LOW CARBON CONSTRUCTION & ARCHITECTURAL SOLUTIONS A G ULF NE WS SP ONSORE D RE P ORT | M ON DAY, J U NE 1 6 , 2 0 2 5
Traditional design meets climate consciousness
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rchitects in the UAE and the wider Middle East are looking backward to move forward in the race to reduce carbon footprints. Long before air conditioners cooled interiors and glass towers dotted the skyline, the region’s builders crafted homes and public spaces that responded intuitively to harsh climates. Now, these time-tested architectural traditions, wind towers, thick mud-brick walls, shaded courtyards are experiencing a renaissance, reinterpreted through the lens of 21st-century sustainability. Across the Emirates, a new wave of design thinking is tapping into this desert wisdom to meet low-carbon goals while remaining rooted in local identity. Instead of relying solely on imported technologies or global templates, developers and architects are turning to regional heritage as a rich design resource that naturally enhances thermal comfort and reduces energy use.
wind tower. Once a defining feature of traditional Gulf homes, these towers captured prevailing breezes and funneled them into interior spaces, acting as passive air conditioning. With renewed relevance in a world grappling with rising temperatures and energy costs, modern iterations of the barjeel are now being integrated into government buildings, cultural centres, and residential com-
plexes, not as ornamental tributes to the past, but as fully functional, sustainable design features. In newer developments across Abu Dhabi and Sharjah, smart reinterpretations of the barjeel have emerged, often paired with solar chimneys and thermal sensors to boost airflow. These hybrid solutions demonstrate how blending tradition with technology can offer both
A future rooted in the past
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Desert wisdom returns to the UAE and Middle East as old ideas inspire edifices that are both modern and sustainable
they deliver high performance with minimal environmental impact. Across the UAE and the Gulf, architects are increasingly using software to model sun paths and wind flow, then layering those insights with lessons drawn from traditional building orientation to optimise energy efficiency. This results in structures that not only perform better but feel organically integrated into their environments.
cultural depth and climate performance. Another regional staple making a comeback is the use of thick adobe or mudbrick walls, renowned for their thermal mass. These walls absorb heat during the day and slowly release it at night, naturally regulating indoor temperatures. In hot desert environments, this reduces dependence on artificial cooling systems and significantly cuts down energy consumption. Newer green buildings are beginning to adopt similar principles using modern equivalents such as compressed earth blocks or low-carbon concrete. These materials replicate the insulating properties of traditional adobe while conforming to current structural and safety standards. Paired with natural ventilation strategies,
Rediscovering the barjeel
One of the most striking examples of this is the resurgence of the barjeel, or
What makes this revival particularly impactful is that it marries form and function. These heritage elements, far from being nostalgic throwbacks are being employed to reduce the region’s high energy demand for cooling while maintaining aesthetic continuity with local culture. This approach also allows for a more inclusive sustainability narrative. Rather than positioning environmental design as a Western import, the region’s architects are highlighting their own lineage of climate-resilient construction. It’s a reframing that resonates deeply, especially among younger generations of designers who are seeking authenticity in their sustainability efforts. The architectural legacy of the desert, adapted for the future proves that sustainability need not sacrifice cultural relevance. From eco-conscious mosques to community centres and off-grid homes, the blending of traditional elements with cutting-edge systems reflects a powerful design ethos: local problems often already have local answers. As architects dig into the past to shape the cities of tomorrow, they’re proving that the desert’s wisdom is far from dry in the UAE and the Middle East, it’s a wellspring of innovation for a warming world. ■
Redefining sustainable construction with Dunecrete and Dateform by ARDH Collective Dedicated to transform waste into sustainable building materials
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s the demand for low-carbon, locally adapted building materials grows across the region, ARDH Collective is leading the charge with design-led material innovation. Founded by a team of designers and architects, including Alhaan Ahmed, Alyina Ahmed and Maximo Tettamanzi, the company is dedicated to transforming waste and natural resources into innovative, sustainable building materials. ARDH Collective’s flagship innovation Dunecrete (formerly known as Ramel) is a low-carbon concrete alternative made using locally sourced desert sand and reducing cement by 50 per cent.
By eliminating the need for imported riverbed sand, which is both environmentally damaging and increasingly scarce, Dunecrete offers a regionally relevant solution that significantly lowers the carbon footprint of construction. Engineered for versatility, and performing at a C25 compressive strength it’s ideal for producing a range of architectural elements without compromising on performance or design. ARDH Collective offers bespoke Dunecrete 3D-printed architectural elements, with large-format printing capabilities up to 1m x 1m x 1.5m. DuneBlock — their custom-designed breeze blocks are available in 5 unique designs and 3 versatile
sizes, perfect for adding both function and flair to any architectural project. They also provide ready-mix bags, making it easier to complete your build at your convenience and are launching pavers soon, expanding their product range even further. ARDH Collective’s second innovative material Dateform, is the world’s first groundbreaking solid surface material made from date seeds — an abundant byproduct in the UAE. Dateform is perfect for non-structural applications such as acoustic panels, interior cladding, countertops, and decorative applications in furniture, embodying sustainability from source to surface. As architects and designers embedded in the built environment, the team approaches material and product development with a deep understanding of the pressures and creative opportunities within the construction industry. By ethically sourcing raw materials and investing in advanced, local manufacturing, ARDH aims to transform industry practices and empower enterprises to exceed environmental targets. In a region rapidly embracing sustainable innovation, ARDH Collective is positioned at the forefront — building a more sustainable tomorrow, today. — Find out more at www.ardhcollective.com
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Every space tells a story The Makers is transforming spaces across residential, restaurant, and commercial sectors
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he Makers is a leading contracting and interior design company with a strong presence in Dubai and India, dedicated to transforming spaces across residential, restaurant, and commercial sectors. With a deep commitment to creativity, functionality, and excellence, we provide end-to-end solutions that bring our clients’ visions to life. At The Makers, we believe that every space tells a story. Whether it's a cosy home, a vibrant dining venue, or a dynamic workplace, we design with purpose and precision. Our multidisciplinary team of architects, designers, engineers, and project managers collaborates closely with clients to deliver personalised solutions that are both innovative and practical. For residential projects, we create interiors that reflect individual lifestyles — combining comfort,
style, and functionality. Our restaurant designs focus on atmosphere and branding, crafting immersive dining experiences that attract and retain customers. In the commercial space, we prioritise efficient layouts, modern aesthetics, and brand alignment to create environments that support productivity and growth. From concept to completion, we manage all aspects of the design and build process, ensuring quality, timeliness, and cost-effectiveness. Our projects are characterised by meticulous attention to detail, superior materials, and a passion for excellence. With successful projects delivered across the UAE and India, The Makers has built a reputation for reliability, innovation, and client satisfaction. We take pride in creating spaces that not only meet expectations but exceed them — spaces that inspire, engage, and endure. Let The Makers be your trusted partner in building spaces that matter. E : themakers@reddoorproductions.net Tel: +971 50 409 9453 @themakersdubai