GEMS Wellington Academy-DSO
Premier Schools International
Dubai, UAE
288,154 square feet
GEMS Wellington Academy-DSO is located within the central core of Dubai’s leading technology park, Dubai Silicon Oasis (DSO). The DSO master plan includes a state-of-the-art Microelectronics Innovation Center, corporate offices, fabrication plants, and research and development centers, as well as residential neighborhoods. The focus of the community is on the advancement of technology and production, and the school serves as a key component to the integration of the technology park and the community.
The Wellington Academy-DSO, a K-13 facility with an additional specialty program focused on technology, has a “high tech” concept and a strong sense of identity. Features include a contemporary, futuristic, two-story lobby atrium; cyber cafe; Six Form study areas with wireless internet; six-lane swimming pool; 550-seat auditorium; outdoor soccer pitch, running tracks, and basketball and volleyball courts; highly advanced science labs; and music and art rooms.
The structure is positioned for visual identity along the main corridor of the community and provides a sense of presence. The site is laid out for clarity of circulation with separate entries and drop off locations for kindergarten, buses, and staff, in addition to the main entry. The building creates an intimate courtyard with ample space for outdoor eating, break out space, inspired learning, and play. Interior courtyards and roof terraces extend the exterior learning opportunity. The grounds include on-site bus parking, staff and guest parking, a focus on athletics, and opportunity for phased expansion.
