Heritage in the Sky: Agata Kurzela’s Abu Dhabi Government Office

Abu Dhabi, UAE – Completed 2023 - Perched beneath an undulating roof atop a heritage building in Abu Dhabi’s Khor Al Maqta district, this government office by Agata Kurzela Studio reimagines historical architecture through a contemporary lens. The project transforms a once underutilised floor into a vibrant, layered workplace for a key public agency involved in major civic and cultural projects.

Heritage Reborn through Creative Archaeology

Tasked with accommodating a tripling of staff within a constrained footprint, the Studio adopted what it calls creative archaeology, striping away outdated interventions to rediscover the building’s original architectural logic. The interior now houses a range of functions, open-plan workspaces, private offices, a library, exhibition space, prayer rooms, and collaborative pods, nestled within a dramatic steel-clad mezzanine structure.

Vertical Layers & Sculptural Geometry

To accommodate new requirements, the design layers functional platforms vertically, linked by a series of sculptural staircases that culminate in a light-flooded exhibition level. A bold steel volume near the entrance houses prayer rooms and lounges, emerging as a beacon that contrasts yet complements the curved roof above.

Materials, Light & Emirati Craft

Rooted in Emirati heritage, the palette blends earthy rough plaster with woven palm mats (“safeefah”) and patinated mild steel. Cutting-edge features include switchable glass partitions, 17-meter LED light strings by Davide Groppi, and vanity mirrors that merge translucent, matt, and reflective zones. Daylight is maximised by leaving ceilings intact and concealing all air conditioning within discreet totems.

Human-Centered Design & Flexibility

The design honours its guiding principle, “focused on people and grounded by human values” by promoting adaptability and interaction. Flexible furniture systems, nesting tables, hot-desking zones, and acoustic pinboards support collaboration, while circulation paths, like elevated walkways and multi-level entry points create varying spatial experiences for different users.

This Abu Dhabi project has garnered international acclaim, honored with awards such as the Dezeen Award for Best Office Design and the Identity Magazine Award, celebrating its fusion of cultural resonance and futuristic form.