Renowned architect inspires students to connect tradition and modern design in meaningful ways.
January 17, 2025, Dubai, United Arab Emirates (UAE): The School of Architecture and Interior Design at Canadian University Dubai (CUD) recently hosted an inspiring lecture, “Islamic Architecture: In Search of a Contemporary Language,” by Sumaya Dabbagh, an esteemed architect and thought leader in contemporary Islamic architecture. The event offered students and faculty insights into the evolving narrative of Islamic architectural identity and its relevance in today’s world.
During the lecture, Dabbagh explored how Islamic architecture can balance tradition with modern sensibilities to create spaces that inspire and endure. Her philosophy focuses on three key dimensions— the physical form and materials, the spatial experience shaped by light and space, and the emotional connections architecture evokes.
Reflecting on her participation, Dabbagh emphasized the importance of engaging with students. “It’s vital to connect with students because they carry the torch forward,” she said. She also highlighted the significance of empowering female architects to make impactful contributions in the region.
Dabbagh shared her philosophy on architecture as a tool for creating connections to place and heritage. “Architecture can be a vehicle to connect with a place and its roots. In the Gulf, where rapid development has sometimes overshadowed cultural identity, it’s crucial to craft narratives that reflect the region’s essence,” she explained.
Dabbagh offered valuable advice to aspiring architects, “Understand the context you’re working in and avoid being distracted by fleeting trends. Focus on designs that serve the community and stand the test of time.”
Mr. Massimo Imparato, Dean of the School of Architecture and Interior Design, shared the story of his collaboration with Dabbagh, highlighting their shared vision and cultural connection. "Sumaya was the keynote speaker at the 'Context-Makers: New Directions on Site Specific Design' panel I moderated in London in June 2023. Since then, our paths have crossed multiple times. Her architectural education, influenced by Peter Smithson, aligns with the principles of critical regionalism, making her work an inspiring example of how architecture can bridge tradition with modernity. It’s an honour that she accepted the invitation to share her invaluable perspective with our students at CUD."
Hosting Sumaya Dabbagh is a testament to CUD’s commitment to excellence and fostering global connections. Her approach to design, which balances cultural heritage with contemporary needs, mirrors the university’s ethos of sustainability, context-driven design, and cultural awareness. "Her lecture encourages our students to think critically about the role of architecture in shaping communities and identities," Dean Massimo noted. "This event aligns with our mission to prepare students to tackle challenges in Climate Change, Emerging Technologies, and Social Innovation, ensuring they are equipped to become the next generation of impactful professionals.
Dabbagh also highlighted the importance of experiential learning in architectural education. She encouraged students to explore and engage with existing structures, saying, “Visiting and experiencing different buildings enhances your imagination and understanding of design. It’s through these experiences that you develop the ability to create spaces that evoke emotion and purpose.”
The lecture served as a powerful platform for students at CUD to explore the potential of architecture as a tool for cultural preservation and innovation. It reinforced the university’s commitment to equipping future architects with the knowledge and inspiration needed to create sustainable, context-driven designs that honour tradition while embracing modernity.
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