Rooted in Culture

Reem Al Qamzi’s journey into the local architecture scene began at the Dubai Municipality in the Building Permit section, where she gained a deep understanding of building codes and regulations. “I was exposed to a lot of designs and projects, which taught me a lot, but I always missed the creative side,” she recalls. The birth of her first child prompted a pivotal decision. “Six months into being a mother, I started missing design again and decided to start my own architecture studio. I felt that this option would give me greater flexibility, balancing being with my daughter and doing design work. And so, the journey with R.Qitects began. I still remember when it was just me, my baby in a stroller and a colleague who believed in me, in a humble office.”

Al Qamzi’s design philosophy at R.Qitects is deeply rooted in a desire to enhance the end user’s experience. “Architecture needs to serve functional purposes and at the same time enhance the end user’s experience on so many different levels. It should evoke the senses and emotions,” she explains. Her approach involves a thorough understanding of the site, its context and its culture. “We imagine how it would be to be this client experiencing this space. Our local culture and notions of hospitality and privacy take centre stage in our designs.”

She highlights her residential projects as embodiments of the firm’s ethos. “Our residential projects are culturally sensitive spaces, inviting and welcoming yet respectful of privacy boundaries. Masses are solid and heavy on the external façade, yet open and airy with pocket gardens and courtyards inside, reminiscent of traditional Emirati homes.”

One notable project is the HMS Private Hospital, which blends international standards with Emirati cultural sensitivity. “Every suite considers how the end users want to use it, maintaining privacy while welcoming guests during happy occasions,” Al Qamzi says.

As a female leader in a traditionally male-dominated field, Al Qamzi has faced unique challenges. “It was overwhelming to be on a site as the only female. Sometimes older male colleagues didn’t always take me seriously,” she admits. Balancing her professional and personal life has also been demanding. “I want to be involved in every detail of our projects but also to be there for every detail of my children’s lives and milestones.”

Her advice to aspiring female architects is powerful: “Push all your ‘buts’ and ‘what ifs’ aside and give your dreams a go. View challenges as opportunities to hone and develop your craft. It has taken me a long time to view setbacks as strengths, and ever since this shift in mindset, I started feeling very empowered.”

Al Qamzi is particularly excited about upcoming projects, including a multi-use project aiming for Gold LEED accreditation. “This building consists of showrooms, offices and warehouses, and it’s been our first experience with such a large-scale project aiming for LEED certification. It’s been an amazing learning curve for the team.” Another exciting venture is a new hospital concept set to be completed in 2028.

Reem Al Qamzi’s work not only enhances the architectural landscape of the UAE but also sets a benchmark for integrating modern aesthetics with traditional values.

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