Architecture Competition Milan Affordable Housing Challenge 3rd prize winner – Consultant Engineer Bureau

We’d like to take the opportunity to introduce you to the 3rd prize winners of our "Milan Affordable Housing Challenge" competition – Ahmed ElKhateb, Mohammed Elkhateb, Omar Adel Elgebely and Ahmed Negm from Egypt!

3rd prize winners from Egypt

ABOUT CEB is a leading Design & Engineering Consultancy for natural and built assets that have been operating for over 30 years with more than 2k staff operating in Egypt.

Brief information about the projects that you/your company have been involved with. For instance, what scale have you focused on/preferred, any significant projects where the company/ individuals have been involved?

CEB has been actively engaged in a diverse range of projects across various sectors. Our firm specializes in providing comprehensive services, from conceptual design to final execution, with a strong emphasis on maintaining high standards and implementing cutting-edge BIM practices in our workflow. This unique approach sets us apart in the industry. 

When it comes to project scale, we have successfully undertaken projects of different sizes and complexities. Our expertise extends to large-scale endeavors such as hospitals, where we have played a significant role in designing and delivering state-of-the-art healthcare facilities. We have also demonstrated our capabilities in the hospitality sector, contributing to the development of exceptional hotels and resorts that meet the highest standards of luxury and functionality.

In the residential sector, we have been involved in designing and executing projects that cater to a variety of housing needs. From single-family homes to multi-unit residential complexes, our team has successfully delivered innovative and practical solutions that prioritize both aesthetics and functionality.

While these examples highlight the sectors we have worked in, we have also ventured into other domains, collaborating on projects that require a unique and thoughtful approach. Our versatility allows us to adapt to different project requirements and deliver exceptional results.

Our team consists of experienced architects who have achieved LEED certification, demonstrating their proficiency in sustainable design practices and their commitment to creating environmentally-friendly buildings. This certification ensures that our architects possess the knowledge and skills necessary to integrate sustainable design principles into our projects, minimizing their environmental impact while maximizing energy efficiency.

Furthermore, our team members hold a variety of related certifications that further enhance our capabilities. These certifications span a wide range of disciplines, such as Building Information Modeling (BIM), project management, and specialized software applications. By staying at the forefront of industry standards and technologies, our team is equipped to deliver innovative and efficient solutions to our clients. At CEB, we take pride in our track record of successful project engagements, and our team of professionals is dedicated to providing top-notch services to our clients.

What does architecture mean to you and what is the role of an architect in your society?

In the context of CEB, architecture represents the art and science of designing and constructing buildings, structures, and spaces that meet the functional, aesthetic, and cultural needs of our society. As a leading organization in Egypt, CEB recognizes the pivotal role architects play in shaping the built environment and creating sustainable, innovative, and livable spaces.

At CEB, architects are regarded as visionaries who possess the unique ability to blend creativity, technical expertise, and a deep understanding of societal needs. They are responsible for translating clients' requirements into tangible design concepts, while considering factors such as site conditions, budgetary constraints, and local regulations. In our society, architecture holds a significant place as it directly influences the quality of life, cultural identity, and economic growth. Architects in Egypt are entrusted with the task of designing structures that harmonize with the country's rich heritage while embracing contemporary advancements and international standards. They take into account the unique cultural, historical, and climatic aspects of Egypt, resulting in architecture that reflects our national identity and promotes sustainable development.

Moreover, architects in our society have a social responsibility to address pressing challenges such as population growth, urbanization, and environmental sustainability. They strive to create inclusive spaces that accommodate diverse communities, promote social interaction, and enhance the overall well-being of the people. By incorporating principles of energy efficiency, renewable resources, and green design, architects contribute to mitigating the environmental impact of buildings and promoting a more sustainable future for Egypt.

In conclusion, from CEB's perspective, architecture represents a vital discipline that shapes the physical and cultural landscape of Egypt. Architects at CEB are instrumental in designing buildings and spaces that blend functionality, aesthetics, and sustainability, while honoring our society's values, traditions, and aspirations. They play a critical role in creating a built environment that fosters social cohesion, economic growth, and a sustainable future for Egypt.

Why do you participate in architecture competitions?

At CEB, we participate in architecture competitions for several reasons. Firstly, it provides us with an opportunity to compete with established companies, showcasing our skills and making a distinctive contribution. Secondly, we highly value the experience of competing with renowned names in the architecture community and receiving their feedback. Ultimately, participating in competitions enhances our reputation and fuels our professional and creative growth.

What advice would you give to individuals who struggle to decide whether it would be beneficial for them to participate in architecture competitions?

We advise them with the following:

1. Reflect on your goals: Consider if participating aligns with your long-term aspirations in architecture.
2. Embrace learning opportunities: Competitions offer chances to challenge yourself and expand your skills.
3. Evaluate relevance: Assess if the competition aligns with your interests and areas of expertise.
4. Consider impact: Research the competition's reputation and potential for professional recognition.
5. Weigh the investment: Evaluate the time, effort, and resources required against potential benefits.
6. Seek advice: Consult mentors or professionals for insights based on their experiences.