The Sheikh Zayed Academy
The Sheik Zayed Private Academy for boys is designed to support different learning styles and 21st-century educational skills. Rosan Bosch Studio has transformed the school into a differentiated learning environment that stimulates each student’s individual needs and invokes a sense of pride and belonging.
photography by © Kim Wendt
By offering to overlap and differentiated learning environments, containing areas for knowledge sharing, inspiration and personal challenge, the design supports, develops and engages each student. Sports and movement are recognized as integral parts of the education process and generous capacity for these disciplines has been built into the indoor learning environment. The design combines organized educational spaces with informal educational spaces outside the classroom, thereby extending the learning experience throughout the school.
photography by © Kim Wendt
Instead of empty hallways the academy now forms an engaging setting for different learning situations. Amongst the many special designed elements is an organic red bench, meandering through the space enabling collaborative learning sessions and social interaction. Safe and comfortable window niches support individual contemplation and the IT learning labs inspire students to acquire new knowledge. In the learner’s pool, colorful ceramic pearls encourage students to dive.
photography by © Kim Wendt
The design refers to cultural heritage with strong visual effects created throughout the school. It draws on references to the desert and natural resources, such as the water channels, which have been crucial to the life in the region. Artistic graphic design and wayfinding unfold in the academy with references to the local history and subjects such as mathematics, language, and geography.
photography by © Kim Wendt
The comprehensive building fits out includes 29.000 m2, and has a capacity for 1400 students from KG1 to Gr12. The design concept is a high quality and forward-looking design solution, which meets international standards based on a strong visual identity, with a deep respect for the Emirati culture and traditions.
photography by © Kim Wendt
Project Info
Architects: Rosan Bosch Studio
Location: Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
Creative Director: Rosan Bosch
Area: 29000.0 m2
Manufacturers: VITRA, Duravit, Sika, muuto, HAY, Flos, Forbo Flooring Systems, Ceramica Vogue, EGE, Magis, Dynamobel, Fletco
Architect & Designer: Marie Maj Hansen
Architects in Charge: Jeppe Kleinheinz, Matias Grez, Helen Battison
Year: 2015
Type: Educational
Photographs: Kim Wendt
