Meraas, a member of Dubai Holding Real Estate, has awarded the ground works contract to International Foundation Group for Atélis at d3 - thus marking the start of groundworks at its landmark residential project located within the Dubai Design District.

The contract covers comprehensive site preparation, excavation, soil improvement, dewatering, and the design and construction of shoring and piling works. These activities will prepare the site for subsequent phases of construction, said Meraas in a statement.

Designed by internationally-renowned architectural practice Skidmore, Owings & Merrill (SOM), Atélis at d3 will introduce a distinctive 45-storey residential landmark characterised by elegant, petal-inspired balconies inspired by flowers native to the UAE desert.

The development will boast a collection of one- to four-bedroom apartments, complemented by exclusive penthouses, with panoramic views of Dubai Creek and the city skyline.

Announcing the launch of the ground works, Meraas said the award reflects continued progress across Meraas' development pipeline.

This is another step in the continued evolution of d3 as a vibrant destination for creativity, innovation and contemporary urban living, it stated.

"Residents will enjoy three levels of premium lifestyle amenities, including wellness facilities, co-working spaces and thoughtfully curated communal areas that reflect the creative character of d3," said a company spokesman.

As a key component of Meraas' vision for Dubai Design District, Atélis supports the district's continued transformation into a globally recognised destination where design, creativity, entrepreneurship and contemporary residential living converge. The development builds on d3's established reputation as the region's leading creative ecosystem while introducing a new dimension of premium waterfront living, he added.