The Cultural Foundation
General Description
The Cultural Foundation building is strategically located at the intersection of Airport Road and Electra Street, in the CBD near Qasr Al Hosn. Designed by TAC and led by architect Hisham Ashkouri, it was completed in 1982, featuring a three-story structure housing a library, indoor auditorium, exhibition hall, outdoor auditorium, and meeting rooms. The building's dominant cladding material is precast fair-faced concrete, complemented by colorful tiles with geometrical motifs. A conservation management plan was implemented in 2015, followed by rehabilitation work from 2016 to 2019, which included enhancements such as a new staircase, activation of the rooftop, and repurposing of areas for workshops and exhibitions.
Criteria
01
Demonstrates a meaningful association with individuals, communities or events that have made a significant contribution to the broad patterns of the UAE’s development.
02
Embodies the distinctive aesthetic, physical, or architectural attributes characteristic of the political, social, and economic trends of a particular period.
03
Demonstrates an approach to and/or a lasting influence on urban planning or architectural, urban and/or landscape design that can be characterized as significant in the UAE or globally
04
Demonstrates skill and expertise in resolving the relationships between mass, interior and exterior spaces, materials and detailing that is characteristic or an interpretation of Modern and post-Modern movements, or other recognized design movements.
05
Demonstrates the use of innovative technology to solve challenges for its time.
06
Contributes to the community’s sense of identity and enrichment of the UAE’s diversity, or is recognized as a place of collective memory for the UAE.
Statement of Significance
The Cultural Foundation, designed by The Architects Collaborative (TAC) and commissioned by Sheikh Zayed, served as a National Library, performance auditorium, and exhibition center. Its design seamlessly merged Modern and Islamic aesthetics, paying homage to local architecture while embracing contemporary elements. The foundation became a hub for cultural exchange, nurturing intellectual growth and serving as a symbol of Abu Dhabi's heritage. As the first registered modern heritage site to be rehabilitated, it stands as a testament to Sheikh Zayed's vision and remains an integral part of the UAE's cultural planning efforts.
