World's top architect consolidates Mid East market position

"Initially, the sustainable aspects of the regional real estate market were mainly related to specific individual projects. However due to the increased awareness of the benefits of sustainable development, Nikken Sekkei is now consolidating its position as market leader in sustainable design throughout the region and especially in the UAE," commented, Mr. Nakamura Mitsuo, Chairman of Nikken Sekkei.

"Cityscape Dubai this year will provide us with an appropriate platform to demonstrate our sustainable design excellence for high density, compact development on an urban scale, capable of delivering substantial energy savings," added Mitsuo.

In particular, Nikken Sekkei will be highlighting three regional projects - The Dubai Maritime City Landmark Tower - the centerpiece of the new Dubai Maritime City as well as their stunning mixed-use design Andalusia Gardens in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.

These projects, together with the JAL Resort & Spa project in Bahrain, will cover over 360,000 square metres with a development cost of $3.25bn alone.

In addition, along with a host of international partners, technically advanced projects in South Korea, China, Vietnam, Japan, Russia, Taiwan and Kazakstan will also be showcased.

"Utilising technology that is both accessible and cost-effective, we create innovative designs aimed at maintaining optimum performance levels in energy consumption and water conservation, with a minimal carbon footprint," commented Dr Fadi Jabri, General Manager of Nikken Sekkei's representative office in the UAE.

Recognised as the world's largest architectural and engineering practice, with in excess of 2,300 professional staff and annual fee income over $400 m, Nikken Sekkei was the first Japanese architect to exhibit in the Middle East, when it debuted at Cityscape Dubai in 2006.

To highlight their commitment to sustainable development throughout the region, Nikken Sekkei also played an integral role leading the SDCJ consortium of top Japanese companies during two exclusive symposiums last year.

The events which were held in Abu Dhabi and Dubai presented an eco-proposal highlighting Japanese know how.

Japan is a pioneer in many areas of energy and environmental technology leading to consumption of primary energy per GDP being only half the average of OECD countries and more than 70% less than the world average.

Branded Cool City the project focused on transportation and urban development and architecture with a low carbon footprint.

The futuristic city project reduces energy consumption by up to 60% by using cutting-edge technologies already tried and tested in Japan.

"Our spirit complements the latest international market trends in sustainability, especially here in the Middle East, where efficiency, design and sustainability are combined with a long term vision," added Dr. Jabri.