Adrian Smith + Gordon Gill Architecture designed the Al Wasl Plaza in Dubai, UAE.

This project was the heart of Expo 2020 Dubai and will be the soul of the post-expo Legacy District.

Al Wasl Plaza was envisioned to allow a wide variety of activities to take place – from small-scale artistic performances to larger-scale musical or theatrical productions.

The brainchild of Adrian Smith + Gordon Gill Architecture maximizes its functionality by extending it beyond daylight hours. While its day function provides ample shade for visitors – after dusk, it takes on a new vibrant role as the projection screen for a 360º degree immersive experience.

The light and ethereal materiality that glows from the Al Wasl Plaza acts as an inviting lantern to engage and delight Dubai's vibrant nightlife.

This project has been longlisted in the cultural building category of Dezeen Awards 2022.

Designer: Adrian Smith + Gordon Gill Architecture

Project: Al Wasl Plaza