The College of Architecture, Art and Design (CAAD) Student Lounge at American University of Sharjah (AUS) has been honoured with three international design awards: the Architecture MasterPrize Award 2024, the BLT Design Award 2024, and the AIA Middle East Award 2024.
Designed and built by fourth-year interior design students, the lounge offers a space for relaxation, collaboration, and informal work. Guided by Ammar Kalo, Associate Professor and Director of Labs at CAAD, the project team of 16 students completed the lounge over an academic semester.
The project’s design revolves around three ‘folded’ planes that form functional elements, crafted from intricately carved wood and cork modules. The creative approach reflects the students’ ability to blend aesthetics with practicality, showcasing CAAD’s spirit of innovation.
“The CAAD Student Lounge has become a cornerstone of our student experience,” said Tamara Khalaf, a visual communication student. “It’s more than just a lounge; it’s a space where students can connect, collaborate, and explore ideas together.”
The project team included 16 students, who worked together to bring the design to life. “Being part of a team that has received such esteemed recognition is truly an honour,” said Rand Rahmani, one of the designers.
The lounge was made possible through the Design-Build Initiative (DBI) at AUS, a programme that empowers students to create fully realised projects from concept to completion. The initiative has received global recognition for its transformative impact on student learning and industry preparedness.
Key Awards:
– Architecture MasterPrize Award 2024
– BLT Design Award 2024
– AIA Middle East Award 2024
These awards recognise and honour the expertise of professionals involved in outstanding projects, from architecture firms and interior design experts to construction products and landscape architecture.
Image courtesy: gulftoday.ae
