Building sculptures

In architecture, the change is also incredible. The region seems to have become a large experimental field in which local and international skills and proficiencies of investors, designers, consultants, contractors, etc. are showcased.

What are some examples of successful architecture in the Gulf?

The word ‘successful' is very relative; we can talk about 'being a success', because every project is a success by its own standards. We have to differentiate the commercial profit from the global impact on the overall context.

For example, the Emirates Towers in Dubai and the ADIA Tower in Abu Dhabi are successful for what they represent as iconic and sculptural images.

What is most exciting about working in this field in the region?

First, the interaction between and diversity of the different cultures adds so much excitement and richness-directly or indirectly, consciously or unconsciously-during workshops.

Second, it is a pleasure to participate in design competitions with colleagues from all over the world-sharing opinions, visions and methodologies. And third, the pace of construction in this region gives one great pleasure in achieving the dream.

What are the advantages for clients using local architects?

This subject is very relative; the client has to differentiate between an architect and a consultant. A great consultant could be a very bad architect and vice versa.

The client should realise the style of the architect he wishes to work with and trust him as a creative person rather than a technician. The accessibility of data, uniform regulations and standard codes nowadays is no longer an advantage for one over the other.

What are the challenges for local practices in the region?

The challenges depend on three different factors: quality, time and cost. Quality is achieved by local firms having a perfect assimilation of the cultural heritage and respect for the local traditions.

Time is less of a problem because local firms understand the environmental conditions that prove challenging and create well-conditioned, sustainable architecture. Money becomes less of an issue if you're designing for different energy saving elements and eco-friendly solutions.

However, the choice of materials, its quality, its delivery, the proficiency of the contractors and other different factors contribute to creating better conditions for local practices.

What is the way forward for architecture in the Gulf?

As I mentioned, the Gulf is becoming a laboratory; a new experimental field. The buildings are oriented toward a more sustainable composition and highly sophisticated infrastructure.

This provides several positive components including bringing us closer to achieving truly modern cities. However, with modernisation come side effects: loss of tradition and a replacement of the original way of life. The most critical consequence comes when cultural continuity is ruptured.

What does the future hold for you and for MZ Architects?

We are one of the leading architectural, urban planning and engineering consultancy firms in the Middle East. Our portfolio of exceptional modern architectural designs covers a variety of fields.

We are also dedicated to becoming more and more specialised in tower design and sustainable urban development too.

Right now, MZ is made up of three different divisions: MZ Architects is the creative department; MZ & Partners includes the consultancies; and MZ Urban Planners handles urban development projects. We are also considering strengthening MZ in the UAE by opening an office in Abu Dhabi.

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