PROJECT REPORT: MIXED USE SCHEMES 31
PIXEL UNITED ARAB EMIRATES
Pixelated vision I
n the ever-expanding skyline of Abu Dhabi, where luxury towers often dominate the architectural landscape,
Pixel, a mixed use scheme designed by MVRDV, offers a refreshing alternative. As the fi rst completed project in the Makers District which sits on Reem Island, a natural feature 600 metres off the main Abu Dhabi island, Pixel is claimed to “embody a new approach to living that emphasises community, identity, and connection to place.” By merging innovative design with thoughtful urban planning, MVRDV has created Pixel to not only serve its residents, but to contribute to the cultural and social fabric of the city.
The mixed-use development brings together 525 residential apartments with retail, offi ce spaces, and leisure amenities, all anchored by a lively central plaza. The 85,000 m2 project refl ects project developer IMKAN’s vision to establish the Makers District as a creative hub for the UAE capital, and one which complements the cultural richness of nearby Saadiyat Island. Jacob van Rijs, founding partner at
MVRDV, explains the design intent behind the scheme, and how the architects hoped to make a break from the context of recent development in Abu Dhabi: “We challenged the residential typologies that have become the norm in the UAE. Instead of nondescript, isolated towers made palatable by a veneer of luxury fi nishes on the interior, Pixel makes it possible for residents to spend time outdoors, become friends with their neighbours, and invite visitors for a meal in the plaza restaurants.” He continues: “It encourages a way of life that is not only enjoyable, but
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is also environmentally and socially more sustainable than the alternatives.”
Design concept MVRDV’s approach to Pixel’s design was centred on its seven towers, which the practice describes as “compact.” These structures are strategically positioned at the site’s periphery, optimising shade, promoting airfl ow, and maintaining clear sightlines to the waterfront. The placement enhances environmental comfort and establishes strong visual connections with the surrounding coastal landscape. At the heart of the development lies the communal plaza, which serves as Pixel’s social hub. The ground level hosts an array of cafes, restaurants, and retail outlets, while community-focused services such as gyms, wellness centres, medical clinics, and co-working spaces are housed on the fl oors above. This ensures constant activity throughout the day, fostering a vibrant and welcoming environment.
Central to the design concept is the way the buildings’ facades not only visually but literally break down into individual square forms as they approach the plaza, giving a look of the volumes ‘pixelating’ at lower levels. Recessed sections further up the facades are balanced by sections extruding at the lower levels in a seemingly random fashion. The project’s architects explain further: “The facades disintegrate into individual ‘pixels,’ forming terraces and bay windows that spill into the public space.” This design element “invites residents to connect with the outdoors,” with the cascading terraces acting as an extension of the internal living spaces.
Architect MVRDV’s new collection of mixed use buildings in Abu Dhabi makes a break from the city’s architectural norm by breaking down facades into ‘pixelated’ forms.
PROJECT FACTFILE Architect: MVRDV
Engineering & project management: Ramboll Middle East District masterplan: RNL Infrastructure: Parsons Cost control: Turner & Townsend Landscape & public realm design: Bjarke Ingels Group Landscape architect: Verdaus Lighting: Delta Lighting Design Wayfi nding & signage: Dezigntechnic Vertical transportation: Cooper Wilcock Security: WSP, Consquare Facade artist: Nicole Martens
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