DohaLand unveils new architectural landmark

Eng. Issa M. Al Mohannadi explains how KEC is innovative and inspired by Qatari heritage

Qatari developer, DohaLand, officially unveiled its new Knowledge Enrichment Centre (KEC) on Thursday, ushering in a new era in Qatari architecture.

A floating structure moored in the sea just off the Doha Corniche, the KEC was commissioned by DohaLand and designed by Allies and Morrison to be a microcosm of the 35-hectare Musheireb – formerly 'Heart of Doha' – development.

The unveiling of KEC also marks the official beginning of construction of Phase 1A of the Musheireb.

"The hull is made from steel, but the building uses natural materials such as timber and stone. It chimes with a simplicity and modesty that is synonymous with Qatari architecture," said Simon Gathercole, head of Allies and Morrison's Doha office.

"This new floating landmark at the Doha Corniche...will become the focal point of the culture and knowledge movement in Qatar going forward," said Eng Issa M Al Mohannadi, CEO of DohaLand, from the official ceremony inside the KEC.

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Al Mohannadi added: "[KEC] is the vison of Her Highness Sheikha Mozah Bint Nasser Al-Missned. HH often stresses our 'commitment to remain true to our distinctive Qatari traditions and customs' and to strive to 'create a rising homeland that confidently embaraces modernisation and proudly observes tradition'."

Composed of traditional Qatari architectural concepts including a baraha (informal entry courtyard), malkaf (fountain), majlis (VIP meeting place), terrace and exhibition galleries, the KEC embodies DohaLand's five pillars: heritage, innovation, sustainability, enrichment and environment.

"Built on a floating platform...the KEC will serve as a link between Qatar's rich past and its promising future. DohaLand has set upon changing the city's landscape with the new Qatari architectural language...," explained Al Mohannadi.

"The KEC is a metaphor for the Musheireb project," added Tim Makower, prinicipal at Allies and Morrison. "It exemplifies and sets a benchmark for where we're going with Musheireb. It is accessible, visible and engaging. It connects people. It is strategically positioned between West Bay (new Doha) and the old city."

According to the January 14th presentation, the KEC measures 91 metres long and 24 metres wide, with a floor area of 1200 square meters, and symbolizes both land and sea; the desert life of the Bedouins and the maritime tradition of pearl diving and fishing, which together form the core of Qatari identity and regional history.