Computational designer, Researcher, RIBA I, Assoc. AIA
https://www.linkedin.com/in/abdelrahman-koura-9a73b135/
As the lead architect, the design for the Makkah Minaret Tower integrates advanced computational design with profound spiritual and cultural meanings. The tower’s form, crafted using parametric techniques, strikes a balance between contemporary architectural language and the sacred essence of Makkah. Focusing on verticality and intricate geometric patterns, the design draws from traditional Islamic art while embracing innovative technologies. The result is a striking landmark that blends modern architectural expression with the deep-rooted religious significance of the minaret.
The Makkah Minaret Tower is strategically located just 1 kilometer from the Kaaba, the holiest site in Islam, and sits along the main road used by pilgrims during Hajj. The ground floor surrounding the tower offers extensive space for bus parking and drop-offs, ensuring smooth transportation for visitors. Additionally, the tower features three basement levels of parking with direct access to the hotel, mall, and exterior areas, providing seamless movement between different facilities. This thoughtful design accommodates the large influx of pilgrims and tourists, enhancing convenience and accessibility for those visiting Makkah’s sacred sites.
The Makkah Minaret Tower Project is a multifunctional landmark that blends commerce, hospitality, and unique experiences. The podium houses a modern shopping mall with retail outlets, dining, and entertainment facilities. Rising above are 100 floors dedicated to a luxury hotel, offering world-class accommodations and services for pilgrims and visitors. At the tower’s pinnacle, an observatory deck provides breathtaking 360-degree views of Makkah, making it a key attraction as the second-highest building in the city. A helicopter pad allows for exclusive aerial tours, enhancing the experience for VIP guests. The project includes custom branding, with specially designed tickets and access cards for the observatory deck and parking passes for the three-level basement parking facility. This combination of thoughtful design and branding ensures a seamless and memorable experience for all visitors, blending modern functionality with the spiritual significance of Makkah.
H.H. Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Government School
Location Dubai, UAE
Design studio DEC, Dubai 2014
Number of Leveles G+7
BUA (SQM) 53,212
Design Architect | Award-winning educational design optimized through computational strategies for enhanced functionality and user experience.
This competition was to design The Mohammed Bin Rashid School of Government, a research and teaching institution in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, which focuses on public policy in the Arab world. The concept design intent was to provide a modern state-of-the-art facility which will provide a conducive learning venue for future leaders.
This first-place competition-winning project employs computational design to create an innovative educational environment. The design optimizes spatial flow, natural lighting, and circulation to foster an engaging and efficient learning experience. The outcome balances functionality, sustainability, and user-centered design principles, setting a benchmark for modern educational facilities.
Cairo Citadel Physical Model
Location Cairo, Egypt
Design studio Coventry University, Egypt 2024
The Cairo Citadel Project was a large-scale educational endeavor to create a precise 1:200 scale model of the historic landmark, measuring approximately 3.7 by 4.9 meters. The model was composed of nine distinct layers, each representing different architectural and topographical features. Materied elements. The project required over 300 hours of fabrication and assembly, with the involvement of 35 students and academic staff. The fabrication process utilized CNC milling machines, laser cutters, and 3D printers within the FABLAB at Coventry University Egypt.
This project involved creating a physical model of the Cairo Citadel using computational design tools and digital fabrication techniques. The process included CNC milling, laser cutting, and 3D printing to ensure precision and historical accuracy. we used photogrammetry and 3D scanning to capture accurate geometries and textures of the historical site. These techniques provided detailed digital models, preserving intricate architectural elements and surface details. The data ensured the final scale model reflected the Citadel’s authenticity, combining historical accuracy with modern technology.
Before finalizing the Cairo Citadel Project, we conducted multiple tests using various materials, sizes, and fabrication techniques to determine the best approach for the final model. These included prototyping with foam for initial forms and thinly sliced MDF for structural accuracy. We experimented with PLA 3D printing using different colors and densities to assess durability and visual clarity. This iterative process ensured the right balance of materials and fabrication methods, optimizing for both precision and aesthetics. The final exhibition took place within the Citadel itself, featuring projection mapping of name tags, vibrant lights, and music. The event showcased student projects from the Design and Media School of Coventry University in Egypt, creating an immersive and celebratory end-of-year experience.
The Cairo Citadel Project provided students with hands-on experience in digital fabrication techniques, including modeling, prototyping, and assembly. The model was constructed by stacking nine layers of MDF boards over each other, with no screws needed due to the weight of the boards. It was sliced into six parts for ease of fabrication and transportation, then elevated on 60 cm prefabricated MDF boxes to provide structural stability and visual prominence. The project aimed to deepen students’ understanding of architectural heritage, precision in design execution, and teamwork. Through this experience, students learned to integrate traditional architectural knowledge with modern digital tools, effectively bridging historical study with contemporary fabrication methods. The final model served as both a learning tool and a showcase of the university’s commitment to innovative education and the preservation of cultural heritage.
Dubai Safari Main Building
Location Dubai, UAE
Design studio DEC, Dubai 2014
Number of Leveles G+2 BUA (SQM) aprox.70,800
Main Design Architect | A conceptual gateway merging the cultural richness of Asia and Africa within Dubai’s modern context.
As the main design architect, the Dubai Safari Main Building was conceived as a contemporary reinterpretation of the historical connection between Asia and Africa. Drawing inspiration from the ancient Babylon Tower, which symbolized the blend of these two great continents, the design for the safari gate creates a striking visual representation of this cultural fusion.
The building’s form is carefully crafted to evoke the timeless unity between the two regions, while incorporating modern, sustainable architecture. The Dubai Safari Main Building serves as both a physical and symbolic entrance to the African Safari experience within Dubai, combining cutting-edge design with cultural resonance to offer visitors an immersive and enriching journey through nature.
The Dubai Safari Park’s main building serves as a monumental gateway that immediately captures visitors' attention with its grand, expansive entrance. This impressive structure leads into an interior space where the far end features another entrance, marked by a stunning floor-to-ceiling glass wall. Water cascades down the glass, creating a mesmerizing, blurred view of the park beyond, building anticipation for the adventure ahead. From the main building, visitors can take a cable car that transports them to various stations within the park, offering a unique aerial perspective of the lush surroundings. The building also houses a restaurant with a spacious terrace, providing panoramic views of the entire park. This thoughtful design blends architectural grandeur with functional elegance, making the main building a dynamic hub that enhances the overall safari experience.
D’ART
IAAC Barcelona, Spain
D’art: Studio 3 Project Thesis 2020
Master in Robotics and Advanced Construction – MRAC
Team member | D’art is a research project exploring the intersection of robotic fabrication, craftsmanship, and data-driven design. The project aimed to develop a workflow where real-time sensing and robotic manipulation reinterpret traditional craft processes in a contemporary context.
The project focused on incremental robotic bending of aluminum strips to create complex, free-form structures. By combining real-time sensing, data analysis, and robotic control, the research aimed to replicate the precision and adaptability of human craftsmanship. The process incorporated computer vision, pressure sensors, and hand-tracking systems to capture data and provide feedback, enabling the robot to adapt its movements dynamically to the material's response.
(to the far left)table setup tools (to the left)old end-effector tool (to the right)enhanced end-effector tool (down figure) Full table setup
The project focused on techniques such as incremental robotic bending, integrating computer vision, pressure sensors, and hand-tracking systems to refine the process. By blending traditional craft knowledge with advanced computational design and real-time feedback, D’art demonstrated innovative ways to extend craftsmanship through robotic tools, pushing the boundaries of material manipulation and design precision.
Controlling sensing sensors to capture and analyze real-time data during the fabrication process. Data collection and analysis to optimize the robotic performance based on material behavior and feedback. Enhancing the end-effector gripper to improve the precision and adaptability of the robot’s interaction with materials.
Innovative Tool Development and Real-Time Data Analysis
A critical component of the project was the development and refinement of the robot’s end-effector gripper to achieve precise bending. Controlling the sensing sensors, collecting real-time data, and analyzing it to improve the robot’s performance. This data-driven approach allowed for dynamic adjustments, ensuring accuracy in the bending process. By integrating sensor feedback loops and custom tool enhancements, the project successfully demonstrated how traditional craftsmanship could be extended and enriched through robotic technology.
The resulting structures from the D’art project showcased the potential of robot-assisted craftsmanship to produce intricate and elegant forms that maintain the essence of hand-crafted design. The project highlighted how advanced computational workflows and robotic manipulation can bridge the gap between traditional techniques and modern digital fabrication. The work serves as a proof of concept for future applications in architecture and design, offering a scalable, efficient, and innovative approach to material manipulation and structural design.
Incremental angle, the constraints of the kinematics of the rotation limits of the six axis are considered at each control point. The achievement of a best fit curve is now rationalised through compound curvature.
Control Spacing, resolution of geometry control points to effectively replicate the craft geometry while incorporating efficient kinematics for production. This is also affected by single or double end effector configurations.
Directional bending (single end effector) /Tension Directionality and constant and reliable material feed into the end effector is key and requires a measured level of tension that would be improved with force feedback.