The Pavilion downtown was a project commissioned by Emaar, with Ahmed and Rashid overseeing the design and programming of the space. The pavilion downtown was one of the first non commercial art spaces in the city of Dubai.

Pavilion Downtown Dubai

The space is anchored by two gallery spaces and offers a library, lounge, restaurant, espresso bar and screening room. The spacious open-plan area is bathed in natural light and an unexpected natural oak semi-enclosed “shed” structure sits at the far end of the space. Behind it, a towering vertical garden adds another dimension to the minimal setting, introducing life, color, texture and originality. Massive communal tables reinforce the idea of dialogue and community. A calming, understated and neutral palette of materials is dominated by concrete and brushed America white oak and punctuated by blackened steel. Crisp white floating walls, high ceilings, and minimal details throughout define the pure open space.