Designing a Sustainable Future

Siemens Energy is a global leader in power generation, transmission and renewable energy, committed to advancing sustainable, reliable and affordable energy systems in the Middle East and worldwide. For its Dubai office, spread across five buildings in the Sustainability District of Expo City, Siemens Energy aimed to create an immersive brand experience reflecting its vision. Collaborating with SAY Studio, the 5,990-square metre project achieved LEED® Gold certification in early 2024, excelling in water use reduction, innovation, regional priority, location and transportation, as well as integrative process credits.

As interior designers, SAY Studio worked closely with specialist partners like Platinum SDI to meet all criteria, focusing on water efficiency, atmosphere, materials and resources, indoor air quality, lighting and more.

The project surpassed industry baselines. An early commissioning process ensured system performance, saving an estimated 20 per cent more energy through natural light, low-wattage lighting and automatic controls. Water use was reduced by 45 per cent using water-efficient sanitary fixtures.

Every stage, from concept to construction, aimed for the most positive impact. This included operational waste storage for segregation at source; recycling or reprocessing 85 per cent of construction waste; and using third-party Environmental Product Declaration (EPD) verified products, Forest Stewardship Council-certified wood, low chemical-emitting interior finishes and biophilic design principles to enhance occupant comfort. Innovative materials like WoolWood and pressed leaf panels provide function and aesthetic character to the space.

As Laila Al-Yousuf, Design Director of SAY Studio, emphasises, “As designers, it is our duty to positively impact users through our work. Every project is approached with sustainability in mind, which is why we love working with clients like Siemens Energy. They embrace the responsibility to build a better future, and we take great pride in helping to make this possible.”

Siemens Energy’s campus in the Sustainability Pavilions in Expo City marks an exciting step for this leading energy firm in the region. The design demonstrates that sustainability needs to be integrated from the outset, requiring time, collaboration with the right partners and a clear client vision to accomplish.