Dubai Design District (d3) will host the inaugural d3 Architecture Festival in partnership with the Royal Institute of British Architects Gulf Chapter (RIBA Gulf Chapter), establishing the emirate’s first platform to showcase regional architecture, urbanism and sustainable development.
The inaugural edition of the festival is set to run from Nov. 11 to 13 on the sidelines of Dubai Design Week, held under the patronage of Sheikha Latifa bint Mohammed bin Rashid Al-Maktoum, chairperson of Dubai Culture and Arts Authority.
Curated with Juan Roldan, associate professor in the College of Architecture, Art & Design at the American University of Sharjah, under the theme “Identity, Context and Placemaking in the Gulf,” the festival will celebrate the achievements of architecture companies in d3, Dubai and the wider GCC region.
Showcasing landmark regional architectural projects, the event will host a series of talks to steer the Middle East toward a more sustainable future, and invite designers, architects and the general public to participate in daily charrettes. Dubai’s first architecture festival will kick off with an opening reception at Building 6, d3, on Nov. 11.
Khadija Al-Bastaki, executive director of d3, said: “Dubai has long been known as an architectural playground and the emirate’s limitless ambition has found expression in its ever-evolving skyline. As we carry on the process of rebuilding in the post-COVID-19 world, our relationship with the built and natural world has never been more important.
“In line with this priority, and recognizing that d3 has become a hub for the Middle East’s architecture community, we’re delighted to announce the launch of the d3 Architecture Festival 2020 in partnership with RIBA Gulf Chapter. While offering a platform for critical reflection on social, cultural and economic issues, it will also provide opportunities for new talent and bring the design community together to champion Dubai and the UAE as a hub for knowledge, creativity and innovation.”
RIBA Gulf Chapter Chair and Managing Partner of AMA Andy Shaw added: “The exhibition will feature models, drawings and projects from the most exciting architects working in the Gulf, such as Binchy and Binchy and Anarchitect who are founded by RIBA members. This event is a celebration of what has been achieved by architects in the region and, more importantly, what is to come from the emerging generation of local companies and graduating students.”
