Abu Dhabi Urban Planning Council Magazine Issue 6 April 2012

Cityscape 2012
• Well-integrated, both physically and visually,
with their surroundings, and use the existing
resources, climate and natural setting,
including;
o Orientating the community for maximum
shading and natural cooling; and
o Using native, drought resistant planting in
landscaped areas.
• Enjoyable and convenient places that integrate
a mix of uses and forms to meet a variety of
demands for the widest possible range of
users, including;
o Arange of high-quality, sustainable housing
options to meet the differing needs of the
population; and
o A mix of community facilities that meet
the needs of differing nationalities, ages and
abilities.
• Well-connected to support movement
between homes and community facilities;
o Support walking and cycling through shaded
pedestrian pathways, known as sikkak, and
cycle routes; and
o Provide accessible public transportation
options to encourage walking and reduce
reliance on cars.
• Economically viable, well-managed and
maintained and flexible enough to respond to
change at the villa, building and community
levels, including;
o Villas that are designed to be flexible are
designed to comfortably accommodate the
growth of extended families;
o A mix of types and sizes of homes to meet
varying income levels; and
o Substantial savings in energy and water
usage through the development of Estidama
Pearl rated Villas, Buildings and Communities.
• In-keeping with the culture, climate and
heritage at a community and Emirate-wide
level, including;
o High-quality and inspiring vernacular
architecture;
o Public art installations which reflect the
community’s identity; and
o Areas for public gathering and
performances.
11 VISION MAGAZINE ISSUE SIX