May 2022
Issue 17 | Q2 Edition
DSA DIGEST The official newsletter of DSA Architects International
DSA Architects International were honoured at the International Property Awards Exclusive Champagne Breakfast Presentation at The Savoy Hotel in London on 25th February for our project Jawaher Al Saadiyat by Aldar Properties. The development has received the highest accolade of a 5-star in the Arabian Property Awards 2021 for Best Architecture Multiple Residence in October of last year. The top winners in each region were automatically entered into the overall international awards, which culminated in a glittering awards ceremony in London. We have competed against the best property professionals across the world to be recognised in the Best International Architecture Multiple Residence category.
DSA wins Best International Architecture Multiple Residence for Jawaher Al Saadiyat at the International Property Awards 2021-22
Multiple Awards | Latest Project Updates | Exciting News
IN THIS ISSUE
03 What's New? The New BEEAH Headquarters
04 New Projects Al Hamra Fort Hotel Erbil Golf Hotel Building Partnerships in KSA
05 Recognition International Property Awards Luxury Lifestyle Awards Design & Build Awards
08 Onwards & Upwards Retirement Promotions New Team Members Milestones
11 Project Progress Mosi-oa Tunya Livingstone Resort Raffles Hotel Jeddah Jumeirah Gulf of Bahrain Resort
13 DSA Cares
14 Socials
What's New?
The new BEEAH Headquarters has officially opened
The new BEEAH Group Headquarters has officially opened last 30th of March, in a formal ceremony led by His Highness Dr. Sheikh Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah.
During the opening and subsequent tour of the Headquarters, His Highness the Ruler of Sharjah was Since 1971, weekend in the UAE wasSultan only on accompanied by His Highness Sheikh bin a Friday. bin Sultan Al Qasimi, Crown Prince, Deputy Mohammed Ruler of Sharjah and Chairman of the Sharjah Executive Council, His Highness Sheikh Abdullah bin Salim bin In 1999, it was changed to Thursday & Sultan Al Qasimi, Deputy Ruler of Sharjah and His Friday.Sheikh Sultan bin Ahmed bin Sultan Al Qasimi, Highness Deputy Ruler of Sharjah, as well as leadership of Sharjah government The tour to wasFriday led by & Nada Taryam, In 2006, itentities. was moved Saturday Managing Director of Civil Projects at BEEAH Group to bring UAE closer in line with the rest of the alongside HE Salim bin Mohammed Al Owais, Chairman ofworld. the Board of Directors at BEEAH and Khaled Al Huraimel, Group CEO of BEEAH Group.
Designed by Zaha Hadid, the new, ground breaking head quarter development, inspired by nature and optimum smart, working conditions is fully powered by renewable energy, integrated with next-generation technologies and built to realize net-zero emissions. It serves as the organization’s blueprint to shape tomorrow’s smart, sustainable future cities and sets a new benchmark for sustainable workplaces as the “Office of the Future”. DSA are privileged to have worked with incredible teams from BEEAH, Zaha Hadid Architects, Buro Happold and Matthews Southwest in the construction of one of the most sustainable and smartest buildings in the world.
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New Projects
Al Hamra Fort Hotel Renovation Ras Al Khaimah, UAE The objective of the project is to renovate, extend and rebrand the existing Hilton Al Hamra Fort Hotel into a Sofitel Hotel with modern luxury blending a French arte de vivre and the essence of the destination.
Golf Hotel & Clubhouse Erbil, Iraq The client intends to develop a 150-160 keys hotel with golf course views & a golf clubhouse with a multi-purpose facility serving members, guests, and visitors in the Erbil Hills development.
Building Partnerships in KSA DSA Managing Director for KSA, Tim Goodall and Project Director, Rachael Khanak have visited our friends from MNS Engineering, Engr. Rayan Alkrbush and Dr. Wael in Riyadh to discuss collaboration for our future projects in the Kingdom.
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Recognition The International Property Awards
The exclusive champagne breakfast event signified another vastly important step for the International Property Awards and its winners, and included guests of honour Lord Malcolm Caithness along with President of the International Property Awards, Stuart Shield. The International Property Awards are the largest, most prestigious, and widely recognised programme throughout the regions. Judged by an independent panel of over 80 industry experts, the judging focuses on design, quality, service, innovation, originality, and commitment to sustainability. The judging panel is chaired by Lord Caithness, Lord Best, and Lord Waverley, members of the House of Lords in the UK Parliament.
The awards are well recognised and very highly respected within the property industry, and offer prizes to developers, architects, designers and estate agents, many of whom are very proud to display their awards on their websites, stationery and even their buildings. The judging panels feature industry leaders, and the awards are much sought after. The Awards are in their 28th year and cover over 50 different residential and commercial categories. Regional heats are staged for Arabia, Europe, Africa, Canada, Central & South America, the Caribbean, USA, UK and Asia Pacific.
International Property Media has been in the awards business for over 28 years, running a global awards programme from their offices in Chelmsford, Essex, UK.
DSA shortlisted as Architecture Firm of the Year at the Architecture Leaders Awards 2022
DSA have been shortlisted for Architecture Firm of the Year category at the Architecture Leaders Awards 2022. The awards honours the best of the architecture sector and recognises top architects in the region.
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DSA awarded as Best Luxury Hotel Architecture for Jumeirah Gulf of Bahrain Resort and Spa at the Luxury Lifestyle Awards 2022
We are honoured to be awarded the title Best Luxury Hotel Architecture for Jumeirah Gulf of Bahrain Resort and Spa by Luxury Lifestyle Awards. This prestigious award is given in recognition of DSA’s outstanding work on the architectural design of the five-star luxury establishment that is set to open its doors later this year. We would like to thank our partners, particularly our Client, Edamah, and local engineering firm MSCEB, for their support on this project. Along with the recognition, the following commendation was given out by the judges of the awards: "Jumeirah Gulf of Bahrain Resort and Spa in Bahrain is set to open its doors this year. The launch of this premium establishment is one that many luxury enthusiasts are looking forward to, as it is promising to offer the best of the fine-living lifestyle. Behind the design of Jumeirah Gulf of Bahrain Resort and Spa is the much-respected architecture firm, DSA Architects International, whose work on this resort is simply exceptional. The resort boasts 207 hotel room keys, island bungalows and villas with designs provisions to expand the offering to guests to about 300 keys. It also features family restaurants, a cinema, a teen room, kids club, conference rooms, several bars and restaurant and lounges, as well as a variety of pools, gyms and luxurious spa facilities.
A development of this nature is no small feat to design, which is precisely the reason why Luxury Lifestyle Awards crowned DSA Architects International as the title winner in the category Best Luxury Hotel Architecture for Jumeirah Gulf of Bahrain Resort and Spa, Bahrain in recognition of the firm’s unmatched work designing the prestigious resort. In addition, DSA carefully developed the design of Jumeirah Gulf of Bahrain Resort and Spa whilst considering Bahrain’s eco-tourism ambitions, which means sustainable and environmental practices were incorporated into the very heart of the design approach and construction of the resort.
“It has been a privilege to work on this project, which has challenged and stretched us in all the right ways. The entire team has been enhanced by the creative and technical hurdles that we have overcome and we are thrilled that we have been able to deliver such a magnificent establishment, one that we are immensely proud to add to our ever-growing portfolio.” Peter Davison Managing Director, Middle East DSA Architects International
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DSA have a proven track record in delivering awardwinning projects across the globe. Over their 35-year history, they have evolved into an internationally recognised and renowned business, with a strong reputation for excellence across the hospitality, residential, commercial, retail, and educational sectors, whilst also maintaining their reputation as a boutique style firm who are able to offer a personal and bespoke service tailored to the individual needs of their clients.
The firm has an impressive portfolio that includes work on the Jumeirah Madinat Resort in Dubai, Le Touessrok Resort and Spa in Mauritius, Thanda Safari Lodge in South Africa and Cap Vermell Grand Hotel in Spain. To date, DSA have delivered over 500 projects in more than 30 countries – which is an exceptional achievement. For their excellent work, DSA have been recognised by various international award-giving organisations including International Property Awards, Middle East Architect Awards, AHEAD Awards, SAPOA Awards, and World Travel Awards, to name a few."
DSA named as Leading International Architectural Consultancy Specialising in Innovative & Sustainable Projects at the 2022 Design & Build Awards DSA have been awarded as Leading International Architectural Consultancy Specialising in Innovative and Sustainable Projects, 2022 - Dubai at the Design & Build Awards by BUILD magazine. The Design & Build Awards continues to be an annual celebration which highlights the excellent work and expertise of architects, interior designers and many more industry professionals around the world.
Al Zahia Development, Al Lilac Achieved a Certified BREEAM Rating DSA are delighted to share that our residential project, Al Zahia Development, Al Lilac by Majid Al Futtaim Properties has recently achieved a certified BREEAM rating. The project has been awarded 63.1% and the Very Good level BREEAM Certification. BREEAM is the world’s leading sustainability assessment method for master planning projects. It is the world’s leading sustainability assessment method for masterplanning projects, infrastructure and buildings.
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Onwards & Upwards Steve Kelshaw announced his retirement; Peter Davison is appointed as new Managing Director for DSA Middle East Steve Kelshaw, Managing Director of DSA Middle East has officially retired in February after 13 years with the company. He has led the Middle East office since 2009 and has been instrumental in the ongoing success and growth of the business, which has also adapted and evolved over this time in order to meet the demands of an ever changing market. Steve’s undoubted vision, business acumen and people management abilities will be sorely missed by us all.
“During your working life there are many ups and downs. I have to say that the final chapter of mine, could not have been more rewarding. The friends I have made, and relationships forged, will stay with me for many years to come. We say that our business is a family, and that statement truly embodies all the people that work at DSA. I will sincerely miss the daily interaction, but am sure that, given the determination and dedication of the people, they will most certainly prevail.” - Steve Kelshaw Steve added that he is confident that Peter will pilot DSA Middle East into a new era of growth and expand on the remarkable service the company has inspired to deliver over the years.
Peter, who has been working very closely with Steve in all aspects of the business over the years, will take up his new position immediately and is looking forward to the challenge.
“It is a privilege and an honour to take on this role and I would like to thank everyone concerned for the confidence shown in me in this regard. I have been fortunate enough to have enjoyed Steve’s mentorship for a number of years and I cannot overstate how grateful I am to him for his positive encouragement and guidance. Moving forward, I am extremely confident that, with the experience, talent and professionalism we have within our ranks, DSA can go on to achieve even further success.” - Peter Davison We would like to take this opportunity to thank Steve for his support and commitment to DSA through all these years and express our best wishes to him as he starts a new chapter in his life. Please also join us in congratulating Peter as we enter this next exciting new phase for our practice.
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Congratulations ON YOUR PROMOTION Jophy Thomas Promoted to Project Architect to Associate/Design Principal
New Team Members MIDDLE EAST OFFICE
Sabeer Nambalakkandi Promoted from Senior Architect to Project Architect/Team Leader
Adersh Pradeep Project Coordinator Joined on 10 Jan 2022 Seema Ponmudiyan Senior Project Architect Joined on 14 Feb 2022 Kristine Zapanta Document Controller Joined on 01 Mar 2022 Anupama Dhanu Project Coordinator Joined on 14 Mar 2022
Samra Mushtaq Design Manager Joined on 11 Apr 2022 Amer Mohammad BIM Manager Joined on 12 Apr 2022 Bronwyn Adele Da Costa Bid Manager Joined on 05 May 2022 Gopikanth Kathiresan Senior Architect Joined on 05 May 2022 Ranjithkrishna Nair Senior Architect Joined on 05 May 2022 BELGRADE OFFICE Smiljana Mihajlović Architect Joined on 1 Jan 2022 INDIA OFFICE
Senthil Kumar Promoted from Senior Arch. Team Leader to Project Architect/Team Leader
Jinesh Ravi Senior Architect Joined on 28 Mar 2022 Eugen Kurt Hillerman Senior Landscape Architect Joined on 1 Apr 2022 Artaserxes Dalisay Site Inspector Joined on 11 Apr 2022 Shivi Goyal HR Administrator Joined on 11 Apr 2022
Jaya Phulwani Promoted from Asst. HR Manager to HR Manager
Sandeep Dhupar Design Manager Joined on 11 Apr 2022
Mohammed Bilal Architect Joined on 1 Feb 2022 Aishwarya Jayesh Architect Joined on 1 Feb 2022 Siddharth Raj Junior Architect Joined on 1 Apr 2022 Jithin Cyril Architect Joined on 1 Apr 2022 Manish Uthaman Architectural Technician Joined on 18 Apr 2022
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CELEBRATING
15 YEARS WITH DSA
Peter Davison Managing Director
Maher Fleifel
Sabeer Nambalakkandi
Senior Associate
Project Architect/Team Leader
Maher Bousaad
Annita Hendricks
Francisco Samina
PRO
Finance Manager
Senior Associate
Suji Sugatan
Madalena Teixiera
Elpida Stavrinos
Senior Architectural Technician
Associate
Senior Architect
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Project Progress
Radisson Blu Mosi-oa-Tunya Livingstone Resort is Nearing Completion
Situated on the banks of one of Africa’s longest rivers, the Zambezi, this 200-key sustainability-focused resort proudly designed by DSA is now 98% complete. Our team on site is currently busy with snagging, and some minor external works, public areas and façade final installations are also being carried out. The construction of the resort which started two years earlier, will now reach its practical completion in three weeks time, with the opening planned for the first week of September 2022.
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Raffles Hotel & Residences, Jeddah Great progress is seen on the construction of Raffles Hotel & Residences in Jeddah, KSA. The wellanticipated development is located in a prime position on the corniche. Once completed, this remarkable architecture will offer 183 hotels keys and 188 branded residences, providing exclusive accommodation and easy access to Jeddah's most desirable destinations
Jumeirah Gulf of Bahrain Resort & Spa We are thrilled to see significant progress on our recent visit to the constuction site of Jumeirah Gulf of Bahrain Resort & Spa. Located on the southwest coast of Bahrain, this impressive 5-star luxury development will offer exclusive retreat style stay for its guests - a first of its kind in the Kingdom. It will also serve as the catalyst for further development along this part of the undeveloped but prestigious coast. As the lead consultant and design architect of this exceptional project, we can't wait to witness another stunning architecture unfold, as the resort opens its doors later this year.
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DSA Cares
Over 2,000 Iftar Meal Boxes Distributed at Sajja Labor Camp In celebration of the holy month of Ramadan and as a way of giving back, DSA in association with FOSA and AKCAF (college alumni of some colleges from India) have distributed over 2,000 iftar meal boxes to our brothers in CAMP 2, Sajja industrial area a week before Eid.
Journey to Better Health & Wellness
Our friends from Safe Hands UAE and Beneple have recently visited the DSA Middle East office to conduct a health and wellness check. This aims to design a corporate wellness strategy to help increase the health and wellbeing of our employees, which is one of the priorities of DSA. The journey to a healthier version of ourselves begins today!
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Socials
Steve's Retirement Par-Tee
Liesle's Farewell Party
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DSA
goes to
EXPO2020
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Designed to Deliver.
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