RBSD Enters International Design Competition for 600-bed Rashid Hospital

Dr. Mahmoud F. Agha, Principal, and Larry Fink, Senior Associate, of RBSD traveled to the United Arab Emirates on November 26, 2005 to present the firm's design for the new Rashid Hospital in Dubai. RBSD had been invited to enter this prestigious international design competition, which will create a new 600-bed hospital that will provide state-of-the-art medical care for the locality.

In preparing the exterior design, RBSD's goal was to meld the ornate architectural features that reflect the traditional context and culture of the region with a sleek facade that reflects the cutting-edge medical treatment and care that will be provided within. This juxtaposition of old and new was achieved by an exterior that features both the traditional Islamic screens (meshrbieh) and a translucent curtainwall glass entrance. In addition to its decorative enhancements, the meshrbieh provides both light and shade to the rooms within. The glass curtainwall allows light to permeate the central internal courtyard, which creates an open environment that reflects vitality and wellness through lush landscaping that is visible throughout the main  hospital corridors.