In a momentous event set to redefine the skyline of Rabat, Crown Prince Moulay El Hassan is poised to inaugurate the Mohammed VI Tower this Monday. The tower, which stands as Morocco’s tallest building, is set to become a beacon of architectural prowess and urban innovation. The 250-meter structure, delivered by the Belgian construction group BESIX in late March, has been a testament to the collaborative efforts of both Moroccan and international expertise.
Perched on the banks of the Bouregreg River, the Mohammed VI Tower soars 55 stories above a four-level podium, offering a panoramic view of the capital and the surrounding Bouregreg Valley. This architectural marvel, spanning 102,800 square meters, is the brainchild of renowned architects Rafael de la Hoz and Hakim Benjelloun. It is not just a building but a hub of activity, housing a Waldorf Astoria luxury hotel, office spaces, upscale apartments, commercial units, restaurants, and a breathtaking observation platform.
The tower’s design incorporates advanced engineering techniques, with its foundations reaching 60 meters deep, reinforced with 104 concrete barrettes designed to withstand seismic activity and flood risks. The innovative “tube-in-tube “structural system combines a high-strength concrete core with an outer steel frame, enabling column-free floor plans and ensuring stability against wind and seismic forces. To further enhance the comfort of its occupants, a 160-ton tuned mass damper installed at the top of the tower reduces vibrations on the upper floors.
In a nod to sustainability, the building features energy — efficient designs. The south-facing facade is adorned with 1,800 square meters of photovoltaic panels, with an additional 2,200 square meters on the podium roof. The Mohammed VI Tower aims to achieve LEED Gold and HQE certifications, reflecting a commitment to environmental responsibility.
BESIX project director Sébastien Dusausoy highlighted the project’s significance in a March 30 press statement, emphasizing the company’s engineering and construction capabilities and its role in Morocco’s urban transformation. The interior spaces, including the lobby, ballroom, restaurants, and boardroom, have been thoughtfully designed by the Belgian firm FLAMANT, ensuring a luxurious and cohesive experience for all visitors.
Source: moroccoworldnews
Original author: Adil Faouzi
