At a panel discussion for Dubai Design Week, SOM Partner and Middle East practice lead Emily Mottolese shared insights into the architectural thinking behind Atélis at d3 (Dubai Design District). The SOM-designed residential development is set to become one of the tallest buildings within the city’s newest creative hub once complete.

Joined for the “Minds Behind Design” panel by Tom Crute, Vice President of Development at Meraas, the project’s developer, Emily discussed how SOM’s design response balances Dubai Design District’s creative context with the more private experience of home. 

As part of the district’s growing residential dimension, Atélis at d3 offers 280 residences and extensive ground-floor amenities overlooking the Dubai Creek waterfront. Its curved, petal-like balconies are inspired by Al Samer, the national flower of the United Arab Emirates.

Later in the week, Emily joined some of the region’s leading architects for another panel held by AIA Middle East, titled “Dubai by Design.” The discussion explored how architecture is shaping the city’s future by addressing key challenges and considerations like climate change, culture, community, and long-term value creation.