Foster + Partners reveal Bilaj Al Jazayer Beach, a new sustainable city masterplan on Bahrain’s coast with homes, shops, hotels, and eco-friendly design.
UK-based architecture firm, Foster + Partners, has revealed Bilaj Al Jazayer Beach. The new masterplan on Bahrain's Southwest coast covers 3.5 kilometres. It aims to create a sustainable city that will focus on green living and modern design. The development will include homes, shops, and recreation areas while also preserving Bahrain’s cultural heritage.
A WALKABLE, HUMAN-CENTRIC COMMUNITY
The sustainable city is designed as a walkable district that integrates homes, hotels, and retail spaces. Public green areas and modern amenities are central to the master plan. Inspired by Miami’s low-rise Art Deco architecture and Bahrain’s traditional design, the community focuses on human-scale developments and accessibility.
Gerard Evenden, Head of Studio at Foster + Partners, highlighted the project’s goals: “We are creating a green and walkable community on the beach, which offers a range of crafted experiences for residents and visitors. The permeable development features tree-lined streets, shaded courtyards, and a spectacular public park that directly connects with the waterfront. Needless to say, the west-facing district will also offer some of the best sunset views in Bahrain.”
KEY FEATURES OF THE MASTERPLAN
The Bilaj Al Jazayer Beach masterplan is organised around three key roadways.
- Beach Drive runs along the full beachfront, offering ground-level shops, restaurants, and cafés with uninterrupted water views.
- Main Boulevard, located further inland, runs parallel to the coastline.
- Bilaj Al Jazayer Avenue connects the two and serves as a central artery for the community.
These roads are lined with native trees, creating shaded walkways and cycling paths. The plan encourages walking and cycling, aligning with the principles of sustainable urban living.
HOTELS, RESIDENCES, AND A SURF PARK
The master plan includes two large hotels and branded residences that anchor the development. Smaller boutique hotels are placed at regular intervals, ensuring accessibility for all visitors. Residential neighborhoods, located between these hotels, feature shaded courtyards and green spaces influenced by Bahrain’s traditional design.
One standout feature is the public surf park, which uses advanced wave-generation technology. It replicates ocean conditions on land, offering a unique recreational experience for residents and tourists.
ENVIRONMENTAL AND SUSTAINABLE DESIGN
A verdant park acts as a buffer between the beachfront and the main road, enhancing green spaces in the area. The beach connects to a series of piers that extend into the sea, creating coves to protect the shoreline. These sustainable features aim to harmonise development with the natural environment.
The project also incorporates Bahrain’s traditional passive design strategies to cool outdoor spaces. This approach minimizes energy consumption, making the city more environmentally friendly.
DEVELOPED FOR LONG-TERM IMPACT
Developed for Edamah, the Bilaj Al Jazayer Beach masterplan is enhancing Bahrain's real estate indsutry and urban environment.
This city will further highlight sustainability, culture, and modern living. By doing so, it aims to become a landmark destination. By promoting a sustainable lifestyle and cultural pride, the project will also enhance Bahrain’s global reputation as a progressive nation. So it is an attractive high-quality project with lots to offer.
Ryan Keeler | Nov 22, 2024
