Abu Dhabi University participates in the Interiors UAE 2011 Exhibition

Architecture and Interior Design students of the College of Engineering and Computer Science, Abu Dhabi University (ADU) displayed their project work in the Interiors UAE 2011 Exhibition held at ADNEC in Abu Dhabi, stand number H54, from 9-11 May, 2011.

These projects included drawn projects, three-dimensional scale models, creative furniture design projects and full size mockups. This participation allowed ADU students to showcase their work and to mingle with designers and suppliers of the highest quality and design-led products from across the globe and to learn more about current design trends and timeless design classics from some of the world’s most inspirational suppliers.

In 2008, the Interior Design program was launched and in the same year, a group of 30 students started taking their first courses. The Landscape Architecture program was launched in 2009 followed by the Architecture program in 2010. The total number of students in the department now exceeds 340 and is expected to continue growing in the coming 3 years.

Students find these programs very attractive for several reasons, one of which is that there is an urgent need for these specializations in the labor market due to the vast number of projects under construction or being planned in the UAE, particularly in Abu Dhabi. This coincides with the acute shortage of designers who are qualified to design and supervise the construction of buildings. This summer the department will be having its first batch of Interior Design students graduating. First graduates of Landscape Architecture and Architecture will follow soon.

Programs at the Department of Architecture and Design at Abu Dhabi University prepare students to analyze the clients’ needs and objectives, identify security requirements and develop preliminary design alternatives for functional and aesthetical aspects following established standards. This is followed by design development and delivery of the final design using appropriate means of presentation. Students are also trained to prepare working drawings and specifications for construction materials, various details, resources, finishes, furniture and technical installations such as bathroom and equipment, and obtaining building permits from official authorities and preparation of tenders documents and contracts with clients. Students are trained to review designs, supervise construction and conduct post occupancy evaluation studies.

They are also trained to articulate forms and spaces by manipulating elements such as - walls, windows, roofs, doors, furniture, lighting and others to develop appealing and functional forms and spaces. Architecture and Interior design is concerned with all types of buildings such as residential buildings, commercial, administrative, hospitality, entertainment, shopping malls, restaurants, theaters, airports and others.