CBNME ARCHITECTURE

Elie Mrad, Chief Architectural Officer,

Flexible and wide, open floorplans enhance collaboration and benefit from floor-to-ceiling windows allowing more natural light. Each office also benefits from smart technology that is part of Aljada’s overall smart city programme, with next-gen solutions for waste and traffic management and smart lighting. We have designed this 4.3 million square foot business park to comfortably accommodate 20,000 employees, catering to their needs and wellness, while supporting better work-life balance with eco-friendly conveniences and facilities. There’s a free electric public transportation system, an e-scooter and bicycle rental system and car charging stations.

Smart city elements and public transport make Aljada all the more sustainable. For example, the introduction of a ‘sustainable lane’ at this community will offer a free electric bus service. We’ve focused on smart tech to heighten sustainability and the circular economy including a Tesla battery wall, solar PV panels and air source heat pumps.

Our push towards sustainability is not limited to our architecture; this focus extends to our social initiatives as well. The Manbat initiative is the result of our partnership with the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment (MOCCAE) to support Emirati farmers, encourage regional produce, and boost the agricultural sector towards selfsufficiency. We display preservative-free farm-to-table produce at our regular farmers’ markets and have just opened our first ever shop at Aljada. The retail design encourages consumer interest in the stories behind the products, while the new physical location also houses an on-site hydroponic farm and encourages educational tours.

All of our communities and public spaces are designed in an expansive, experiential manner to engage students, adults and families, and inspire them with ideas and experiences. Year-round attractions and events make use of our community spaces and foster interactive community spirit along with reducing time and fuel costs for residents.

Sharjah’s heritage, particularly the historic Al Khan district, has inspired some of the building design at Aljada – walkable structures situated in close proximity for a shaded, interconnected feel as per Emirati architectural style. Nest buildings and the spaces between them have been shaped according to the wind flow to create shaded and cooled spaces. This heightens student activity and wellbeing. The 380,000 square foot cluster of 12 buildings has ample facilities designed to inspire university students. Equipped with smart technology, there is an art studio, music hall, library, running track, amphitheatre, central dining hall, and gender-specific swimming pools, gyms and study areas for their privacy and comfort.

By designing homes and facilities for university students, younger couples and growing families, we’re designing for the future. The longevity of our vision is in itself a sustainable goal and an ongoing journey.

Rooftop greenery at Aljada is another green feature for passive cooling. The fitness center at Sarab is partially underground and concealed by foliage. These design elements help to minimize energy usage and reduce the effect of summer heatwaves. Mosques built into the community feature courtyards and walkable entrances with shaded greenery for a serene spiritual space alongside nature.

Our mixed-use neighborhoods are lively, vibrant and environmentally conscious, with accessible eco-friendly areas to connect residents with nature and the green outdoors. Immersive and engaging public spaces provide facilities for sports, leisure and recreation within the community. There are numerous outdoor and indoor sports facilities at all of our master-communities that encourage play, fitness and fun at multiple levels.

All this, in essence, is living architecture that puts people first and allows them to truly thrive alongside nature for a conscientious present leading to a far more sustainable future.