The built environment in the Gulf faces increasing challenges due to environmental changes, from significant annual temperature increases to rising sea levels in coastal regions. In response to these climate changes, the architecture of the region must respond and adapt through climate-sensitive design.Learning OutcomesBy the end of this series, you will be able to: Translate vernacular climate-responsive principles into scalable, repeatable design strategies for contemporary application. Apply a fabric-first approach to maximise building performance and reduce energy requirements. Understand techniques for implementing microclimates in design briefs. Identify risks and constraints associated with climate-centred design strategies, including maintenance, water use, and long-term performance, and techniques to navigate them. Vernacular building techniques for low-energy climate controlTuesday, 24 March 2026, 10 to 11 am / 2 to 3 pm GST The first webinar explores how vernacular architecture in the region responds to arid environmental conditions—solutions which are increasingly relevant today. We’ll analyse the restoration and creative reuse of traditional features, integration of local materials, and ways to harmonise these elements with contemporary design. Explore how reimagining time-tested methods can inspire sustainable architecture for the future, and functional applications for your practice. View detailsFabric First Design StrategiesThursday, 7 May 2026, 10 to 11 am / 1 to 2 pm GST The second webinar examines the principles behind a fabric-first approach and why this strategy is fundamental when designing for extreme temperatures. Starting from this foundation, we’ll explore how passive design principles can be integrated to enhance performance, integrating them into your projects to address climate challenges in an environmentally and economically effective way. View detailsDesigning for MicroclimatesTuesday, 14 July 2026, 10 to 11 am / 2 to 3 pm GST The final webinar in the series highlights the role of microclimates in achieving effective, sustainable temperature management within the built environment. We’ll explore the principles behind microclimate creation and show how this strategy delivers effective climate control with minimal intervention—making it both environmentally responsible and economically viable. Through real-world case studies and practical guidance, explore how to integrate this approach into Gulf projects without compromising design integrity. View detailsSpeakerSandra Woodall, tangramGULF, Director Sandra is a Fellow of the RIBA who has lived and worked in the Gulf for over 30 years. She is the Design Principal of tangram's MENA region studio, who delivered their first KSA project in 1995. She co-founded the RIBA GULF Chapter’s Sustainable Development Series to empower and better equip us all to meet the challenges faced in delivering locally grounded solutions to the UN’s SDGs.Please noteEach recording will expire 12 months after enrolling onto the module For more information on this course, or if there are no places available, please email us, or call +44 (0)20 7307 5355 to talk to a member of the team. Please view the Terms and Conditions for more information.
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