The Pad in Dubai currently under construction is said to be the most technologically advanced residential building on the planet. The architectural theme is deeply embedded in futuristic technology where creature comforts take precedent over strict architectural design.

There’s even a name for this genre, labeled Cybertecture by James Law, an accomplished architect who practiced at Gensler International before opening James Law Cybertecture International on the first day of the year 2001.

Cybertecture can loosely be defined as designing and creating a symbiotic balance between space and technology in order to create a new vision of the world. The idea goes beyond just the architecture of technologically advanced buildings, it includes the traditional discipline of master planning and incorporates the element of branding in its contained elements. While that sounds like a lot of futuristic vision, it is - it’s about embracing a techno-lifestyle now.

Open The Pad Bay Door
The Pad is perhaps the best example yet of James Law Cybertecture’s vision. A simple look at the exterior tells you there is something more going on than just a architectured building. The obvious hints to The Pad’s techno-motif make you wonder what’s inside - and when you look you’re not disappointed.

The Pad mantra is “living the future,” and it starts with its state of the art RFID (radio frequency identification) security system which grants amenity access to the right people and eliminates the need to carry multiple keys. Knowing you are living in a more safe and secure environment allows you to enjoy the features of The Pad even more.

The I’s Have It
The Pad separates each Cybertecture function into categories for the purpose of description.

iHealth is the label given to The Pad technologies designed to lead a healthy life. Incorporated technologies in The Pad’s bathroom can check weight, blood pressure and temperature, then store and track it for future reference. I can’t help but wonder if your doctor will someday have access to the data for monitoring a host of conditions. The possible applications for this basic idea are endless.

iArt allows you to tap into a server and change digital art so visually powerful it can consume your condo. If you have multiple pieces you can change the art every day - and change the tone of your condo without ever touching a hammer.

iControl is the feature that makes certain functions of The Pad controlled by voice. Voice command has always seemed a bit too futuristic, but the science has reached a point where it can be reliably used, and The Pad exploits this reality.

iReality brings virtual realty projection to your condo so you can change the view of your unit to, say, the New York or London skyline.

iFamily and Friends is intended perhaps for the business traveler. Now you can contact your family via video-conferencing - the next best thing to being there.

iCustomization is about mood changing light and color in your condo on command, even changing color as a response to incoming calls for example. Let’s say your new crush calls and the lighting changes to a deep purple, and then back to baby blue when resuming after your call.

All of these “i” features describe condo specific technological amenities - the actual building cybertecture is what the iClub is all about.

At The Pad’s iClub try out your own outdoor running track, aerobic center, gym, massage room, sauna, sports facilities, one of two lounge rooms, sun deck, juice bar, media jacuzzi where you can watch a movie while relaxing, lap pool, or “underwater concert” pool where you can listen to music underwater as you swim!

To Infinity And Beyond
No doubt there will be architectural purists who will claim The Pad is more fad than substance, and there will most assuredly be people who will admire the building from afar, but would never consider living in such a place.

That being said, The Pad was designed for a whole new generation of people who “get” futuristic technology and can more fully appreciate the Cybertecture lifestyle. These people don’t see technology as a limited exercise of living, they are happy exploring just how much we can on some level become technology.

That may seem “out there” but James Law is no crank, he is a serious talent on the cutting edge of modern architecture and lifestyle. The struggle in the future may be about which side “bends” more. Will architecture “see the light” and bend more toward Law’s Cybertecture, or will people demand a more subtle brand of new technology infused in more traditional architecture. It will be interesting to watch, but how can you not love The Pad as a techno-icon.

Media: The Pad Dubai