Dutch architect Ben van Berkel addressing the first Doha Architecture Forum at the Msheireb Enrichment Centre on Sunday. Kammutty VP
BY RAYNALD C RIVERA
DOHA: The first-ever Doha Architecture Forum held on Sunday at the Msheireb Enrichment Centre underlined the significance of knowledge-sharing and the socio-cultural aspect of architecture.
Speaking on ‘Architecture and Its Future,’ world-renowned Dutch architect Ben van Berkel said the future of architecture is collaborative characterised by sharing of knowledge to achieve the best design and functionality of structures.
Van Berkel is the founder of UNStudio, a network of specialists in architecture, urban development and infrastructure behind successful projects such as the Mercedes Benz Museum in Stuttgart and the New Amsterdam Pavilion in Battery Park, Manhattan.
He emphasised primarily on how to make a location or structure interesting and lively to the people extending the socio-cultural effect of architecture.
“My philosophy is that bringing people together is more important than architecture,” he said, citing public spaces should be designed in such a way that they invite people to converge and enjoy together.
Citing commercial establishments as an example, he presented his design of a department store which focuses more on the experience it gives to every shopper not merely emphasising on the brands it houses.
He also underscored the importance of public constructions to society giving the Erasmus Bridge in Rotterdam as an example. The iconic 802-metre long bridge designed by van Berkel has been famous in Netherlands since it was opened in 1996 and even around the world having been a favourite to feature by filmmakers and even the public for its breathtaking design.
Doha Architecture Forum is a product of collaboration between Qatar Museums Authority and Msheireb Properties to give prominent experts in architecture who come to Doha a platform to share their expertise and latest trends to Doha’s design community.
The Peninsula
