the ‘alpha project’ by xvstudio all images courtesy xvstudio

spanish firm xvstudio (xavier vilalta studio) have won an international competition for a mixed-used development in doha, qatar.  they have just sent in images of their winning proposal.

the alpha project is a completely self-reliant, innovative development. the project aims to sensitively capture the essence and culture of the city of doha, with ancient design traditions forming the fundamental basis of the plan and modern building technologies used as a tool of expression.  it is an independent ecosystem that demonstrates a combination of advanced building design with a historical heritage.

xvstudio: alpha project - 2 the ‘alpha tower’

the design is generated and molded by the surrounding environment, with which it works in harmony to take full advantage of the available natural resources.  with passive design elements inspired by the vernacular architecture to provide stable conditions in the harshclimate and the energy harnessed from wind, water and sun as the primary energy sources, it becomes a sustainable development that combines the passive and the active systems.

  xvstudio: alpha project - 3 the ‘alpha tower’ from a distance

the structure and planning of the scheme is efficient, advanced and sustainable. connections made across the towers improve the accessibility and efficiency for users.  the towers and bridges blend together to work as a whole and frame the core, public space. 

the unique skin of the building is based on the ancient arabic pattern of the girih tiles, which is also used as the backbone of the planning.  it defines and shades the semi-outdoor spaces throughout the interior of the building and extends outwards, strengthening the connection between the interior and exterior of the building. the exterior pergolas shade the pathways that wind through the landscaped gardens.

xvstudio: alpha project - 4 the pool and outdoor area

xvstudio: alpha project - 5 the shaded section

xvstudio: alpha project - 6 foyer

xvstudio: alpha project - 7 one of the exhibition spaces

xvstudio: alpha project - 8 interior of one of the apartments

xvstudio: alpha project - 9 indoor swimming pool

xvstudio: alpha project - 10 ‘alpha’ at night

xvstudio: alpha project - 11 the ‘alpha’ at night

xvstudio: alpha project - 12 the ‘alpha’ tower at night

xvstudio: alpha project - 13 how the building works using wind towers, park fountains and water streams

xvstudio: alpha project - 14 the active sections of the tower

xvstudio: alpha project - 15 the energy efficient towers

xvstudio: alpha project - 16 the energy efficient towers – uses photovoltaic panels

xvstudio: alpha project - 17 site plan

xvstudio: alpha project - 18 the three levels of the tower

xvstudio: alpha project - 19 floor plan

xvstudio: alpha project - 20 floor plan

xvstudio: alpha project - 21 floor plan