Overview
A groundbreaking architecture
project setting new global standards
Scope of work: Includes the design, supply, manufacture, and installation of various façade components for ICD Brookfield Place. This includes 51,641 sqm of unitised glazed curtain walling, 14,245 sqm of stick system curtain walling, 8,620 sqm of metal roof louvers, and 8,962 sqm of metal wall cladding. Additional elements include 5,146 sqm of metal fins, 2,056 sqm of internal walls, 4,485 sqm of stainless steel cladding, 1,345 sqm of skylights, 5,991 sqm of aluminium louvers, and 544 lm of balustrade. The project also includes 2,265 lm of U-channel and 355 sqm of fire-rated doors and windows.
ICD Brookfield Place, designed by Foster and Partners, is an iconic mixed-use development in the heart of Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC). The 53-story tower features a sharp prismatic structure with a glass façade that changes appearance throughout the day. The development includes one of the world’s largest basements with seven levels and offers A-grade office and retail spaces. Al Abbar Group was appointed to design and build the prismatic glass façade, contributing to the project’s minimalist elegance and environmental efficiency.
Key data
Impressive metrics that define
this extraordinary achievement
Technical details
Engineering that
holds it all together
A-Frame Inspired Design
The project’s distinctive form is inspired by A-frame structural design, with vertices defined by 400 x 125mm recesses clad in stainless steel. This design was integrated into the unitized curtain wall system while ensuring durability and water tightness.
Jumbo Sized Glazed Units
Al Abbar Group combined three individual glazed units into one jumbo-sized unit (4500x4500mm), incorporating three surfaces of varying dimensions. This integration was key in achieving both structural stability and aesthetic harmony.
Rigid Framework for Stability
A rigid framework was added behind the recess feature to ensure stability during installation. This approach maintained the integrity of the curtain wall system while addressing the complex geometry of the design.
Advanced 3D Technology in Design
Using advanced 3D technology, Al Abbar achieved precise fabrication with high accuracy. The software also automated the generation of fabrication drawings, allowing for efficient completion in line with the project’s accelerated timeline.
Glass Façade Panels and Louvers
The glass façade features large 10m x 2.3m wide panels, complemented by aluminum louvers with integrated lighting fixtures and steel sub-frames. The large panel sizes and prismatic design posed installation challenges, requiring careful planning.
A-Frame Structural Stability
A steel A-frame structure was incorporated into the design to provide stability for the large glass panels and louvers, ensuring the structure’s stability without compromising the architectural vision. Installation sequencing was closely coordinated with other trades for smooth execution.
