PORTFOL O
AHMED ZYED BEN CHEIKH
ARCHITECTURAL DESIGNER | B.S.ARCH
AHMED ZYED BEN CHEIKH
ARCHITECTURAL DESIGNER | B.S.ARCH
Work Experience
May 2022 – Dec 2023 JACOBS . DUBAI . UAE
• Played a key role in the design development of the VAULT, an iconic project designed by LAVA and situated in Trojena, NEOM. This complex and challenging mixed -use building is integrated into the mountains and spanning an impressive 550 000 sq.m.
• Conducted a team of Architects in preparing weekly design presentations for client aimed to get approvals on design and struc ture solutions.
• Supervised the schematic design process to ensure alignment between the drawings and the design proposals.
• Contributed to the design optimization by identifying solutions to reduce cost and area through revision of the framework and optimization of specific components.
• Collaborated closely with Structur e and MEP teams throughout the Value engineering process to propose effective solutions.
• Worked closely with a dedicated team on the development of hospitality and residential components ensuring that it is following operator’s guidelines and client’s requirements.
• Engaged as an “Experienced Matter Architect “ to resolve similar issues on other complex yet smaller -scale projects in Trojena (Mountain Exclusive Resort and Hiking Boutique Hotel)
Jul 2019 – May 2022 ARADA . DUBAI . UAE
• Led the concept design and development of Arada’s diverse Portfolio encompassing Residential, Hospitality, Commercial, Healthcare, Educational and Leisure projects.
• Directed a team of Mid-level, Junior Architects and Visualizers to prepare presentations for the CEO and subsequently overseeing the schematic design process.
• Coordination with Structural, MEP and ID team s to maintain the integrity of the design intent across the projects
• Managed and optimized the concept design of the Central Hub Masterplan by ZAHA HADID encompassing an 80 000 sqm Mall, a Sales Center, the largest GYM in UAE all integrated within a vast landscaped area.
• Coordinated with CallisonRTKL on the conceptual Masterplan proposal for MURCIA in Riyadh, KSA
• Prepared feasibility studies on potential developments (Masterplans, High - rise buildings, Healthcare, Educational, Entertainment, Commercial…).
Feb 2016 – Jun 2019 U.H CONSULTANTS . DUBAI . UAE
SENIOR ARCHITECT
• In charge of defining the design style and aesthetic direction of all projects developed within the architecture firm.
• Ensured as a Team leader the meticulous preparation of construction documents then following up with Authorities
• Collaborated with all other disciplines to ensure timely delivery within budgetary constraints.
• Delivered projects consistently to client’s expectations.
Jan 2013 – Jan 2016
LACASA ARCHITECTS & ENGINEERING CONSULTANTS . DUBAI . UAE
SENIOR DESIGN ARCHITECT
• Prepared concept design for a diverse array of projects including High and Mid -rise towers, Detached residential, Mixed - use, Corporate, Commercial, Hospitality and Master planning.
• Collaborated with Engineers to resolve different clashes and worked closely with ID team to ensure that materials and details are following the design intent.
• Involved in the Schematic production and supervised Design Development, Tender documents and IFC phases.
Mar 2006 – Dec 2012 MOVE ARCHITECTS . CARTHAGE . TUNISIA
ARCHITECT, CO-FOUNDER
• Proposed and guided the aesthetic and design vision of the projects. Cultivated prospective clients for the office.
• Directed a joint venture with an Australian Company (SHAC) based in New Castle. The aim of this collaboration was to set up a satellite office in Tunisia to explore and undertake Large -scale projects with a focus on opportunities in North Africa.
• Managed an external consultancy for an international renowned consultant (OGER) tasked with preparing and submitting Design Development documents of Large Universities in KSA and Hotels in France.
• Submitted multiple concept design to DAMAC Properties, a prominent developer in Dubai, upon invitation. Several concepts were approved with several of them already materialized through construction.
Mar 2005 – Feb 2006 AL SADD CONSULTING . DOHA . QATAR
DESIGN ARCHITECT
• Played a pivotal role in shaping the design of key projects within the office.
• Produced all concept design deliverables including presentations, plans, 3D modeling and renderings.
Jan 2003 – Feb 2005 SB + FF + BM . TUNIS . TUNISIA
JUNIOR ARCHITECT
• Developed designs for various projects for local competitions and diverse range of scales and typologies of projects
Jun 2001 – Jul 2001 BANEKE VAN DER HOEVEN ARCHITECTEN . AMSTERDAM . NETHERLANDS TRAINEE
Jul 2000 – Aug 2000 NATIONAL CENTER FOR RESTORATION . BUDAPEST . HUNGARY TRAINEE
Education
Feb 2004 ECOLE NATIONALE D’ARCHITECTURE ET D’URBANISME
Bachelor of Architecture
Nov 2002 AFFIDAVIT OF DISSERTATION DEFENSE IN ARCHITECTURE
Project of Islamic Arts Museum in collaboration with the international renowned Calligrapher NJA MAHDAOUI
Jun 1995 CARTHAGE HIGH SCHOOL
Certificate of program completion, Mathematic section.
Proficiency
Languages
• Architecture design, Creativity, hand sketching
• Team leader and resources management
• Collaboration and problem solving.
• Management of various types and scales of projects.
• Architecture: Autocad, Revit, BIM 360, Revizto
• 3D Modeling: Sketchup, Unreal Engine (Beginner).
• Rendering: Enscape, Unreal Engine (Beginner).
• Image and presentation: Photoshop, Indesign, Concept
• Office tools: Word, Excel, Powerpoint
• English (Fluent).
• French (Fluent).
• Arabic (Fluent).
ALJADA DESTINATION
SELECTED HIGH +MID-RISE SELECTED VILLAS
TROJENA, NEOM
MIXED-USE +COMMERCIAL MASTER PLANNING
EDUCATIONAL +RELIGIOUS
WELLNESS+ SPORTS
Aljada development in Sharjah, UAE, offers a lifestyle that integrates Living, Working and Entertainment into a vibrant and unique urban environment. The development is envisaged to form a new destination in the Emirate, with vibrant cultural, retail and entertainment districts distinguished through its unique architecture and quality of public realm. The 2.5 million m2 site area is located
approximately 25 km from Dubai. The Masterplan was meticulously designed by Woods Bagot. The internal concept team of Arada designed the buildings in the districts of Aljada, these projects encompassed a variety from Residential, Mixed-use, commercial, hospitality, religious, educational and healthcare. The Plots highlighted below are showing the projects I was directly involved in during my tenure in Arada.
No OF RESIDENTIAL BUILDINGS : 07
No OF RESIDENTIAL BUILDINGS : 07
No OF RESIDENTIAL BUILDINGS : 04
No OF RESIDENTIAL BUILDINGS : 08
No OF RESIDENTIAL BUILDINGS : 10
No OF RESIDENTIAL BUILDINGS : 03
No OF RESIDENTIAL BUILDINGS : 06
No OF RESIDENTIAL BUILDINGS : 16
Sokoon Buildings are situated within the vibrant Cultural and Design District of AlJada, boasting galleries, shops, plazas, and a museum meticulously designed by the renowned architect Tadao Ando, alongside residential structures. The vision for this neighborhood is to create an iconic, inviting, inspiring, and sustainable environment. The architectural design aims to be contemporary, featuring smooth horizontal movement with solid balconies, adding to the elegance of buildings without detracting from the future masterpiece envisioned by Tadao Ando.
The Misk buildings enjoy a prime location along the main boulevard of Aljada, directly facing the central Hub designed by the iconic architect Zaha Hadid. This contemporary development features an 11-storey building, with retail and nursery at the ground floor and apartments ranging from one to four bedrooms, complemented by two luxurious pent-
LOCATION : TYPE / SCALE : YEAR : INVOLVEMENT : PROJECT'S STATUS :
ALJADA, U.A.E
houses on the upper floors. The façade language is characterized by its elegance, employing solid frames to balance the horizontal lines, while louvers ensure privacy for residents. Misk stands as a testament to smart building design, prioritizing user comfort and energy efficiency as core objectives.
4 RESIDENTIAL BUILDINS/ B+G+M+11 2020 CONCEPT, SCHEMATIC, DETAIL DESIGN COMPLETED
KEYPLAN
KEYPLAN / BLOCK
ACCOMMODATION BUILDINGS 2019
CONCEPT, SCHEMATIC, DETAIL DESIGN COMPLETED
The key requirement of this high-end residential project in ABU DHABI by BLOOM Properties was to capitalize of the magnificent views of the adjacent canal. Consequently, the design of the building was made with floor-to-ceiling glazing and an orientation which allows the majority of apartments to enjoy a canal view. It also contains a podium with a large infinity pool which ends in a dramatic waterfall.
The design language features glazing, wood-textured aluminum and louvers.
Instead of using one monotonous rhythm, the lines of the façade are interrupted in the centre through the provision of extra-large balconies for certain apartments. The excitement of the façade continues internally, with a grand atrium running the full height of the building. Mechanical services are placed at the top and concealed with a screen, while gym facilities are contained on the first floor.
The project is located in Lusail, the new vibrant city next to Doha. The site is having an impressive panoramic view on the sea. Our approach in the design was to make an iconic architecture with a unique appearance. Five principles define the project layers and terraces, inside and outside, vegetation, views and privacy, light and identity. The result is a vertically layered building. The stratified structure is distinguished by projecting or set back living areas that generate terraces and overhangs, light and shadow. As a result, each unit is unique and variations in the layout of the apartments on each layer shape the new neighbourhood. The tower is made with modular floors, repeated in different and repeated combinations.
LOCATION : TYPE : YEAR : TASKS : DUBAI, UAE 2016/ COMPLETED
2B+G+19/ 20 700 SQ.M
CONCEPT DESIGN, SCHEMATIC, DD
Rising 19 floors, this graceful and dynamic tower in Jumeirah Village maximised on daylighting and balconies for its occupants. The design articulates the various elements, with vertical lines culminating in stepped canopies at roof level. the elevations were made as light as possible, without creating a bulky high-rise form. Materials include wood-textured aluminium, a mashrabiya screen to conceal the core, and painted cladding to keep the costs to a minimum. The first floor level contains a gym and changing rooms, with the parking bay in the podium below. Elevations without openings face the neighbouring plots, which are soon to be built up.
LOCATION : TYPE : YEAR : TASKS :
DUBAI, UAE 2015/ COMPLETED
2B+G+6/ 12 100 SQ.M
CONCEPT DESIGN, SCHEMATIC, DD
Visually light and dynamic, the residential complex comprises two volumes sliced on a nice proportion. apartments occupy the typical floor plans and a pool deck and gym on the roof. The design responds to the client’s requirements of a highly efficient floor plan and a contemporary styled design.The choice of materiel was based on a modern palette with stone, concrete, glass and wood-textured aluminium. Using carefully balanced proportions, the elevations features around 35% aluminium, the reminder composed of solid materials including the dramatic, stone clad wall.
The project is located in AL Khawaneej, an essentially residential area of Dubai. The program presents three floors : An open basement for the old car collection, A living area in continious mood with the garden and a private upper floor. The nucleous of the horizontal circulation an internal bridge that joins the formal area to the family one. This passage is made trough an internal garden with an olive tree an a cascade coming from the swimming pool. The car collection is exposed in the open basement. The spaces are developed to create an instant relations between the inside and outside while taking privacy from neighboors into consideration. The bedrooms in the first floor look out to the pool and the fire pit area.
Villa Falahi's client is a renowned designer in Dubai who sought to create a villa inspired by Mediterranean architecture with a contemporary flair and exclusive design. The plot is located within a residential area in Dubai, providing a fitting canvas for this unique project. The conceptual approach embraces the Med-
iterranean atmosphere, characterized by white textured walls, arched openings, and a minimalist style. An internal open courtyard adorned with trees and lush vegetation serves to infuse the space with natural light and facilitate seamless transitions between the interior and exterior, enhancing the overall living experience. Careful
attention was given to the program distribution, incorporating the client's preferences while also considering the nuances of Emirati daily life. This meticulous approach ensures that Villa Falahi harmoniously combines timeless Mediterranean charm with modern sophistication, resulting in a truly exceptional living environment.
LOCATION : TYPE / SCALE : YEAR : INVOLVEMENT : PROJECT'S STATUS :
NEOM, K.S.A
HOSPITALIT/MIXED-USE/ SPORTS AND LEISURE DESTINATION
2023
DESIGN OPTIMIZATION/ DESIGN MANAGEMENT UNDER CONSTRUCTION
Anchoring the NEOM Mountain Masterplan is the VAULT, an iconic man-made canyon of epic proportions, which serves as both the symbolic and programmatic portal to the rest of the Masterplan. The VAULT will be a testament to the ambitions of NEOM, indicating to the whole world that there is no other a place like it – and one cannot pass up on the opportunity to visit and experience it in person. The VAULT forms the arrival cluster together with the Mirage visitor center and the Time-Travel ride. It is designed and developed as a futuristic icon, competing with the grandeur of monuments regionally and globally so that one day in the distant future, it will be looked back upon as a grand jewel of our generation – a timeless architectural masterpiece and a historic engineering accomplishment. The VAULT is an architectural and engineering intervention which carves away from the existing mountain ranges in between neighboring peaks to create an immersive void. The outcome is an artificial valley characterized by a shaded microclimate activated by lush greenery and refreshing water features which provides a truly soothing yet thrilling environment. It will be outfitted with a wide array of technological capabilities. The integration high-end secure interfacing, of ground-breaking AR/VR capabilities, of IoT data streams, of drones, conducting ballet-like aerial performances, of robotic services and much more must not
come at a cost of the physical experience. Technology must always be accessible and available for use, but never disruptive to residents and visitors alike.
The project’s massing is topologically defined by a “saddle” surface (Paraboloid geometry), and spatially defined by two open sides: one looking down towards the West towards the Gulf of Aqaba, and the other side opening up to a picturesque view in the East of the NEOM Lake, the revolutionary Ski Slopes and their surrounding Assets, with the open horizon beyond the natural mountain peaks in the distance. The residential aspect of the VAULT’s program is developed to provide different typologies of accommodations. Two buildings in the North and the South from the side walls of the Vault. They are populated by a mixed development including public functions as well as various ho-tels and apartments. THe project will offer a wide variety of residential accommodations, leisure, and functional services adding up to a total of 1,437 keys. Sinuous pedestrian bridges spread from one wall to the other and enable circulation at elevated heights across the void. The phenomenological spectacle is amplified through holographic displays from the crystalline facade which lighten up the environment and activate the space as a technological monument in the desertic mountains.
Situated on Exclusive Peak in the Explore cluster of the TROJENA Region, the Mountain Exclusive Resort provides a hospitality experience like no other. Incorporating unique luxury rooms, spa experiences, fine dining, fitness activities and a micro-climate for a courtyard abundant in native vegetation, the resort is a hub for guests wanting to immerse themselves in unforgettable experiences and the mountain’s natural beauty.
The project’s driving concept is focused around a multi layered circle packing pattern that is translated through the building three dimensionally. This gives the impression of wandering through a delicate piece of clockwork or jewellery that sits proudly atop the landscape.
Responding to the surrounding natural beauty is key to the orientation of the rooms and the ground-level organization to allow stunning views towards the valley and lake down the mountain side. The semi-open nature of the building embraces the contrast between the mars-like exterior and the lush vegetation within, creating connections between the resort and its surrounding context.
LOCATION : TYPE / SCALE : YEAR : INVOLVEMENT : PROJECT'S STATUS :
DUBAI, U.A.E
MIXED-USE/ HOSPITALITY
3B+G+P+19/ 79 000 SQ.M 2016 CONCEPT DESIGN COMPETITION/ 2ND PRIZE
The competition of the mixed use project of Empower Headquarters is occupying a vacant and strategic plot having access to Sheikh Rashid Road. This scheme contains offices, a hotel building, a furnished apartments and a shopping center. All the components should be independents from each other but having links at the same time. The views towards the creek and Ras Al Khor wildlife sanctuary should be taken into consideration in the oncept approach. The design is using a different architectural language from the surrounding buildings, the end result is a powerful blue masses with a central clear area giving the impression of visual continuity through the building. The podium is designed in a way that integrates plazas, terraces and pedestrian circulation through green areas on the different levels and shopping’s center roof. A swimming pool with an infinity edge is located on the upper floors of the hotel. A stylized garden was also integrated of the elevations of the hotel.
Hotel infinity pool
This project is a Competition winning architectural and Interior design of a Law court. Located in a prominent and historic position next to Al Kasbah in Tunisi, this contemporary Civic project is an extension of an existing historical building of The Ministry of Justice. Consequeltely, the new design should be respectful to the ‘arabisant’ style while proposing a contemporary translation that links the past to the present. The concept idea was the integration of a spectacular high tech curtain wall inspired from the traditional colorful courtyard behind the existing facade. A textured and dynamic front elevation is generated through vibrantly coloured panels on the main facade projected on one of the most dense axis road of the capital City.
With a unique concept and a striking yet elegant form, this Abu Dhabi project called for a mall that evoked the spirit of China. The design incorporates decorative wooden elements and a vibrant red paneling to allude to traditional Chinese architecture, combined with sleek modern aesthetics and materials suitable for the Gulf climate. Externally, the building will be clad in red aluminium panels, with bare concrete, vertical louvers and the provision for media screens to further animate the façades.
An internal, partially open-air street runs
through the entire project, moving from ground level to the second floor and then back to ground. Separate volumes were created to lighten the feel of the massing, with a flowing circulation route. Extensive landscaping and terraces allow visitors to enjoy the outdoor environment while wooden elements provide shade and visual impact.
The planned residential township will serve a community of approx..62,300 residents with variety of housing offering: villas/townhouses (approx. 9,500 units) and apartments (approx. 1,400 units) with ‘community spine’ consisting of retail, commercial and recreational facilities linking it with earlier phases of
the Project.
The aim of this project is to develop a unique residential community that offers:
- Integrated township including residential development (single family and multifamily units) and ‘community spine’ comprising essential non-residential infrastructure, assets and amenities that reflect best princi-
ples and practice in community planning and design.
- Attractive and affordable housing products in line with target market segments, which offer a variety of housing types and sizes to address the needs of people at different income levels and different phases of life, including intergenerational community with multi-generational housing.
- A sense of community and level of community facilities and amenities that will promote universal access, active/healthy living and resident interaction with local cultural norms of safety, security and privacy in mind.
PROPOSED
The Sharjah Maritime project is a forward-thinking, inclusive mixed-use community hub situated along the picturesque Sharjah Waterfront. Designed to cater to diverse experiences, it serves as a destination for residents and visitors alike. Conveniently located just a 30-minute drive from Sharjah International Airport, with easy access to the Emirate of Dubai, it offers unparalleled connectivity. In its urban context, the area lacks distinctive retail destinations, primarily comprising indoor shopping spaces, while being surrounded by numerous business hotels, parks, and beaches. Furthermore, there is a notable absence of adequate yacht berths in the surrounding lagoon areas. The primary objective of the project is to redefine the waterfront edge, establishing a seamless boundary between land and sea while creating vibrant public spaces and enhancing waterfront accessibility. The proposal encompasses a total of 24 buildings of varying heights interconnected by podiums, totaling 790,000 GFA. These buildings will include waterfront residential units, twin towers, park-view residences, two hotels, serviced apartments, retail outlets, and signature structures. With its emphasis on community living, this waterfront destination will offer stunning seaside views and exclusive park spaces, setting a new standard for coastal living experiences.
The project is an integrated polo and equestrian master developement located on the way from Dubai to Hatta. It covers an approximate area of 1 million sq.m. It is mostly residential with a resort an facilities. The developmjent encompasses more than 350 Arabian style villas, one hotel, one spa resort, a mosque, retail and shopping area all inspired from the local architecture. The challenge was to accomodate the specific cultural requirements while maintaining the contemporary look of the buildings. The design embraces a heavyweight contruction style without extensive glazing, while utilizing the traditional elements. The polo fields are located in a way that allows the maximum of villas to have a direct view on those areas.
CONCEPT/
The SABIS school at Aljada is located on a 60,978 square meter plot on the south-eastern corner of the project, adjacent to the East Village residential community. Construction began in Q2 2020 and will cater for children from KG through Grade 12. Staff housing will be provided elsewhere in the Aljada complex and is not part of the scope of this project.
Facilities at the school will include outdoor pitches and a running track, as well as an indoor swimming pool and basketball courts. In addition, pupils at the school will also
benefit from a large auditorium, library, and cafeteria, as well as IT and science laboratories and an art and design studio.
On the Eastern border, the site is bound by 67-meter-wide highway, and a dual carriage way boulevard on the western boundary. SABIS school at Aljada will host up to 4000 students. Operating such a facility in the arid climate of the UAE, is a challenge. Outlined below are the design considerations in the campus design, which will result in reducing the energy and water use.
ALJADA, U.A.E EDUCATIONAL/ ENVIRONMENTAL INFRASTRUCTURE SOLUTIONS
CONCEPT DESIGN UNDER CONSTRUCTION
The R&D Center is situated on the eastern periphery of the Aljada masterplan. The primary concept behind the project is to visually create a natural hill accommodating the center while concealing the Sewage Treatment Plant (STP) situated behind it. Upon arrival, visitors encounter a striking concrete sculptural element seamlessly integrated into the hillside. This element serves both as an
entrance to the center and as a guide, prompting users to choose between entering the facility directly or ascending the stairs to explore the bridge and discover the STP. Within the center, there is an immersive MNR (Microbial Nutrient Removal) experience zone, where visitors can learn about the treatment processes involved in reclaiming used water.
The educational institute is located at the North East entrance to Aljada bordered by street mobility on its two sides. The project addresses the urban context by buiding a relationship with its surrouding program, the Nest student accomodation, the CBD and the Boulevard. The project encompasses a social zone connecting the active student and public corner on one edge and a more collobartive zone overlooking the Business district on the opposite edge. The design boosts collaborations and partnerships between students and professionals. The massing reinforces the notion of a community confining the social and collaborative zones with a prominent Link, a public buildling which serves as a central hub. The Library welcomes visitors and academists through its distinctive translucent nature to boost connectivity and stand out monumentally in between the compound. On the ground floor are concentrated spaces of more general and public use, such as the cafeteria, retail, social learning spaces, auditorium and a large interactive lecture room. The Recessed Ground level, allows for a porticoed corridor buildilng a dialogue between the interior spaces and the courtyard. The learning blocks are directly connected to the public spaces comprising of a variety of teaching rooms, classrooms and multipurpose studios. Dedicated Training Blocks allow for flexible large-span spaces, suitable for an evolving academic program. They are supported with workshop and practice labs.
The project aims to add a new compound to Aljada, A knowledge hub to foster connectivity and create an adaptive learning environment.
The Mosque is located along the main boulevard of Aljada, adjacent to the student accommodation. Its design features a sculptural composition of two contrasting elements: concrete walls and a perforated canopy. The canopy's design is particularly inviting, providing a shaded area that attracts visitors towards the entrance. Notably, all openings, with the exception of those leading to the imam house, are strategically located within concealed areas to preserve the mosque's exterior's robust aesthetic.
Upon arrival to entrance of the resort, one will experience a sense of floating; a minimal concrete pathway with slender staggered columns in the middle of two reflecting ponds creates an airy environment through the proportions & materiality.
At the end of the path is a transparent glass box with platforms which take the visitors to the sunken level of the resort. As they descend one’s views move from an open view of the lush courtyard and the resident lodges to a simple tree resting in the center of a reflecting pond against the backdrop of the sloped landscape. Walking into the outside, water is all around and everything is floating on these ponds, and is designed to provide varying wellness experiences.
: TYPE : YEAR : TASKS :
CONCEPT DESIGN, SCHEMATIC, DD SPORTS/ 1500 SQ.M
FITnGLAM was established with the aim of revolutionizing women’s fitness in the UAE, embodying a concept dedicated to empowering female minds and bodies. Situated at the access point of the Al Quoz industrial area, near Sheikh Zayed Road, the project involves the complete refurbishment of a warehouse, presenting the challenge of incorporating a steel frame structure with perforated panels on the exterior. The gym comprises a ground level hosting the majority of the training areas, along with a mezzanine floor housing a café, changing rooms, and administrative facilities.