Semi Annual Report 2024, Issue 4 by RMJM

Semi Annual Report 4th Edition, 2024

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CEO WORD 06-09 ABOUT RMJM 10-11 RMJM DUBAI 14-39

A DAY IN THE LIFE OF AN ARCHITECT 58-59

INTERVIEWS: RMJM SERBIA 42-47 RMJM RED 48-57

2023 GALLERY

60-61

CONTENTS

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CEO WORD

In the ever-evolving realm of architecture, the landscape continues to confront a plethora of challenges, navigating the delicate balance between an array of choices and the increasingly urgent need for sustainability. Architects face the formidable task of reimagining spaces amidst a backdrop of resource scarcity, climate concerns, and a shifting societal fabric. Within this context, RMJM, an architectural pioneer since 1956, stood resolute in its commitment to redefining architectural paradigms, emphasizing value creation over mere construction. In our latest Semi-Annual report, marking the fourth edition, we reflect on the remarkable achievements of the RMJM Group over the preceding six months. Our global teams continue to deliver outstanding results, actively engaged in shaping iconic projects in various countries around the globe. Our design philosophy has matured, emphasizing a deeper understanding of each project’s unique essence. We remain steadfast in our commitment to infusing vitality into every design, aligning closely with project briefs and breathing life into architectural visions. Peter Morrison, CEO, Morrison Cosulting Group January 2024

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Peter Morrison, CEO, Morrison Consulting Group

CEO WORD

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About RMJM

ABOUT RMJM

ounded by Sir Robert Matthew and Sir Stirrat Johnson-Marshall in 1956, RMJM Group is one of the largest, most geographically and culturally diverse architecture firms in the world. With studios across five continents, the RMJM family can share knowledge, expertise and design talent, enabling them to think quicker and act faster. Working stronger together, they are global enough to make a difference while still being local enough to be personal. Through their shared vision of success, RMJM has spent more than 67 years creating a legacy of world-class design. 11

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Luxor Tower, Dubai, UAE 12

RMJM DUBAI

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Working closely with Imitaz Developments, RMJM Dubai designed a contemporary residential tower. The Luxor Residential Tower is ideally located in the vibrant neighbourhood of Jumeirah Village Circle, Dubai. The project offers direct access to JVC Central Park and will include a sky garden, offering views of Dubai Marina skyline and Dubai’s Sports City. The 29-storey facade design is sleek and features elegant silhouettes, with full-height fully glazed windows and overall exhibiting a refined and contemporary aesthetic. Nestled amid vibrant greenery, the façade creates a serene environment, while strategic placement next to key major roads.

Façade materials are carefully selected with rich colors of rose gold and bronze that is used throughout both the exterior and interior creating a harmonious theme in the tower. Luxor embraces sustainability with an electric vehicle recharge station, aligning with modern environmental considerations.

RMJM DUBAI

Sector: Residential Size: 29,516 SQM Status: Ongoing Scope: Architecture

Beyond its aesthetic appeal, Luxor prioritizes resident well-being by offering a diverse range of amenities. From a fully equipped gym to a rooftop infinity pool, a kids’ playground, and a club room. 15

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Luxor Tower: Orientation Studies

Massing Orientation - Option 01

Massing Orientation - Option 02

RMJM DUBAI

Massing Orientation - Option 03

Massing Orientation - Option 04

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Luxor Tower: Massing Evolution

FLO

Target GFA

Creating Values With Amenities

Redistributed GFA

RMJM DUBAI

Services

Facade Treatment For Verticality

Terraces And Amenities

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Luxor Tower: Sketch

RMJM DUBAI

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RMJM DUBAI

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Exhibition Centre, Confidential 24

RMJM DUBAI

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For this ambitious project RMJM has been appointed to deliver an exemplary world class exhibition centre that reinforces the entrepreneurial spirit of the client and showcase innovation and progressive business principles. Inspired by the esteemed national symbol, the white stork, RMJM’s architectural vision ingeniously infuses the essence of this revered bird into the very fabric of the exhibition center. Much like the stork’s grace and elegance in flight, the roof concept elegantly mirrors a dynamic and fluid form, symbolizing not just the physical structure but also embodying the spirit of movement, progress, and soaring aspirations.

Beyond the mere physicality of the structure, RMJM’s design philosophy extends to creating an immersive experience within the exhibition center. Every space is meticulously crafted to foster an environment conducive to fostering creativity, innovation, and collaboration. The spatial arrangement is a testament to functionality seamlessly intertwined with aesthetic allure, ensuring a seamless flow of ideas and interactions. Moreover, sustainability stands as a cornerstone of this project. RMJM’s commitment to eco-conscious architecture is evident in every aspect, from the choice of materials to the incorporation of energy-efficient systems, emphasizing a harmonious coexistence between the built environment and nature.

Sector: Exhibition Centre - Size: 40,000 SQM Exhibition Centre, 110,000 SQM Landscape - Scope: Advanced Concept

RMJM DUBAI

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RMJM DUBAI

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RMJM DUBAI

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Terrazzo Residences, Dubai, UAE 32

RMJM DUBAI

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Taraf, the real estate division of UAE-headquartered investment holding group Yas Holding, has worked closely with RMJM to launch the serene and luxurious Terrazzo Residences in Dubai’s popular community of Jumeirah Village Circle (JVC). Described as one of the most family-friendly master communities in Dubai, it is ideally located in one of Dubai’s most popular communities with convenient access to key motorways and is just a 10-minute drive away from recreational locations such as golf-courses. JVC is a low-density, fully-built residential community containing parks which offer 360 views of lush greenery, schools, F&B venues and a shopping mall. While 60% of the total property space has been allocated to over 40 open and green spaces, the project houses 240 1–3 bedroom apartments, spread over two lowrise buildings.

The property’s interiors, which feature terrazzo tile finishing, cover a spectrum of warm and earthy tones with an intricately designed layout and panoramic windows to ensure harmonious elegance, natural lighting and continuation of the surrounding calming landscape. Externally, the buildings’ facades have been kept simple yet contemporary in design and are made up of stone and light-coloured materials, so as to be a continuation and not a distraction from the natural elements that feature prominently across the JVC. The accompanying podium has been designed in a way that plays with tectonics and light in order to create a unique statement that flows seamlessly with the surrounding architecture and amenities- including a cinema, gym, dedicated yoga space, barbeque area and children’s playground.

RMJM DUBAI

Sector: Residential Size: 39,730 SQM Status: Ongoing Scope: Architecture & Site Supervision

Additionally, RMJM extensively studied the site massing and the relationship to plot edges- concluding the lowrise approach to be optimal for residential views, as well as the block design of the structures positioned in a way that supports closer contact to the main roads for ease of accessibility. All of these carefully curated features of Terrazzo come together to offer a unique and serene living experience. 35

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RMJM DUBAI

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RMJM DUBAI

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RMJM SERBIA

INTERVIEWS

RMJM RED

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Petar Stjelja & Zoran Šobić Design Managers at RMJM Serbia

Embark on an insightful journey through the perspectives of Petar and Zoran - Design Managers at RMJM Serbia, as they divulge their perspectives on ongoing projects, regulatory complexities, architectural coherence versus innovation, sustainability integration, and the future trajectory of architectural practices.

Q1. Could you share insights into a current ongoing project that both represents your design ethos and addresses local contextual elements or challenges? Petar : In growing markets such as the Serbian one, a significant share in the construction and real estate business is residential segment, which, after a long time, is again taking a notable form. In the architectural legacy of our city, there is a more than clear difference between the old central city areas and the modernist principles of the apartment blocks. On the other hand, the new architectures aspiration is certainly to revise the existing housing patterns in Belgrade and adapt them to the recent trends. In this sense, a huge part of our work is related to the residential architecture of significant development companies that saw their opportunity building in Belgrade. Together, we explore and build new principles and flexible models. One of the examples of ongoing projects is Plot 17b within Belgrade Waterfront district on the very bank of the Sava River, which carries exactly that aspiration. 42

Zoran: For sure, the large-scale project that perfectly fits both aspects here is the Belgrade Campus Project for Microsoft Development Center Serbia. I might say, it is an amazing client; their design criteria are concentrated on custom design solutions and a strong local context. Furthermore, despite having numerous learning opportunities, standards, and requirements, surprisingly, it offers more design freedom on our end. The whole process was a balance and a merging of the local context, local team, and an international multicultural and multi-objective approach. I can proudly say that we achieved equilibrium with the high-end, flexible, human-oriented IT fit-out working environment. Our design ethos at RMJM Serbia encompasses a passion for details, tactile surfaces, and a strong design narrative. Integrating these principles with the local context and artwork presence was the winning story.

INTERVIEWS // RMJM SERBIA

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BW Riviera, Belgrade, Serbia

INTERVIEWS // RMJM SERBIA

Q2. What strategies do you employ to navigate regulatory challenges or construction complexities while maintaining your design intent?

Q3. How do you balance maintaining a consistent architectural identity while incorporating innovative or experimental design elements?

Petar: The regulatory challenge permeates practically all disciplines, and a significant part of our design strategy involves harmonizing with the regulatory system with minimal compromises, while staying true to our design ethos. It certainly demands an innovative approach and thinking outside the box, especially for aspects with limited precedent in past experiences. A prime example of this is the re-expansion of tall buildings. I personally believe that, along with other architectural practices in Serbia, we are currently laying the groundwork for new regulatory principles, particularly regarding high-rise structures.

Petar: If consistency is defined through the pursuit of the new, then there are no obstacles. Architecture must remain innovative and experimental; otherwise, it risks stagnation.

Moreover, the construction aspect significantly shapes the architecture and the artistry embedded within it. I firmly believe that a deep understanding of construction methods is crucial in an architect’s education. Consequently, we strive to comprehend the technology behind the design right from the initial stages. For intricate systems, we always engage in close collaboration with construction experts.

Zoran: We can agree that identity involves consistency, which derives from a long-term approach, while innovation and experimentation look towards the future. The common ground for these two aspects is the present. The greatest challenge lies in finding a design approach for long-lasting projects, where there may be 4 to 5 years (or more) from the early design stages to the grand opening. Tracking city development tendencies and conducting market trend surveys are the tools we use to balance all requirements, constraints, and opportunities in the architecture we deliver.

But always keep in mind: “Architecture is not based on concrete and steel, and the elements of the soil. It’s based on wonder.” – Daniel Libeskind

2024

Q4. What role does sustainability play in your projects, and how is it integrated into your office culture, influencing design decisions and construction methods?

Miicrosoft Office, Level 3, Belgrade, Serbia

Microsoft Office, Level 5, Belgrade, Serbia

Petar: In the local context, there has been significant progress in terms of sustainability regarding carbon footprint reduction, achieving zero net impact, and establishing certain defining standards. This encompasses various aspects such as the selection of local materials, waste management, energy consumption, and the implementation of LEED and WELL standards, among others. In comparison to EU standards, we are witnessing the initial steps in residential architecture. However, I firmly believe that this is just the inception of a long journey filled with creative opportunities to explore these topics further. Based on positive feedback, our contribution involves initiating discussions with the client regarding sustainability at the project’s outset. We analyze and propose enhancements, highlighting benefits for the end user from both global and local perspectives. 46

Zoran: I was lucky enough to work and manage projects for the sustainability sanctified clients. Some of the base builds are designed and constructed with high standards, so our fit-out projects had the opportunity to fulfill the story and deliver high-performance working spaces. The great thing about sustainability in the working environment is that it is not only about energy, materials, recycling, etc. It does include human needs and people’s habits, and definitely. There’s a noticeable shift from corporate responsibility to personal responsibility and vice versa. Moreover, certain behavioral aspects from certifications like LEED, BREEAM, WELL, etc., which were implemented in our projects for clients, have now become ingrained in our office culture - emphasizing reuse, recycling, maximizing daylight, ensuring acoustical comfort, and more.

INTERVIEWS // RMJM SERBIA

Q5. Looking ahead, how do you envision the evolution of your office influencing the design direction of future projects, especially in response to emerging architectural trends or societal changes?

Microsoft Office, Level 7, Belgrade, Serbia

Petar: Our aim is to give answers to current architectural questions through variety of visual expressions and reference to efficiency and sustainability, demonstration of smart use of materials and integration. There is a constant aspiration for the improvement with a focus on integration of other disciplines in our team. Undoubtedly, this will further highlight our already recognized capabilities in the field of architectural design, introducing a creative and holistic approach to coordination processes and perspectives.

Zoran: I am 100% sure that the trends, but also the needs, are going forward in the direction of overall safety and protection (data protection, uninterrupted workflow, redundant resources, etc.) and overall inclusivity and flexibility. The pandemic and post-pandemic eras have demonstrated to all of us the advantages of hybrid work, allowing enough time to balance personal and business goals while prioritizing health and comfort, both economically and physically. Architecture, as a profession, is intricately linked to all social aspects and their transformations. I believe that architecture often provides solutions before trends fully form. Tracking these trends and changes is a daily task for architects in both private and corporate markets.

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Tean Chee Ko Design Director at RMJM RED

Explore RMJM Red’s design philosophy and vision through a compelling conversation encompassing their current projects, challenges faced during construction, harmonious integration within evolving contexts, distinctive features of ongoing projects, and the delicate equilibrium between client expectations and architectural integrity.

Q1. Could you share details about one of your favorite projects that truly encapsulates your design philosophy and vision? The NFCC project is a strong representation of a bold vision for an urban intervention. It challenges the tower form in a precinct awash with towers. The building design and planning is human-centric and its core agenda is to encourage interaction and collaboration and to stimulate creativity. The design increases incidents of interaction in the gallery style plan configuration and multitude of communal spaces. 48

This was made possible by treating the two parcels of land as one and use the building form as a bridge. Not only did the project move away from a vertical tower development, it expanded on its horizontality by challenging the plot constraints. It is a bespoke design that is tailored specifically to the needs of the endusers and to the vision of the client. The client was extremely respectful of our ideas and they we steadfast in protecting the vision.

INTERVIEWS // RMJM RED

Tean Chee Ko, Design Director at RMJM Red, Hong Kong, China

NFCC, Ningbo, China

Project Pin Up, RMJM Red

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NFCC, Ningbo, China

Ningbo Yongjiang Innovation Centre, Ningbo, China

Ningbo International Trade an Zhejiang, China

Q2. What challenges have you encountered in the construction phase of your recent projects, and how have you navigated or overcome them? It’s usually a perfect storm of Time and Money.

On large projects the cost difference can run into the millions.

Value engineering and the use of cheaper materials and detailing is a constant threat. The pressure that developers have of building to budget is extreme and with the variable costs of construction we are sometimes required to get creative with alternative material choices or detailing. We will always specify ultra-clear/low-iron glass for facades due to its clarity and lack of green tint. But this type of glass is more costly than normal clear glass.

Where the budget does not allow for ultra-clear low-iron glass we work closely with the suppliers to find a low-e coating and the right balance of performance specifications to create an appealing colour and appearance. A lot of samples with different combinations are made for testing and the shortlisted samples will be part of a visual mockup that is built at full scale on the superstructure of the project. Poor integration of external lighting fixtures and ventilation louvres with the facades can negatively impact the aesthetics.

INTERVIEWS // RMJM RED

nd Exhibition Centre,

Ningbo Yongjiang Innovation Centre, Ningbo, China

The main cause of this is lack of coordination between various specialists. Often, by the time it is discovered it is difficult to rectify. We have had to work with the façade engineers, façade contractors, M&E engineers and lighting consultants to come up with an acceptable solution. 51

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Ningbo Yongjiang Innovation Centre, Ningbo, China

Q3. How do you ensure a harmonious integration of your designs within their respective environments, especially in ongoing projects where context is constantly evolving? Our designs come from an intensive study of the surrounding context. They represent a response to the surroundings. We take into account projects that are planned but not built and where there is no specific design for adjacent plots, we are able to predict what is to come on the basis of planning guidelines and what is being approved by the building authorities. 52

We try to make our designs functionally timeless. They are based on first principles so that how they contribute to the built environment is valid tomorrow as they are valid on the day they were designed. We want our designs to be integral to the cities where they exist, but we also want them to enhance the experiences for the people and end-users of the building.

INTERVIEWS // RMJM RED

Ningbo International Trade and Exhibition Centre, Zhejiang, China

In terms of design language, we believe that iconography comes out of the act of placemaking. Our process of design is not driven by the intent to create trophylandmarks. Designs that aren’t born out of an arbitrary aesthetic statement will have a greater chance of remaining relevant and meaningful. 53

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Q4. For projects currently under construction, what unique or distinguishing features will set them apart within the architectural landscape upon completion? For the NFCC project, the use of red anodised fins in a wave pattern that wraps all the way around the horizontal complex stands out boldly against the context of glass and grey. The roof design is not only unique statement and sweeping shape, it is remarkable space that has a variety of usable areas from intimate meeting areas to large event spaces. The Ningbo Yongjiang Innovation Centre is truly integrated mixed-use project with office, residential and retail functions fused together with an elevated dynamic platform. This feature element creates a hierarchy of space and privacy and provides covered access to all quarters of the development. It connects to viewing areas and retail pavilions allowing people to engage with the riverside. The Ningbo International Trade and Exhibition Centre features an elevated convention and exhibition podium that is supported by four towers. This gives the public realm back to the people and provides protection and permeability to the street level which is activated with retail and landscaping.

The towers of the Deli Mixed Use development will have curved and flush perforated panels that conceal operable windows. These are proposed to be in bronze and silver colours and will run from the bottom of the tower to the top. They will give texture and filigree to the glass surfaces whilst ensuring a uniform aesthetic by concealing the windows that are opened. Lighting fixtures are integrated into the detailing to either wash across the perforated panels or shine outwards as a line of light. This material and detailing will allow the towers to appear unique when seen against the adjacent buildings.

INTERVIEWS // RMJM RED

Deli Mixed Use, Ningbo, China

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NFCC, Ningbo, China

INTERVIEWS // RMJM RED

Q5. How do you ensure a balance between meeting client expectations and maintaining the integrity of your architectural vision in ongoing projects? This is one of the toughest things to manage in the process of getting a project built. The aspirations and risk tolerance of the client are vital to how well a project will be completed. And whilst most clients wish to fulfil the vision of the selected design scheme constraints from construction budget, time and building regulations can have a negative effect on the outcome. Most of our projects are won through competition so we would have already had to appeal to the developer’s sensibilities and way of thinking already. The more important and larger projects will have more stakeholders and the process of selection and decision making is more complex. Local government officials and planning authorities have their agenda and point of view. Within the client’s team there will be the chairman, a project director and the project team as well as financial and marketing executives, each with their specific agenda and expectations. Even after being selected as the winner of the competition there will be many matters in dispute amongst the stakeholders.

Sometimes there are essential elements to the design that are called into question. We then have to convince everybody that the design element is critical to the success of the project. We will do this analytically through diagrams, 3D images and case studies. If the issue is budgetary then we may have to find ways to achieve the essence at a lower price point or potentially cut back elsewhere.

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“Let’s dive into the project!”

9:00 AM

Salma Hatata “Cruising through Dubai’s vibe, tunes on.”

Stepping into RMJM’s office, time to turn those ideas into reality!

“Excited to see what the team brings to add to my project!” 8:16 AM

Rolling through the vibrant Dubai streets, tunes playing, and ready for another day at the RMJM office.

Currently listening to:

https://youtu.be/0O6wFz3psxI?si=YF4JuO9yc4rUfxEf 58

10:30 AM

Visual Coordinating with other teams through screens! Tech magic making it happen!

INTERVIEWS // DAY IN A LIFE OF AN ARCHITECT

“Let’s sketch it out!”

“Time for a much-needed cup of coffee.” 2:00 PM

1:00 PM Putting pen to paper, letting those creative thoughts come to life.

“Time to wrap up the day. What worked, and what’s next? Let’s find out together.” A quick pitstop for a coffee recharge, because every great design starts with a good cup of coffee!

4:30 PM

Sitting down with my team, and hashing out ideas. Teamwork makes the dream work! 59

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2023 GALLERY

Dubai Studio Floor 5, Building 4 Dubai Design District PO Box 333244 Dubai, UAE T: +971 4 563 8888 E: info@rmjmd3.com www.rmjm.com