Sharjah Design Centre Opens in 2029 with Seven Specialist Labs
A new regional hub integrating material research, manufacturing, and design in the UAE.
1Regional Hub for Design
The Sharjah Design Centre, scheduled to open in 2029, serves as a central pillar of the Sharjah Creative Quarter. Designed by Taller de Arquitectura – Mauricio Rocha and Daniel Rosselló, the facility integrates material research, design experimentation, and manufacturing. It aims to provide a unified infrastructure for designers, researchers, and local manufacturers.
2Seven Specialized Laboratories
The facility will host seven dedicated laboratories focusing on textiles, rapid prototyping, glass, ceramics, jewelry, metal, and wood. These spaces function simultaneously as research hubs, learning environments, and production zones. Members gain access to high-end equipment, technical expertise, and fabrication resources to transform conceptual ideas into tangible, material forms effectively.
3Sustainable Architectural Design
The building design emphasizes environmental responsibility by utilizing rammed earth, an ancient construction technique adapted for contemporary needs. By combining local materials with modern technology, the architecture responds directly to the climate and landscape of Sharjah. This approach reflects the center's commitment to reducing environmental impact while maintaining a distinct regional identity.
4Material Research Initiatives
Through the Theatrum Al Kimiya initiative, the center investigates the potential of locally available resources and industrial byproducts. Researchers explore materials like salt, brine, limestone, sand, and mycelium for architectural applications. This work builds upon the 2023 Architecture of Culture publication, extending material research into new, scalable design and construction possibilities.
5Certification and Scalability
The center is developing a material certification program in collaboration with Atelier LUMA and the American University of Sharjah. Supported by the university's Energy, Water, and Sustainable Environment Research Center, this program focuses on testing experimental materials. The goal is to establish technical performance standards, ensuring these materials are suitable for real-world applications.
6Connecting Industry and Design
The Sharjah Industrial Mapping initiative, developed with the Sharjah Economic Development Department and the AUS College of Engineering, documents the emirate’s manufacturing capabilities. This platform connects independent designers with local industries, fostering collaboration. By mapping these resources, the center creates new opportunities for practitioners to access specialized knowledge and industrial production infrastructure.
7Professional Development Framework
Beyond physical production, the center offers workshops, masterclasses, and residencies to bridge the gap between design education and professional practice. Under the leadership of H.E. Sheikha Hind bint Majid Al Qasimi, the institution positions production as an essential phase of the design process, ensuring that promising ideas are not stalled by inaccessible infrastructure.
8Strategic Cultural Integration
As part of the wider Sharjah Creative Quarter, the center joins institutions like the Irthi Museum and the Sharjah Fashion Lab. This cultural district creates a dense ecosystem for art, design, and heritage. By 2029, the center will serve as a critical framework for leveraging regional resources to shape the future of design.