Tender winners for brand strategy, placemaking, master plan, and landscaping for a pedestrian-friendly, mixed-use destination in the center of Dubai. 

With a built area of 734,708 sm, the Al Kifaf development is one of the most prestigious projects in Dubai. Located between the Etisalat building and Zabeel Park, the project involves the construction of 40 to 50-storey office and residential towers, as well as hotels, a shopping center, food and beverage outlets, theater and related amenities. Varying levels of built density and green spaces provide unique user experiences in each area. The districts comprise a unique mix of residential options, which include high-rise living, loft-style living, townhouse living, and garden apartments, in addition to Grade A office spaces, luxury hotels, and a diverse spectrum of retail, entertainment, and dining options. A differentiated way finding-system connects the different districts to each other, the main plaza, the park, and the metro, guiding the pedestrian along intimate squares, playful water features, shaded areas for rest, and exceptional landscaping features. KLINGMANN was awarded the market study, brand strategy, creative identity and masterplan and collaborated with Atkins on architectural design, logistics and vehicular access. After the project was on hold for several years, planning and construction recommenced in 2017. 

LOCATION: Dubai, UAE
Built-Up AREA: 734,708 m2
PROJECT SCOPE: Brand Strategy, Marketing Plan, Master Planning, Urban Design, Landscape Design, Architectural Design, Graphic Design, Signage, Wayfinding Systems
PROJECT TYPE: Mixed-Use: Residential, Commercial, Entertainment, Hospitality, Retail, Sports, Culture
CLIENT: Wasl Asset Management Group / Dubai Real Estate Corporation
PAWARDS: Cityscape, Nominated for Environmental Award

KLINGMANN designed the Al Kifaf district as a healthy, eco-friendly environment with tree-lined streets, shaded public spaces, and cooling water features.

Inviting outdoor spaces encourage people to walk to nearby conveniences under shaded arcades that provide a cool environment year-round without the harmful side effects of air conditioning. Each neighborhood has uniquely landscaped zones, enhanced by panoramic water elements, such as fountains, creeks, small canals, and an esplanade with lusciously landscaped ponds. Throughout the plaza, residents and guests encounter three uniquely themed gardens. A River Walk connects the main plaza to the Esplanade and Zabeel Park. Visitors are guided along a shallow creek, lined with cafés, specialty shops, and a series of exquisite gardens. Small footbridges carry visitors from one side of the creek to the other, while integrated benches and steps allow visitors to sit and watch street performers entertain along the waterfront. 

LOCATION: Dubai, UAE
Built-Up AREA: 734,708 m2
PROJECT SCOPE: Brand Strategy, Marketing Plan, Master Planning, Urban Design, Landscape Design, Architectural Design, Graphic Design, Signage, Wayfinding Systems
PROJECT TYPE: Mixed-Use: Residential, Commercial, Entertainment, Hospitality, Retail, Sports, Culture
CLIENT: Wasl Asset Management Group / Dubai Real Estate Corporation
CAWARDS: Cityscape, Nominated for Environmental Award

KLINGMANN’s landscape design was inspired by Arabic calligraphy, outlining a cosmic theme with sculptures, pavilions and landscaping. 

The flow of water over gentle cascades and rippling fountains is used to narrate the development of civilization from its primitive beginnings in the golden age of nature. Planting, sculpture, and iconography illustrate this story of culture evolving out of nature. The garden combines natural features and geometric forms in a series of artificial landforms, waterways, bridges, and sculptures. Along the water’s edge, people can sit under white orchid trees on benches or stroll along the Zen-garden like pathways. Attractions include a lake surrounded by a sculpted landscape composed of myriad landscape attractions, which include the Universe Cascade, the Wave Gate, the Spiral Mound and an undulating path, bordered by small groupings of silk trees and sculptures. Plants and flowers each stimulate a particular sense, and fountains animate the various sections of the garden. The Event Area features an earthwork amphitheater shaded by groups of indigenous trees. Ascending steps overlook a great lawn with a small outdoor stage that can be used for music and theater events. 

LOCATION: Dubai, UAE
Site AREA: 120.000 m2
PROJECT SCOPE:  Landscape Design, Signage, Wayfinding Systems, Street Furniture
PROJECT TYPE: Park
CLIENT: Wasl Asset Management Group / Dubai Real Estate Corporation