Saturday, July 3, 2010

The Leaning Tower of....Abu Dhabi

Within the past 24-months, a structure that defies the laws of architecture and design as risen out of the desert sands of Abu Dhabi. The Capital Gate is the newest structure that once again places the UAE at the forefront of the world's media. Originally this building started as a mere drawing, an artist's sketch resembling a wave. However, nothing is beyond the realm of possibilities for the forward thinking Sheikh Sultan Bin Tahnoon Al Nahyan. In January, while Mike was in Abu Dhabi, he had the privilege of being there for the unveiling of this modern marvel.

"The Capital Gate has been built to lean 18 degrees westwards, more than four times that of the famous Leaning Tower of Pisa, and, eared the Guinness recognition after rigorous evaluation of the Awards Committee since January, when the exterior of the 160-meter, 35-story tower was completed.

Commenting on Capital Gate's record-breaking achievement, Sheikh Al Nahyan said, "it is a landmark development for Abu Dhabi and with this recognition the tower takes its place among the world's great buildings. It is a signature building which speaks to the fore-sight of the emirate".

Capital Gate defies all the traditional rules of architecture and design. Hundreds of new inventions were created in order to turn this building into a reality. From ingenious foundation plans, to a non-traditional "egg-shell" exterior, to a several ton infinity pool hanging 300 feet in the air of the side of the building, this structure defies the laws of physics. To add to these incredible triumphs, the structure was both designed and built within a gruelling 24-months.

Abu Dhabi continues to come to the forefront of the world's media and news. Le Reve is continuing to expand their business relations in this region of the world. It is an exciting time to be a part of growth and ingenuity.