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 >
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.
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 >
Sumayya Vally reflects on Islamic arts heritage ahead of co-curating the Islamic Arts Biennale in Saudi Arabia
The founder of Counterspace works at the intersection of building, research and activism Read more >
ASA North revitalises old brewery into contemporary art museum in Tehran
Argo Contemporary Museum has been shortlisted for the Aga Khan Award for Architecture Read more >
identity visits London’s iconic Café Royal designed by David Chipperfield Architects
The landmark hotel has been restored to retain the original grandeur of the property Read more >
T.Zed Architects designs a monolithic events pavilion in Dubai made from clay
The Canvas Events Pavilion is a continuation of the architect's KOA Canvas project Read more >
Bahraini artist Rashid Al Khalifa transforms childhood home into art museum
The Rashid Al Khalifa Art Foundation also houses the artist's private art collection Read more >
The Ataturk Cultural Center in Istanbul reflects nearly a century of political and cultural development
Although recently reconstructed, the Ataturk Cultural Center in Istanbul has a long history that dates Read more >