Extraordinary Winged Museum Set to Open in Abu Dhabi

Construction is almost complete on a remarkable project in Abu Dhabi by the esteemed British firm Foster + Partners. The Zayed National Museum, characterized by its five sculpted “wings,” is designed to be both visually striking and functionally effective, using the wings to naturally cool the building’s interior.

Initially unveiled in 2010, the Zayed National Museum was envisioned as a tribute to Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, the UAE’s first president. The winged design reflects his passion for falconry and incorporates elements inspired by traditional Islamic motifs.

Steel Wings Soar from a 30-Meter Mound

The main structure of the Zayed National Museum resembles a 30-meter (98-foot) “mound” inspired by the UAE’s landscape. Rising from this mound are decorative steel wings, reaching heights between 83 meters (272 feet) and 123 meters (403 feet).

In fact, these wings, similar in function to the New Library at Magdalene College, act like chimneys by naturally drawing hot air up and out of the building.

“The heat at the top of the towers helps draw air up through the galleries due to the thermal stack effect,” explains Foster + Partners. “Air vents at the top of the wing-shaped towers utilize the negative pressure behind the wing to expel hot air. Fresh air is captured at ground level, cooled through underground pipes, and released into the museum’s lobby.”

Illuminated Design Prevents Overheating

However, the museum’s interior features a grand atrium, bathed in indirect natural light to prevent overheating. The upper floor hosts four pod-shaped galleries, each forming the base of a wing.

The museum’s exhibits will span a wide range of topics, including ancient marine life from millions of years ago, early Aramaic coins, warfare, and contemporary culture. A landscaped narrative garden will also be included, highlighting significant moments in Sheikh Zayed’s life.

The Zayed National Museum is part of a broader development initiative in the region, which also features the stunning Louvre Abu Dhabi and the forthcoming Natural History Museum.

To conclude, according to a recent update from the Emirates News Agency, accompanied by a progress photo, the entire development is slated for completion by 2025.

Read the original article on: New Atlas

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