Close

The id Design Awards 2018 shortlist: Residential Exterior

Discover the architects and designers behind these world-class exteriors.

Designed to reflect the region’s love of contemporary architecture – and local traditions – these residential exteriors are the epitome of style and substance.  From towers that achieve new aesthetic heights, to castles in the sky designed to accommodate the needs of the local environment, these exteriors are at the forefront of innovation.

K3

Mustafa Khamash / Kart Group

The Kart Group’s Mustafa Khamash transformed the outdoor area of  a residential palace into a harmonious oasis that maximises the privacy of the familial dwelling.

From the arched passage inspired by Moorish architecture to the  decorative carved wooden panels reminiscent of traditional Arabic mashrabiya screens, the ambience is luxurious and peaceful.

Amidst  citrus trees, frangipani, date palms and trickling waters are  diverse typologies of spaces – semi- enclosed patios, lounges, swings, solarius, majlis, and semi-vaulted alcoves, – that invite the family to spend time together, socialize over a refreshing coffee in the Majlis.


Sky Towers
AE7

The Sky Towers project consists of twin 22-story residential towers located in Dubai’s Umm Ramool neighbourhood.

Situated just a short distance from the Dubai International Airport, both towers offer a ground level with a variety of retail and F&B elements and a 3-level parking podium for the residents.

On-site amenities include gyms, saunas, massage rooms, swimming pools and generous outdoor terraces for leisure and family-oriented activities.


Wind Tower

AGi Architects

Wafra Vertical Housing introduced a new concept for urban living that was designed for a contemporary lifestyle in 21st century Kuwait.

There has been an increased demand for land in the city, so  the transformation of single-family dwellings typologies has become a necessity.  The new residences offer privacy, benefit from vertical solution amenities and enjoy a prime location. One of the main tenets of their plan was to create a building that was designed to address the local environmental needs.

To achieve this, they located the services core of the building on the southern wing to minimize sun exposure and consequently reduce energy consumption – acting as a thermal barrier to the rest of the building.

View the complete list of this year’s shortlisted projects here.

The Latest

The Edge of Calm

This home in Dubai Hills Estate balances sculptural minimalism with everyday ease

Obegi Home

In conversation with Karine Obegi and Mauro Nastri

We caught up with Karine Obegi, CEO of OBEGI Home and Mauro Nastri, Global Export Manager of Italian brand Porada, at their collaborative stand in Downtown Design.

An interview with Huda Lighting at Downtown Design

During Downtown Design, we interviewed the team at Huda Lighting in addition to designers Tom Dixon and Lee Broom.

Downtown Design Returns to Riyadh in 2026

The fair will run its second edition at JAX District

Design Dialogues with KOHLER

We discussed the concept of 'Sustainable Futures' with Inge Moore of Muza Lab and Rakan Jandali at KCA International.

Design Dialogues with Ideal Standard x Villeroy & Boch

During Dubai Design Week 2025, identity held a panel at the Ideal Standard x Villeroy & Boch showroom in City Walk, on shaping experiences for hospitality.

A Touch of Luxury

Here’s how you can bring both sophistication and style to every room

Messara living

Outdoor Living, Redefined

Messara Living and Vincent Sheppard Unveil “Outdoor at Its Best 2026”

NOMAD Opens Its Doors in Abu Dhabi’s Iconic Terminal 1

A modernist landmark is reimagined as a global stage for collectible design, contemporary art, and cultural dialogue.

In photos: Winners at the identity Design Awards 2025

Presenting the winners of 2025 identity Design Awards.

Identity Design Awards 2025 – Winner’s List

Here are the winners of the identity design awards 2025

Hogg’s Hollow

Set along the bend of a quiet river and sheltered within a mature, tree-lined enclave of Toronto, this riverside residence offers a dialogue between structure and softness, restraint and warmth