The scope of this project was to transform Doha Port Mina District into a touristic destination hosting a marina for cruise ships, cafes, restaurants, shops, and hotel apartments. The intention was to make it an interactive and dynamic hub where people can meet, gather, and attend events and festivities all year long.
The district’s concept design was inspired by the sea shipping containers and the Qatari architecture particularly houses located along the country’s coast. The district’s buildings are painted in bright and distinctive colors and are surrounded by lush green gardens.
Many factors were considered before starting our lighting design for this beautiful district; The location on the seaside; the Qatari architecture; the difference in colors and the beautiful promenades in between the buildings. Our main concern was to reflect the dynamic mood all while maintaining the same traditional spirit to enhance the project identity in a reasonable and affordable way.
Since the facades are painted with pastel colors already creating a dynamicity in the district, we decided to unify the color temperature (CCT-3000K) of all the fixtures.
• First, for wall lights, we chose antique Lanterns with brass finish to complement the traditional look of the district. Those Lights are not only illuminating the facades of the buildings but also the piazzas and the promenade in between the buildings. They are creating a nice play of light and shadow on the pavement.
• Second, since the project is located at the seaside, our concept was focused on the facades seen from the cornice side and the water had to be an important element to consider while designing. We chose powerful lanterns on the façade with asymmetrical beam angle in a way to create a reflection with different shades of colors on the water. People coming with the cruise ships will enjoy a peaceful relaxing mood.
• Third, all the stairs of the district are lit with small diameter circular step lights providing warm ambiance and enhancing the overall lighting in the space.
• Fourth, all the terraces are lit with circular wall lights at 20 cm height creating a nice play of shadow and light on the floor. Some terraces of the district have pergolas which we have lit with suspended light bulbs creating a cozy dining spot for tenants at night.
• Last, the roads are decorated with warm light bulbs on tensioned cables embracing the cozy relaxing atmosphere of the district.
