Independent Egyptian Architect Wins Contract at Dubai Design Competition

There's nothing we love more than celebrating the achievements of Egyptians locally, regionally and internationally. That’s why we were super excited to learn that Egyptian architect Mohamed Ragaie won third place Emaar Development's Landmark Design Competition. Interestingly, his design for the competition was inspired by the flamingo. He competed against many design companies and beat them, despite submitting his design as a 26-year-old independent architect.

For the competition, architects were asked to design a concept that would translate into a creative and monumental piece of architecture at Emaar's Dubai Creek Harbour.

Mohamed elaborated on the concept of his design in an interview with Architectural Digest Middle East. “I started to study the flamingo on two levels, with the first focusing on body proportions and movement," Mohamed shared. "Because flamingos fly right above the water, appearing to float, I decided to call the project Float to reflect that.”

According to Emaar’s official website for the competition, the panel of judges was looking for a design that fits in with the overall concept of the Dubai Creek Harbor which is “to create an urban city that respects the culture and climate of Dubai, a place where people can live, work and play in harmony with nature and a community where families can reach their aspirations for generations to come.”

Mohamed further commented on his design, stating, “I created a type of hanging garden that from a distance looked as if it was floating.” He also added, “Above this garden you find dynamic elements that move with the sun, angled to provide shade by day and soft light at night.”

As a prize for his unique, creative design, Mohamed won $10,000 and a design contract for his design to be built at Dubai’s Mina Rashid. We can't wait to see this gorgeous design come to life.