Omar Abou Nader - Education Portfolio 2020

OMAR ABOU NADER
Architecture & Design Portfolio
Selected Works 2016 - 2020

2

Process is crucial for the development
of any idea, thus ensuring it reaches its
fullest potential. As such, this portfolio
should not be observed in retrospect:
still, stagnate or hibernate.
This portfolio is a continuous process.
This portfolio contains highly confidential content, therefore any portion thereof may not be reproduced or used in any manner
whatsoever without the express written permission of the author. Any violations will be subject to legal prosecution.
All rights reserved.
© Omar Abou Nader 2020
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resume
p.08
01
RED SEA
COASTAL VILLAGE
MASTER PLAN
p.16
02
RIYADH
TOWNSHIP
MASTER PLAN
p.26
03
DUBAI TRADE
CENTRE DISTRICT
MASTER PLAN
p.36
04
AL JURF
CUSTOMER
EXPERIENCE
p.46
05
TURKISH AIRLINES
NEW AIRPORT
LOUNGES
p.56
professional works
4

06
07
08
09
10
11
TRANSIENCE:
THE SOCIAL PIER
p.70
EN LIASION
p.86
URBAMENTARY
p.92
iD
p.98
STUDIO IX
p.102
STUDIO X
p.108
academic works
teaching
experience
(thumbnails courtesy of Karim Khayati)
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01. CONCEPTION
I was born and raised in a small Lebanese village,
historically famous for its builders who traveled across
the lands spreading my ancestors’ architectural style.
Fact: during the old times, skilled builders used to be
called “Shweiri” after my hometown’s name. 1994-2012
02. FORMATION
Upon graduating from high school, I received a full
scholarship to pursue my passion for architecture at the
American University in Dubai. This opportunity kindled
my curiosity to discover new cultures and engage in
new experiences.
2012
03. EVOLUTION
One of the most pivotal experiences I undertook was
my three months internship at Sou Fujimoto Architects
in Tokyo, where I was not only involved in an awardwinning
international design practice but also exposed
to an inspirational culture that helped shape me.
2016
04. DEVELOPMENT
Completing my bachelor degree with high honors and
receiving the 1 st prize for my thesis project amongst 40
graduating thesis projects lead me into joining Woods
Bagot & CRTKL as a key-member in their design teams.
In addition to my design involvement, I quickly developed
a curiosity in business and management prompting me
to pursue a Masters in Business Administration with a
concentration in Management. The program has helped
me better understand client needs, lead teams more
efficiently and increase my human-centric awareness.
2012-2020
05. PROJECTION
While I enjoy professional practice, I seek to contribute
to the world differently. I believe that we have a greater
responsibility towards our societies and cities. As such,
I want to pursue research to positively contribute to
society by enhancing places and human experiences.
2020+
6

7

date of birth
nationality
current location
email
phone
linkedin
05.08.1994
Lebanese
Dubai, UAE
omarabounader13@gmail.com
+971 55 66 78 186
Omar Abou Nader
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EDUCATION
ACADEMIC EXPERIENCE
Sep 2017 - June 2019
2-year program
Sep 2012 - April 2017
5-year program
WORK EXPERIENCE
April 2019 - present
Dubai, UAE
June 2017 - April 2019
Dubai, UAE
INTERNSHIP EXPERIENCE
June - July 2016
Tokyo, Japan
Master of Business Administration Concentration in Management
American University in Dubai (AUD)
cGPA 3.5
Bachelor of Architecture
American University in Dubai (AUD)
Dean’s Honor List - Magna Cum Laude - cGPA 3.75
CallisonRTKL Architect & Urban Designer
Planning & Urban Design key member. My role within the practice extends
beyond task delivery, design research and design conceptualization to include
client relationship management, project & team management.
• Since joining, I have been the main designer on a high-level master plan, taking
it all the way from pre-concept design to detailed master plan submission.
• I have also supported on multiple master plan designs that required a strong
narrative, design and aesthetic in a relatively short time.
• Part of a digital transformation unit that aims at employing new design tools
and revolutionize the existing design process. In one case we have worked with
Autodesk on a new enhanced work flow for the team.
Sectors: Master planning | Mixed-Use | Public Realm
Woods Bagot Architect & Urban Designer
Design Stream key member with a focus on urban design.
• I have worked on 16 projects of different scale and complexity gaining invaluable
exposure on several sectors across the globe.
• Pre-concept & concept lead designer of several projects in which high level
stakeholders are involved across the consulting teams and clients’ representatives.
• Lead key-projects of up to 1.8m AED securing high returns of up to 35%.
• Global liaison between SUPERSPACE and the Dubai studio: my role facilitated
cross-teams collaboration in order to foster informed & human-centric design.
• Carried out managerial studies as part of my MBA program to stimulate studio
culture with a focus on CSR deployment, followed by on-ground CSR activities.
Sectors: Master planning | Transport & Aviation | Commercial | Residential | Public
Sou Fujimoto Architects Intern
Worked on two international competitions from ideation to final presentation.
Learned to optimize time, maximize efficiency, support team leaders and work
under stress to deliver high-quality design.
Sectors: Residential | Cultural
Sep 2018 - April 2019
Dubai, UAE
VOLUNTEER EXPERIENCE
March - August 2020
Global Initiative
RESEARCH WORK
2016
2020
AWARDS & AFFILIATIONS
2019
2017
2017 | Dubai, UAE
2016 | Dubai, UAE
2014 - 2016
LANGUAGES
AUD, School of Art and Architecture Design Teaching
Assistant for Dr. Georges Kachaamy
Support, guide and review undergraduate senior students’ thesis
projects. I was responsible of advising the senior students, informing
their thought & design process as well as developing lectures and
workshops along with the thesis advisor. During my assistantship,
7 students from Dr. Kachaamy’s section received awards out of 15
possible awards during the 2019 AUD senior showcase.
Shelter Program | Arcadis, UN Habitat Volunteer
Member of a COVID-19 multi-disciplinary global response team.
The team advised on various themes such as public space guidelines,
sanitation and governance focusing on informal settlements.
Transience: Meanwhile Spaces Author
Grade: A- (3.8/4.0) | undergraduate thesis
An urban research exploring the social spaces and groups of
Dubai with a focus on appropriation and regeneration.
Healthy Pandemic Resilient Cities Co-Author
Shelter COVID19 Support 2020 | Arcadis & UN Habitat
The report presents a set of guidelines and recommendations for
better planning and managing cities in response to COVID-19.
LEED Green Associate
AIA ME Architecture Awards
Honourable Mention | undergrad thesis
AUD Architecture Senior Showcase
1st Place Winner | undergrad thesis
Urban Thinkers Campus Competition
1st Place Winners | Urban Design Category
AIAS, AUD Chapter
Founding Member & Vice President
Arabic Native
English Fluent
French Fluent
Sep - Dec 2015
Dubai, UAE
July - Aug 2015
Beirut, Lebanon
LACASA Architects Intern
Assisted the Principal Designer on projects of different scale and complexity.
Gained critical understanding of the mix between design and business.
Sectors: Commercial | Educational
Accent Design Group Intern
Supported during various project design phases, gaining valuable knowledge at
SD and DD in addition to coordination and task delivery.
Sectors: Mixed-Use | Residential | Public
SOFTWARE
INTERESTS
Rhinoceros
Grasshopper
ArcGIS
Revit
AutoCAD
Sketchup
Vray | Enscape
Photoshop
InDesign
Illustrator
Caving underground expeditionist & explorer
Karate former national champion
Scouts former troupe leader
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10

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PROFESSIONAL
WORKS
12

golf course residential master plan sketch proposal
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MASTER-PLANNING PROJECTS
2017
2018
2019
2020
DUBAI TRADE CENTRE DISTRICT * ^
client: Dubai World Trade Centre
location: Dubai, UAE
area: 49 hectares
ABU DHABI GATE
client: Modon Properties
location: Abu Dhabi, UAE
area: 26 hectares
RIYADH HUB *
client: Saudi Public Investment Fund
location: Riyadh, KSA
area: 400 hectares
ABHA & HOFUF MASTER PLAN ^
client: Saudi Public Investment Fund
location: Abha, KSA
area: 350 & 1,600 hectares
CONFIDENTIAL MASTER PLAN
client: Confidential
location: Riyadh, KSA
area: 2,800 hectares
JUMEIRAH DISTRICT * ^
client: Dubai Properties
location: Dubai, UAE
area: 50 hectares
CREEK HARBOUR, BRIDGES DISTRICT
client: Emaar
location: Dubai, UAE
area: 12 hectares
RIYADH TOWNSHIP * ^
client: Saudi Public Investment Fund
location: Riyadh, KSA
area: 1,500 hectares
RED SEA COASTAL VILLAGE * ^
client: Red Sea Development Company
location: Red Sea, KSA
area: 200 hectares
NEW JEDDAH DOWNTOWN ^
client: Saudi Public Investment Fund
location: Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
area: 800 hectares
DUBAI DESIGN DISTRICT * ^
client: North25
location: Dubai, UAE
area: 140 hectares
TRIBUTE GOLF RESIDENCES
client: Confidential
location: Dubai, UAE
area: 49 hectares
SHAMS MEDIA CITY
client: Sharjah Media City (Shams)
location: Sharjah, UAE
area: 2,700 hectares
14
* Projects on which unconventional design methods were leveraged ranging from data analytics to parametric design, space syntax and agent-based analytics.
This informed the design process adding intelligence to the design decisions and allowing for better understanding the end-user’s behaviors and needs.
^ Master planning and architecture projects.

ARCHITECTURE PROJECTS
2015
2016
2017
2018
2019
BATROUN SQUARE
client: Batroun Municipality
location: Batroun, Lebanon
program: Mixed-Use
status: Under-Construction
NANTERRE RESIDENCES
client: Crescendo
location: Paris, France
program: Residential (Mid-Rise)
status: Competition
CO-EX, EXPO 2020
client: Dubai World Trade Centre
location: Dubai, UAE
program: Convention Centre
status: Under-Construction
CREEK HARBOUR RETAIL DISTRICT
client: Emaar
location: Dubai, UAE
program: Commercial
status: Active
AL AIN HOTELS
client: North25
location: Al-Ain, UAE
program: Hospitality
status: Active
RAMLET EL BAIDA GARDEN
client: Beirut Municipality
location: Beirut, Lebanon
program: Public Garden
status: Active
MUSEUM OF THE 20TH CENTURY
client: City of Berlin
location: Berlin, Germany
program: Museum
status: Competition
DWTC CONVENTION GATE PLAZA
client: Dubai World Trade Centre
location: Dubai, UAE
program: Public Plaza
status: Competition
DHCC MIXED-USE
client: Dubai Healthcare City
location: Dubai, UAE
program: Mixed-Use
status: Active
VILLA BRIH (THE TERRACES HOUSE)
client: Mr. Bou Ezzedine
location: Brih, Lebanon
program: Residential (Low-Rise)
status: Built
AL JURF CUSTOMER EXPERIENCE
client: Imkan
location: Abu Dhabi, UAE
program: F&B | Entertainment
status: Built
ART OF LIVING MALL
client: MMS Global
location: Dubai, UAE
program: Commercial
status: Under-Construction
TILAL AL GHAF
client: Majid Al Futtaim
location: Dubai, UAE
program: Residential (Mid-Rise)
status: Active
DIFC PLAZA
client: Emaar
location: Dubai, UAE
program: Public Plaza
status: Built
TURKISH AIRLINES LOUNGES
client: Turkish Airlines
location: Istanbul, Turkey
program: Aviation | Interior Design
status: Competition
SCHOOL OF ART
client: Mr. Emad Jaber
location: Ramallah, Palestine
program: School
status: Repurposed
UPTOWN TOWER
client: Dubai MultiCommodities Centre
location: Dubai, UAE
program: Residential (High-Rise)
status: Under-Construction
15

01
RED SEA COASTAL VILLAGE
MASTER PLAN
employer callisonrtkl
client the red sea development company
location red sea, ksa
sector residential master plan
area 200 hectares
PROJECT RESPONSIBILITY
I started this project as a main designer during the pre-concept
design where as a team we established the guiding principles
based on an exhaustive research exercise. During this process we
categorized different user segments, studied the site topography,
calculated the walkability factors based on the climate and
established a set of guidelines to discourage vehicular usage.
Adding a layer of intelligence to these guidelines, I employed
my digital skills in order to deduce certain vistas, radiuses and
distances. My role continued on the project through to detailed
master plan submission.
PROJECT DESCRIPTION
The Red Sea Project is one of three giga-projects announced by
HRH Crown Prince Mohammad bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al-
Saud in 2017. The Project supports the government’s strategy to
diversify the Kingdom’s tourism offering as laid out in Vision 2030,
the bold blueprint for the future of Saudi Arabia.
The Red Sea Development Company (TRSDC) is creating a
year-round luxury destination that sets a new global standard
in environmentally sustainable development while promoting
cultural conservation and economic stimulation through local and
international investment.
The Red Sea Project is located approximately 500km north of
Jeddah, on the west coast of the Kingdom. The strategic objective
of this Project is to transform the Umluj & Al Wajh region into
a unique luxury tourist destination with a focus on ecology and
wellness, for both local and international visitors.
16

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1.1 Concept Diagrams | Guiding Principles
400m
800m
5 min 10 min
RESPONSIVE TO NATURE
WALKABILITY
Families
Access to
water
Amenities
Professionals
Red Sea
Red Sea
Workers
ACCESSIBILITY
SHARED AMENITIES
18

1.2 Design Research |
Users’ Daily Activities
Work Day
Holiday
Work
Rest
Swimming
at the beach club
Sports
Activities
at sports club
Bike Trails
in surrounding
desert
Shopping / Dining
at the
Village Centre
Musical Evening
at the
Amphitheatre
Bon Fire
at the
Beach
recharge
STAFF
FAMILY
Morning
Yoga
at the
beach club
Community
Services
Community
Farming
Culture
Group
activities
at
Neighbourhood
Centre
Spa / Salon
at
Neighbouhood
Centre
Beach
Day
Movie Night
at the
Village Centre
recharge
recharge
Corporate Event
at the
Office/ Hotel
Rent a Car
to Mada’in Saleh
Sports
Activities
at sports
club
Bike Trails
in
surrounding
desert
Kayaking
at Beach
Swimming
at the
Hotel Pool/ Beach
Club
Musical Evening
at the
Amphitheatre
WORK
VISITORS
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Red Sea Coastal Village - Land Use Plan
1.3 Design Development | Land Use Plan
ed Sea Coastal Village - Land Use
Sea Coastal Village - Land Use Plan
‘Parkway’
Arrival Road
Legend
Legend
Legend
Professionals Accommodation
(Apartments)
Family Family Accommodation
Bachelors Accommodation
(Villas (Villas and and Townhouses) Townhouses)
(Apartments)
Professionals Accommodation
Workers Accommodation
(Apartments)
(Apartments)
Family Accommodation
(Villas and Townhouses)
Bachelors Workers Accommodation
Accommodation
(Apartments)
(Apartments) Future Expansion
Beach Beach Vo Vo leyba leyba l l
Beach Beach Vo Vo leyba leyba l l
Beach Beach Vo Vo leyba leyba l l
Beach Beach Vo Vo leyba leyba l l
600 m
600 m
Beach Beach Vo Vo leyba leyba l Beach Vo Vo leyba leyba l
Workers Non-Professional Retail- Accommodation Village Accom. Center
(Single Occupancy)
Workers Beach Accommodation Retail
Future
Non-Professional
Expansion
Accom.
(Double Retail- Occupancy) Neighbourhood Centre
Retail- Village Center
Retail
Hospital
- Village Center
Beach Retail
Retail
Office
- Neighbourhood Centre
Retail- Neighbourhood Centre
Hospital
School
Hospital
Office
Hotel
Office
School
Sports Club
School
Hotel
Civic Facilities
Hotel
Sports
Beach
Club
Club
Sports Club
Civic Facilities
Primary Open Space
Civic Facilities
Beach
Buffer
Club
Beach Club
Primary
Beach
Open Space
Primary Open Space
Buffer
Mosque
Buffer
Beach
Concession Area
Beach
Utilities
Developable Area
Mosque
Mosque
Concession Area
Concession N Area
Developable Area
Developable Area
N
Beach Beach Vo Vo leyba leyba l Beach Vo Vo leyba leyba l
N
0 25 100 250 500m
0 25 100 250 500m
0 25 100 250 500m
20

1.3 Design Development | Walkability Testing
In order to achieve walkability within
the development, a 250-meters
radius was tested and proved to be
the efficient catchment area where
residents would comfortably walk
year-long from and to the various
destinations.
Using a script developped in-house,
we tested a variety of conditions and
scenarios to inform and validate our
design strategy. One such strategy is
the bicycle demand and bicycle rack
distribution on residential and nonresidential
assets.
Residential Typologies Input
Walking Radius Parameter
21

Village Centre | Semi-Aerial Perspective
22

Green Spine | Semi-Aerial Perspective
23

Beach front | Semi-Aerial Perspective
24

Villas Cluster | Semi-Aerial Perspective
25

02
HIGH LEVEL
RESIDENTIAL MASTER PLAN
employer woods bagot
client high level, confidential
location riyadh, ksa
sector residential masterplan
area 1500 hectares
PROJECT RESPONSIBILITY
Besides being one of the main designers on this master plan, my
role extended into finding and implementing a locally inspired
narrative within a master plan framework while ensuring optimal
efficiency by collaborating with SUPERSPACE. Through the design
process, I conducted design research, contributed in setting the
overall framework, developed the strategy for the urban blocks as
well as the residential units and overall user experience. Beyond
design, I was responsible for all coordination with external viscom
in order to meet a tight deadline.
PROJECT DESCRIPTION
Occupying a prime location in Dubai, the site is bordered by
historic landmarks, urban catalysts and future key-developments.
Consequently, the envisaged master plan celebrates the timeline
and essence of Dubai by connecting the Past and the Future
through a series of activated ground and elevated public realm
platforms, creating an atmosphere conducive to Live, Work and
Play. This narrative is consolidated by the adjacent metro station,
key to enabling a Transit Oriented Development.
The project posed a challenging but exciting design process which
included various stakeholders such as the client representatives,
financial advisors, traffic engineers, landscape strategists and the
Woods Bagot design team, which comprised of the Dubai Urban
Design Team and SUPERSPACE.
Collaborating with SUPERSPACE enabled an informed and databased
design process in which current problems were challenged
and future possibilities explored. A holistic methodology
was developed to predict human behavior in the local urban
environment, as well as analyzing the user profiling, thus allowing
a cohesive understanding of urban environments and social
implications to set an exemplar of master planning locally and
internationally.

2.1 Design Research | Vernacular Architecture
Compact Design
Central courtyard for social and passive cooling purposes
Shaded Sikkas
Public Squares
Tooth-like parapet wall with small openings
28

2.1 Design Research | Residential Typologies
Two floors
Single floor
Double height floor
Plot Limit
Extrude
Create a Central Courtyard
Break the mass to create several living
arrangements (extended families friendly)
Three floors
Extrude
Create a central courtyard
Two floors
Single floor
Allowing flexibility through modularity
Create inward looking balconies
Create outward looking balconies accessed
from the interior
Create windows in the facade
On grade parking
Create Shaded Sikkas
Create Public Space
Create a street network
29

2.2 Block Typologies|Residential Type 1
Villas and Townhouses mix will be organized inside a grid cell
aiming to get the highest efficiency. However a group of sikkas
and open spaces will be introduced to break that grid.
This open space will integrate amenities every 250 meters and
local facilities every 500 meters.
This cluster typology aims to increase interaction between
neighbors from one side and the shared public space from the
other.
Towards the avenues a buffer of vertical villas will provide a new
model of building where every flat will have access to a private
terrace-garden with high level of privacy.
Plots
Community
Amenities + Facilities
Private Gardens
Public Green Space
30

2.3 Design Development | Master plan with Overlaid Framework Sketch
31

Cultural Center | Semi-Aerial Perspective
32

Cultural Center | Aerial Perspective
33

Residential Block Type 1 Eye Perspective
34

Gateway | Semi-Aerial Perspective
35

03
DUBAI TRADE CENTRE
DISTRICT MASTER PLAN
employer woods bagot
client high level, confidential
location dubai, uae
sector mixed-use master plan
area 49 hectares
PROJECT RESPONSIBILITY
I was assigned to lead the design of this master plan, ensuring that
task delivery is prompt and of high quality, design workshops with
stakeholders are result-driven and the unique pilot collaboration
mixing conventional design and algorithmic thinking between
SUPERSPACE and the UD team is successful. In retrospect,
the design process achieved its strategic goals resulting in a
comprehensive design that exceeded the client’s expectations.
According to my superiors, my agility on the project and ability
to absorb the client’s feedback allowed for a quicker design
turnaround and enhanced client relationship, ultimately leading to
positive returns of up to 35% on the project.
PROJECT DESCRIPTION
Occupying a prime location in Dubai, the site is bordered by
historic landmarks, urban catalysts and future key-developments.
Consequently, the envisaged master plan celebrates the timeline
and essence of Dubai by connecting the Past and the Future
through a series of activated ground and elevated public realm
platforms, creating an atmosphere conducive to Live, Work and
Play. This narrative is consolidated by the adjacent metro station,
key to enabling a Transit Oriented Development.
The project posed a challenging but exciting design process which
included various stakeholders such as the client representatives,
financial advisors, traffic engineers, landscape strategists and the
Woods Bagot design team, which comprised of the Dubai Urban
Design Team and SUPERSPACE.
Collaborating with SUPERSPACE enabled an informed and databased
design process in which current problems were challenged
and future possibilities explored. A holistic methodology
was developed to predict human behavior in the local urban
environment, as well as analyzing the user profiling, thus allowing
a cohesive understanding of urban environments and social
implications to set an exemplar of master planning locally and
internationally.

3.1 Design Research | Benchmarking
Footprints Block Areas OSR Vehicular Network Pedestrian Network
A look at the site pre-existing conditions on site and the broader context of Dubai.
GFA GFA Distribution
HafenCity ‐ Hamburg ‐ King's King's Cross Cross ‐ London ‐ London
Docklands ‐ Melb ‐ M
International benchmarking to understand basic scale, mix, spatial quality and GFA allocation.
38
GFA Distribution
HafenCity | SCALE COMPARISON
HafenCity | GRAIN ADOPTED ON SITE
Docklands | SCALE COMPARISON Docklands | GRAIN ADOPTED ON SITE
Type Type % % GFA GFA m ² m ² % % GFA GFA m ² m ² % % GFA GFA m ² m ²
Retail, Retail, gastronomy services 7% 7% 157 157 185 185 18 216 18 216 87 654 87 654
Hospitality** 7% 7% 157 157 185 185 18 216 18 216 87 654 87 654
Residential 35% 35% 785 785 925 925 91 079 91 079 438 438 270 270
Offices Offices 35% 35% 785 785 925 925 91 079 91 079 438 438 270 270
Civic Civic space space 10% 10% 224 224 550 550 26 023 26 023 125 125 220 220
Other Other 5% 5% 112 112 275 275 13 011 13 011 62 610 62 610
Total Total
2 495 2 495 000 000 0% 0% 743 743 500 500 0% 0% 2 504 2 504 400 400 #
Total Total Cropped
2 245 2 245 500 500 80% 80% 260 260 225 225 35% 35% 1 Songdo 252 1 252 200 City 200‐ S5
HafenCity GFA ‐ Hamburg Distribution King's Cross ‐ London Docklands HafenCity ‐ Melbourne ‐ Hamburg one‐north, King's Cross Singapore* ‐ London Docklands M
HafenCity | GFA DISTRIBUTION ON SITE
HafenCity
Korea
Type % GFA m ² Type % GFA m ² % % GFA GFA m ² m ² % % GFA GFA m² m ² % % GFA GFA m ² m ²
Retail, gastronomy services 7% 157 185 Retail, gastronomy services 18 216 7% 87157 654185 180216 259 616 87 654
Hospitality** 7% 157 185 Hospitality** 18 216 7% 87157 654185 180216 259 616 87 654
Residential 35% 785 GFA 925 Residential GFA Distribution
91 079 35% 438 Typology 785 270 925 F F
Typology 91 0079 I I 1 298 Typology 438 080
270 A
Offices 35% 785 Type 925 Offices Type 91 079 % 35% % GFA 438 GFA m 785 270 ² m 925 ² % % GFA GFA m ² 91 m 0079 ² % % GFA 1 298 GFA m 438 080 ² m 270 ²
Civic space 10% 224 Retail, 550 Retail, Civic gastronomy space services 26 023 7% 10% 7% 125 78224 220 555 555 550 341 341 320 260023 320 370 35125 880 953
953 220
Other 5% 112 Hospitality** 275 Other 13 011 7% 7% 5% 62 78112 610 555 555 275 341 341 320 130011 320 185 35 440 953 35 62 953 610
Total
2 495 Residential 000 Total 0% 743 500 0% 35% 35% 2 504 392 2 392 495 400 776 776 000 #REF! 0% 1 706 1 706 743 600 600 500 0% 0% 9 272 179 2 504 179 000 765400
Total Cropped
2 245 Offices 500 Total Offices Cropped 80% 260 225 35% 35% 35% 1 252 392 2 392 245 200 776 776 500 50% 80% 1 706 1 706 260 600 0600 225 50% 35% 3 708 179 1 179 252 800 765
200
Civic Civic space space Docklands | GFA DISTRIBUTION ON 10% SITE10% 112 112 222 222 487 487 600 Docklands 600 51 361 51 361
4
Other Other 5% 5% 56 111 56 111 243 243 800 800 25 681 25 681
Total Total
623 623 454 454 100% 100% 1 2191 219 000 000 100% 100% 88 554 88 554 1

3.1 Design Research | Pedestrian Experience
Benchmarks on street aspect
(ie. feeling of enclosure) and
topology of open spaces of
successful developments and
landmarks.
The depth of public spaces
can be used to measure visual
interest, choice of routes and
connectivity.
Small public spaces
A network of small, intimate
public spaces. Some of the
most treasured public spaces
are small and owe much of
their success to their limited
proportions.
DIFC, DUBAI
OLD TOWN, DUBAI
MUSHEIREB, DOHA
DIFC GATE
Pedestrian interaction with
the site
Develop a strategy that removes
podia in favour of activated
public space. Foster interaction
with the site from workers
and residents by combining
new parking strategies with
alternative layouts for convention
centres, shared spaces and
flexible land use allocation.
Integrating parking with
other uses
Using intelligent systems to
monitor the usage of parking
areas, diversifying parking
solutions so that a percentage
of the allocated space can be
flexible for other uses.
Pedestrian access
connections
Ensuring connectivity across
neighbourhoods, by physically
connecting them with pedestrian
walkways that could hold land
use when necessary.
Podium parking holding local amenities
Empty bags of public space
Alternative Parking + Amenities
structures
Generation of new streets
More permeable public realm
New interaction with site
Enhanced activation of public realm
and diversity of public amenities on GF
39

3.2 Concept Diagrams
Existing Condition
1. Connect
Celebrate Context: Past to Future narrative highlighted within the master plan, connecting the historical Sheikh
Rashid Tower to the futuristic Museum of the Future, all while celebrating the importance of the present
DWTC Campus and its direct influence on Dubai’s evolution.
3. Maximize
40

2. Extrude Transit Oriented Pavilion: acts as transitory space between the metro station and the master plan with multi-level activated
spaces anchoring the elevated public realm.
4. Final Outcome Central Pavilion: houses a cultural component with various supporting uses and is the
main central pavilion of the master plan
41

42
Aerial Sketch | Design Development

Master Plan
43

Central Pavilion | Semi-Aerial Perspective
44

TOD Pavilion | Semi-Aerial Perspective
45

04
AL JURF
CUSTOMER EXPERIENCE
employer woods bagot
client imkan
location abu dhabi, uae
sector commercial
PROJECT RESPONSIBILITY
In this unique & challenging project I had the opportunity to
lead the project from concept to realization, working on a tight
schedule with a multi-disciplinary team of designers, contractors
and client representatives in order to deliver. In this fast design
& build exercise, I was agile in working on the drawing board,
presenting to the client, coordinating with contractors and finally
ensuring site work accuracy.
PROJECT DESCRIPTION
Nestled between Abu Dhabi and Dubai, Aljurf lies along one of
the most pristine coastlines in the Emirates - Sahel Al Emarat.
Building on the vision of Sheikh Zayed, this destination offers a
tranquil retreat for people seeking an escape from the city life and
wanting to immerse themselves within nature. Featuring coastal
ranches and chalets amongst lush green forestry, this destination
is also home to indigenous birds and animals. It is a stunning place
that holds on to the past, with a promise for the future.
Al Jurf Customer Experience sets the scene for this 200 hectares
masterplan comprising of a restaurant and a beach club that
highlight the built and natural assets of the site, offering a unique
user experience.

4.1 Concept Diagram
Al Jurf Customer Experience
offers a unique transitional
journey between the urban
scape and the natural landscape,
setting ground to a distinct
lifestyle pace to both visitors and
future tenants.
The narrative is derived from
the social setting of the Emirati
culture where a daily transition
between a loud social life and a
calm private life coexist, with a
constant yearn for heritage and
nature.
48

4.2 Design Development | Aerial Sketch
49

4.3 On-Site Works
Security Building - Before
Journey Road - Before
Security Building - After
Journey Road - After
50

The Reveal - Before
The Reveal - Before
The Reveal - After
The Reveal - After
51

Central Courtyard | Exterior Shot (photo courtesy of Arena)
52

Restaurant | Interior Shot (photo courtesy of Arena)
53

Beach Club | Exterior Shot (photo courtesy of Arena)
54

Beach Club | Interior Shot (photo courtesy of Arena)
55

05
TURKISH AIRLINES
PASSENGER LOUNGES
employer woods bagot
client turkish airlines
location istanbul, turkey
sector aviation & transport
PROJECT RESPONSIBILITY
Leading the design of this competition was challenging, exciting
and fun as I gained a plethora of knowledge on this niche sector.
I was responsible of developing the narrative, assessing the brief,
ensuring compatibility with aviation standards, developing the
design and preparing the submission for the competition.
PROJECT DESCRIPTION
The Istanbul New Airport will be a grand new gateway to Istanbul
and Turkey, capturing the unique spirit and character of the city.
The Turkish Airlines Lounges are set to embody Turkey’s true
essence, bridging the world and exceeding expectations.
Underlined by a future-oriented, contextually relevant design,
the lounges will offer a different traveling experience, enhancing
Turkish Arilines’ global position.

5.1 Concept Diagram
Bridging Worlds
Located on both sides of the
Bosporus, the narrow strait
between the Black Sea and the
Marmara Sea, Istanbul bridges
Asia and Europe both physically
and culturally.
The Turkish Airline Lounges
manifest Istanbul’s global
character in bridging different
cultures.
The result is a fusion of
local and international tastes
melded together through a
reinterpretation of the silk road.
58

5.2 Design Development | Asia Lounge Sketch
59

60
5.3 Design Development | Asia Lounge Plan

5.3 Design Development | Asia User Profiling
The Explorer
The Conversationalist
The Rejuvenation Seeker
The Business Guru
The Gamer
The Parent
61

Asia Lounge | The Nest Interior Perspective
62

Asia Lounge | Interior Perspective
63

Bosporus Lounge | Interior Perspective
64

Bosporus Lounge | Interior Perspective
65

ACADEMIC
WORKS
66

physical model | studio V
67

ARCHITECTURE-RELATED CORE COURSEWORK
Year 1
Year 2 (Dean’s Honor List)
Year 3 (Dean’s Honor List)
Fall Semester - 2012
Fall Semester 2013
Spring Semester 2014
Fall Semester 2014
Spring Semester 2015
ARCH 101 - DESIGN STUDIO 1
Foundation studio covering basics
of architecture language and
architectural representation.
grade obtained: A
ARCH 201 - DESIGN STUDIO III
This studio situates architecture in
a socio-cultural context, investigating
deeper the human-architecture
relationship.
grade obtained: A
ARCH 202 - DESIGN STUDIO IV
This studio covers building program,
assemblies, structural systems,
envelope systems, and basic building
system.
grade obtained: A
ARCH 301 - DESIGN STUDIO V
This studio focuses on understanding
Architectural theories and
methodologies, their implication on
design methods and process.
grade obtained: A
ARCH 302 - DESIGN STUDIO VI
This studio focuses on the impact of
environmental issues with the aim to
design an environmentally responsive
building within the design process.
grade obtained: A
Spring Semester - 2013
ARCH 102 - DESIGN STUDIO II
The second studio introduces design
process, research, analysis and spatial
organization as well as concept
development and presentation.
grade obtained: A
ARCH 151 - HISTORY AND THEORY
OF ARCHITECTURE I
This course is characterized by a
series of lectures and presentations
that examine the development of
architecture and urbanism from the
ancient world through to the late
medieval period.
grade obtained: A-
ARCH 211 - MATERIALS AND
METHODS OF CONSTRUCTION
This course introduces students to the
role of architectural technology in the
design process. Building materials and
methods of construction are studied.
grade obtained: A-
ARCH 252 - HISTORY AND THEORY
OF ARCHITECTURE II
This course examines the development
of architecture and urbanism in
Europe and elsewhere from the
late medieval period through the
Renaissance until the late eighteenth
century.
grade obtained: A-
ARCH 212 - MATERIALS AND
METHODS OF CONSTRUCTION
This course covers principles and
practices of estimating project cost,
scheduling methods, controlling
techniques as well as feasibility.
grade obtained: A
ARCH 253 - HISTORY AND THEORY
OF ARCHITECTURE III
This course examines the development
of architecture and urbanism from
the industrial revolution through to
the early Modernism period as well as
various new movements of the Twentyfirst
century.
grade obtained: A
ARCH 321 - ENVIRONMENTAL
SYSTEMS
This course introduces sustainability
and the way it informs architecture
and site design thinking and how
environmental systems can reduce the
energy consumption related to heating,
cooling, daylighting, ventilation and
acoustics.
grade obtained: A
ARCH 351 - THEORY OF
ARCHITECTURE
This advanced lecture course focuses
on understanding architectural
theories and methodologies and their
implication on architectural design.
grade obtained: B+
68

Year 4 (Dean’s Honor List)
Year 5 (Dean’s Honor List)
ADDITIONAL RELEVANT
COURSEWORK
Fall Semester 2015
Spring Semester 2016
Fall Semester 2016
Spring Semester 2017
2012 - 2017
ARCH 401 - DESIGN STUDIO VII
This course covers theories of urban
design. Students design a real context
urban project integrating the physical,
environment, socio-cultural, economic,
legal and philosophical elements that
shape cities.
grade obtained: A-
ARCH 422 - SUSTAINABILITY AND
ENERGY CONSERVATION
This course develops comprehensively
on the previous sustainability courses.
grade obtained: A
ARCH 542 - LIFE SAFETY AND CODES
This course covers the process of an
architectural project. Topics include
programming, developing design
requirements and standards, as well as
building codes.
grade obtained: B-
ARCH 402 - DESIGN STUDIO VIII
In this design studio students
are required to consolidate their
knowledge and demonstrate well
rounded competencies in integrating
the technical aspects of architectural
design.
grade obtained: A
ARCH 441 - PROFESSIONAL
PRACTICE AND ETHICS
In this course, students will develop
an understanding of the business and
practice of Architecture.
grade obtained: A-
ARCH 501 - DESIGN STUDIO IX
In this course, students prepare a
thesis proposal which consists of
collecting, analyzing and researching
focused topics. Throughout the process,
students will learn to plan, structure
and write a research document as well
as developing familiarity with research
techniques and methods in the field of
Architecture.
grade obtained: A-
ARCH 502 - DESIGN STUDIO X
This is a capstone course in which
students implement their thesis
research by developing a project
that incorporates all the principles of
design demonstrating a comprehensive
understanding of architectural design
and evidence of professional capability.
grade obtained: A
ARCH 280 - MODEL MAKING
This course covers the fundamentals
of model making, techniques and tools
needed to create a physical model.
grade obtained: A-
ARCH 380 - ARCHITECTURAL
COMPETITIONS
This course guides students through
the various stages of competitions
from ideation to presentation by
participating in a competition.
grade obtained: A
DDFT 341 - DIGITAL DESIGN AND
FABRICATION
This course provides both the
conceptual framework and the
practical skills for understanding digital
design media and for making effective
use of the emerging digital design and
fabrication repertoire. Topics include
basics of computation, uses of spatial
and image data, fundamentals of
geometric modeling and fabrication,
and cultural aspects of design
computing.
grade obtained: A
MEST 329 - ISLAMIC ART AND
ARCHITECTURE
grade obtained: A
ARCH 311 - STRUCTURAL ANALYSIS
grade obtained: B
ARCH 312 - STRUCTURAL DESIGN
grade obtained: B
69

06
TRANSIENCE:
THE SOCIAL PIER
undergraduate thesis project
advisor dr. georges kachaamy
AUD Architecture Senior Showcase 2017
First Place Winner
AIA ME Architecture Awards 2017
Honorable Mention
Following an extensive urban critique of Dubai, it became
apparent that the city is in critical need for social spaces
where urban dwellers could congregate and contribute to the
production of urban space through their personal and collective
interests.
In response to that, the intended project is a Social Pier that
expands into the urban context, taking advantage of the
existing infrastructure and enhancing the overall physical and
visual connectivity of the site. Consequently, creating spatial
opportunities for the different social groups within the urban
fabric in bid to revitalize and promote the historic/aboriginal
neighborhoods as well as socio-cultural sustainability.
In essence, the social pier is an acrobacy of space allowing for a
playful interplay in spatial typology, which functions are dictated
by the preferences of the social groups. In addition to the user/
space iteration, time is also a decisive component as social groups
congregate during different timings throughout a 24 hours cycle.
Consequently creating social clusters that exist only temporarily
within the architectural and urban system.

6.1 Concept Diagrams
existing urban condition
conventional pier
General Intent: “Connect & Create”
the social pier
connect
the social pier
connect.create
Concept Diagrams
Categorizing the Social Groups
72

6.2 Site Selection | Al Shindagha Historical Neighborhood
Old Urban Fabric: Historical &
Aboriginal District
Established in mid-19th century on the Western
bank of the Creek, Al Shindagha has served as a
significant trading port and Dubai’s maritime gate
to the world, to become later the origin of the
city’s urban growth.
Public Ownership
After the redevelopment of the area, the general
function of the district shifted from residential to
cultural, though maintaining its openness to people
and the various social groups interacting with the
built environment.
Social Groups
Its vicinities and public spaces are open to be
appropriated by people, therefore a general notion
of public ownership is implied.
Existing Infrastructure
- Vehicular Access + Parking Spaces
- Al Ghubaiba Metro Station
- Al Ghubaiba Water Station
- Al Ghubaiba Bus Station
New Urban Fabric: 21st Century
Developments
The city of Dubai grew bigger from its aboriginal
neighborhoods and witnessed a boom in
developments. This created clusters of different
architectural styles and urban fabrics.
73

t
energy
l
6.3 Design Research | Social Groups Attributes Framework
The next step after distinguishing the social
groups is to catalogue their patterns, behaviors
and preferences in the built environment.
As such, the diagram shown on this page is a
spatio-temporal framework that highlights the
findings in an established easy-to-use template.
The template is split in two major sections,
Spatial Qualities & Personal Qualities,
with each showcasing sub-categories:
Spatial Qualities
• Typology: refers to the spatial arrangement
that the social group prefers.
• Exclusivity: refers to how closed the group
is, how difficult or how easy it is to join
their activity.
• Season: refers to the group’s preferred
season, this could be summer and/or
winter.
• Environment: refers to whether the group
activity takes place indoor and/or outdoor.
• Spatial Requirements: refers to whether
the built environment requirements
(ranging from furniture to amenities and
infrastructure) of the social group is or is
not immense.
season
summer winter
private
exculisivity
public
axial
typology
loop
square
cluster
linear
spatial qualities
100%
80
60
40
20
0
s
e
i
t
i
a
u
01
02
03
04
05
06
07
08
09
10
11
12
time
Personal Qualities
• Movement: refers to whether the group
carry out their activity in close proximity
or not.
• Energy: refers to the physiological energy
of the group.
• Noise: refers to the noise level that the
group emit while carrying out their activity.
• Interaction: refers to the level of interaction
the group exhibits with other individuals/
groups.
• Time: refers to when the group is most
active on a 24 hours scale.
environmen
outdoor
requirements
spatial
indoor
immense
movement
scattered
high
p
e
r
s
n
o
a
q
l
19
18
17
16
15
13
14
20
21
loud
22
23
convivial
24
noise
interaction
Social Groups Attributes Framework Template
74

75
6.3 Design Research | Social Groups Attributes per Category
20
0
40
60
80
100%
p
e
r
s
o
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a
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a
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spatial qualities
time
interaction
noise
energy
movement
requirements
spatial
environmen
season
exculisivity
typology
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convivial
loud
high
scattered
immense
indoor
outdoor
summer winter
private
public
axial
loop
square
cluster
linear
20
0
40
60
80
100%
p
e
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s
o
n
a
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q
u
a
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t
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s
spatial qualities
time
interaction
noise
energy
movement
requirements
spatial
environmen
season
exculisivity
typology
01
02
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convivial
loud
high
scattered
immense
indoor
outdoor
summer winter
private
public
axial
loop
square
cluster
linear
20
0
40
60
80
100%
p
e
r
s
o
n
a
l
q
u
a
l
i
t
i
e
s
spatial qualities
time
interaction
noise
energy
movement
requirements
spatial
environmen
season
exculisivity
typology
01
02
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06
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convivial
loud
high
scattered
immense
indoor
outdoor
summer winter
private
public
axial
loop
square
cluster
linear
20
0
40
60
80
100%
p
e
r
s
o
n
a
l
q
u
a
l
i
t
i
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s
spatial qualities
time
interaction
noise
energy
movement
requirements
spatial
environmen
season
exculisivity
typology
01
02
03
04
05
06
07
08
09
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
21
22
23
24
convivial
loud
high
scattered
immense
indoor
outdoor
summer winter
private
public
axial
loop
square
cluster
linear
20
0
40
60
80
100%
p
e
r
s
o
n
a
l
q
u
a
l
i
t
i
e
s
spatial qualities
time
interaction
noise
energy
movement
requirements
spatial
environmen
season
exculisivity
typology
01
02
03
04
05
06
07
08
09
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
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20
21
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23
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convivial
loud
high
scattered
immense
indoor
outdoor
summer winter
private
public
axial
loop
square
cluster
linear
20
0
40
60
80
100%
p
e
r
s
o
n
a
l
q
u
a
l
i
t
i
e
s
spatial qualities
time
interaction
noise
energy
movement
requirements
spatial
environmen
season
exculisivity
typology
01
02
03
04
05
06
07
08
09
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
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18
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20
21
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convivial
loud
high
scattered
immense
indoor
outdoor
summer winter
private
public
axial
loop
square
cluster
linear
20
0
40
60
80
100%
p
e
r
s
o
n
a
l
q
u
a
l
i
t
i
e
s
spatial qualities
time
interaction
noise
energy
movement
requirements
spatial
environmen
season
exculisivity
typology
01
02
03
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06
07
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09
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convivial
loud
high
scattered
immense
indoor
outdoor
summer winter
private
public
axial
loop
square
cluster
linear
20
0
40
60
80
100%
p
e
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s
o
n
a
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q
u
a
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i
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spatial qualities
time
interaction
noise
energy
movement
requirements
spatial
environmen
season
exculisivity
typology
01
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convivial
loud
high
scattered
immense
indoor
outdoor
summer winter
private
public
axial
loop
square
cluster
linear
design & arts aficionados
performing artists
events & festival goers
self-employed freelancers
fishermen
shoppers & vendors
fitness enthusiasts
skateboarders, roller bladers &
BMX-ers
75

6.3 Design Research | Functions’ Layering
An important aspect of The Social Pier is its
ability to host the 8 social groups & provide
an inclusive network of versatile spaces where
they could congregate.
To do so, the spaces need to defy the
conventional single-use spatial occupancy,
and adopt spatial typologies that are able to
Interchange Functions on a continuous 24
hours cycle.
The scheme on the left shows how the project
achieves that based on the researched activities
of the 8 social groups, organized over Time and
Space.
With this understanding, we deduce that The
Social Pier is a product of 3 overlaps:
1. User Overlap
2. Time Overlap
3. Spatial Overlap
These overlaps allow for flexible spaces that
are continuously shifting in function in order
to accommodate the social groups’ different
needs on a 24h cycle.
76

6.3 Design Research | Multi-Functional Scheme
Longitudinal Section with a diagram showing
the breakdown of each zone and the potential
activities that take place in that zone over 24h.
77

6.4 Design Process
78

79

6.5 Plans | Upper Level Plan
80

6.5 Plans | Ground Level Plan
81

Road-Side Entrance | Eye Perspective
82

Central Node | Eye Perspective
83

Exhibited in Dubai Design District | Layout, Physical Model, Process Models, Detailed Drawings
84

3D-Printed Physical Model | Featured on Archdaily (https://www.archdaily.com/914527/the-american-university-in-dubai-celebrates-the-work-of-students-at-the-yearly-architecture-senior-showcase)
85

07
EN LIAISON
DUBAI PUBLIC LIBRARY
studio viii - technical studio
professor ghada yaiche
li·ai·son
(lē-ā’zŏn’, lē’ā-) noun, referring to a relationship.
Situated in Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary, Dubai, “En Liasion” is
a public library that re-establishes the connection between the
cityscape and the natural landscape. This connection is translated
architecturally by a void separating the functions of the library,
thus making the human-to-nature connection clear and straight.
The library features a defined and strict hierarchy that changes
dynamically to respond to the privacy and the quietness of
both the project and its context. The atmosphere is taken into
consideration to ensure a unique and pleasant reading experience,
thus proportion, ventilation, natural light and views are optimized.
Furthermore, the spatial program and the organization of
functions enhance the user experience.
Moreover, En Liaison achieves harmony with its ecological context
especially since the perforated wooden façade camouflages
the volume; offering a human-nature interaction without
compromising the comfort of either.

7.1 Concept Diagrams
NOISY
PUBLIC
URBAN
QUIET
PRIVATE
NATURE
88

89

7.2 Detailed Drawings
Ground Floor Plan
Structural Diagram
First Floor Plan
Facade Details
90

91

08
URBAMENTARY
studio vi - urban design studio
professor nadine bitar
Urban Thinkers Campus 2016
First Place Winner | Urban Design
Second Place Winner | Overall
URBAMENTARY is an urban morphology in which transit nodes
and systems are connected while stressing upon the human
experience throughout. The word Urbamentary is composed of
the words Urban and Integument while implying an elementary
behavior in the urban context.
The proposed design bids to create an identity for Dubai Media
City and Dubai Internet City while addressing major urban design
issues, mainly concerning walkability, transit connectivity and lack
of public spaces. The design took shape considering the pedestrian
flow, the 200 meters catchment around the transit stations and
the surrounding urban fabric. The design allows for flexibility, in
diversifying the spaces according to the needs of the site and the
users. By adopting several strategies and smart technologies, the
design extends to form a bridge across the site as such to allow
ease of movement in a comfortable and controlled environment.
Brief, the development extends and forms a skin over the existing
urban layer, enhancing the existing urban space and promoting
resilience.

8.1 Concept Diagrams
Concept diagram showing catchment rings around the mass transit nodes.
Concept diagram expressing the need to densify around the mass transit nodes and connect them.
94

95

8.2 Design Development
Diagram showing the various implemented technologies and design strategies
96

97

09
iD
connect . play . dream
design competition
urban commission 2.0 2016
theme: urban shelter
dubai design days - dubai design district d3
The proposed shelter encourages the social activities of
individuals in the urban context so it acts as a hub to play, relax,
discover, connect and daydream.
In addition, the design caters to the various types of people found
in a modern day public space by providing a functional sheltered
space to each of the proposed types to enhance spatial intimacy.
Moreover, by adopting different strategies the shelter achieves
harmony between personal comfort environmental sustainability
and social interaction.

The Artist
The Gourmet
The Dreamer
The Crew
The Athlete
The Lover
The Performer
The Narcissist

TEACHING
EXPERIENCE
100

photo courtesy of Karim Khayati
101

10
STUDIO IX
UNDERGRADUATE
THESIS - RESEARCH
institution american university in dubai
professor dr. georges kachaamy
location dubai, uae
course arch501 (studio ix)
semester fall 2018
RESPONSIBILITY
During this research oriented studio, I assisted Dr. Kachaamy in
preparing and updating course content as well as supporting the
senior students in their research.
Dr. Kachaamy relied on me to prepare and conduct a series of
lectures aimed at explaining book design tricks and tips, research
techniques and software training.
In addition, I accompanied the students in their research journey
giving them input, reviewing their work and preparing relevant
content to each students’ topic.
Finally, I assisted Dr. Kachaamy and the architecture department
in preparation of the team room for the NAAB Initial
Accreditation Visit.
COURSE DESCRIPTION
In this course, students prepare a thesis proposal, known as
thesis book, which consists of collecting, analyzing, and writing a
summary about data pertinent to a particular theme or topic and
use it to produce a preliminary design to be carried out in detail
during the final semester.
Students will build a comprehensive knowledge as to building
standards and norms leading to space programming, codes, and
regulations and design theory. Throughout the process, students
will learn to plan, structure and write a research document as well
as developing familiarity with research techniques and methods in
the field of Architecture.
Students are expected to review literature work in the field of
Architecture and in any field relating to the topic they choose.
The final outcome is a comprehensive book that includes but not
limited to: literature review, data collection, case studies, space
102

photo courtesy of Karim Khayati
103

10.1 Lecture & Workshop Preparation | Book Design Guidelines
These boards are excerpts from a lecture
I prepared and gave to the senior students
as part of a wider series that tackles book
design, aesthetics, visualization and printing.
While preparing the lectures and
workshops, I relied on my own academic
and professional experiences, books,
multimedia as well as subject matter experts
such as Alex Hogrefe from Visualizing
Architecture.
I organized the series by topics that follow
the weekly course syllabus and students
pace. This ensured that the students retained
and properly applied the information, as
evident by their polished final outcome.
104

10.2 Student Work | Abdullah Tahseen
CAELUM
A human desire to reach the Sky
Caelum, the book of the sky is a rhetorical intellectual product that
delivers a new understanding of the relationship between the human
and the sky; a cardinal metaphysical presence that has astonished
humans for millennia. The book observes the subject from different
lenses. To present a holistic and more complete understanding of this
lasting relationship. Designed to explore the possibilities of manifesting
this research product into an architectural monument, that looks to
reshape and reunite the expression and perception of the human
with the celestial realm. A journey from the physical to the immaterial,
through different phases of human consciousness and superlative
experiential transcendence. Capturing the essence of the moment
and then reflecting it back into the urban fabric of the city of Dubai.
Undergraduate Thesis
Copyright © 2018 Abdullah Tahseen
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10.2 Student Work | Karim Khayati
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STUDIO X
UNDERGRADUATE
THESIS - DESIGN
institution american university in dubai
professor dr. georges kachaamy
location dubai, uae
course arch502 (studio x)
semester spring 2019
RESPONSIBILITY
Building on the thesis research conducted in the previous
semester, my role once again comprised of preparing and
conduction lectures as well as supporting students in their final
year design.
During the semester, I helped review students’ work on a weekly
basis, helping them develop their projects from concept ideas to
fully workable design proposals. In addition, I prepared a series
of lectures and workshops specific to architectural visualization
in order to prepare for the final jury presentation (senior
showcase).
COURSE DESCRIPTION
This is a capstone course in which students implement their
thesis research by developing a project that incorporates all
the principles of design demonstrating a comprehensive
understanding of architectural design and evidence of
professional capability. A final presentation of the resulting design
to an advisory panel and jury will take place in what is known as
the ‘AUD School of Architecture Senior Showcase’.
SENIOR SHOWCASE AWARDS RECIPIENTS
At the end of the fifth and final year, 50 architecture senior
students exhibited their projects, which was juried by a multidisciplinary
body of approx. 40 professors and practitioners. Out
of 15 awards, Dr. Kachaamy’s class received 7 awards, a record
number for one class to receive this many awards in one batch.
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Marwa Abu Al Haija
Sareh Yousefi
Karim Khayati
Sarvnaz Amidi
Fatma Aldabal
Mohammad Shoaib
Nafiseh Zomorrodinia
First Place Award
Innovative Design Award
Architecture Faculty Award
Professor Award
Cultural Design Award
Honorable Mention
Honorable Mention

photo courtesy of Karim Khayati
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11.1 Student Work | Karim Khayati
Synopsis from author:
“This project is an homage to a dying form of performing art.
It rethinks performing art centers in every aspect, such as
the presence of theaters as suspended and detached objects;
which challenged to rethinking functionality, public and service
circulation and access. The thesis project also pushes boundaries
in structural engineering solutions.”
Concept Sketch (work of student)
Design Research | Space Matrix (work of student)
Architectural Drawings | Plans (work of student)
Architectural Drawings | Sections (work of student)
Design Development | Physical Models (work of student)
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Preformance Area
Open Plan Area
Seating and Lounge
Reception For
debate camp
199900.0
9900.0 10200.0 9792.1
10398.2 9804.8 9804.8 10400.0 9600.0 15400.0 11666.7 10713.3 7220.0 10000.0 8333.3 11666.7 15200.0 9800.0 10100.0 9900.0
Media Center
Screen
FEMALE
TOILET
MALE
TOILET
Observatory
Exhbition
9900.0 10100.0
9800.0
15200.0
11666.7
8333.3
10000.0
7220.0
10713.3
11666.7
15400.0
9600.0
10400.0
9804.8
9804.8
10398.2
9792.1
199900.0
Recreational Center
Library
10200.0
9900.0
Observatory for staff
OBEY Social Parliament
11.1 Student Work | Marwa Abu Al Haija
Mass & Void Extractions
Protest Process
Shapes Demographics
Marwa’s project stems out of a rich research process that
studied the multiple dimensions of protest, democracy and
socio-politics in Dubai and the UAE.
Merge
Diverge
Merge
Extrude
Merge
Merge
Her design not only underwent extensive typological iterations
but is also tailored to different user segments, programmatic
functions and contextual considerations.
The mass Represents the government &
the voids represent the people.
Diverge
Merge + Split
Split
Split
Extrude
Extract
She managed to combine through her design and research two
aspects of civil life: government and public space; morphing both
facets in a harmonious architectonic that encourages dialogue.
The people extract voids within the mass in
demand to be part of the government.
Expand
Compress
Extract
Merge
Extrude
Extract
Extract
Extract
Extract
Marwa’s project got awarded the first prize in the 2019 AUD
Architecture Senior Showcase.
South East Perspective
The forms of the voids are based on the study of
Urban squares where protest has occurred.
Parliament Process
Merge
Extrude
Split
Compress
Extract
Grade
Extract
Extract
Extract
Nourth Elevation
Moreover, the voids are based on the human
activity occurring in public squares.
Expand
Extract
Extract
Grade
Extract
Expand
Merge
Extrude
Extract
The mass rational is based on the study of parliament
typologies and what each shape means.
Split
Split
Invert
South Elevation
Distort
Extrude
Invert
Extract
Extrude
Extract
01 02 03 04 05 06 07 08 09 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20
Examples: a circular parliament shows unity, while a
rectangular parliament shows hierarchy between each side.
Extract
Extrude
Distort
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18
17
16
15
14
13
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The program of the parliament is based on four main elements extracted from the comparison of protest and parliament: 1) Space of self-expression
such as exhibition halls. 2) Debate and discussion such as assembly chamber. 3) Research & data collection such as library & research labs. 4) Decision
making which is the main parliament hall. The shape of the parliament seating is based on a hybrid between the circular and the opposing benches typology
resulting in a U form. Moreover, the parliament as shown in the floor plan extends to an amphitheater so that it adapts to the governments requirement
to whenever it wants privacy, rotating glass panels are closed and whenever the public should be included the parliament merges with the amphitheater. As
well as shown in the plan, the ground floor is liberated to not block site existing pedestrian passages.
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09
08
9100 4600 4100 4100
07
06
05
04
03
02 01
Section BB
Ground Floor Plan
The site is located between three main urban junctures in
Dubai, Baniyas square, Union square, & Fish round about.
The voids also take into consideration the site and its
surroundings and talks to each of the listed Urban juncture.
NOTE:
The shapes diagram shows
the rules applied on the forms
which are later evolved to fit the
requirments discribed in the mass
& void diagram.
Concept Text
Merge
Extract
Compress
Compress
Extract + Grade
Extrude
My thesis research topic was about protest. A word
that have had a great impact on the middle east for
the past decade. The idea of protest was molded to
house two main social elements in harmony, the
public and the government. The research conducted
provides an insight into signs of social maturity within
Dubai, and how it already maintains existing elements
to shape the social parliament. A social Parliament is
a hybrid between a governmental space and a public
space. It takes activities that happen in a parliament,
such as proposal of ideas, debate, voting ect. And
gives it to the public. This was the selected proposal
due to the close relationship between the process of
protest in comparison to the process of parliament as
expressed in the diagram above.
Grade
Invert + Split
Invert
Surroundings
Project Layout (work of student)
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11.2 My Experience
My teaching experience was extremely eye opening,
challenging yet rewarding.
It was really interesting to me as a teacher assistant to be
involved in various projects and have the opportunity to support
the students through recommendations, lectures, workshops and
collective & one-on-one discussions. I especially enjoyed the
multiplicity of themes, scales, responses and various skills. But
what I enjoyed the most was living the emotional ride once again
with the students but this time from the teacher’s perspective.
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11.3 Student Testimonials
“Omar Abou Nader is a knowledgeable, humble and charismatic architect. Omar was a teaching
assistant for undergraduate thesis students at the architecture department of the American
University in Dubai, where I’ve had the chance to have his guidance and supervision in particular
characteristics of my thesis project and research. Omar has an eye for aesthetics and visual
presentations. I’ve had his input in my thesis research book as well as his touches on some of my
final presentation panels. Omar also held several lectures and workshops during his TA experience
where he was able to deepen my knowledge in Photoshop, InDesign, Illustrator, and Rhinoceros.”
Karim Khayati
2019 Architecture Faculty Award Recipient 2019
B.Arch AUD | M.Arch SCI-Arc
“During the thesis year, Omar was decisive, informative, and
articulate. His enthusiasm and support helped me and others
come up with better work.”
Abdullah Tahseen
B.Arch AUD | M.Arch SCI-Arc
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let’s collaborate!
Omar Abou Nader
omarabounader13@gmail.com
+971 55 66 78 186
linkedin: Omar Abou Nader
© Omar Abou Nader 2020
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