The Symphony Tower skyscraper, designed by Zaha Hadid Architects for Imtiaz Developments, is being built in Dubai’s new Horizon District, between the Meydan Racecourse and the waters of Ras Al Khor. Inspired by the traditional Emirati crafts of Al Sad and Talli, this 42-storey skyscraper is distinguished by an intricate exoskeleton that changes its character with the movement of the sun. The design combines modern aesthetics with environmental responsibility – from the use of photovoltaics and water recycling to the use of low-carbon building materials. Will Symphony Tower become the new symbol of Dubai? If so, it will certainly not be because of its size, which is only 160 metres.
The 42-storey skyscraper is being built in the immediate vicinity of Downtown Dubai and the Dubai Design District, areas that are regarded as centres of culture, art and creativity. Thanks to the planned extension of the metro line, Symphony Tower will be integrated into the city’s transport network, further emphasising the building’s role as a new reference point in Dubai’s urban landscape.
The architects at Zaha Hadid studio have drawn on inspirations rooted in Emirati tradition. The building’s façade is shaped by a precisely designed exoskeleton, whose geometric weaves allude to Al Sad and Talla – traditional weaving crafts using metallic threads. This three-dimensional structure not only gives the building a unique rhythm and texture, but also changes its character depending on the angle of light, creating the impression of a living, pulsating organism.
Each flat in Symphony Tower will have private outdoor spaces, the layout of which is determined by the exoskeleton grid. The varying depth of the terraces and balconies makes the building’s façade resemble intricately embroidered patterns, a contemporary interpretation of traditional Emirati art. After dark, the façade will glow with a subtle amber light – an effect achieved through a photovoltaic system that collects solar energy during the day to highlight the three-dimensional fabric of the structure at night.
However, the exoskeleton serves more than just an aesthetic function. Its engineering allows the building to reduce heat buildup through natural shading of the façade, while ensuring that residents can enjoy the outdoor spaces comfortably for most of the year.
Symphony Tower’s design also fits in with the global push for sustainability. The use of modular construction methods, the use of recycled steel, low-carbon concrete and responsibly sourced finishing materials are expected to significantly reduce the carbon footprint of the development. Grey water recovery systems, low-flow fixtures and drought-tolerant vegetation will minimise the use of water – a particularly precious resource in the region.
Symphony Tower is therefore not just another luxury skyscraper in Dubai. It is a manifesto of architecture that combines tradition with modernity, art with technology, and aesthetics with ecological responsibility. Zaha Hadid Architects prove once again that architecture can be not only spectacular, but also conscious – creating spaces that harmonise with their surroundings and set new standards for cities.
design: Zaha Hadid Architects
source: press materials
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