Today's post honors Wael Al Awar, MSFEA's architecture graduate. He is a founding partner at waiwai (formerly known as Ibda design), an architecture practice with offices in Dubai and Tokyo.
Wael creates a world from layers of light, time, structure, and landscape based on his interests in natural phenomena. More than just a fabrication, he wants his architecture to be malleable enough to suit a variety of purposes. Unique to each location, his creations are meant to surprise and delight.
Wael's dedication and passion for architecture fast-tracked the success of his company. waiwai was recognized as one of the top 17 architects and top 50 influential designers of the year by Nikkei Magazine in 2019, as well as one of the top 10 emerging firms in the world by Architectural Record's 2018 Design Vanguard issue. Waiwai was also placed as one of the top 50 offices in the Middle East by Architectural Digest in 2017 and 2022. According to Wael, a turning point in his career and the company's trajectory was “being awarded the Golden Lion for the UAE Pavilion at the Venice Architecture Biennale in 2021."
He then added, “For me personally, it was a moment when I realized that finding strategies for responding to our climate and our ecosystems is a priority shared by architects in distinct contexts around the world. In a sense, this was an affirmation of the approach I had been taking since founding waiwai, as a global office deeply connected to the specific environments of the UAE and Japan, and it has been a catalyst for further work."
Towards the end of our conversation, Wael shared his insight on the importance of Architecture, “there is a real opportunity in architecture to make an impact in a tangible way. Architects have a crucial role to play in addressing the ecological crisis we all face today."
He then addressed young aspiring architecture students with valuable advice on how to become successful in the field. “I know it sounds counter intuitive, but think small. Think about the contribution that you can make in your specific practice and in the environment in which you live and work. Also, always remember that you are not alone—it's not up to you to solve all the problems by yourself. When you collaborate with like-minded people, you can do something special."
We cannot begin to express how proud we are to see our alumni making good use of what AUB and MSFEA have offered them and forging a career that leaves an impact on the world. Thank you Wael Al Awar and we hope your future holds even more successful endeavors!