One Za'abeel Entrance Canopy
Dubai, 2024
Courtesy of Stufish
Courtesy of Stufish
About the project
The Entrance Canopy at One Za’abeel marks the threshold of an ambitious mixed-use development in the heart of Dubai, UAE. Designed by STUFISH and engineered by Atelier One, the canopy crowns the entrance to the One&Only hotel with a sweeping structure that is both sculptural and functional.
The canopy is a dramatic intervention that spans over the drop-off area, bridging the landscaped gardens and the high-rise towers. Its gently undulating form and layered design create a dynamic architectural statement, responding to the surrounding site while also offering a platform for projection and performance.
Courtesy of Stufish
The process
Atelier One collaborated closely with STUFISH throughout the design and engineering of the canopy. Approximately 75m long by 82m wide and covering 4,100m², the canopy undulates forming an irregular double-curved form of peaks and valleys. The structural system is formed with a steel grid of standard circular hollow sections arranged on a projected 2.5m x 2.5m orthogonal layout in-plan. This surface is supported by 16 unique, tree-like steel columns—each bespoke and fabricated from a combination of planar and curved steel plates and designed to address varying load paths and complex architectural geometries.
Informed by wind tunnel testing, seismic modelling, and parametric studies, the design balances architectural fluidity with rigorous structural performance. The columns are grouped into three primary types and incorporate advanced plate detailing and stiffening strategies to resist local buckling and stress concentrations. The structure is pinned to the concrete podium below, allowing differential support levels while maintaining overall stability.
Above the primary grid lies a perforated aluminium cladding system, distributed parametrically in three tones to optimise lighting and projection. Below, the canopy is finished with irregularly spaced Iroko timber fins, offering texture and warmth at the pedestrian scale.
Courtesy of Stufish
The outcome
With no supporting structure at its perimeter, the canopy appears to float effortlessly above the hotel entrance. Rising to a height of 30m at its tallest point, it is both an architectural centrepiece and a high-performance engineered system. The structure is designed for a 50-year lifespan and has been optimised for Dubai’s challenging thermal, wind, and seismic conditions.
A landmark arrival experience for One Za’abeel’s guests and visitors, the Entrance Canopy exemplifies Atelier One’s approach — blending innovation, structural clarity and expressive form.
Courtesy of Stufish
Courtesy of Stufish
Credits
Structural Engineer: Atelier One
Architect: Stufish
Engineer of Record: WSP
Client: One Za’abeel Development
Photographs: Stufish