In the heart of Sharjah, UAE, an ambitious residential development is taking shape, promising to redefine urban living by harmonizing tradition, community, and sustainability. Designed by Mariam Issoufo Architects, the Hayyan housing project—aptly named after the Arabic word for “alive”—is a thoughtful integration of cultural heritage and innovative design. This extensive development aims to provide a vibrant community environment, offering over 2,500 townhomes and villas, each carefully positioned to promote a deeper connection with nature while addressing the practical needs of its future residents.
A Landscape-Driven Masterplan
The masterplan of Hayyan reflects a keen understanding of Sharjah’s unique environmental and cultural conditions. With temperatures in the UAE often reaching extreme levels during the day, the design had to account for both the harsh climate and the lifestyle of its residents. In response, the architects conceptualized the development as an urban landscape that thrives in harmony with its surroundings, emphasizing the use of renewable energy, natural ventilation, and adaptive environments that function differently at various times of the day.
One of the key features of the masterplan is the integration of green spaces and water elements throughout the development. The layout includes expansive communal gardens, shaded walkways, and sports areas that provide ample opportunities for leisure and outdoor activities. Central to the design is an edible community garden where residents are encouraged to grow indigenous fruits and vegetables, promoting self-sufficiency and a sense of community. The outdoor areas, designed for both day and nighttime use, offer spaces for large-scale events as well as more intimate, informal gatherings.
The public spaces at Hayyan are designed to be flexible and multifunctional. They are envisioned as places where residents can engage in cultural programming, casual outdoor activities, and community-building events. From storytelling sessions for children to large family picnics, these spaces are central to the development’s goal of fostering a strong sense of community. The architects also included wide sidewalks and narrow lanes, inspired by traditional wayfinding techniques, to create pedestrian-friendly streets that encourage safe play and interaction among neighbors.
A Fusion of Tradition and Innovation
At the core of Hayyan’s architectural philosophy is the marriage of tradition with modern technology. The architects drew inspiration from Sharjah’s rich history, particularly the centuries-old coral stone façades found in traditional buildings. These façades, known for their thermal properties and intricate patterns, have been reimagined in a contemporary context for Hayyan. The result is a striking exterior design that not only references the past but also provides a functional benefit—enhancing insulation and reducing the need for artificial cooling.
The development features seven distinct façade patterns, each corresponding to different housing types within the complex. This use of varied patterns, inspired by both Sharjah’s and Mariam Issoufo’s home region of Niger’s architectural traditions, adds a unique visual identity to the project. These patterns serve not only as a decorative element but also as a wayfinding tool, helping residents and visitors navigate the development. This thoughtful blend of cultural heritage and modern needs creates a visual and spatial dialogue between Sharjah’s past and its future.
The architects also prioritized environmental sustainability, incorporating state-of-the-art technology to reduce the project’s carbon footprint. Solar panels are installed across the development to harness the abundant sunlight, while natural ventilation systems are employed to optimize indoor air quality and comfort. The design of the homes and communal spaces ensures that they remain cool during the hot days and comfortably warm during the cooler nights, reducing reliance on energy-intensive air conditioning systems.
Community-Centric Design
A key element of Hayyan’s design is its focus on creating a communal living experience. The development includes a lifestyle center that offers a range of amenities, from restaurants and retail outlets to a gym and yoga studio. This central hub provides residents with access to essential services without the need to travel to the city center, reinforcing the project’s goal of promoting a self-sustaining community. By bringing these conveniences closer to home, the architects have ensured that Hayyan residents can enjoy a quiet, peaceful lifestyle without sacrificing access to modern amenities.
The mosque at Hayyan is another focal point of the development, designed as a space for both individual reflection and community gatherings. The mosque’s design mirrors the overall ethos of the project, combining contemporary architectural techniques with a deep respect for tradition. The mosque offers a variety of spatial configurations, providing areas for private prayer as well as larger communal spaces for events and celebrations. The architects envisioned this space as a symbol of unity within the development, where residents can come together to reflect, celebrate, and build connections with one another.
Beyond the mosque and lifestyle center, the entire development is designed with a focus on outdoor living. Given the high daytime temperatures, the architects paid special attention to creating spaces that can be enjoyed during the cooler nighttime hours. This includes shaded walkways, outdoor sports areas, and picnic zones that are lit for evening use. By prioritizing nighttime activities, Hayyan accommodates the natural rhythms of life in Sharjah, allowing residents to make the most of their outdoor spaces at all times of the day.
Sustainability and Future-Proofing
Hayyan is a forward-thinking project that demonstrates how urban developments can be both culturally respectful and environmentally sustainable. The architects’ use of renewable energy sources, such as solar power, and their emphasis on natural cooling methods ensure that the development is future-proofed against rising energy costs and environmental concerns. At the same time, the design’s integration of traditional materials and techniques pays homage to Sharjah’s architectural heritage, creating a sense of continuity between the past and the future.
The development’s focus on community building, cultural sustainability, and environmental responsibility makes Hayyan a model for future urban projects in the Middle East and beyond. By reinterpreting traditional architectural elements for modern living, Mariam Issoufo Architects have created a space that not only meets the practical needs of its residents but also enhances their quality of life. As the project nears completion, it stands as a testament to the power of thoughtful, context-driven design that prioritizes both people and the planet.
In summary, Hayyan is more than just a housing development—it is a visionary approach to urban living that celebrates Sharjah’s cultural heritage while addressing the challenges of the modern world. Through its innovative design, focus on community, and commitment to sustainability, Hayyan sets a new standard for residential architecture in the UAE, offering a blueprint for future developments that seek to balance tradition, innovation, and environmental responsibility.
