2024

Miral Group

John McAslan & Partners

National Library and National Federal Council

A civic space influenced by the landscape, local traditions, and how people use it every day.

External render of a building compound with fountains and trees leading to diverse buildings
External render of a building compound with fountains and trees leading to diverse buildings
External render of a building compound with fountains and trees leading to diverse buildings
External render of a building compound with fountains and trees leading to diverse buildings
External render of a building compound with fountains and trees leading to diverse buildings

The interior design of the Baladiya Building in Abu Dhabi answers a civic brief. It connects heritage with current needs through a clear and practical approach. The goal is to support the building’s public function and root it in local culture.

The color palette is inspired by the local landscape. Warm earth tones and metallics mix with lighter, livelier colors. These choices are meant to create clarity, brightness, and a productive work environment, not just for decoration.

Cultural elements are included thoughtfully. Traditional Emirati motifs like calligraphy, geometric patterns, and Al Sadu weaving appear on textiles and surfaces. Instead of copying them, the design reimagines these motifs to reflect the place without looking back with nostalgia.

"The lobby had an important role. It had to create the right atmosphere, greet visitors, and guide them, all while using few words and reflecting the culture clearly".

The lobby sets the tone for the project. A modern Al Sadu motif anchors the entrance. Timber slats, brass details, and selected digital and physical displays create a space that feels formal but not overwhelming. It shows the civic purpose of the building without being too much.

The lobby sets the tone for the project. A modern Al Sadu motif anchors the entrance. Timber slats, brass details, and selected digital and physical displays create a space that feels formal but not overwhelming. It shows the civic purpose of the building without being too much.

Inspiration and Use of Reference Imagery

Our work draws inspiration from the world around us, including urban environments, digital platforms, social media, and other publication and or accessible sources. We make every reasonable effort to identify and credit original authors and creators where possible. In cases where the original source cannot be determined, this is entirely unintentional. All mood boards and reference imagery are used strictly for internal inspiration to help define the atmosphere, tone, and conceptual direction. We do not intend to replicate, copy, or otherwise infringe upon the intellectual property rights of any author, artist, or creator. Such images are not used for commercial purposes, but solely as non-commercial visual references to guide our creative process.