KEO International Consultants has completed 2 major projects in Al Ain, UAE with a combined value of AED 257M. With only a few details to be finalised, the developments' unique designs set them apart in an Emirate not yet known for its architectural achievements. One project, the new IT College at the University Maqam Campus, saw KEO provide architectural,interior & landscape design. The consultancy won the contract during a design competition in 2000. The building's centrepiece is a central garden atrium 4 storeys high connected to the rest of the building by a series of glass bridges. The design is focused on sustainability as I. Luaaby, engineer, explained: "The skylight was designed to control solar gain in daytime. Most of the glass in the building is heat reflecting glass." The project is also the first of its kind in the region with air conditioning units that provide cold air through raised flooring. The building will provide for a student population of 3,000 over an area of 34,500m². The second development is the New Diwan Project designed to house the executive offices and meeting rooms for the ruler's representatives. KEO designed the building with dramatic curved facades and large interior entryways. It also has one of the largest glass domes of its kind in the Emirate. Extensive landscaped pathways and tiered water features at the VIP entrance accentuate the dramatic design. "When you approach the new Al Ain Diwan, you see the curves of the building and interesting architectural features along with the descending stepped water entry and landscape variations," explained Brad Batchellor, director of public relations, KEO.
