Over 2.4 million people took part in the 30-day challenge.

December 2023

How Architect Shaun Killa Is Designing a More Sustainable Dubai.

Written by Nicola Chilton | 26th August 2022

The shimmering torus-shaped Museum of the Future in Dubai is covered in Arabic calligraphy and is supported not by the traditional columns but by a steel diagrid, with a facade of 1,024 steel panels. The aviation industry provided inspiration for the technology needed to create the exterior that was developed using learning algorithms. “All the parameters structurally were put into a program, and eventually it learned to create this shape,” says architect Shaun Killa.

Opened in February 2022, the building is an iconic addition to Dubai’s already dramatic skyline, which includes the sail-shaped Burj Al Arab and the Burj Khalifa, the tallest building in the world. These modern, globally recognizable structures have made a name for Dubai’s architecture, but the story of Dubai’s urban landscape goes back much further. “Often the story is that since the 2000s it’s been a place of gleaming skyscrapers,” says architect and writer Todd Reisz, author of Showpiece City: How Architecture Made Dubai.

But the creative fusion seen in the architecture of structures like Killa’s Museum of the Future goes deeper. “I think what has had the most influence on the city is the fact that it’s an entrepôt, a port city,” says Reisz. “It’s a place of exchange and in-betweenness, where not only things and people come in and out, but so do ideas.” That exchange of ideas has led to some of the world’s most ambitious architectural projects—in which Killa has played an outsize role.

Killa first arrived in Dubai from South Africa in 1998, joining the architecture firm Atkins, where he worked on the Burj Al Arab—one of Dubai’s most famous buildings, which sits on an artificial island and is shaped like the sail of a yacht. “For an architect coming from Cape Town, the scale of the buildings was so much bigger,” Killa says of Dubai. “If you’re used to smaller projects, it’s quite a challenge to overcome that scale.” Killa went on to work on other major projects in Dubai such as the Dubai Opera, the Address Boulevard, and the Almas Tower, the tallest building in Dubai at the time.

Killa launched his own architecture studio, Killa Design, in 2015, with a desire to make futuristic buildings that combine engineering innovation and technology. Sustainability is also a driving force. For the Bahrain World Trade Center (BWTC), completed in 2008, Killa worked with wind–tunnel and bridge specialists to create a building that is made up of two wing-shaped structures with three 30-m wind turbines suspended between them. The structures funnel wind onto the turbines, which generate up to 15% of the building’s power.

Killa has helped advance architectural innovation in Dubai through his “challenging designs and to demonstrate the capacity to construct them using the latest technologies in the market,” says Georges Kachaamy, director of the Center for Research, Innovation, and Design at the American University in Dubai.

Killa also sees the importance of focusing on the livability of buildings and cities and creating more cyclable and walkable areas. “There is a strong emphasis on creating a better place to live, with greater diversity,” he says.

With its unusual facade, the Museum of the Future, located in Dubai’s financial district, features frequently on Instagram posts. And like the city itself, it has become a place of exchange—an outsize space where people gather, marvel, and commune. “That enjoyment that I saw people having really filled me with something that was very special,” Killa says of the public reception to the museum. “The building has now been passed to them.”

‘The most beautiful building in the world’ recognised as the best tall building under 100-metres.

Written by Waheed Abbas | 4th August 2022

Dubai’s two skyscrapers have won international awards for the best tall building and construction excellence.

The emirate’s latest infrastructure marvel the Museum of the Future won the Award of Excellence 2022 in the category of the best tall building under 100-metres from the Council on Tall Buildings and Urban Habitat (CTBUH).

“The torus-shaped building represents mankind’s ability to innovate and construct the limits of present-day engineering and construction methodology that has been represented in significant structures throughout the ages.

“A primary inspiration was to create a form that represents the UAE Prime Minister, His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai’s vision of the future where the physical building embodies floors and spaces that represent an understanding of the future as we know it today and possibly for the next few years,” the Council said.

Standing at 78 meters tall, the Museum of the Future (MOTF) is far from reaching Dubai’s famous skyline, which features skyscrapers like the unparalleled Burj Khalifa – the world’s tallest tower.

Written by Valeria Montjoy | 23rd June 2022

However, with its bold shape and striking façade illuminated by more than 14,000 meters of Arabic calligraphy, it certainly succeeds in taking its place among the city’s most iconic buildings. The award-winning project by Killa Design and Buro Happold, described by many as ‘the most beautiful building in the world’, opened in February of 2022 in Dubai’s Financial District. In a total built-up area of 30,000 sqm, it accommodates exhibition spaces for innovative ideologies, services, and products, as well as theatre spaces, a laboratory, and a research centre.

Symbolizing Arab heritage and future progress, MOTF is comprised of three main parts: a green hill, the building, and the void. The green hill represents the earth – with its roots in place –, time and history. It also serves to unobtrusively elevate the museum above the adjacent metro line and create an elevated park. Likewise, the torus-shaped structure symbolizes mankind’s ability to innovate and push the limits of modern engineering and construction. The elliptical void, on the other hand, is an expression of ‘the unknown’ that seeks to inspire today’s creators to face humanity’s unwritten future.

With its magnitude, eye-catching form and extremely intricate design, the architectural and engineering marvel is one of the most advanced structures ever built. As a result, it called for a series of groundbreaking technologies to approach complex design challenges and bring the vision to life. To find out more about these technologies, we spoke with Shaun Killa and Pippa Tucker from Killa Design, the architecture firm behind the monumental building.

The Museum of the Future has been one of the most stimulating projects I’ve designed as it is a highly public cultural building, hyper unique in its form and technically complex in its execution. – Shaun Killa, co-founder of Killa Design and chief architect of MOTF

Challenges behind the revolutionary design

Many of the challenges encountered by architects and engineers arose from the complexity of the diagrid and façade. To overcome them, the design process required a combination of advanced materials and the latest technologies in 3D modelling software, collaborative design, and parametric construction. These digital tools were ultimately pivotal to the success of the project, which wouldn’t have been possible otherwise.

As Shaun and Pippa shared with us, one of the most difficult features to construct was the building’s curved façade, consisting of 1,024 glass-reinforced plastic and stainless-steel panels. Integrating the moulded-in Arabic calligraphy in distinct 3D shapes, the carved panels play a fundamental role. During the day, they function as windows that cast natural light through the column-free interior; during the night, they illuminate the city with LED lighting. And with a depth of 1.3 meters, the windows are wide enough for visitors to stand inside in what functions as a permanent exhibition space. However, the team had to overcome multiple complexities to achieve this end result.

A major challenge in the design of the Museum of the Future was the incorporation of the calligraphy windows into the parametrically optimized torus form, inclusive of the avoidance of the steel diagrid structural nodes through the calligraphy, all of which took over a year to design. – Shaun Killa, co-founder of Killa Design and chief architect of MOTF

Other significant challenges related to execution included “coordination of more than 1,000 unique structural nodes and their base connections, as well as clash avoidance with secondary support steel work, fit out and MEP (mechanical, electrical and plumbing).”

Innovative design principles

To address all of these complexities, the project adopted numerous innovative design principles regarding construction technologies and materials. This involved, for example, developing parametric design tools with growth algorithms “to digitally optimize the efficiency of the primary structural diagrid, façade, and the glazing elements.” The software included Revit with Dynamo and Rhino with Grasshopper. Likewise, the use of BIM was pivotal during the process, creating a precise digital model with multi-disciplinary collaboration. It was also used to produce all the drawings and for Virtual Reality clash detection, deflection tolerances and onsite real-time building sequences.

Tekla Structures, a structural BIM software developed by Trimble, was utilized considering the museum’s unconventional geometry and massive amounts of data. Besides providing powerful 3D modeling capabilities, the technology was extensively used to identify clashes with other trades like MEP, roofing and façade contractors. Furthermore, the solution enhanced and simplified design details, enabled smoother workflows and delivered the intricate interface requirements during the designing, fabricating and coordinating phases of the project. It also allowed different actors to explore and develop routines to do modeling and detailing accurately in a short period of time. Overall, the innovative use of each digital design tool resulted in maximum optimization.

The computer aided design for the Museum of the Future was unique in respect to its algorithms and the scripting that was required to design an optimized form and structural system. – Killa Design

High-tech procedures, like aviation software and automated robotic arms, were particularly needed to put together the calligraphy panels covering the exterior. First, 3D modeling software was used to set the calligraphy onto the building’s surface and to guarantee that the 1,000 steel diagrid nodes were avoided in the center of the windows. For their construction, the process involved “CNC robotic technology and cutting-edge moulding and processing systems, which required a 16-step process to produce.” And to accurately place the panels in the structure – and ensure their dynamic movement without any distortion –, the team utilized multi-layered laser positioning systems, which were also used for the precise placement of the steel diagrid.

Technology in favor of wellbeing and sustainability

As Shaun Killa claims, sustainability was the main motivation in the design, which was also addressed through advanced technologies: “The aspiration was to make the design, the fabrication and its operational resources as sustainable as possible using the highest innovative technologies.” This involved developing a 3D energy model, low-energy and low-water engineering solutions, recovery strategies for energy and water, passive solar design, air quality filtering systems and integrated renewables from a nearby solar farm located on car park building rooftops. Altogether, this contributed to a 45% reduction in water use and total energy savings of 25%. The result is a low carbon building with LEED Platinum certification that aims to set the example for all future buildings in the UAE.

The Museum of the Future is an architectural and engineering masterpiece that takes a groundbreaking approach to what it means to be a museum. Without a doubt, a great part of its success lies in its multi-disciplinary collaboration and the innovative use of the latest technologies; from robotics to parametric design, from CNC to aviation software. Pushing the limits of innovation, the iconic landmark paves the way towards a promising future, one where technology takes part of the built environment in favor of creativity, wellbeing and sustainability.

Video: Presenting the second part of the interview – Exploring Architecture of Museum of the Future with Shaun Killa.

by Suha Sabith | May 20, 2022

In our video series Exploring Architecture, we dive deep into the design of some of the massive projects in the region. We speak to the architects behind some of the striking structures we see in the region to know about the whole process of development – from 2D to physical spaces.

Episode 1, Part 2 – Sustainability and challenges to construction

In the first part of our interview with Shaun Killa from Killa Design, we explored the dynamic design of the Museum of the Future and the ornate calligraphy.

In the second part of the interview, we focused on the sustainable aspects of the design and the challenges faced during construction. Taking a deeper dive into understanding what went into the construction of the parametrically optimised and scripted building.

Passion for sustainability

Shaun’s passion for sustainability is evident in his work. His portfolio includes the Bahrain World Trade Centre, which features three wind turbines that harness the onshore breeze for energy – the first installation of its kind in the world. His passion was what fueled a greener design for the Museum of the Future.

Pushing the limits of engineering

Shaun spoke about how the museum was built by pushing the limits of engineering and creating processes that were not common or introduced in the industry before.

One of the key aspects of design that needed special attention was the nuanced spaces. “We had to deal with minor tolerances like with the distance between the corkscrew staircase and the inner lining of the outer facade of the void, which was only 100 millimetres apart and that had to be designed as such. If there were any construction differences, the two would have touched”.

Negating these challenges meant working with strong collaborators who thought outside the box. A name that kept coming up in our interview with Shaun, was Buro Happold and their contribution to the construction. Shaun spoke about how at each stage of construction, the team came together with its collaborators such as Eversendai had to constantly keep pace with the technological advancements and rewire their process to accommodate the same.

The team had also reached out to various international companies to understand what types of software and technologies can be used to construct the building. One of the companies approached by Shaun and his team was Boeing, the world’s largest aerospace company and leading manufacturer of commercial jetliners. “For the facade systems, we reached out to Boeing to find out how they put stainless steel onto the carbon-fibre wings of aeroplanes, to mechanically and chemically bond it”.

So were there any naysays when it came to partnering up for the project? Click on the video above to know…

Stay tuned for more episodes of Exploring Architecture!

Emirates takes Dubai’s vision of tomorrow to the skies, launching Museum of the Future custom A380 livery.

May 4, 2022

Dubai’s newest iconic landmark will be emblazoned on 10 A380s.

Emirates has today revealed a new custom A380 livery dedicated to Dubai’s newest architectural icon and centre for pioneering concepts and ideas, the Museum of the Future.

The first Emirates A380 (A6-EVK) to sport this exciting new livery, takes flight tomorrow to Los Angeles. As its nine other aircraft siblings roll out of the dedicated Aircraft Appearance Centre at Emirates Engineering over the coming weeks, Emirates’ Museum of the Future A380s will be deployed on routes to Europe as well as key Arab regional cities.

This initiative underscores the airline’s unwavering commitment to support Dubai’s vision as the leading city of the future, a hub for innovation and a testbed for emerging technologies. It also crystallises the UAE’s 50 years of development and progress.

The seven-storey, pillarless, torus-shaped Museum of the Future, dubbed as the ‘world’s most beautiful building’, has become one of Dubai’s definitive design marvels, and aims to inspire the world to imagine the possibilities of tomorrow, featuring mesmerising installations and futuristic experiences. The building’s ring forms a void to represent unknown and undiscovered knowledge.

The Museum will also act as an incubator for scientists, thinkers and researchers to bring their bold ideas and visions of the future to life, especially across areas like sustainability, outer space, health, and other critical global challenges. It will also be a platform to trial and demonstrate the latest technological discoveries, with prototypes that will continually evolve from emerging start-ups and established technology enterprises.

The ring-shaped, Arabic calligraphy encapsulated building encircles both sides of the aircraft, and features the message ‘Journey to the future’ across the fuselage, covering a total of 336 sqm on the A380. The façade is decorated with quotes from His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum. The airline will produce 10 A380 liveries in total, which will fly across close to 30 destinations around the world in the coming year, carrying the museum’s message of creating a better future, now.

A MUSEUM TO ENVISION THE FUTURE OF DUBAI.

Written by kat barandy | April 20, 2022

Following the completion of Killa Design’s calligraphy-covered Museum of the Future in Dubai, founder of the UAE-based studio Shaun Killa discusses the processes that informed the architecture. These new insights come alongside new images of the monumental work of both the completed exterior and larger-than-life interiors (see designboom’s previous coverage here).

From the outside, the museum sits atop a green hill, appearing as a sculptural object in the city. The geometry takes shape as a torus wrapped in massive calligraphic writing which express quotes from the UAE’s prime minister on his vision of the future.

Last month the museum celebrated its inauguration with the immersive, ATELIER BRÜCKNER-designed exhibition ‘Journey of the Pioneers’ (see designboom’s coverage here).

To celebrate the opening of the Museum of the Future, Killa Design (see more here) founder Shaun Killa describes the spirit of the project. This includes the symbolic geometry and the envisioned future of Dubai and the UAE on the whole:

Shaun Killa (SK): MOTF is comprised of three main elements: the green hill, the museum, and the void. The green hill represents the earth, with its roots in place, time, and history. The inspiration for the landscaped hill was to elevate the building in an unobstructive way above the adjacent metro line and create greenery in elevation that is uncommon in Dubai where visitors can enjoy a park environment within the city context while engaging with the museum.

The torus-shaped structure represents mankind’s ability to innovate and construct the limits of present-day engineering and construction methodology that has been represented in significant structures throughout the ages.

The primary inspiration of the Museum of the Future is creating a form that represents the UAE’s Prime Minister’s vision of the future where the physical building embodies floors and spaces that represent our understanding of the ‘future’ as we know it today and possibly for the next few years.

In contrast, the void represents the ‘unknown’ and people who seek the unknown, innovate and discover new horizons and ideas that help guide humanity towards a better future.

The Killa Design founder continues to describe the unique elements of Dubai’s Museum of the Future, which include a series of transparent ‘bullet elevators’ with panoramic views:

SK: The almost 1,800 square-meter lobby connects the north and south bus drop offs roads and pedestrianised metro connectivity allowing multiple integrated module transits simultaneously working together to enhance the connectivity from the museum to the city. The 16-metre-high lobby has a double helix central stair which connects the metro down to the ground floor and at the same time connects the lobby to the museum.

Three panoramic bullet elevators with 35 person capacities ascend through the full height of the building within the atrium space. This is further enhanced by one of the world’s largest elevators capable of carrying over 120 persons (or large exhibit pieces) up to all floors within the building as part of the visitor experience for larger groups.

The central spiral stair runs throughout the atrium space, encouraging visitors to descend through the levels of the museum and at the same time experience the undulating volume of the space with changing light through the calligraphy fenestration.

The Museum of the Future (MOTF) showcases Dubai’s priority toward advancements in design technology. With this context, UAE’s Killa Design employs advanced digital technologies, especially parametric tools and virtual reality, during the complex design process. Shaun Killa explains:

SK: MOTF has pushed the boundaries of design with being one of the most complex steel and façade projects to date. This complex building is more than a cultural icon, it is a good example of the benefits of buildings with advanced composites where we engaged with global leaders in new building materials and techniques for example, Boeing aviation for aerospace technology and incorporating this into the built environment. 

Parametric design tools which include growth algorithms were developed for the project to digitally optimise the efficiency of the primary structural diagrid, façade and the glazing elements. 

BIM played a large role in the process, from concept design to construction, and was used to produce all the drawings and in addition to Virtual Reality and real time rendering programs performed coordination and clash detection between all design and engineering disciplines. During early design phases, the team used complex 3D modelling software to set the calligraphy onto the building’s surface, move each letter to adhere to the ancient rules of calligraphy and avoid over 1,000 steel diagrid nodes to ensure none were placed in the center of the windows. 

SK: The calligraphy that covers the façade is molded into each individual panel, with the black letters also forming the glazed window penetrations in the façade. These windows are illuminated by 14 km of LED lighting and are 1.3 meters deep, enough depth width for visitors to stand inside, forming an exhibition space that has been designed to showcase innovative and futuristic ideologies, inventions, and possibilities.

Above the podium the stainless-steel clad museum exhibition spaces comprises of 12,000sqm on seven floors which are nine meters apart. The overall height of the building is 78m with a total built up area of 30,000sqm.

Here, technology and creativity are in total harmony, giving us a real glimpse of real and virtual worlds combining to create something entirely new.

While the architecture at once stands out for its highly sculptural expression, the team at Killa Design notes its ambitions toward environmental sustainability. The studio founder continues to describe the sustainable nature of the architecture, including its LEED Platinum certification:

SK: Sustainability has been the main driver for the Museum of the Future’s design since its first sketch. The aspiration was to make the design, the fabrication, and its operational resources as sustainable as possible using the highest global innovative technologies.

As part of this strategy, the project achieved LEED Platinum certification by using passive solar design, low-energy and low-water engineering solutions, recovery strategies for both energy and water, and building integrated renewables from an offsite solar farm located on the rooftops of nearby car park buildings.

To reduce solar gain and heat island effect, more than two-thirds of the building’s area is situated below the green roof of the podium which further contributed to its sustainability credentials. 

SK: The Museum of the Future has been highly engineered going far beyond BMS and Smart Systems whereby integrating all of the MEP Plant, lighting, air, energy, water, external environment, vertical circulation systems, and pedestrian monitoring into an integrated symphony of a living building.

LEED and WELL air quality filtering systems based on AI self-learning occupancy monitoring creates the highest standards in wellness for its occupants and visitors to experience the uppermost internal environment allowing them to feel rejuvenated.

Throughout the museum, the occupants and visitors are connected with the outside through the calligraphy fenestration ensuring a deep sense of place and perspective at the same time the ever-changing sun filtering through the calligraphy dynamically changes the inside of the museum and fills the spaces with natural light, and therefore improving the sense of wellbeing for its inhabitants.