New Vision for Courtyards as Community Spaces in UAE
The concept of courtyards has evolved significantly over time, particularly in the UAE, where they serve as vital community spaces. At the recent Dubai Design Week’s Urban Commissions 2025, architects were challenged to explore the potential of these spaces beyond their traditional roles. This exploration led to innovative ideas that emphasize the importance of courtyards as dynamic elements of community life.
The Winning Proposal: A New Perspective
The standout project, titled “When Does a Threshold Become a Courtyard?” was developed by the UAE-based architectural studio Some Kind of Practice, founded by Omar Darwish and Abdulla Abbas. Their approach is rooted in extensive research and a deep understanding of local architecture. Rather than merely designing a physical space, they sought to redefine what a courtyard represents in the context of Emirati culture.
Historical Context and Evolution
Courtyards have long been integral to various cultures, serving as spaces for privacy, openness, and tranquility. In the UAE, however, the evolution of the courtyard, known as the housh, has been less about formal design and more about organic development. Darwish and Abbas conducted field research across the Emirates, observing how these spaces emerged naturally as families expanded and homes evolved.
Abdulla Abbas explains, “We wanted to understand what actually makes a courtyard a courtyard. In the UAE, they were never just four walls enclosing a box. They were approached through a transition, the liwan, which protects privacy while guiding you inward.” This transitional space is crucial, as it allows individuals to experience the courtyard as a serene retreat.
Design Principles and Materials
The guiding principle of the installation is the concept of transition, represented through a series of thresholds that encourage movement and reflection. Instead of idealizing the courtyard, the architects focused on its practical aspects. The materials used—concrete blocks, Arish panels, and corrugated metal sheets—reflect the industrial character of the UAE, showcasing how local builders have historically utilized available resources.
Omar Darwish emphasizes, “Even though our research dealt with historic practices, we never recreate the past. We reinterpret it through what’s accessible today.” Each material is chosen for its regional significance: concrete for mountainous areas, Arish for coastal regions, and corrugated steel for the desert. The design evokes a dialogue between climate, craft, and community.
A Flexible Community Space
Functionally, the courtyard was designed as a versatile void that adapts to various public programming throughout Design Week. It hosted lectures, screenings, and dining experiences, transforming the layout and inviting new ways for visitors to engage with the space. Abbas notes, “The courtyard has always been a space that adapts. It grows with its users, for family, for community, for reflection.”
This adaptability highlights the courtyard’s role as a social hub, fostering connections while maintaining a sense of privacy. Darwish reflects on the broader implications of this design, stating, “It’s about living close to your neighbor, acknowledging them while maintaining privacy. The courtyard allowed people to coexist densely without separation, creating a sense of community born from necessity, not planning.”
Recognition and Impact
The project was selected by a jury of regional experts, including Dr. Alamira Reem Al Hashimi and Cyril Zammit, for its depth of research and its ability to connect traditional and contemporary architectural practices. Some Kind of Practice’s work exemplifies how architecture can serve as a cultural dialogue, addressing themes of place, memory, and identity without resorting to nostalgia.
Darwish encapsulates this philosophy: “For us, architecture isn’t only construction; it’s a way to connect people, culture, and place. The courtyard, in that sense, isn’t just a form. It’s a story—of how we’ve always lived together.”
FAQs
What is the significance of courtyards in Emirati culture?
Courtyards in Emirati culture serve as essential spaces for privacy and community interaction, evolving organically as families grow and homes change.
How did Some Kind of Practice approach their design?
Some Kind of Practice conducted extensive field research to understand the historical and cultural context of courtyards, focusing on their practical aspects and adaptability.
What materials were used in the courtyard installation?
The installation utilized concrete blocks, Arish panels, and corrugated metal sheets, reflecting the industrial materials commonly found in the UAE and emphasizing local craftsmanship.
Conclusion
The reimagining of courtyards by Some Kind of Practice highlights their potential as living spaces that foster community interaction while respecting privacy. By blending historical insights with contemporary design, this project not only honors the past but also paves the way for future architectural practices in the Gulf region. As communities continue to evolve, the courtyard remains a vital element in shaping social connections and cultural identity.
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Dubai Design Week 2025: Celebrating Community and Creativity
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