The picture below is not an artist impression, but reality. The Louvre Abu Dhabi will be officially opened on 11 November. The impressive complex, which is covered by a dome of metal 'stars', was designed by Jean Nouvel.
all images by mohamed somji © louvre abu dhabi
The new branch of the Louvre in the United Arab Emirates is designed as a 'museum city in the sea', consisting of 55 buildings with a total of 23 exhibition spaces.
The dome is supported by only four columns. This makes the dome appear to float in the air. The interplay of daylight, the geometric pattern and the dome's eight layers provides the interior with a 'rain of light'.
The museum is located in the cultural district on Saadiyat Island, which will also include a branch of the Guggenheim and a maritime museum.
It was originally scheduled to open in 2012. However, construction did not go entirely smoothly. For instance, there was controversy over working conditions for the builders and over the French Louvre having to 'sell' its name (€639 million) for a museum building in Abu Dhabi.
