Counterspace’s 2021 Serpentine Pavilion focuses on themes of community and gathering
The Serpentine Pavilion features abstract sculptural forms that are made with recycled materials 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.
Building Sharjah is a new book chronicling the emirate’s modern architectural legacy
Building Sharjah is an extensive reference book of the city featuring never-before published images Read more >
Adjaye Associates reveals The Africa Institute campus building in Sharjah
The four wings of the campus are connected by a series of open-air courtyards Read more >
Carl Gerges to renovate 17th century structures into boutique hotel in Batroun
Batroun Boutique Hotel will preserve traditional building techniques Read more >
Mariam Kamara on using architecture as a tool for ‘a higher purpose’
Read our interview with Nigerien architect Mariam Kamara, founder of atelier masomi Read more >
Lebanese architect Lina Ghotmeh on creating ‘humane’ architecture
Lina Ghotmeh speaks about how architecture can be used to reflect on the past and Read more >
wai wai design explores an alternative cement for the UAE pavilion at Venice Biennale 2021
Wetland responds to the Venice Architecture Biennale's theme 'how will we live together?' Read more >
Luxury residential development in Hong Kong by LWK + Partners is reminiscent of an open book
10 LaSalle building by LWK + Partners reflects its academic environment Read more >
Ini Archibong reveals details of ‘The Pavilion of the African Diaspora’ for London Design Biennale 2021
The Pavilion of the African Diaspora will become a place for collaboration, education and dialogue Read more >
id50 2021: Celebrating contributions to design and architecture across the Middle East
id50 celebrates individuals who have made positive impacts to design and architecture across the Middle Read more >
Foster + Partners completes House of Wisdom library in Sharjah
The brief for the building was to create a library for the future, the firm Read more >
French duo Anne Lacaton and Jean-Philippe Vassal win 2021 Pritzker Architecture Prize
The French architects are known for their restorative architecture and social housing projects Read more >
Foster + Partners unveils plans for The Red Sea Project’s main hub Shurayrah
The architectural approach aims to preserve the island's natural environment Read more >
Abeer Seikaly works with Bedouin communities to reinterpret Jordan’s built environment
Jordanian designer Abeer Seikaly creates works that are in symbiosis with nature Read more >
Spronkenhouse by Dutch artist Xander Spronken blurs sculpture and residence
Spronken's largest and most ambitious sculpture to date is designed for living Read more >
ZAV Architects designs colourful domes for residential project in Iran
'Presence in Hormuz' pays homage to its environment and people Read more >
A mirrored house in Mexico offers the ideal retreat for social distancing
Casa Eterea responds to the isolationist demands of today's travelers Read more >
Carl Gerges designs calming retreat in Lebanon that extends from the mountains
The guesthouse blends into the mountainous landscape of Bhamdoun Read more >
Address Beach Resort by Killa Design opens in Dubai
The two 77-floor twin towers are connected by an inhabitable sky bridge with the highest Read more >
Dragon Pavilion by Aurelien Chen is inspired by a Chinese landscape
200 inox poles subtly appears in the distance, almost like an optical illusion. Read more >