Flowing Arabic script inspires interior of Burj Dubai

Work is progressing on the interior of the Burj Dubai, the world’s tallest building, developer Emaar Properties announced on Monday.Free flowing Arabic script will be among the inspirations for the tower’s interior, which will draw upon architectural influences from around the region and the world.

The interior design seeks to complement the structure’s external architecture, which has been inspired by the geometrics of the desert flower hymenocalis and regional patterning systems, the Dubai developer said.

Interior designer Nada Andric, of US architectural firm Skidmore, Owings & Merrill (SOM), aimed to recognise the building’s epoch marking height, as well as its structural and architectural rationale and challenges in her design, Emaar said in a statement.

She also wanted to demonstrate an appreciation of the location and the region’s heritage, history and culture.

“Burj Dubai is a once in a lifetime architectural accomplishment and is the Arab world’s tribute to the art and science of modern engineering and design,” said Mohamed Alabbar, chairman, Emaar Properties.

“The interiors place a special focus on the region’s heritage and geographical location in its design approach and selection of materials.”

Glass, stainless steel and polished dark stones will feature within the interior, as well as silver Travertine flooring, Venetian stucco walls, handmade rugs, stone flooring and dark, Brazilian Santos Rosewood to reflect shelter.

“The layouts for the common areas of the tower have been inspired by cursive Arabic writing as rooms flow elegantly in an intelligent interplay of light and shadow,” said Andric.

The mixed-use tower, which is over 800 metres in height, is scheduled for completion in September.

Designed by SOM, Burj Dubai is constructed by South Korea’s Samsung Engineering.

It will feature the world’s first Armani Hotel Dubai and Armani Residences, alongside corporate suites, residences, retail and leisure facilities including a public observatory deck on level 124.