SHAPE Architecture Practice and Research is a UAE-based architecture firm founded by Abdulla in 2006.
The firm is dedicated to set an example of excellence in design in the Middle East. SHAPE’s interest lies in the incorporation of digital design and production technologies in the design process. The firm believes in the importance of research in the enhancement of design and its processes. Abdulla Al-Shamsi studied architecture at Columbia University, New York (Master of Science in Advance Archit
28/11/2024
We had an insightful workshop with Ar. Omran, founder of .ae Architects, on integrating AI into architectural practice. The session explored innovative ways AI can enhance design processes, streamline workflows, and inspire creative solutions. We’re excited to apply these ideas to our projects and push boundaries! Huge thanks to Omran for his effort.
17/11/2024
We’ve been shortlisted for the Design Middle East Magazine Awards 2024 in multiple categories, including both project and company awards! Our projects Shees Friday Market and Wheat Farm Oasis are featured in the list.
07/11/2024
It is an honor to showcase our Shees Friday Market project to the respected jury and global architectural community at the World Architecture Festival 2024 in Singapore. This recognition, alongside some of the finest projects worldwide last year, has been exhilarating. We look forward to embarking on new, inspiring projects on the international stage. None of this would be possible without our passionate team, the backbone of our journey. Thank you all for your ongoing support.
20/08/2024
Shees Friday Market, a project by Shape Architecture Practice + Research, has been highlighted on !
14/05/2023
Anwar Gargash Diplomatic Academy Established in Abu Dhabi, right at the heart of the city’s diplomatic district, this facility was conceived to support the country’s Foreign Affairs Ministry through the education of young diplomats and government leaders. Rooted in Arab tradition and culture, an introverted building was created...
14/05/2023
Join us in celebrating our edition https://bit.ly/3Kvphyp
This issue features highlights and memories from the Architecture
Leaders Awards 2023. A big shout out to the Winners and Highly Commended- Joe Tabet JT+partners Aedas Lama Al-Kharboush kalbod design studio Bruno Guélaff BG Villas Dubai IDP Engineering Consultancy HDP Overseas Ltd. TREND Group Mohamad Chehab ATIConsultant, Architects & Engineers Marco Tedeschi Smart Renovation Mohamed Ali Meinhardt MENA DSA Architects International Shape Architecture Practice + Research Dr. Mario Rossi, A.S.L.A. ambientStudio Essam Nabih DLR Group Middle East Piyush Prajapati AECOM Hajer Mohannad Godwin Austen Johnson UNii Design L.L.C KEO International Consultants Pixel5 Design RSP
https://bit.ly/3Kvphyp
21/02/2023
ANWAR GARGASH DIPLOMATIC ACADEMY, ABU DHABI, UNITED ARAB EMIRATES
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Established in Abu Dhabi, right at the heart of the city’s diplomatic district, this facility was conceived to support the country’s Foreign Affairs Ministry through the education of young diplomats and government leaders. Rooted in Arab tradition and culture, an introverted building was created, with the play of outer opacity and internal transparency serving as a major motif. Diplomacy requires an openess to the world. This characteristic has been expressed through the large, welcoming glazed portals on either side of the opaque cubic form, as well as the proliferation of communal and collaborative spaces, and the site’s borderless integration into its surroundings.
The building’s envelope has been designed to combat the harsh elements of the regional climate, while also representing the nation’s strength. Simplicity of form can be seen in the cubic mass housing both classrooms and offices for staff and faculty. Three portions of the mass extend outward, continuing the solidarity of the building’s shape.
Concerns of sustainability are addressed via the double skin façade. A high-performance glazing system acts as a first defense against solar heat gain, doubled by an outer skin of perforated aluminum screens. These panels diffuse sunlight throughout the interior, without obstructing views. Each side of the building is encapsulated by different panel fold patterns, creating a unique rhythm of shadow and light that evolves throughout the day.
Entry finds a central atrium that is expansive and well-lit, connecting every level. Wood-clad staircases wrap around the perimeter, encouraging movement. The main staircase widens near the student lounge to accommodate open gatherings. In the main auditorium, lighting, color, and texture all draw the eye toward the speaker’s stage.