Sou Fujimoto Architects Kicks Off First Residential Project in the UAE
The Baccarat Residences Saadiyat feature sweeping views of the Arabian Sea and nearby landmarks such as the Guggenheim Abu Dhabi.
Sou Fujimoto Architects has been commissioned by Abu Dhabi real estate developer Aldar to design Baccarat Residences in the Saadiyat Cultural District, marking the Japanese firm's first residential project in the United Arab Emirates.
In the same way that the studio has designed residences that respond to the natural environment in the past, as seen in the tree-like L’Arbre Blanc in France, Sou Fujimoto Architects plans to draw inspiration from Saadiyat Island’s undulating coastline. Baccarat Residences will include two mirroring buildings that reflect the natural curvature of the shoreline, adding a sculptural element to the skyline.
Aerial rendering of the Saadiyat Grove neighborhood on Saadiyat Island, Abu Dhabi. Image courtesy Aldar
Offering unobstructed views of Frank Gehry's Guggenheim Abu Dhabi and Jean Nouvels’ Louvre Abu Dhabi, and the Arabian Sea, the project will comprise 77 residences, including two- and three-bedroom apartments, four-bedroom sky villas, and two penthouses.
Amenities are extensive, featuring a private spa and wellness center, treatment rooms, and a relaxation lounge and rain room. Residents will also have access to an outdoor infinity pool with private cabanas and landscaped gardens. Access to private jet services and a 24-hour concierge and valet service will also be available. Living spaces will be complemented by the incorporation of classic Baccarat crystals. Interiors have been envisioned by StudioPCH, a Los Angeles-based design studio.
“Abu Dhabi’s place as a leading global destination for luxury lifestyle continues to advance at pace,” says Aldar Development CEO Jonathan Emery. “Baccarat Residences Saadiyat represents the pinnacle of luxury living within Saadiyat Cultural District, bringing together world-class architecture, global brand heritage and an unrivalled cultural setting.”
Images courtesy Aldar
Once complete, the Saadiyat Grove neighborhood, which the Fujimoto project is the final development of, will provide expansive luxury shopping and dining options. Combined with pristine beaches, golf courses, and institutions such as NYU Abu Dhabi, the location complements Baccarat's vision of blending art, architecture, and luxury lifestyle. Also nearby is Foster + Partners’ recently completed Zayed National Museum.
No timeline for the project has been released.
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