin towers will represent a design first for the region.
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