Abu Dhabi University and British International School of Abu Dhabi Organize Architectural Exhibition for Students

Abu Dhabi University (ADU) and the British International School of Abu Dhabi (BISAD) exhibited the results of a semester-long joint research project, where primary school students showcased their work in urban design. The exhibition took place at the main Abu Dhabi University campus.

The aim of the event, which was open to the public, was to raise awareness about the need to invest in education, aesthetics, creativity, imagination and social cohesion.

During the four-day event held under the theme “Sustainability, Architecture and the City”, the participants showcased their design efforts on an urban regeneration project, where they were tasked with redesigning a superblock concept in Abu Dhabi, a large city block comprised of interrelated residences, commercial, social and recreational facilities, using the main sustainability features that currently exist as a resource.

Dr. Apostolos Kyriazis, Assistant Professor of Architecture, Department of Architecture and Design said, “The workshop was designed to encourage creativity and imagination amongst students, thereby allowing the young designers to learn about architecture whilst engaging in an innovative project. By working with other academic institutions, we are implementing our strategy of promoting architecture, design and sustainability amongst the community.”

The students, all from Year Six, presented their own innovative designs on the superblock using architectural drawings and physical models. By using an existing superblock, the young urban designers were able to develop both a sense of scale and architectural thinking.

The concept of the workshop was developed by Dr. Apostolos Kyriazis, Assistant Professor of Architecture from ADU’s Department of Architecture and Design, and Mike Wolfe, BISAD’s head of primary. Other members of BISAD’s faculty included Sas Clarke, a leading year six teacher, also provided support in coordinating the workshop. The event was attended by the participating students, their teachers and parents. Throughout the semester, the professor leading the workshop conducted lectures and hands-on studio work at both academic institutions.

ADU offers a RIBA-accredited Architecture and Design program within the College of Engineering (CoE) for undergraduates, and a MSc in Sustainable Architecture.

For more information about ADU’s programs, please visit the university’s homepage:

https://www.adu.ac.ae/home