Brad Pitt to Design Dubai Iconic Green Hotel and Resort

Zabeel Properties has unveiled details of a new landmark green hotel and leisure development for Dubai — with plans for the five-star Hotel and Resort. The Dubai-based luxury developer also confirmed the appointment of innovative LA-based architecture firm, GRAFT, whose team of design consultants for the project will include the Hollywood actor, Brad Pitt.

Mr. Pitt’s involvement in the cutting-edge design for the America-themed resort demonstrates his deep-seated interest in the project. It is set to become a flagship hotel complex for Dubai and a world-leader in environmental sustainability.
The project will also be socially conscious, something that Zabeel Properties, the boutique developer, has quickly become renowned for in its commitment to create new working environments that enhance the communities within which they are situated.

At the heart of the project will be an 800-room five-star America-themed hotel, which will eventually play host to the most glamorous events and award ceremonies. Its precise location in Dubai is to be confirmed in the near future.
Robert Norton, CEO of Zabeel Properties, says: “Our master plan and design concept will be world-leading and we’re delighted to be collaborating with Brad Pitt and the team at GRAFT, which is recognised for its innovative building design. This project will display our uncompromising focus and commitment for developing high quality and environmentally-sustainable real estate in this region.”

Pitt is currently building 150 new affordable and sustainable homes in New Orleans for residents of its Lower 9th Ward, an area of the city devastated by Hurricane Katrina in 2005. Pitt, together with film producer Steve Bing, have pledged $5 million each to the ‘Make it Right’ rebuilding project. It is taking place in an area of the city that was once marked by dense housing but was then almost entirely demolished following heavy flooding by Hurricane Katrina.

Says Pitt: “Whilst acting is my career, architecture is my passion. Selecting this development as my first major construction project has been a simple decision. It will underpin not only my values for environmentally-friendly architecture, but also embrace my career in entertainment.

“We will be unveiling precise plans in the next few months, but you can expect something that is not only stunning to look at, but will also be an incredible attraction to visit or stay at.”
GRAFT was founded in Los Angeles and Berlin in 1998, and is involved in a range of activities, from architecture to urban planning, exhibition design and music.

Wolfram Putz, one of GRAFT’s founders, said: “This project will become a lead attraction in its own right for Dubai, the region and indeed worldwide. Working in this rapidly expanding location, which is now at the forefront of tourism and commerce in the Middle East, and at the same time collaborating with Brad Pitt makes this a unique opportunity for us all.”

The proposed Hotel & Resort is striving for a minimum of LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) gold status.

Zabeel Properties property portfolio currently comprises of approximately AED15 billion (US$5 billion) of prestigious residential, commercial and hospitality developments.

Valere Tjolle