THE HUB

The Hub
El-Alamein | North Coast | Egypt
 
The Hottest Youth Entertainment Destination on Egypt’s North Coast
 
 
The Hub Marassi | Official Video | 100 Channel
 




 
The Hub, located in Marassi on Egypt’s North Coast, is a groundbreaking entertainment destination, covering 60,000 m². Designed by 100architects for Emaar Misr, it redefines public space through bold, colorful design and immersive experiences that engage visitors of all ages, especially adolescents and young adults.
 
 

© 100architects


 

© Essam Arafa


In late 2023, Emaar Misr approached 100architects with a bold vision: to create a one-of-a-kind entertainment hub that would serve as a social anchor for youth, complementing all other public facilities and amenities for adults at Marassi. With just two months for design and six months for construction, the challenge was clear. Construction began in January 2024, working at full speed to deliver this immersive space in time for the summer season.
 
At the core of The Hub’s design is the concept of a “Big Bang”—a celebration of life and youth, represented by an explosion of colors, lights, and dynamic forms. This abstract idea translates into a visually captivating experience, where visitors are drawn into the space as if being pulled by gravitational forces represented by an innovative wayfinding system. Bold, colorful lines embedded directly into the ground guide foot traffic, enhancing circulation while adding a dynamic aesthetic layer.
 
 

© Essam Arafa


 

© Essam Arafa


 

© Essam Arafa


The master plan features a “triple heart” layout with three major zones: a multipurpose event space, a playground, and Kids Town, all gravitating around the Central Plaza, and tailored to younger audiences. These spaces are carefully arranged to encourage spontaneous social interactions and self-expression—core to 100architects’ philosophy of creating public spaces that foster community engagement. The dynamic design invites visitors to explore, play, and connect, making it an ideal space for social gatherings and youth expression.
 
In addition to these key attractions, The Hub offers a wide range of activities, including an open-air cinema, go-kart track, roller-skating rink, sports courts, arcade, and flexible public spaces designed for allowing the ephemeral appearance of pop-up markets, concerts, and workshops. F&B and Retail spaces occupy 10,000 m² and 15,000 m² respectively, with container-based F&B outlets and locally themed retail shops, all designed to blend seamlessly with the vibrant aesthetic. This modular approach enabled fast construction while maintaining a striking industrial edge that resonates with younger visitors.
 
 

© Essam Arafa


 

© Essam Arafa


 

© Essam Arafa


As the trendiest space on Egypt’s North Coast, The Hub has quickly become a hotspot for evening activities. With its success evident in the daily crowds, the project is already set to expand. Phase 2, scheduled for completion by June 2025, will introduce a larger playscape and even more amenities, driving further social interaction, visitor engagement, and commercial success. As 100architects continues to reshape public spaces, we are excited to push the boundaries of design, creating environments that are vibrant, interactive, and inclusive.
 
 

© Essam Arafa


 

© 100architects


 

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Credits
 
PROJECT NAME:The Hub
DESIGN: 100 Architects (Shanghai) Co., Ltd.
DESIGN TEAM: Marcial Jesús, Javier González, Mónica Páez, Yuntong Liu, Lara Broglio, Ponyo Zhao, Keith Gong, Cosima Jiang, Michelle Aldora, Jango Zhang.
PROJECT MANAGEMENT TEAM:Jenny Fan & Eva Jiang
SIZE: 60.000 m2
STATUS: Built
LOCATION: El-Alamein, Marassi, North Coast, Egypt

RUBIX SQUARE

Rubix Square
Fuzhou | Jiang Xi | China
 
A Playful Fusion of Art, Sport, and Urban Interaction
 
Rubix Square is a hyper-stimulating public space located in Fuzhou, Jiang Xi province China, nestled within a residential area and surrounded by residential buildings. The project is composed of five distinct installations, each inspired by a sport or specific activity, designed to engage visitors in a unique and playful environment.


 

© 100architects


 

© RexZou


 

© RexZou


At the heart of the project is the central installation, Rubix Square—a massive, habitable sculpture and playground designed as a three-story building. This centerpiece draws inspiration from the iconic Rubik’s Cube, a game that has captivated people worldwide. However, in this iteration, the Rubix Cube is reimagined as a space you can explore from within. Visitors can dive inside this colossal structure, where they are encouraged to interact with its vibrant and dynamic interior.
 
 

© 100architects


 

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© RexZou


 

© RexZou


Surrounding the Rubix Cube are four additional installations, each offering a unique and interactive experience:
 
The Hashtag: The first installation is a large hashtag structure that lies on the ground, designed as a labyrinth. This maze allows users to pass through its openings, exploring various spaces filled with interactive features such as lighting games, slides, swings, and other playful elements. The design encourages exploration and discovery, making it a fun and engaging experience for all ages.
 
 

© 100architects


 

© RexZou


 

© RexZou


Basket Triangle: The second installation is inspired by basketball. This structure features baskets positioned in unconventional ways—upside down, at various angles, and at different heights. This interactive installation is not just for playing basketball; it also allows children to practice their skills by aiming and shooting the ball into the numerous baskets, challenging their coordination and creativity.
 
 

© 100architects


 

© RexZou


 

© RexZou


Wall Ball: The next installation is themed around football, consisting of a wall with multiple holes of varying sizes and difficulties. Children can practice their aim by kicking the ball into these targets, honing their precision and accuracy in a fun and competitive environment.
 
Heli-Skate: The last corner of the square is occupied by a skatepark with ramps and slopes, designed for beginners to practice and improve their balance and equilibrium on a skateboard. This area offers a safe space for young skaters to develop their skills while enjoying the thrill of the sport.
 
 

© RexZou


 

© RexZou


The surrounding pavements are designed with a combination of stone and painted surfaces for the circulation areas, and EPDM for the playing areas that will receive the impact of kids playing and jumping on top. All of this is set within a grid of lines and colors that align with the main narrative, creating an exciting and lively landscape. Square planters with trees and wooden seating are strategically placed throughout the area, adding greenery and providing spaces for relaxation.
 
As night falls, Rubix Square transforms into a magical and surreal environment. The installations light up, casting a captivating glow that enhances the whimsical nature of the space, making it a truly unforgettable experience for visitors. Rubix Square is not just a public space; it is a living, breathing work of art that invites interaction, play, and community engagement in the heart of a residential area.
 
 

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Credits
 
PROJECT NAME: Rubix Square
DESIGN: 100 Architects (Shanghai) Co., Ltd.
DESIGN TEAM: Marcial Jesús, Javier González, Yuntong Liu, Mónica Páez, Lara Broglio, Ponyo Zhao, Keith Gong, Cosima Jiang, Michelle Aldora, Jango Zhang.
PROJECT MANAGEMENT TEAM: Matias Hernandez, Jenny Fan & Eva Jiang
SIZE: 1400 m2
STATUS: Built
LOCATION: Fuzhou, Jiang Xi, China

CARPENTER SPACE

Carpenter space
A Landmark for the Community Inspired by Ancient Chinese Architect Lu Ban
 
The Carpenter Space captures the essence of traditional woodworking techniques and reimagines them within a contemporary playground of creativity and enjoyment. Located in the heart of Hangzhou, China, this project channels the legacy of Lu Ban, the revered father of Chinese architecture and master inventor.
 
 

© 100architects


The masterplan is designed with a strong visual impact, featuring a layout that is a modern reinterpretation of the traditional Chinese character for wood (木). This symbolic design pays homage to the rich cultural heritage that informs the project, embedding tradition into the very fabric of the space.
 
 

© 100architects


Central to the Carpenter Space is a striking play structure inspired by Lu Ban’s famous woodworking lock, reimagined as a three-story building. This dynamic structure invites users to explore and engage, offering a unique spatial experience that blends play with the artistry of traditional craftsmanship. Surrounding the main structure are vibrant play elements, including towering slides, soaring swings, and whimsical merry-go-rounds, all set within a lively and engaging environment.
 
 

© 100architects


 

© 100architects


The design honors Lu Ban’s craftsmanship with play equipment and architectural features that reflect his timeless techniques. Each play structure and shading element is inspired by different tools and locks created by Lu Ban, transforming the space into a hands-on learning experience. As users interact with the various elements, they are introduced to the possibilities and ingenuity of this master, learning through both play and observation.
 
 

© 100architects


The Carpenter Space seamlessly blends tradition with innovation, creating a setting where historical craftsmanship meets contemporary creativity. This immersive experience celebrates Lu Ban’s artistry and the enduring legacy of Chinese woodworking, offering visitors a chance to explore, learn, and connect with a rich cultural heritage.
 
 

© 100architects


 

© 100architects


 

© 100architects


 
CREDITS
 
PROJECT NAME: Carpenter Space
DESIGN: 100 Architects (Shanghai) Co., Ltd.
DESIGN TEAM: Marcial Jesús, Javier González, Mónica Páez, Lara Broglio, Ponyo Zhao, Keith Gong, Cosima Jiang, Michelle Aldora, Jango Zhang & Yuntong Liu.
PROJECT MANAGEMENT TEAM: Matias Hernandez, Jenny Fan & Eva Jiang
CLIENT: Jiangong Xiangshanguoji
SIZE: 2700 m2
STATUS: Unbuilt
LOCATION: Changsha, China

ELECTRO HUT

Electro Hut
Hengqin Waterfront | Zhuhai| China
 
Transforming Hengqin’s Waterfront with Futuristic Capsules and Vibrant Social Spaces
 
Overlooking Macau from Hengqin Island’s waterfront, ElectroHut introduces essential amenities and striking platforms aimed at fostering an outdoor lifestyle and encouraging social interaction among citizens and tourist. Simultaneously, it establishes a distinctive visual identity for Hengqin Island. This project is part of a broader series of interventions undertaken by 100architects along the Hengqin waterfront.
 
 

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© RexZou


 

© RexZou


The intervention showcases a series of capsules designed with sleek, electronic-inspired shapes, creating a futuristic silhouette. These unique forms also appear independently in various parts of the project, extending almost like projections of the capsules towards both the city and the waterfront. On the city-facing side, they host additional functions such as swings and hammocks. As they extend towards the waterfront, these silhouettes transform into a continuous, thicker handrail that doubles as a table overlooking the sea. Surrounding this table are numerous stools, making it a highly functional structure ideal for enjoying a snack with a view. Moreover, these silhouettes serve as interactive handrails, featuring entertaining elements such as musical instruments, telescopes, and selfie spots.
 
 

© RexZou


 

© RexZou


 

© RexZou


The outer surfaces are deliberately adorned in vibrant blue hues, creating an electrifying visual impact. In contrast, the inner surfaces of the capsules feature warm wood finishes, providing a cozy environment ideal for leisurely activities. These capsules serve diverse purposes; some are tailored for social gatherings and casual conversations, while others feature playful installations like swings and slides, offering plenty of leisure and entertainment options. The inviting warmth of the wooden interiors makes them perfect for comfortable leisure activities, lounging, socializing, and relaxing under their comforting shade, embodying the essence of the project named HUT.
 
At night, the project is illuminated with bluish and yellowish LED lights that accentuate the electric silhouettes, creating a sublime visual effect. The overall night ambiance is quite enchanting, fostering an immersive experience of rhythm and color under the lit-up, electrified structures, and transforming the surroundings into a human-scale urban landmark.
 
 

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Credits
 
PROJECT NAME: ELECTRO HUT
DESIGN: 100 Architects (Shanghai) Co., Ltd.
DESIGN TEAM: Marcial Jesús, Javier González, Mónica Páez, Lara Broglio, Ponyo Zhao, Keith Gong, Cosima Jiang, Michelle Aldora, Jango Zhang & Yuntong Liu.
PROJECT MANAGEMENT TEAM: Matias Hernandez, Jenny Fan & Eva Jiang
SIZE: 610 m2
STATUS: Built
LOCATION: Hengqin, Zhuhai, China

GREEN SKYLINE

Green Skyline
Hengqin | China
 
With Green Skyline we turned an overbearing coastline walkway into a joyful and stimulating public space for the entire local community, turning a mere underused circulation space into an urban hotspot to stay and socialize.

 
 

@ RexZou


 

@ RexZou


 

@ RexZou


Overlooking Macau from Hengqin Island’s Waterfront, the project adds much-needed amenities and eye-catching platforms that promote outdoor lifestyle and social interaction among citizens, while creating a strong visual identity for Hengqin Island.
 
The intervention features a group of capsules designed with distinctive and attractive silhouettes, creating a colorful skyline visible from Macau. This unique silhouettes also function as engaging handrail with entertaining features such as telescopes, selfie spots, or different seating arrangements.

 
 

@ RexZou


 

@ RexZou


At night, the project is illuminated with LED strips that accentuate the skyline silhouettes, creating a sublime visual effect. The overall night ambiance is quite enchanting, fostering an immersive experience of rhythm and color under the lit-up silhouettes, and transforming the overbearing surroundings into a human-scale urban landmark.

 
 

@ RexZou


 

@ RexZou


While the outer surfaces are intentionally colorful and captivating, the inner surfaces of the capsules are crafted with warm wood finishings, offering a cozy place to spend some quality leisure time. These capsules serve diverse purposes, while some are intended for social gatherings and casual chats, others are equipped with playful installations like swings, seesaws, and slides, offering leisure and entertainment in equal doses.
 
On the city-facing side, an array of umbrellas with different seating configurations invites visitors to hang out, relax, and socialize under pleasant shadows.

 
 

@ RexZou


 

@ RexZou


 

@ RexZou


 

@ RexZou


At night, the project is illuminated with LED strips that accentuate the skyline silhouettes, creating a sublime visual effect. The overall night ambiance is quite enchanting, fostering an immersive experience of rhythm and color under the lit-up silhouettes, and transforming the overbearing surroundings into a human-scale urban landmark.

 
 

@ RexZou


 

@ RexZou


 

@ RexZou


 

@ RexZou


 

@ RexZou


 

@ RexZou


 

@ RexZou


 

@ RexZou


 

@ RexZou


 

@ RexZou


 

@ RexZou


 

@ RexZou


 

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@ RexZou


 
Credits
 
PROJECT NAME: GREEN SKYLINE
DESIGN: 100 Architects (Shanghai) Co., Ltd.
DESIGN TEAM: Marcial Jesús, Javier González, Mónica Páez, Lara Broglio, Ponyo Zhao, Keith Gong, Cosima Jiang, Michelle Aldora, Jango Zhang & Yuntong Liu.
PROJECT MANAGEMENT TEAM: Matias Hernandez, Jenny Fan & Eva Jiang
SIZE: 651 m2
STATUS: Built
LOCATION: Hengqin, Zhuhai, China

LA BARCELONITA

La Barcelonita
Westfield La Maquinista | Barcelona | Spain
 
A playground that serves as a catalyst for social and commercial activity
 
 
La Barcelonita | Official Video | 100 Channel
 




 

© 100architects


 

©Dídac Balanzó


“La Barcelonita” is a strategic intervention of the iconic corner and pedestrian crossroad situated in the open-air retail street of Westfield La Maquinista, in Barcelona (Spain). Drawing inspiration from the characteristic vibrant summer vibes and beach hues of the famous beach of La Barceloneta, we named it “La Barcelonita”, envisioning it as the little sister of La Barceloneta.
 
 

©Dídac Balanzó


 

©Dídac Balanzó


The project is a unique street intervention designed with simplicity yet effectiveness in mind. Positioned strategically in a key spot around the iconic corner known as La Quilla, it forms a central hub where various pedestrian pathways converge, encouraging a dynamic circular flow around the intervention, activating the public realm.
 
 

©Dídac Balanzó


 

©Dídac Balanzó


 
Leveraging its location and geometric layout, the entire project revolves around this pedestrian node, acting as a ball joint that articulates a smooth pedestrian transition between one street and the other, while captivating passersby with its shapes and colors.
 
Pavements and objects are arranged in different stripes radiating from the geometric center of the perfect circle that it inscribes, where each stripe offers user-friendly amenities, including hidden trampolines and floor graphics, as well as volume-based elements like slides, ribbons, and seating features.
 
 

©Dídac Balanzó


 

©Dídac Balanzó


Taking advantage of a blank wall, the project features an inhabitable vertical labyrinth with the look & feel of beach cabins, catering to the curiosity of children, inviting them to explore it, climb it, circulate it, and ultimately, leading them to a slide that brings them back to the central playscape area.
 
Additionally, a Food and Beverage (F&B) Kiosk at the heart of the project contributes to adding a level of commercial dose, boosting sales and drawing in customers.
 
 

©Dídac Balanzó


While “La Barcelonita” primarily functions as a playground, it also serves as a catalyst for commercial activity in the surrounding retail spaces. By increasing foot traffic and extending the time customers spend in La Maquinista’s facilities, the project contributes to enhancing the overall retail experience.
 
 

© Catherine Gomez


 

© Catherine Gomez


 

© Catherine Gomez


 

©Dídac Balanzó


 

©Dídac Balanzó


 

©Dídac Balanzó


 

© Dídac Balanzó


 

© Dídac Balanzó


 
CREDITS
 
PROJECT NAME: La Barcelonita
DESIGN: 100 Architects (Shanghai) Co., Ltd.
DESIGN TEAM: Marcial Jesús, Javier González, Mónica Páez, Lara Broglio, Ponyo Zhao, Keith Gong, Cosima Jiang, Michelle Aldora, Jango Zhang & Yuntong Liu.
PROJECT MANAGEMENT TEAM: Matias Hernandez, Jenny Fan & Eva Jiang
CLIENT: Unibail – Rodamco – Westfield
SIZE: 500 m2
STATUS: Built
LOCATION: Barcelona, Spain
PHOTOGRAPHY: Dídac Balanzó
VIDEOGRAPHY: Catherine Gomez (Go Mess!)

SPARK X

Spark X
Sharjah | UAE
 
Spark X, spanning an impressive 85,000 m², is set to become the new experiential entertainment hub in Sharjah, UAE. The heart of this visionary project lies in its diverse offerings, featuring an array of amenities such as F&B outlets, retail spaces, outdoor activities, expansive exhibition areas, and versatile event and performance spaces.
 
 

© 100architects


 

© 100architects


Inspired by the project’s powerful name, Spark X, our design team harnessed the strength of these keywords, translating them into a dynamic and innovative masterplan. The result is a striking X-shaped layout, reminiscent of a mathematical equation (*+x), the final result is an 8 arms star symbolizing interconnectedness and unity.
This design choice spans the entirety of the park, ensuring a harmonious integration of every facility and circulation within the vast 85,000 m² site.
 
Located in Sharjah, Spark X stands out with its unique design – a large X-shaped masterplan. This innovative layout ensures that every facility and circulation is seamlessly accommodated within the expansive 85,000 m² site. The X-shaped design extends throughout the entire park, providing a cohesive and dynamic structure for an enhanced visitor experience.
 
 

© 100architects


 

© 100architects


To further enhance the functionality and experience of Spark X, we strategically assigned distinct programs to each arm of the star-shaped masterplan. Those aligned with the vertical and horizontal axes offer leisure and resting outdoor activities, creating serene spaces for relaxation. In contrast, the diagonally arranged arms house revenue-generating venues, including sports fields, exhibition spaces, open cinema and F&B establishments, adding vibrancy and economic vitality to the park.
 
Beyond its role as an entertainment park, Spark X is a thoughtfully curated space designed to cater to a broad audience.
 
 

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© 100architects


 

© 100architects


Whether indulging in culinary delights, exploring retail therapy, engaging in outdoor adventures, or immersing in cultural exhibitions, the park is poised to deliver a comprehensive and engaging experience for both residents and tourists. As Sharjah’s commitment to tourism development takes center stage, Spark X stands as a landmark destination, poised to significantly enrich the city’s cultural and entertainment landscape.
 
As a testament to Sharjah’s commitment to tourism development, Spark X is set to become a landmark destination, contributing significantly to the city’s vibrant cultural and entertainment scene.
 
 

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CREDITS
 
PROJECT NAME: Spark X
DESIGN: 100 Architects (Shanghai) Co., Ltd.
DESIGN TEAM: Marcial Jesús, Javier González, Mónica Páez, Lara Broglio, Ponyo Zhao, Keith Gong, Cosima Jiang, Michelle Aldora, Jango Zhang & Yuntong Liu.
PROJECT MANAGEMENT TEAM: Matias Hernandez, Jenny Fan & Eva Jiang
SIZE: 85.000 m2
STATUS: Concept Design
LOCATION: Sharjah, UAE

LOOPY BRIDGE

Loopy Bridge
Shanghai | China
 
Introducing the Loopy Bridge, a groundbreaking urban marvel redefining the landscape of Shanghai’s public spaces. Inspired by the graceful undulations of water ripples, this architectural intervention transforms the conventional bridge into a dynamic, interconnected public space.
 
 

© 100architects


© 100architects


Located in the heart of Shanghai, the design of Loopy Bridge seamlessly weaves a pathway around the geometric patterns inspired by water ripples, creating a singular, harmonious trace. Each ripple, acting as micro- experience, is meticulously subdivided, allocating distinct functions to individual areas.
 
The bridge serves as a captivating link between two urban landforms, harmoniously merging them into a singular, expansive park.
 
 

© 100architects


© 100architects


The bridge’s meandering circulation is thoughtfully divided, catering to both walkers and joggers, each with a designated track that guides visitors through captivating “loops.” These loops, totaling eight, offer diverse functionalities, ranging from amphitheaters and open cinemas to urban lounges and playgrounds.
 
As visitors traverse the bridge, they embark on a journey through a myriad of public spaces, each loop unveiling a unique experience at the intersection of innovative design and practical functionality.
 
 

© 100architects


© 100architects


Loopy Bridge not only transforms the cityscape but also invites the public to engage with urban spaces in novel ways. It represents a fusion of artistic inspiration and thoughtful urban planning, providing an unparalleled and immersive experience for all who traverse its innovative pathways.
 
Welcome to the future of public spaces in Shanghai, where the Loopy Bridge stands as a testament to the endless possibilities of design and creativity.
 
 

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CREDITS
PROJECT NAME: Loopy Bridge
DESIGN: 100 Architects (Shanghai) Co., Ltd.
DESIGN TEAM: Marcial Jesús, Javier González, Mónica Páez, Lara Broglio, Ponyo Zhao, Keith Gong, Cosima Jiang, Michelle Aldora, Jango Zhang & Yuntong Liu.
PROJECT MANAGEMENT TEAM: Matias Hernandez, Jenny Fan & Eva Jiang
SIZE: 22.000 m2
STATUS: Concept Design
LOCATION: Shanghai, China

RICH BRIDGE

Rich Bridge
Sijing Ancient Town | Shanghai | China
 
“Rich Bridge,” a visionary project crafted by 100architects, reimagines the traditional concept of a bridge by transforming it into a vibrant social space, symbolizing prosperity and good fortune. Located over the picturesque Sijing Tang River in Sijing Ancient Town, Shanghai, this innovative bridge design marries modernity with traditional Chinese symbolism, creating a unique and inviting urban oasis.
 
 

© 100architects


 

© 100architects


The project’s name, “Rich Bridge,” derives its inspiration from the Chinese cultural significance of the number 8, symbolizing wealth and good luck. This association with prosperity permeates the very essence of the bridge’s design, where eight captivating capsules serve as hubs for social leisure and interaction.
 
 

© 100architects


 

© 100architects


To foster a more pedestrian-friendly environment and enhance social engagement, Rich Bridge optimizes the bridge’s available space. By reducing the number of car lanes from two to a single lane, an expansive pedestrian area is created. Along the bridge’s edge, the eight distinctive capsules are strategically positioned against the handrail, inviting individuals to explore and engage with their surroundings.
 
 

© 100architects


 

© 100architects


Each capsule’s design draws inspiration from traditional Chinese architecture, specifically the elegant shapes found in traditional roof structures. These classical forms are reinterpreted with a modern and sleek aesthetic, offering a harmonious blend of tradition and contemporary design.
 
 

© 100architects


 

© 100architects


These eight capsules are seamlessly linked together by a vibrant red ribbon that serves both as a framing element for the capsules and as a public high table in between them. This functional yet aesthetically pleasing feature encourages social gatherings, relaxation, and appreciation of the scenic river views, making Rich Bridge a dynamic and communal space within the urban fabric.
 
“Rich Bridge” is not just a bridge; it is a symbol of unity, fortune, and the vibrant pulse of urban life, representing a fusion of tradition and modernity that enhances the cultural and social experience of Sijing Ancient Town.
 
 

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© 100architects


 
Credits
 
PROJECT NAME: Rich Bridge
DESIGN: 100 Architects (Shanghai) Co., Ltd.
DESIGN TEAM: Marcial Jesús, Javier González, Mónica Páez, Lara Broglio, Ponyo Zhao, Keith Gong, Cosima Jiang, Michelle Aldora, Jango Zhang & Yuntong Liu.
PROJECT MANAGEMENT TEAM: Matias Hernandez, Jenny Fan & Eva Jiang
SIZE: 1.000 m2
STATUS: Concept Design
LOCATION: Sijing Ancient Town, Shanghai, China

WANDERING POOLS

Wandering Pools
Dubai | Abu Dhabi | Jeddah
 
A pioneering prototype that introduces movable waterfront floating pools to underserved communities and various areas of the city. This innovative concept spans across popular city spots, catering to leisure and urban activation. The project aims to elevate citizens’ experience of many UAE and KSA locations by providing a distinctive opportunity for enjoying the city from a different perspective. The groundbreaking concept has the potential to transcends cityscapes, infusing vibrant life into iconic city hubs while delivering unparalleled leisure experiences.
 
Wandering Pools | Official Video | 100 Channel
 




 
 

Dubai Creek, UAE.


 

© 100architects


Inspired by the geometries found in Arabesque architecture, the design draws from door shapes, geometric patterns and arches present in arabesque vernacular architectural elements. This inspiration takes on a contemporary twist through vibrant colors and abstract forms, resulting in capsules that offer a VIP-like experience within the premises.
 
 

Corniche Beach, Abu Dhabi, UAE.


 

Al Fahidi, Dubai, UAE.


Designed as a versatile modular system, the Wandering Pools can be easily disassembled into compact docks and relocated to new locations for reassembly. All components are part of a pre-fabricated custom toolbox of amenities, including a water slide, diving platform, or a boat docking, which can be added or removed at will. These structures are constructed using CLT (cross-laminated timber), renowned for its flexibility and sustainability.
 

Jeddah, KSA.


 

Dubai Marina, UAE.


The floating system consists of a floating footing constructed from EPS white foam blocks interconnected by a metal structure. This floating slab acts as the foundational support on which a grid of steel beams is placed to create the ground floor for the project. Thanks to its exceptional buoyancy of 98%, this floating slab is virtually unsinkable.
 
The central floating platform of the project hosts two rectangular pools: a smaller, leisure-focused red pool, and a larger blue pool intentionally devoid of kids’ features. Surrounding this pool space are eight VIP capsules, each offering a private resting and leisure area with direct access to open sea swimming, and designed with the highest levels of open-lounge luxury, accompanied by colorful geometric patterns that pay homage to local architecture.
 
 

Dubai Creek, UAE.


 

Hatta Dam, UAE.


Positioned prominently on the central platform is a small roofed pavilion hosting a cafe and restaurant. Crowned by a viewing deck, this elevated space introduces an element of excitement with its dual water slides cascading down to the red pool, adding an extra layer of enjoyment.
 
On both ends of the red leisure pool, two open capsules contribute charm to the complex: one imitating an Arabesque arch, and the other taking the form of a large heart-shaped structure, serving as urban lounge furniture and offering selfie-worthy settings.
 
 

Al Fahidi, Dubai, UAE.


 

West Palm Beach, Dubai, UAE.


Essential amenities such as bathrooms, open bed-lounges, showers, and lockers are also thoughtfully provided. Furthermore, a pontoon extends into the sea, catering to boats and yachts.
The entire complex maintains a connection to the land through a floating pontoon, not only linking to the pools but also securing the project’s position.
 
 

© 100architects


 

© 100architects


Every detail has been considered to ensure a premium comfort, with essential amenities like bathrooms, open bed-lounges, showers, and lockers at your disposal. A welcoming pontoon extends into the sea, catering to boats and yachts, anchoring your aquatic experience.
 
 

© 100architects


 

© 100architects


The eagerly anticipated Wandering Pools are set to grace the shores of the UAE and KSA by the close of 2024. Our initial installations will dazzle at Dubai Marina, followed by The Palm West, Kite Beach, Al Fahidi Historical Quarter, Corniche Beach in Abu Dhabi, and the Jeddah waterfront, among other iconic locations. Stay tuned as we redefine how you enjoy the urban landscapes of Dubai. Join us in the pursuit of a fresh perspective and indulge in the unparalleled charm of the Wandering Pools.
 
 

Kite Beach, Dubai, UAE.


 

Dubai Creek, UAE.


 

Dubai Marina, UAE.


 

Al Fahidi, Dubai, UAE.


 

Palm Jumeirah, Dubai, UAE.


 

© 100architects


 
Credits
 
PROJECT NAME: Wandering Pools
DESIGN: 100 Architects (Shanghai) Co., Ltd.
DESIGN TEAM: Marcial Jesús, Javier González, Mónica Páez, Lara Broglio, Ponyo Zhao, Keith Gong, Cosima Jiang, Michelle Aldora, Jango Zhang & Yuntong Liu.
PROJECT MANAGEMENT TEAM: Matias Hernandez, Jenny Fan & Eva Jiang
SIZE: 1.250 m2
STATUS: Design on-going
LOCATION: GCC (Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Jeddah)