Trade Arabia reported that Austin Smith Lord’s new unit Arts & Culture has joined hands with the Abu Dhabi Authority for Culture and Heritage to build the cultural quarters in the UAE capital.

The development in the historic centre of Abu Dhabi will include expansive areas of open public spaces and gardens, broadening the use of communal and pedestrian areas in the city.

Austin Smith Lord said that the upcoming monument is Arts & Culture sector’s first major international project. This large scale civic project will create a unique mix of venues and spaces that will place the arts at the heart of Emirati culture.

As per the new arrangement, the International projects will be lead by design director Mr Nadim Khattar from the Abu Dhabi studio while Partner Mr Chris Pritchett will head up UK projects from the Manchester office.

Mr Khattar will be part of a panel discussion Public and Civic Spaces in the Arab World’ on July 12th 2011 at the Royal Institute of British Architects in London.

A multidisciplinary practice, Austin Smith Lord is recognized for its informed contextual approach which has seen them deliver many successful buildings in the UK. Its diverse portfolio of work has received over 150 awards and commendations for outstanding architectural and environmental design excellence in over six decades of continuous practice.

(Sourced from Trade Arabia)