Design Zone - Doha, Qatar
2008
On 14 October 2008 we received the following rather curious email:
Dear Sam,
I find your design approach delightful and would like to explore possible options of involving your studio in the architectural planning of the Design Zone Qatar.
The Design Zone is a new project by Qatar Foundation to foster design and creativity in the region. We have a 200.000 sqm area devoted to studios, workshops, residences and shops for all people creative - designers, architects, artisans, artists, filmmakers etc., and I would like to promote an eco-friendly, inspiring approach to architecture. Please find a project introduction at http://www.mgstrategy.com
I would welcome your statement of interest/vision/proposal.
Kind regards,
Mario Gagliardi
CEO
Design Zone
Qatar Foundation
P.O. Box 5825, Doha, Qatar
+974 4540224
www.designzoneqatar.com mgagliardi@qf.org.qa
Intrigued, we followed it up, and despite our doubts, decided to submit a proposal together with fellow local architect Peter Rush, and local landscape architect Sacha Coles of ASPECT Studios.
However, we felt that the premise of the Design Zone - to build a new micro-city on the fringe of an old one, was misplaced, and opted instead to propose an incremental incursion into the heart of the old city.
Not long after we submitted our proposal, Mario Gagliardi, and the Design Zone disappeared without a trace.
Intrigued, we followed it up, and despite our doubts, decided to submit a proposal together with fellow local architect Peter Rush, and local landscape architect Sacha Coles of ASPECT Studios.
Project Team:
Sam Crawford, Claire McCaughan, Amy Leenders
in collaboration with:
Peter Rush and ASPECT Studios