Students and faculty from the Architecture Department at the American University in Dubai (AUD) participated at BIG 5 Global 2025, one of the world’s largest and most influential events for the construction and built-environment sector, showcasing student innovation, academic expertise, and industry engagement.
As part of the BIG 5 Student Work Showcase, four outstanding senior architecture projects from AUD were selected for exhibition, providing students with a high-profile platform to present their work to industry professionals, consultants, developers, and international visitors.
Developed under the academic supervision of Prof. Mattia Gambardella and Prof. José A. Carrillo, the projects demonstrated strong conceptual thinking, design rigor, and innovation. They also addressed a number of UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), aligning with the commitments highlighted during COP28 in Dubai. The exhibited works included Edible Arts by Dana Kharsa, Abandoned by Faisal Osman, Sikkas in Bloom by Lina Kataw, and Corals by Meera Alhawai. The exhibition offered students valuable professional exposure, constructive feedback from industry experts, and opportunities to build connections that support future career pathways.
AUD architecture students also took part in BIG 5 Student Day, a dedicated initiative designed to connect future professionals with the construction and design industry. Through curated sessions, exhibition tours, and direct engagement with leading firms, students gained firsthand insight into emerging trends, materials, technologies, and career opportunities, enriching their academic experience beyond the classroom.
AUD’s presence at BIG 5 Global 2025 was further strengthened by the participation of three Architecture faculty members as conference speakers, contributing expert insights across key thematic sessions. Prof. Nicolas Turchi, Assistant Professor of Architecture, delivered a technology-focused talk titled Generative Design for Efficient Urban Communities in Dubai, exploring the role of computational design in developing sustainable, high-performance urban environments. Prof. Mattia Gambardella, Assistant Professor of Architecture, presented an AI-focused session titled Adaptive Futures: AI Workflows Shaping the Next Generation of Designers, examining how artificial intelligence is transforming design processes and architectural education. Prof. Alex Albani, Professor of Architecture, addressed technology and BIM integration, focusing on the future of BIM-led design, digital workflows, and the evolving role of architects in technology-driven practice.
AUD’s continued collaboration with BIG 5 Global reflects a shared commitment to innovation, experiential learning, and industry integration. Through student exhibitions, faculty thought leadership, and hands-on engagement opportunities, the 2025 participation reinforced AUD’s mission to deliver industry-connected architectural education and prepare graduates to shape the future of the built environment in the region and beyond.
