“One of T.ZED Architects’ key architectural values is materiality and the importance of experimentation with natural materials to the extent of manipulating and enhancing their natural qualities to accommodate the climate and the general context. With KOA Canvas, we have proudly introduced a more innovative approach to designing buildings with natural materials, whose rationale deepens the vision of theprogramme sought by the whole project. Such an investigation allowed us to claim that the harsh environment – typical of the Gulf region – is actually conducive to revive and maximize the use of natural resources to the benefit of a physical contemporary structure while bringing harmony to human needs and enhancing human experiences,” added Zaharna.

KOA Canvas has its own strong identity, compelling context and programme, a sounding vision to produce a new model of modern living, whereby boundaries are not defined by where one lives, works and socializes. As a result, there was a clear vision on the part of the architects to design and build a development that celebrates materiality, natural light, natural ventilation as well as weathering. T.ZED Architects have used TMT to not only shade the building, but also cross-ventilate it, and to have visual proof of passing time, all while being purposeful and aesthetically well-founded. Internally, the architects have decided to acknowledge the dual aspect of the timber and have continued the material into some public spaces as a way of drawing the outside in.

“The use of timber has almost always been a common thread in our projects. We celebrate this material despite the slight stigma that comes with applying timber to buildings in the Gulf region. The appreciation of weathering of buildings as well as finding opportunities to celebrate craftsmanship all lay in introducing ‘lighter’ elements in architecture; these opportunities present themselves perfectly by the use of timber in general. TMT, along with its durable properties, also provided a rich contrast in color to the quartzite stone building it shades behind. Our historical collaboration fostered with AHEC stems back a few years and this was instrumental in understanding the opportunities for experimenting and favoring this material,” proclaimed Zaharna.

According to Zaharna, the material was particularly pleasant to work with as it was easy to cut and mechanical fixing methods were straightforward. Due to its light weight, it was also easy to transport, and storage for acclimatization was done on site. This enabled them to remain on track with regards to project timelines. Zaharna believes it was vital for them to partner with a leading industry organization such as AHEC, who was prepared to invest in and willing to promote architectural experimentation and research. As a result, KOA Canvas is a unique project that eventually reveals both its success and originality, without shying away from the not-long-ago past where natural materials were adopted to traditional housing and other basic structures in the Middle East.