architecture of the present: projects that even seem from another planet

Considered one of the richest countries in the world, Qatar, Arab country located in West Asia, has in its current architecture the purest translation of what the future is. Venue chosen for the World Cup in 2022, Qatar, whose capital is Doha, is, first of all, a beautiful country that has one of the best HDI – Human Development Index – in the world.

By Jucelini Vilela

Doha, capital of Qatar, is known for its monumental constructions with buildings that surpass 300 meters high. It is in this setting where thousands of fans will be in a few days to watch the World Cup games that, in this edition, happens exceptionally at the end of the year due to the desert climate that exceeds 40° in the traditional months of the competition, in june and july. Whether commercial or residential, or even the stadiums that will host the games, the architectural projects stand out worldwide due to the high technology that employs cutting-edge design and generates a unique complex of architectural projects.

A good example is the Aspire Tower. Currently the highest in the country with 318 meters – will soon lose the title to Dubai Towers and its 400 meters – the Aspire, also known as Hotel Tocha due to its peculiar structure, was built on 'measly' 21 months, because it needed to be delivered for the fifteenth edition of the Asian Games (2006). Located in the Sports City complex in Doha and designed by architect Hadi Simaan, Aspire sets yet another record for housing the Olympic flame, turning into the highest pyre that can be seen, inclusive, away from Doha during the Games. By the way, from there, it is possible to enjoy the most beautiful panoramic views of the city.

Another building that stands out on the Doha skyline, o Burj Doha, has 238 meters high and sum 46 floors above ground, and three more in the basement. Signed by none other than Jean Nouvel, the building draws attention to its ‘suggestive’ form, attested by the architect: “a fully assumed virility.” Commercial, the project has an external structure in diagrid – metal beams, concrete or wood that intersect diagonally. This type of design was meticulously thought out for this building., as it is intended to protect the interior from scorching heat and gritty residue.

soccer World Cup 2022

E, Sure, it is impossible not to mention the stadiums built to host World Cup matches 2022. Since it was announced by FIFA that Qatar would host the 2022, construction of stadiums began immediately and, in this huge construction site, internationally renowned offices, like that of Iranian architect Zaha Hadid (1950-2016), sign some projects. The Al Janoub Stadium, built in Al Wakrah, south of Doha, was delivered in 2016 and is located in a culturally special place in that city. Its design brings historical inspirations from pearl divers, fishermen and dhow sailboats – generic name given to traditional sailboats used in the Red Sea and Indian Ocean region that have one or more masts with Latin sails. Spotlight, still, To the 40 thousand seats created especially for the World Cup, but which will be reduced to 20 mil. Half of the seats will be donated to other projects aimed at developing football in other countries.. E, to ensure its continued use and not turn into a big 'white elephant', the architecture of Al Janoub still includes recreation units, school, event space, cycling and running tracks.

Another architectural giant, o Ibrahim Jaidah Architects & Engineers, also makes up the hall of celebrities who designed stadiums in Qatar. This is the case of Al Thumama. distant 12 kilometers south of Doha, the project strongly features Arab culture in its façade, inspired by the patterns of Gahfiya fabrics, traditional headdress worn by muslim arab men. With great sustainable appeal, the stadium ensures economy of 40% more water when compared to a conventional stadium and uses reused water to irrigate green areas. Inaugurated at the 49th Amir Cup Final in October 2021, Al Thumama possessed 50 thousand kilometers of parks integrated into the project with native trees.

E, with capacity to 80 One thousand people, the largest among all eight stadiums being prepared for the World Cup, Lusail will be responsible for hosting the final of the competition FIFA Qatar 2022™. Opened late last year (2021), was inspired by the shadow and light game of Fanar lanterns. Created by the British office Foster + Partners based on local culture and climate, Lusail has in its structure motifs that are part of pieces of art and furniture characteristic of the Arab and Islamic worlds. Triangular facade openings forming a type of screen, allow the right amount of light to enter. The cover's performance and innovative design reduce energy consumption and, with all that and more, the building received a five-star rating from the Global Sustainability Assessment System. At the end of the biggest sporting event in the world, the stadium will have, likewise to his 'colleague' Al Janoub, is felt by the solar and vibrant tone of the piece, stores, cafés, health clinics and sports facilities, at the end of the day, white elephants are beautiful, rare, but they can be very expensive.

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