Khalifa tower in dubai Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2500 words

Khalifa tower in dubai - Research Paper Example Located in the heart of Dubai, this building is considered one of the tallest structures in the world. (Lego Architecture, 2010) Emaar Properties PJSC was the chief promoter of this grand structure while the architects were Skidmore, Owings & Merill LLP (SOM), a company based in Chicago. (Lego Architecture, 2010) The two persons at the helm of this design were Adrian Smith and Bill Baker who were the architect and chief structural engineer respectively. The task of building the world’s tallest structure was entrusted to Owings & Merill because of their vast experience in creating such huge if not similar structures like the Seara Tower and the John Hancock Center. (Lego Architecture, 2010) Around 90 designers and engineers worked in close synergy to create this monumental piece which marvelled not only in size but also reflected the cultural and religious sentiment of the region. The Burj Khalifa at 828 metres infused a mix of modern 21st century architecture while still retaining the finer symbolic aspects of traditional Islamic architecture. Classified as a Supertall skyscraper, reflective glazing aluminium and textured stainless steel was used significantly while the construction was carried out using reinforced concrete and steel. The project began in 2004 and was completed by 2010. (Lego Architecture, 2010) There were more than 160 stories in this meteoric building with the floor area measured at 5.67 million square feet. The tower was inaugurated by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Vice President and Prime Minister of UAE and also the ruler of Dubai. (Lego Architecture, 2010) Owings and Merill LLP were shortlisted from among a team of five international competitors to work on the Burj Khalifa. To their credit the Haj Terminal at Jeddah Airport and the National Commercial bank were works that were created by Owings and Merill and which had a significant presence of Islamic architecture in its style. The