A beach home on a remote island in The Philippines advocates for slow living and local craftsmanship
Designer Vianca Soleil Roquero is transforming this home into a mini Read more >
Architecture
Welcome to the architecture section of identity, where we delve into the cutting-edge world of architecture across Dubai, the UAE, the Middle East, and worldwide.
Dubai and the UAE offers several architectural marvels in the contemporary sphere. We track the diverse, dynamic and developing architectural landscape – from Abu Dhabi’s cultural landmarks, Dubai’s dazzling skyscrapers, to Sharjah’s heritage-focused projects, the UAE is quickly becoming a hub of architectural innovation.
Our exploration extends to the broader Middle East, where ancient history meets modern development. The region’s architecture is a fascinating blend of old and new, where historic sites coexist. We also take a global perspective, showcasing how architectural trends and innovations from the MENA region are influencing design practices worldwide and vice versa.
Discover the architects shaping the future, the designs pushing boundaries, and the trends setting the stage for the next generation of architecture worldwide.
Indian architect Vinu Daniel challenges the way we build by creating architecture that uses mud blocks and waste material
Founder of architecture practice Wallmakers, Daniel is set to bring a new approach to building Read more >
While the field of architecture continues its focus on new buildings, Spanish architect and muralist Elvira Solana has other ideas
For Solana, choosing murals was a conscious response to the negative impacts of building Read more >
51-1 Arquitectos has refurbished a former ice factory in Kalba into a cultural centre and artist residences for Sharjah Art Foundation
The Kalba Ice Factory is currently showing works by artists commissioned for the Sharjah Biennale Read more >
OMA’s scenography for the Islamic Arts Biennale depicts an enlightening survey of Islamic cultural traditions and artistic practices
The 120,000 square metre exhibition space takes over the SOM-designed Western Hajj Terminal Read more >
Zaha Hadid Architects’ dune-shaped Beeah Headquarters in Sharjah marries design and technology
The building aims to create a blueprint for future smart buildings in the region and Read more >
At-Turaif conservation project in Saudi Arabia has lessons for sustainability in contemporary architecture
A landmark heritage conservation project once served as the seat of the first Saudi state Read more >
East Architecture renovates Oscar Niemeyer building in Tripoli into a space for the city’s carpenters
The renovation of the Niemeyer Guest House in Lebanon sees the building take on a Read more >
Aedas celebrates 16 years of creativity in the Middle East
The architecture and design practice is responsible for some of the most iconic projects in Read more >
Omniyat’s ORLA, Dorchester Collection in Dubai features a serene design by Foster + Partners
The real estate developer's latest project rethinks wellness for modern living Read more >
Tosin Oshinowo reveals curatorial plans for the second Sharjah Architecture Triennial
The second edition of the Triennial will explore issues of scarcity across the Global South Read more >
identity Design Awards 2022 shortlist: Architecture
Shortlist revealed for the Architecture categories for identity Design Awards 2022 Read more >
Artist Shawn Button transforms a dilapidated house into a colourful holiday retreat
The fantasy-inspired home has been designed to create a sense of escape Read more >
Read ‘The Collaboration Issue’ – Note from the editor
Read identity's October 2022 issue on ISSUU or grab your copy! Read more >
Two Istanbul-based design firms come together to create a contemporary resort in Bodrum
The architecture and interiors integrate indoor and outdoor living Read more >
Mango House in Seychelles designed by Dubai-bassed JT&Partners pays homage to its original architecture
The property is also a tribute to the legendary photographer Gian Paolo Barbieri Read more >
Hayy Jameel contemporary art centre in Jeddah designed by wai wai lends a supporting hand to emerging creatives
The flexible building features a dyamic facade commission by Nasser Almulhim and Tamara Kalo Read more >
Hive Coliv designed by Fadi Sarrieddine aims to create community living in Dubai
Hive Coliv is filling the gap in the market for contemporary community living Read more >
Senegalese modernist landmark CICES is slated for rehabilitation by Moroccan architect Aziza Chaouni
Chaouni is using a 'collaborative design' approach to include the local population in the project's Read more >
London exhibition highlights Beirut’s unique architectural heritage, aims to ‘express important lessons’
Annabel Karim Kassar's exhibition at the V&A is a call to preserve Beirut's architectural heritage. Read more >