04 February 2007

The new Abu Dhabi

Abu Dhabi appears set to become the new design center of the Middle East. Especially as they work to turn Saayidet Island into a cultural Zanadu. As I read about the city, it is amazing to hear how quickly it is changing. One description said that there is no point in buying a map of the city, because none of them keep up.

Frank Gehry is going to build a 300,000 sq ft Guggenheim there.

Jean Nouvel has designed a museum to house art from the Lourve.

Zaha Hadid has designed a bridge connecting the city's island with the mainland. She has also designed a Performing Arts Center for Saayidet.

The NY Times lays out some of the details in "A Vision in the Desert". And Gridskipper provides some commentary.

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