Mashrabiya is the Arabic term for a traditional latticed sunshade. But for the Al Bahr towers in Abu Dhabi, global architecture firm Aedas have created a super-size version fit for a skyscraper. Each of the 25-storey towers are clad in a secondary skin made up of 1,000 Teflon-coated fibreglass mesh parasols secured by an aluminium frame. As the Sun passes, the parasols open and close, controlled by a master central computer. Abu Dhabi's sunny weather is fairly predictable, but if a dust storm arises an anemometer will detect increased wind speeds and override the system. The towers require less tinted glass than its neighbours, meaning less internal lighting and less energy use. Who said old-fashioned methods aren't efficient? The Council of Tall Buildings and Urban Habitat, (CTBUH) Chicago, USA has awarded the Al Bahr Towers in Abu Dhabi (Head-quarters of Abu Dhabi Investment Council and Hilal Bank), the 2012 prestigious award for Innovation to the association of Diar Consult with the international team of Aedas Architects, Arup Engineering and Mace International Project Managers. This unique development is currently in the process of completion and handing-over. For further details on the features, merits and previous recipients of this annual award, please click on the link below. www.ctbuh.org/Awards/AllPastWinners/12_AlBahar/tabid/3362...