The Link: Connecting Spaces, Uniting Communities
Before joining MSA, I worked as a junior architect for two years in an architecture firm in Oman, where I honed my skills in practical design and project management. Alongside this, I ran a small freelance interior design business, which gave me a unique perspective on balancing creativity with client needs. My time as a teaching assistant at the German University of Technology in Oman further fuelled my passion for architecture, and I knew that pursuing a master's degree was the next step in expanding my knowledge and abilities.
Throughout my time at MSA, the opportunities for collaboration and hands-on learning have been particularly rewarding. The Cooperative Urbanism Lab was especially inspiring, allowing me to engage with real-world urban challenges and explore innovative solutions that prioritise inclusivity and sustainability. The study trip to Berlin was another highlight, offering a firsthand look at how cities can successfully integrate history, modernity, and sustainable design practices.
One key project, set in Tempelhofer Feld in Berlin, reimagined the former airport area into a vibrant urban oasis. This project focused on creating a sustainable and inclusive community, integrating Berlin's rich historical and cultural layers with modern urban needs. By addressing key urban issues such as biodiversity, water management, and community engagement, my design aimed to reconnect the area’s diverse cultural history with its natural surroundings. My proposal, titled "The Link: Connecting Spaces, Uniting Communities," envisions a master plan that seamlessly integrates nature with urban spaces, offering pedestrian pathways, co-gardening areas, and mixed-use developments. This project explored innovative solutions to enhance connectivity while preserving Tempelhofer Feld’s unique identity, blending public spaces with cultural landmarks like the Sehitlik Mosque and the Tempelhof former airport radar tower.
As I move forward in my career as a Lecturer at the University of Technology and Applied Sciences in Oman, I am deeply grateful to the Manchester School of Architecture for the opportunities they have provided. The experience has not only expanded my technical knowledge but also strengthened my passion for architecture as a tool for positive societal change. My ambition is to keep learning and sharing my knowledge with those who aspire to create urban and architectural spaces where people feel connected—to each other, to their environment, and to their cultural heritage.
