Sculpting Sustainability

London-based architecture studio DA BUREAU has unveiled the world’s largest 3D-printed restaurant interior at its latest project, the MYATA Platinum Lounge in the C2 licensed district at City Walk, Dubai. The project, which is both a shisha lounge and restaurant, features a breathtaking canyon-like structure composed of over 20,000 individually 3D-printed components, assembled from recycled plastic.

Designed to mimic the fluid, wind-sculpted formations of a sand canyon, the interior is both an artistic and an engineering feat. “A canyon is a constantly evolving geological wonder, shaped by the forces of nature. We sought to recreate its flowing, amorphous forms in a modern interpretation using cutting-edge 3D printing technology,” explains Boris Lvovsky, CEO and Co-founder of DA BUREAU.

The restaurant features a breathtaking canyon-like structure composed of over 20,000 individually 3D-printed components, assembled from recycled plastic

A warm, sunset-inspired glow emanates from hidden sources, casting soft amber hues over the undulating canyon walls

The result is a series of 27 towering canyon-like structures, created using 35 industrial 3D printers and coated in a textured finish. This environmentally responsible approach aligns with Dubai’s 3D Printing Strategy, which aims for 25% of Dubai’s buildings to be constructed using 3D printing by 2030. Furthermore, by repurposing plastic waste, the project contributes to the Arab building sector’s goal of reducing carbon emissions by 8.8 million tons annually, also by 2030.

Beyond its sustainable vision, the MYATA Platinum Lounge provides an immersive atmosphere, right from the entrance, which presents itself as a funnel-like corridor, drawing visitors from the bustling streets of Dubai into an intimate, cave-like retreat. “The layout encourages a sense of discovery,” notes Lvovsky. “Guests transition through narrow, shadowed passageways before entering the grand, sculptural main lounge, reminiscent of an ancient cavern.”

The lighting design, created in collaboration with Yarko Studio, enhances the lounge’s ethereal atmosphere

The lighting design, created in collaboration with Yarko Studio, enhances the lounge’s ethereal atmosphere. A warm, sunset-inspired glow emanates from hidden sources, casting soft amber hues over the undulating canyon walls, while strategic art effects subtly highlight the clouds of steam emitted by the hookahs, creating a hypnotic halo effect. By leveraging advanced 3D printing, DA BUREAU has not only crafted a visually stunning interior but has also set a new benchmark for eco-conscious, high-performance architecture.

Photography by Nikita Kovalev