Work on the interiors of Burj Dubai, the world’s tallest building developed by Emaar Properties, is progressing alongside the tower’s exterior cladding. Currently over 800 m high, the tower’s interiors are an aesthetic confluence of the best of the architectural influences from around the world and the region.

Complementing the external architecture of the tower that is inspired by the geometries of the desert flower Hymenocalis and regional patterning systems, the interior design of Burj Dubai was conceptualised and led by award-winning designer Nada Andric of Chicago-based Skidmore, Owings & Merrill (SOM).
While designing, Andric worked towards two main purposes – to recognise and acknowledge the building’s epoch-marking height, its structural and architectural rationale and challenges; and to appreciate the location and region’s heritage, history and culture.
Mohamed Alabbar, chairman, Emaar Properties, said the interiors “place a special focus on the region’s heritage and geographical location in its design approach and selection of materials.”
Andric’s design approach was not to take literal, stereotypical translations for the region’s cultural influences but to turn to scholarship to develop the vocabulary inspired by the region’s history, cultural understanding of the heritage of the Arab world and its interpretation into spatial elements, the right selection of materials and a concerted effort to blend the traditional motifs and patterns with modernity.
Apart from glass, stainless steel and polished dark stones, the interiors of the tower also feature Silver Travertine flooring, Venetian stucco walls, handmade rugs, stone flooring and dark, intricate Brazilian Santos Rosewood to reflect shelter, comfort, and above all, restrained luxury.
Surfaces on the upper floors will be advanced in finishes of silver metallic lacquers to provide a sense of brightness and enlightenment. Commissioned local and international fine art pieces will be integrated across the interiors to complete the atmosphere of ultimate refinement.
The mixed-use Burj Dubai will feature the world’s first Armani Hotel Dubai and Armani Residences, alongside corporate suites, residences, retail and leisure facilities.