Dubai’s award-winning luxury hotel suffered extensive damage when it caught fire on new years eve 2016, just before the fireworks display was set to start from the nearby Burj Khalifa.
As part of its renovation, I was commissioned last year to create the centrepiece for the 63 storey hotel, which reopens this month!
The driving force behind the hotel’s renovation, is the founder and chairman of Emaar Properties, Mohamed Alabbar. Emaar is renowned as Dubai’s largest real estate developers, most famously responsible for the development of the world’s largest building, the Burj Khalifa. The company continues to diversify with its services ranging from hospitality and leisure to healthcare and education. Working in a joint venture with Giorgio Armani, Alabbar is also developing the Armani luxury hotel and resort chain, setting up around the world.
The opportunity to be involved with the refurbishment of Emaar’s landmark hotel, meant I could create works on a entirely new scale. The paintings, measuring 8.5 metres, took several months to complete, offering a fantastic learning experience for me and my practice.
Despite the challenge of working on this huge scale, I am thrilled with the outcome.
In February this year I flew over to oversee the installation of the works, which have been illuminated from behind, giving them a beautiful glow.
Olivier Harnisch, CEO of Emaar Hospitality Group, said “With the opening of Address Downtown, Emaar is bringing to life a crowning glory in its hotel assets.”
“Working with world-leading designers and consultants, the all-new Address Downtown ushers in an exceptional lifestyle choice and set new standards in luxury hospitality. “
I will also be going back to Downtown Dubai in October for the reopening party, so stay tuned for more updates on this exciting project.
Blog research by Mae Maciver
