March 13th, 2017: Students from the School of Architecture and Design at Canadian University Dubai (CUD) have been exclusively invited to compete for a $10,000 prize fund in the recently launched KOA Canvas project design competition.
The UAE-headquartered developer has called upon students from CUD to develop a design that will enhance both the project’s aesthetic and the lifestyle experience of its residents. Participating students have the option to submit a design for either the extension of Canvas’s co-working space into the outdoor common area, or a play structure for the development’s day-care centre.
Speaking on behalf of KOA about why they chose to partner with CUD, Ruthie Qadan, Founder and Director of Brand Strategy, said, "CUD is one of the leading academic institutions in the region and the credibility of the design school was a huge driver. For us, it’s also about working with like-minded brands who are contributing to the cultural growth in the region.
“We were really impressed by the many initiatives that CUD has undertaken to give their students real world experience and to contribute to projects in Dubai so we knew we were working with a brand that shared our vision for providing a platform for foster creativity and cultural growth.”
Located in Dubai’s Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum City, Canvas will consist of residential units, co-working spaces, retail outlets, and outdoor common areas. The student design competition will be judged by Tarik Zaharna, founder and director of Canvas’s lead architect firm, T.ZED Architects; Kamelia Zaal, landscape architect; and KOA’s Mohammed Zaal.
The challenge will run throughout the Spring semester and the design teams are now working hard to create and develop their concepts. Students Sara Dughmosh and Diana Tannish are working to on a garden theme for the co-working space, to help users feel a sense of comfort through their natural surroundings. Meanwhile, Fajer Adel is using the natural curves within the space, combined with glass partitions, to create a sense of openness and vibrancy.
Fellow participants Lana Halabi and Naba’a Al Beer are adopting a Zen approach, with Japanese-inspired architecture and colouring, as well as a massage room for users of the co-working space, while Hajar Sarrafan and Farnaz Sarayanezhad aim to harness the five human senses through the use of materials and aromas, in order to promote an environment that promotes positive energy.
Speaking about the challenge, CUD Chair of Interior Design, Mr. Serkan Gunay said, “We are delighted to be working with KOA on the development of this exciting initiative. It is an excellent opportunity for students to work on a real life design project and to add depth and creativity to their portfolio.”
The competition winners will be announced during the annual CUD Design Week, on 12th April.
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