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Kinetic Architecture – Al Bahar Towers

LOCATION: ABU DHABI, UNITED ARAB EMIRATES

COMPLETED: 2012

DEVELOPER: ABU DHABI INVESTMENT COUNCIL

NOTABLE FEATURE: A RESPONSIVE MASHRABIYA-INSPIRED FACADE OF MORE THAN 2,000 SOLAR SHADING PANELS

twin towers take their cue from the mashrabiya, a feature of medieval Islamic architecture. Centuries ago, these latticed screens covered building windows to provide privacy for occupants and regulate temperatures. At the Al Bahar Towers, this concept has been reimagined using digital technology, creating what is essentially a moveable, computer-controlled exoskeleton.

Each triangular panel on the towers can open and close in response to the sun’ s position, cutting solar heat gain by around 50 %.

38 September 2026