FROM WEST TO MIDDLE EAST
ABDULLAH is building a hospital in Dubai — not just any hospital , but one that meets the medical and cultural needs of his local community . At the same time , this hospital will make the best use of 21st century technology and design research .
Abdullah , who graduated from an American university , is the proud patriarch of a large family and has overseen the growth of several family businesses . His desire is to pay forward the good fortune he has experienced with a tangible symbol of his dedication to his community . From his partners in Western design firms , Abdullah wants confirmation that his family ’ s vision is grounded in cutting edge technology and that its benefits will persist into the foreseeable future . The project turns out to be both engrossing and challenging for the planning teams who view each other across the line dividing Western from Middle Eastern business practices .
Challenges Private families , such as Abdullah ’ s , who seek to offer specific medical services , are different from stateside business systems because they have in mind a healthcare solution that is immediately ready to use upon implementation and is designed to satisfy very specific needs — such as diabetes care and infertility therapy — that are particularly acute in his region . Nevertheless , they are seeking insightful Western expertise to help design that solution .
Sometimes a facility may involve the re-purposing of an existing structure , such as a duplex , that is located in a neighborhood zoned residential . This is not necessarily a show stopper for the Western design firm , nor are constraints on dimensions and access , such as those mandated in the U . S . by the Americans with Disabilities Act . Furthermore , the materials specified for the construction may be redefined by as much as 30 to 35 percent to conform to the procuring traditions of the client ’ s family . These differences require some getting used to , but they always contribute to a satisfactory solution in the local context .
Most Middle Eastern business culture relationships with clients and other parties are indispensable and can be developed and nurtured only by asking the right questions and understanding the client ’ s context and needs . Designers often need
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