ard ارض, which implies earth in arabic is a design initiative aimed at reviving vernacular architecture in a contemporary format through technology and research
ard sees a crossover between vernacular built form and parametric design to create a new language of sustainable design for the future
Heritage study and material research has taken us to nooks & corners of the U.A.E where we’ve witnessed and unraveled historical gems in form of walled forts, remnants of adobe houses & coral stone dwellings. We’ve had enriching opportunities of learning & interacting with Bedouin men & craftswomen who shared experiences of living in Arish: Palm frond houses in the middle of barren deserts in their childhoods in mid 60’s -70’s
It has been a continuous ongoing effort at ard ارض to create a dialogue and generate public awareness regarding the disappearing vernacular crafts of the region, more particularly with regards to Arish: Palm frond Architecture and the need for its reinterpretation & contemporary revival here in the U.A.E
ard ارض has partnered with DesignAware for their Fractals workshop to collaborate on a new series called Fractals X Revival that sees the use of vernacular elements to explore generative design that combines logic, geometry, natural systems and structure.
The Fractals workshop has traveled to universities & design events across 5 countries over 8 years addressing over 1400 participants. Fractals X Revival was part of the Dubai Design Week 2018 and also Hyderabad Design Week 2019 exploring generative designs using date palm elements and cane/bamboo elements respectively.
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