The id Design Awards 2018 shortlist: Project of the Future
Congratulations to the architects and designers who imagined brave new worlds.
To design for the future is no easy task. It take a firm understanding of the past and the present to create a vision of life that is both optimistic and reflective of the inevitable changes that emerge with time. These fine projects aren’t mere buildings, they’re dreams of the best of all possible worlds.
Ahlia University
AECOM Middle East
AECOM was commissioned by Ahlia University (AU) to design the expansion of their existing university, situated in Manama, Kingdom of Bahrain at the crossroads of the Gulf.
The design had to accommodate the need for increased growth over time, as the campus can no longer sustain the current student population. To address the the projected growth, a new campus will be built on Island 11 of the Madina Al Shamaliya development.
The proposed campus will offer the most current educational innovations, as well as feature versatile spaces that will allow for an increase of the current student population from 2000 to 7500. In addition to academic centres it will also provide international sport facilities.
Cantilever Villa – Emirates Hills, Dubai
XBD Collective
Surrounded by breathtaking views, XBD Collective was given a brief to create a contemporary large family home that maximises outdoor space, and is positioned to overlook the prestigious Emirates Hills Golf Course in Dubai.
The client was also very eager to explore energy-saving systems and green building techniques. During the initial design studies, the designers explored massing and planning studies.
The anticipated plan: due to the shape of the plot, the orientation, entry, views outward, the best solution would be to incorporate an L-shaped plan configuration for the home and its garden, which would be situated with a primary view of the golf course.
Covered Amphitheatre
AE7
This exciting new vision from AE7 is for an 450 sqm amphitheater that allows up to 400 people at once to view events and experience desert serenity.
Envisioned as an iconic structure that houses a myriad of outdoor venue functions and programmes, the basic footprint for the design is for a GRC-cladded and steel structure formation that is 30m x 30m x 7m high, and is intended to be the sanctuary’s main architectural icon.
The amphitheater will also include other amenities to be used at different times of the day, catering to visitors of all ages.
Marriott Taghazout Bay Resort
Wilson Associates Dubai
SAPST, the client, sought to expand the entire development of Taghazout Bay. The Marriott Taghazout Bay Resort development will form part of the Moroccan National Tourism Strategy ‘Vision 2020’, to promote tourism whilst also preserving the natural resources of the coastal surroundings.
Wilson Associates’ Dubai studio was selected to lead the design concept, which emphasized simplicity, traditional craftsmanship, and local Moroccan culture. It was integral to create an atmosphere that was dramatically different than the ones found in typical Moroccan hotels.
Vida Dubai Mall
GDS | GLINTMEIJER DESIGN STUDIO
VIDA Hotels and Resorts, the the newest upscale brand of Emaar Hospitality Group, is an exciting and refreshingly different hotel concept for the new generation of business executives, entrepreneurs and leisure travelers.
With contemporary contextual architecture and fashion-forward interior concept, VIDA Hotels and Resorts are differentiated by its open spaces that exude natural light, lending vitality and vigour. Its design is further enhanced by the use of neutral colours to create fresh and eclectic interiors that provide a chic ambience for those seeking a blend of ‘work and play’.
Wasl Tower
UNStudio
In 2013 UNStudio, in collaboration with Werner Sobek, was selected from a shortlist of 5 international architects to design and supervise the construction of a new landmark tower for the city of Dubai.
They were invited by Wasl Development Group to design a new kind of high-rise for the city that would act as a benchmark for both the region and for the Wasl Development Group itself. The design should also reflect the 2020 World Expo slogan ‘Mobility, Sustainability and Opportunity’.
View the complete list of this year’s shortlisted projects here.
The Latest
Things to Covet – July/August 2026
Bold, tactile pieces with raw material honesty
Everyday Moments, Elevated
The Cut arrives at IF HUB, offering a new perspective on kitchen design through its focus on materiality, craftsmanship and sensory experiences
Sustainability at its Heart – King Fahad Sports City Stadium
Opened in 1987, the King Fahad Sports City Stadium in Riyadh is undergoing a major renovation designed by Populous to transform it into a state-of-the-art venue for the 2034 FIFA World Cup
Tactile Modernism
This cliffside West Coast residence is a thoughtfully layered response to a practical, mid-century-inspired architectural framework, shaped to reflect the lives and values of the people who call it home
Contemporary Luxury
West One transforms a villa in Jumeirah Golf Estates that maximises its view of the sunset
Character in Every Material
Interiors UAE highlights the beauty of materiality and craft by creating furniture that stands the test of time
Brazil Living
Tropical Modernism up close
Product Design – id50 2026
We honor these product designers as part of the id50.
The Debuts at the id50 2026
Here are the debuts of the id50 2026.
Visionaries of the id50 2026
Take a look at the visionaries from our id50 2026
Global Firms – id50 2026
Meet the global firms with local presence that form a part of this year's id50
The Gaggenau Minimalistic Series. Two lines, one circle: a statement.
Sleek and clean, the Minimalistic series applies restraint in its design.