As we navigate a landscape marked by sustainability imperatives, technological advancements, and cultural shifts, architects are challenged to reimagine spaces that not only meet present needs but also anticipate future demands. From green roofs and passive design strategies to the integration of renewable energy systems, sustainability is no longer an option but a necessity.
In our latest Semi-Annual report, marking the fifth edition, we reflect on the remarkable achievements of the RMJM Group over the preceding six months. Our diverse global teams persist in producing exceptional outcomes, passionately involved in crafting iconic projects across multiple locations worldwide.
Our design philosophy has matured, emphasizing a deeper understanding of each project’s unique essence. As we look ahead, RMJM’s agenda is set to continue to be shaped by a harmonious blend of sustainability, technology, and social consciousness.
Robin Brown, RMJM
August 2024
The synergy among our team serves cornerstone of RMJM’s accomplishments, fostering a culture where collective drive our success.
Robin Brown, RMJM
serves as the accomplishments, collective efforts
Founded by Sir Robert Matthew and Sir Stirrat JohnsonMarshall 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 worldclass design.
Taraf and RMJM Cello Residences: Landmark Development in Dubai!
Yas Holding’s real estate division, Taraf, collaborated with RMJM to introduce Cello Residences.
A dynamic and thriving destination situated in the well-established community of Jumeirah Village Circle (JVC) in Dubai. Described as one of the most distinctive communities in Dubai, the site located on the internal street in between Lazuward SW and Bajada Blvd S. The streets are further connected to Al Khalil Road, close to the outer boundary, just 200 mt. to the main entrance and exit.
Cello Residences is a high-rise residential community containing large pool, kids’ pool and outdoor gym, a zen reading spot, landscaped park and a BBQ area.
Contemporary Design
The development comprises 387 apartments distributed across two towering structures. Its interiors exhibit a spectrum of warm and earthy hues, featuring a meticulously crafted layout and expansive windows that guarantee a seamless blend of refined elegance, abundant natural light, and a seamless extension of the tranquil surrounding landscape.
An elevated focus on important details and finishes ensures that each residence has the perfect balance of functionality and ambience.
1 The interior design of Cello Residences
Externally, the buildings’ facades have been kept simple yet contemporary in design and are made up of light-coloured materials with the distinctive colored façade elements. 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.
Additionally, RMJM extensively studied the site massing and the relationship to the context –maximizing the views to podium landscape within the development and low rise neighborhood. Public area around the pool is positioned to receive sunlight, whilst recessed windows are protected from solar gain. All of these carefully curated features of Cello Residences come together to offer a unique and serene living experience.
Innovation
Hub,
designed by RMJM has been successfully completed!
Hub, RMJM Dubai, successfully
Innovation Hub
The Innovation Hub is strategically located and easily accessible in the heart of Masdar City’s Tech and Research & Development (R&D) cluster. The building offers a total of 4,000 square meters (sqm) of office space across three floors with the open-plan office space allowing for various fitout options. The offices follow a modular design approach, comprising interconnected volumes that form a united complex.
The distinctive design of the Innovation Hub presents a reimagined, modern office. The building includes a dedicated lobby, a separate R&D service entrance and a parking area of 127 spaces. The space also offers a physical presence where flexible workplace and supporting services can be provided, acting as an educational facility where Masdar City’s pioneering services can be showcased, and allowing for additional elements such as training rooms, test labs, or R&D spaces to be easily added.
Less energy and water compared to conventional structures of similar scale.
Over 70% of the timber is sourced and sustainable
70%
Over 60% of the building’s total energy demand through renewable energy. the project’s sourced from legal sustainable sources. 60%
RMJM Serbia’s Waterfront development: A
13,588 sqm Symphony
Cutting-Edge Design Local Charm!
Belgrade development: Symphony of Design and
BW Magnolia
In 2017, RMJM was appointed to design Belgrade Waterfront Plot 8b. With a GFA of 13,588 sqm, the project includes both residential and commercial spaces.
The concept for the residential building drew inspiration from the unique location of the site and its surroundings. The rhythmic enveloped of the residential building mimics the internal space organisation and create a dynamism by highlighting the concept of openness and communication.
including continuous columns, tripartite separation, and definition of angle, are subtly reinterpreted through the design process. The organisation of the floor plans followed the idea of intimacy and views. While the bigger units were designed on the edge of the building or oriented towards the kindergarten and Bristol Park, the small units were oriented to the inside of block.
1 RMJM’s design for Belgrade Waterfront Plot 8b is a harmonious blend of modernity and tradition, functionality and aesthetics
3 Kids playground and dynamic landscape are also one of its values.
High Quality of Life
2 The harmonious arrangement of windows and placement of terraces contribute to a balanced facade.
4 Engaging with the city through architectural design to capture stunning views.
Green Spaces
Victory Gardens Rosewood Offices, New Standards Design!
Gardens Introduces Offices, Setting Standards in Workspace
Rosewood Office: Type 1
The entrance to a Rosewood office is through the landscaped courtyard to the space that is voluminised and filled with light.
The Rosewood office entrance welcomes visitors through a landscaped courtyard into a luminous, spacious interior. Infused with abundant natural light, the entrance exudes a vibrant and inviting atmosphere, incorporating a myriad of colors and textures inspired by nature. Extending from the workspace, a generous terrace offers opportunities for both collaborative team endeavors and focused individual work. Within the office, the design features smooth, curved solid walls and ceiling elements, along with lighting fixtures and acoustic panels that harmoniously follow suit.
Location: Belgrade, Serbia | Client: Kadena | Sector: Mixed Use Residential | Size: 620m2 | Scope: Architecture, Interior Architecture Status: In Construction (design is completed)
Predominantly adorned in tones of grey and beige, accented by hints of green and blue, the space boasts a refined color palette that accentuates the craftsmanship of materials. From natural woods to earthy elements and neutral hues, the office environment epitomizes comfort, coziness, serenity, and well-being, all while maintaining a sense of simplicity and equilibrium in its architectural composition.
Attention to detail is evident in every aspect of the office’s design. From the meticulously crafted lighting fixtures to the choice of acoustic panels, every element is chosen to enhance functionality and comfort. The seamless blend of form and function creates a space that is not only visually appealing but also highly efficient for daily operations.
Rosewood Office: Type 22
Location: Belgrade, Serbia | Client: Kadena | Sector: Mixed Use
The entrance to the Rosewood office invites guests through a landscaped courtyard, setting the tone for a design that seamlessly integrates greenery into the interior space.
Transitioning from the verdant surroundings to the reception area, where metal mesh meets brick under a canopy of ambient light, creates an engaging and layered environment. Reflecting a nature-inspired aesthetic, the interior design adopts a color palette and features such as planters and a bike rack that echo the outdoor landscape. The expansive terrace surrounding the office serves as a natural extension of the workspace, blurring the boundaries between indoor and outdoor areas.
Through a lush green color palette, tactile materials like expressive wood textures and 3D paneling, and elements such as bike racks and organic-shaped lighting fixtures, the office environment embraces nature to enhance the overall work experience.
China Construction HQ Transforms Skyline with Bold, Marvel
in Eastern
Construction Bank Transforms Ningbo Bold, Low-Rise
Eastern New Town!
China Construction Bank Headquarters
The China Construction Bank headquarters is located in the New Eastern Town district of Ningbo and forms one of the 4 major banks that constitute the core of the International Finance Services Center (IFSC) of the Eastern New Town (ENT).
The city planner’s goal was to create a new modern financial center servicing the two other industrial centers namely the International Trade Exhibition Center and International Shipping Center of the ENT. The parcel was designated to have a 120m high tower in the district masterplan however there were compelling reasons to create a lower building. By proposing a lower building, a distinct undulation in the district’s skyline was created against the surrounding towers.
Also views from neighbouring buildings are less obstructed. The reduced height also allowed the SE prevailing winds to flow more freely.
The design aimed to state the presence of the Construction Bank distinguishing it from the rest of the financial institutes. The design also creates a unique building for public and staff alike that is inspired by Ningbo cultural and context.
The centre of the Cube is hollowed out to form a large spectacular Urban Room that provides a dramatic public Banking Hall space.
The Bank Box volume slides under and interlocks with the cube on the north-east corner, containing public banking facilities and offering views to Yangmuqi River to the East
Falkirk Wheel: A Development in Iconic Landscape!
A Landmark in Scotland’s Landscape!
Falkirk Wheel & Visitor Centre
The Falkirk Wheel is the world’s first and only rotating boatlift and was created to link two canals between the east and west of Scotland.
The wheel was designed to carry two boats up and two boats down the 35-metre drop in level between two canals in just 15 minutes. Completed ahead of schedule in 2002 and opened by Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, RMJM’s design for the wheel has become a Scottish icon, representing a functional
sculpture which symbolises and celebrates the renaissance of the two canals.
The Falkirk Wheel and adjacent RMJM-designed, timber-clad visitor centre attract on average half a million visitors every year and recently featured on the Scottish fifty pound note.
The Falkirk Wheel showcases innovative engineering and architectural prowess. Its design enhances the landscape and captivates engineers, architects, and tourists by effortlessly rotating and lifting boats.
The visitor center, designed to complement the futuristic and innovative nature of the Wheel, offers educational exhibits, a café, and a gift shop, enhancing the overall visitor experience. The design seamlessly integrates with the surrounding landscape, providing a harmonious balance between modern engineering and natural beauty.
Visitors to the Falkirk Wheel can embark on boat trips that showcase the full operation of the lift, allowing them to experience the marvel of being elevated or lowered between the canals. The site also features a variety of recreational activities, including walking and cycling paths, play areas for children, and picnic spots, making it a family-friendly destination.
In addition to its recreational appeal, the Falkirk Wheel plays a crucial role in promoting sustainable transport. By reconnecting the two canals, it has facilitated the resurgence of canal-based transport and leisure boating in Scotland, contributing to environmental conservation efforts by reducing road traffic and promoting the use of waterways.
The Wheel’s design and functionality have garnered numerous awards and accolades, solidifying its status as a landmark of contemporary engineering and architecture. Its success has inspired similar projects worldwide, positioning the Falkirk Wheel as a benchmark for future innovations in waterway transport infrastructure.
The Falkirk Wheel is the only fully rotating boat lift in the world.
The wheel was built as part of the £85.4m Millennium link project to reunite the Forth and Clyde and Union Canals in Scotland. The canals had previously been linked by a staircase of 11 locks which took nearly a day to pass through. The locks were dismantled in 1933.
The wheel uses 2 gondolas which raise boats by 24m. As the Union Canal is 11m higher than the aqueduct at the top of the wheel, boats then go through 2 locks to reach the canal.
We hosted a movie RMJM featuring Budapest Hotel”. we capture every from planning to
movie night at featuring “The Grand Hotel”. Join us as every moment to credits!
Summer 2024
RMJM in house event
The office movie night was a meticulously organized occasion, brimming with custom elements and thoughtful nuances. Every aspect, from personalized popcorn containers to uniquely crafted posters and specially designed tickets, was meticulously created in-house to craft an authentic cinematic ambiance.
Everything was designed and executed by RMJM family
To add a special touch, we gave away souvenirs inspired by the movie, making the night even more memorable. Every element was carefully executed to ensure a fun and engaging evening for our employees.
RMJM Interviews Zoya Hooda on Design Philosophy, Vision for the Future Urban Design.
Interviews Architect on Her Journey, Philosophy, and Future of
Question 01: Can you share some highlights of your architectural journey during your three years at RMJM Milano?
My three years at RMJM Milano have been incredibly rewarding, personally and professionally.
A particularly noteworthy highlight was my involvement in the design of a landmark mixed-use development in the city center, where I had the opportunity to refine my project management skills while contributing to a high-profile, impactful urban space. Collaborating with a talented and diverse team at RMJM has been a remarkable experience in itself; the exchange of ideas and expertise among colleagues has greatly enhanced my work and facilitated my growth as an architect. Overall, my journey at RMJM has encompassed a blend of challenging projects, ongoing learning, and professional fulfillment, rendering it a pivotal chapter in my architectural career.
Question 02: Could you share an example of a particularly rewarding collaboration with a colleague or team at RMJM? What made that experience impactful for you and the project?
It is always a challenge and a reward to take on a new project. A project I always remember is the Quay Side District Masterplan in Malaysia. The project required a deep dive into complex urban dynamics and the team came together to create a cohesive vision that balanced functionality with aesthetics. My role was to ensure that the design integrated seamlessly with the surrounding environment while also maintaining area considerations as per client requirements. Each team member’s input was valued in daily brainstorming sessions, and all challenges were addressed collaboratively.
Quay
What made this experience impactful was our open dialogue and mutual respect. By promoting this collaborative spirit, we were able to create an innovative design and foster a strong team dynamic. The success of this project illustrates how collaboration can thrive through understanding and valuing one another’s input, reinforcing the power of teamwork in shaping impactful urban spaces.
Side District Masterplan – Penang, Malaysia
Question 03: How has your experience contributed to your growth and development as an architect?
Exposure to diverse projects, from residential to commercial, has broadened my expertise and adaptability. Tackling a variety of design and construction challenges has sharpened my problemsolving abilities, enabling me to achieve a harmonious balance between aesthetics and functionality. Ultimately, my tenure here has been profoundly enriching, playing a crucial role in my evolution as a resilient architect.
Question 04: How would you describe the design philosophy or approach that defines your work?
I believe that architecture serves more than just functionality – it possesses the power to inspire and convey significance to those who engage with it. The context of each project is paramount, ensuring that the design is not only deliberate but also fosters a positive contribution to the surrounding community and environment. As an architect, my goal is to craft spaces that are both intuitive and user-centric, with layouts designed to enrich the daily experiences of their inhabitants.
Red Knot Bridge –Jiaxing, China
Question 05: Could you elaborate on your approach to creating intuitive and user-friendly spaces? What methods do you use to gather user feedback during the design phase?
To design intuitive spaces, I begin by understanding how the user interacts with his or her environment daily. I often attend workshops and panel sessions to understand and gain insights into user needs and habits. I also use techniques like user journey mapping to visualize how people will interact with the space. During the design phase, iterative user testing is crucial. This feedback helps us understand how people navigate and interact within the spaces. We can gather this information by analyzing completed projects, being present on-site, or reviewing academic research that explores user interactions. We also examine user flow and accessibility challenges to enhance our designs. By refining our approach based on genuine user experiences, we can ultimately develop a space that is both functional and genuinely user-friendly in its final iteration.
Question 06: How do you envision the future of urban design and architecture, particularly in response to changing societal needs and challenges?
As cities continue to grow and face various environmental, social, and economic pressures, the architectural landscape will evolve to address these issues. Future urban design must prioritize the creation of inclusive and livable spaces that foster community well-being and promote social cohesion. This involves designing public spaces that are accessible to all and seamlessly integrating nature into urban environments through the establishment of parks and green corridors. In the future, urban design and architecture will emphasize the development of adaptive, humancentered environments that not only respond to global challenges but also cater to the evolving needs of society.
Interview with Mohammed Mousa: His Journey Supervision, Perspectives Sustainability and Safety.
Mohammed Journey into Site Perspectives on and Regional
Question 01: Can you tell us about your journey in the field of site supervision and what led you to this role?
My journey into site supervision began after I obtained my degree in Civil Engineering. I started my career as a site engineer with a large construction company, where my initial responsibilities included overseeing construction site activities, coordinating with subcontractors, and ensuring strict adherence to safety protocols. In those early years, I was actively involved in a variety of projects, such as residential buildings, hotels, commercial structures, and hospitality initiatives. My duties encompassed quality control, ensuring that the work complied with both regulatory standards and project specifications. This experience was vital in helping me understand the practical challenges inherent in construction.
My commitment and capability to address complex issues led to an opportunity to advance into a site supervisor role. This position demanded not only technical expertise but also strong leadership and communication skills. I was responsible for managing a team of workers, monitoring daily construction progress, and ensuring that projects were completed on schedule and within budget. What motivates me in site supervision is the fulfillment I get from witnessing a project evolve from concept to completion. The role requires a combination of technical knowledge, problem-solving skills, and leadership abilities, making it both challenging and rewarding.
Question 02: What are some of the most significant projects you’ve supervised, and what challenges did you encounter on those sites?
Supervising major site projects unfolds a rich narrative of challenges that intertwine technical intricacies with the nuances of project management. One such noteworthy endeavor I led was the construction of a 64-story residential tower in the vibrant locale of Dubai Marina. This ambitious project demanded a refined approach to site logistics; orchestrating the delivery of materials and managing equipment amidst the bustling urban fabric required an artful blend of meticulous scheduling and innovative coordination.
Safety was paramount, as we navigated the complexities of ensuring worker protection at remarkable heights while mitigating the risks posed by neighboring structures. The project featured a sophisticated design, characterized by intricate architectural details that called for professional execution and a discerning eye for quality. The delicate balance of stakeholder coordination formed the backbone of our operations. Engaging with a diverse array of architects, contractors, and future residents necessitated a diplomatic touch, fostering an environment of collaboration and mutual understanding. Throughout the construction journey, we remained committed to minimizing disruptions to the vibrant local businesses and communities, seamlessly integrating our vision into the existing urban landscape.
Budget management was a testament to our strategic foresight. I adeptly navigated financial complexities, ensuring that the project remained on course despite design evolution and unforeseen challenges. This multifaceted experience not only showcased my leadership capabilities but also deepened my appreciation for the harmony of art and engineering, culminating in a project that stands as a sophisticated landmark in the city’s skyline.
Question 03: How do you integrate sustainable and energy-efficient practices into your projects, considering the UAE’s focus on green building initiatives?
Integrating sustainable and energy-efficient practices into construction projects, especially in a region like the UAE that champions green building initiatives, requires a nuanced and comprehensive approach. To achieve this, it is essential that all projects adhere to the UAE’s stringent green building standards and regulations, such as the Estidama Pearl Rating System and the Dubai Green Building Regulations. Utilizing materials with superior thermal insulation properties, like double-glazed windows and insulated walls, can significantly mitigate heat gain and loss. Design elements that maximize natural light, enhance ventilation, and incorporate shading strategies further diminish the need for artificial lighting and air conditioning. Emphasizing the use of locally sourced materials not only reduces transportation-related emissions but also fortifies the local economy.
Moreover, minimizing waste through advanced construction techniques and meticulous material handling is vital. Reusing and recycling construction waste whenever viable enhances sustainability. It is also crucial to ensure that project teams—including architects, engineers, and contractors—are well-versed in the latest sustainable practices and technologies. By collaborating with green building consultants and sustainability experts, we can seamlessly integrate these best practices into each project. By embedding these principles into the construction process, we align our projects with the UAE’s unwavering commitment to sustainability and energy efficiency, ultimately contributing to the broader goals of reducing environmental impact and enriching the quality of life for all.
Question 04: What measures do you take to ensure the timely completion of projects in a market known for its fast-paced development and ambitious timelines?
Ensuring the timely completion of construction projects in the fast-paced landscape of the UAE requires a blend of strategic planning, effective management, and proactive problem-solving. To keep projects on track, it’s essential to develop a comprehensive project schedule that encompasses all construction phases, complemented by clearly defined milestones and deadlines for each stage. Appointing an experienced project manager with a solid background in similar endeavors is crucial, as is establishing a system for regular progress monitoring and reporting.
A thorough risk assessment at the project’s inception allows for the identification of potential challenges, enabling the development of contingency plans that are ready for deployment if needed. Implementing a rigorous quality control process is vital, featuring regular inspections and material testing to ensure compliance with local regulations and industry standards, thereby preventing delays associated with non-compliance or the necessity for modifications.
Engaging experienced and reliable contractors and subcontractors with proven track records ensures that the project moves forward according to schedule. It’s also imperative to secure all necessary permits and approvals prior to commencing construction, as delays in permit acquisition can dramatically affect project timelines. Staying well-informed about local regulations and compliance requirements further helps avert delays related to regulatory issues. By embracing these strategic measures, we are well-positioned to navigate the rapid development environment of the UAE, ensuring that projects are delivered on time and within budget.
Question 05: What steps do you take to ensure safety and compliance on a construction site?
Ensuring safety & compliance on a construction site is essential for preventing accidents, adhering to legal standards, and preserving integrity of the project.
compliance
the
A holistic approach to achieving these crucial objectives starts with the development of a tailored safety plan that addresses the specific risks associated with the site, ensuring it is periodically updated to accommodate new hazards or changes in project scope. Mandatory use of appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) such as helmets, gloves, safety glasses, hearing protection, and highvisibility vests is vital, along with conducting regular checks to ensure that PPE is properly worn and maintained. Daily site inspections are critical for identifying and mitigating potential hazards, while formal inspections by safety officers or third-party experts serve to verify compliance with safety standards and regulations.
Establishing and enforcing safe work procedures for all tasks—including proper lifting techniques, the safe use of tools and equipment, and precautions for work at heights— is imperative. Additionally, developing Safe Work Method Statements (SWMS) for high-risk activities provides clear guidelines for executing tasks safely and outlines necessary risk mitigation controls. Implementing protocols for the safe handling, storage, and disposal of hazardous materials, such as chemicals and asbestos, is also crucial. Staying informed about local building codes, safety regulations, and industry standards ensures that all construction activities remain compliant, including the acquisition of required permits and scheduling of necessary inspections.
By rigorously executing these strategies, a safe working environment is fostered, compliance with regulations is assured, and the risk of accidents and incidents on the construction site is significantly reduced. Ultimately, safety should permeate every facet of construction operations, serving as a steadfast priority throughout the entire process.
At RMJM, we value dedication and this Semi Annual team reflects on their commitment
value our team’s and hard work. In Annual Report, our on what drives commitment to RMJM.
1. Mohammad Jafar BIM
Architect
I chose RMJM because of its global reputation for innovative and sustainable architectural design, which aligns with my passion. Additionally, RMJM’s diverse portfolio offers unparalleled opportunities for professional growth and creative development.
2. Milan Thapa BID Coordinator
Working as a Bid Coordinator at RMJM allows me to deepen my understanding of a firm renowned for its innovation, sustainability, and iconic projects.
I chose RMJM for its dynamic work environment, which provides valuable opportunities for learning and growth, helping me advance my career and develop new skills.
3. Amina Meslem Architect
RMJM fosters a collaborative environment that allows and supports everyone to freely share their ideas and contributions, thereby creating an inclusive atmosphere where diverse perspectives are highly valued in the creation of innovative architectural solutions.
RMJM drew key reasons: boundaries and with a world-class
The chance and create something impactful, alongside talented minds, motivating. Seeing designs come impact people’s the ultimate
4. Shafquat Aiyub Project Architect
Aiyub Architect
me in for two pushing design and collaborating world-class team. to innovate something truly alongside such minds, is incredibly Seeing our come to life and people’s spaces is reward.
Working as a graphic designer at RMJM, an architectural studio, has exposed me to intriguing architectural knowledge. I chose RMJM for its supportive culture and dedication to creativity and innovation, which have enhanced both my professional growth and graphic design practice. 5 6 7
5. Judy Jabbour Architect
I chose RMJM because of its atmosphere which promotes a supportive team culture and collective achievements in architecture. As an architect, working at RMJM fosters my creativity and gives me the space to push my design boundaries.
6. Ajmal Roshan
Assistant Architect
I love working at RMJM because the supportive and friendly atmosphere makes it easy to thrive personally and professionally. Plus, having the freedom to express my creativity in my architectural designs keeps my work exciting and fulfilling.
