The Pavilion, Downtown by Studio M; photo by Sid Siva

The architect Abboud Malak and his Dubai-based practice Studio M have realised this understated contemporary cultural centre located in the downtown area of the city. Completed in 2010, the 12,000-square-foot open-plan Pavilion comprises two gallery spaces, a library, lounge, restaurant, screening room and a tucked away semi-enclosed ‘shed’ structure. Described by the architects as ‘an oversized container’, the Pavilion is devoid of any dividing walls – the modern furniture ‘plays a key role in dividing up the different spaces’ and includes a number of popular designs from manufacturers such as Foscarini, Cassina, Established & Sons, Magis, Accademia and Vitra. (more…)