Emirates National School

Abu Dhabi, UAE

When we began designing the Emirates National School in Abu Dhabi, the client’s vision was clear they wanted a campus that would inspire students daily, feel deeply connected to the UAE’s heritage, and stand as a contemporary landmark for education. From the first meeting, it was a collaborative journey. The client came to the table with a deep understanding of the school’s values, but gave us the creative freedom to explore bold ideas. Our approach revolved around creating a campus that could breathe both in function and aesthetics. We broke away from a single monolithic building and instead envisioned a series of interconnected structures, each with a defined purpose, linked by landscaped courtyards and shaded walkways. This layout not only fosters a sense of community but also allows for natural light, ventilation, and a connection to the outdoors essential in a learning environment.

The material palette was carefully chosen to reflect the local context: warm, earthy tones inspired by the desert, paired with modern glass and metal elements for a progressive feel. The curved forms of the central facilities and the linear precision of the classroom blocks create a visual dialogue between tradition and modernity. Throughout the process, the client was engaged in every stage, from massing models to façade treatments, ensuring that the design not only met functional requirements but embodied the school’s identity and aspirations.
The final result is more than just a school it’s a place where architecture supports curiosity, collaboration, and growth, a space where students and teachers feel proud to belong. This project is a testament to what can happen when vision and design move forward hand in hand.

Ready to bring your vision to life? Whether it’s a home, a workspace, or a public space, we’re here to design environments that inspire, function, and endure. Let’s start your project together.