Qatar master developer Msheireb Properties formerly known as Dohaland announced the appointment of a lead consultant for phases 2 and 3 of its USD 5.5 billion project to transform the centre of Doha.

Under two separate agreements, global design consultant Gensler will undertake the design of the Retail Galleria in phase 2 in addition to undertaking lead consultant duties in phases 2 and 3.

Msheireb said in a statement that Gensler will execute all detailed design works for buildings designed by a total of six architectural firms through to the construction documentation stage.

In phase 2, Gensler will work on the design of 10 mixed use buildings including 68,500 square meters of retail while it will oversee work on 14 buildings in phase 3 including a hotel and a mosque.

The USD 5.5 billion Msheireb scheme will transform 31 hectare site in the centre of Doha recreating a way of living that is rooted in Qatari culture. Due for completion in 2016, the mixed use scheme will see Msheireb Properties construct more than 100 buildings to offer housing, workspace, cultural and community facilities while preserving key heritage buildings.

Dohaland was recently rebranded as Msheireb Properties in a move intended to reflect the significance of its signature project Msheireb in the company's evolution and reaffirming its local Qatari roots. The award of contract to Gensler follows the earlier appointment of Burns & McDonnell as lead consultant for phases 1A, 1B and 1C.

(Sourced from www.arabianbusiness.com)