Dezeen School Shows: a community centre designed for blind and visually impaired people, with tactile systems and intuitive wayfinding, is among a series of projects from Ajman University.

Also featured is a shelter for people who have been displaced due to climate emergencies and a cultural centre that celebrates Syrian culture.

Ajman University

Institution: Ajman University
Course: Graduation Project II – CAAD
Tutors: Gamal Elsamanoudy, Shams Almula, Naglaa Mahmoud and Omnia Ahmed

School statement:

"Rooted in advanced design inquiry, the capstone studio engages Ajman University's Interior Design Class of 2025 in complex spatial explorations, including multifunctional environments, open-plan layouts and the adaptive reuse of sites, initiated in Graduation Project I.

"Students apply functional and aesthetic principles to craft interiors that attract and immerse users through the expressive language of Maximalism, emphasising richness, layering and sensory depth.

"Throughout the design process, they respond to user needs while addressing environmental, social and cultural contexts.

"The studio further reinforces sustainable and ethical design practices that advance diversity and social equity, preparing future designers for impactful professional careers."

Programme Design for Elite Wellbeing Rehabilitation Centre by Aysha Al Nwailah

"The Elite Wellbeing Rehabilitation Centre was developed in response to the growing need for addiction treatment in the UAE, where drug-related admissions have recently increased by
nearly 40 per cent, affecting around one per cent of the population.

"The centre offers personalised care that supports both addiction recovery and mental wellness within a warm and welcoming environment.

"The design focuses on healing through calm spaces, soft natural materials, neutral tones and access to natural light and outdoor views.

"Facilities include therapy rooms detox units, yoga and gym areas, bedrooms and social lounges to encourage comfort, community and self-growth.

"The goal is to create a space where individuals feel supported, hopeful and empowered to rebuild their lives."

Student: Aysha Al Nwailah
Tutors: Naglaa Mahmoud and Omnia Ahmed
Email: ayshaalnwaila[at]gmail.com

Youthful Serenity by Basma Ahmed Ghazi

"Youthful Serenity is an experiential entertainment hub designed to support teens and young adults as they navigate everyday pressures.

"The space brings together lounges, game rooms, a library, co-working zones, cat cafes and consultation rooms, allowing users to shift seamlessly between play, connection, reflection and healing.

"Rooted in the belief that recovery need not feel clinical, the hub transforms entertainment into a pathway for emotional wellbeing.

"Each zone mirrors an emotional state – from energetic social areas to calming spaces for introspection – creating distinct realms for expression and growth.

"Ultimately, it offers a place to pause, breathe and rediscover hope."

Student: Basma Ahmed Ghazi
Tutors: Naglaa Mahmoud and Omnia Ahmed
Email: basma.ghazi5[at]gmail.com

Haven Hub by Leen Adnan Thouqan

"Haven Hub is a flexible, sustainable shelter designed to support people displaced by climate-related emergencies and to serve as a youth hostel during non-crisis periods.

"Repurposing of an abandoned school in Ajman, the project transforms the elevated site into a safe, low-cost refuge that prioritises protection, community and environmental resilience.

"Its position above surrounding land reduces flood risk, while rainwater naturally drains toward Masfout Dam.

"Passive ventilation, modular sleeping units, shared courtyards and adaptable community spaces foster comfort and belonging.

"Warm colours, simple forms and home-like spatial cues enhance emotional security, offering displaced users not only shelter but stability and dignity."

Student: Leen Adnan Thouqan
Tutors: Gamal Elsamanoudy and Shams Almula
Email: leen.thouqan123[at]outlook.com

The Syrian City by Abdulrazzak Mohammad

"This project reimagines The Syrian City at Global Village as an immersive cultural environment that preserves and celebrates Syria's rich heritage.

"Through traditional architectural elements – such as courtyards, arches, patterned stonework and handcrafted details – the design creates a nostalgic yet functional space that connects visitors to Syrian history.

"The project blends modern usability with authentic aesthetics, offering zones like cafes, retail shops, pathways and performance areas.

"By integrating cultural symbolism, local materials and community-focused spaces, the design reflects both the resilience and beauty of Syria while providing a meaningful, memorable experience for all visitors."

Student: Abdulrazzak Mohammad
Tutors: Gamal Elsamanoudy and Shams Almula
Email: 202110596[at]ajmanuni.ac.ae

Bright Minds Centre by Sidra Barakat

"The Bright Minds Centre reimagines learning for children aged six to twelve by transforming space into a journey of discovery.

"Grounded in Sharjah's cultural context, the design channels youthful energy into STEAM exploration through vibrant, safe and flexible zones.

"Each area – from the calming library to the dynamic robotics lab – is carefully detailed with sensory-rich materials, ergonomic furniture and thoughtful colour psychology to foster creativity, collaboration and critical thinking.

"Sustainability and child safety principles guide every choice, ensuring an inspiring environment that not only educates but emotionally nurtures, laying a lifelong foundation for curiosity and innovation."

Student: Sidra Barakat
Email: sedraa.barakat[at]gmail.com

Branches Youth Centre by Shamma Abdulla AlGhfeli

"Branches is a youth centre nestled within Al Zorah's tranquil mangroves, where nature becomes both inspiration and guide.

"Rooted in the idea of 'Roots of Connection,' the design mirrors the strength and interwoven paths of mangrove trees – symbolising the support, belonging and possibilities offered to every young visitor.

"Organic forms, earthy tones and textured materials create a warm, grounding atmosphere, while soft light flows through the space like pathways of discovery.

"More than a centre, Branches is a nurturing environment where youth can grow, explore their identities and build meaningful connections as they journey toward creativity, knowledge and self-discovery."

Student: Shamma Abdulla AlGhfeli
Tutors: Gamal Elsamanoudy and Shams Almula
Email: byshammaaa[at]gmail.com

Glow of Eywa by Shuhd Abdul Rahman

"The Glow of Eywa is an immersive indoor night adventure park inside The Green Planet, Dubai, transforming the biodome into a bioluminescent rainforest inspired by Avatar.

"Through advanced lighting, interactive plant installations and multi-level pathways, the project creates a glowing, otherworldly environment that invites visitors to explore illuminated trails, sensory zones and dynamic adventure features.

"Designed with sustainability and education in mind, the park integrates eco-friendly materials, preserved greenery and nature-focused storytelling.

"The Glow of Eywa redefines nature-based entertainment by merging fantasy, technology and environmental awareness, offering a transformative experience that encourages movement, curiosity and connection with the natural world."

Student: Shuhd Abdul Rahman
Tutors: Naglaa Mahmoud and Omnia Ahmed
Email: 202110289[at]ajmanuni.ac.ae

Mind Expansion Centre by Toka Mahmoud Omar Ahmed Omar

"The 'Mind Expansion Centre' is a space dedicated to enhancing cognitive abilities, creativity and problem-solving skills through a test on the human brain by brain assessment.

"It's designed to push the boundaries of human potential through the integration of cognitive skills and creativity developing at The Flying Saucer – Sharjah Art Foundation.

"The design is inspired by a maze as it reflects how humans see their thoughts and represent ideas, challenges and creativity.

"It's like the brain neural network; the space or the maze encourages users to explore, learn and innovate in their life, each pathway leading to clarity, connection and creativity.

"The maze's structure is separated into two sections, presenting geometric shapes and lines in the logic section and in the other section, organic forms and curvy lines.

"This project has been designed for functionality and to provide users with an immersive experience to encourage exploration and curiosity with smart, interactive technology."

Student: Toka Mahmoud Omar Ahmed Omar
Tutors: Naglaa Mahmoud and Omnia Ahmed
Email: 202011776[at]ajmanuni.ac.ae

Cancer Care Centre by Waad Amir

"This graduation project represents a comprehensive exploration of evidence-based design within healthcare and supportive environments.

"It demonstrates a rigorous design process that integrates research, spatial planning and human-centred principles to enhance emotional wellbeing and user experience.

"The project reflects a professional approach to creating purposeful, functional and calming spaces that respond to the psychological and physical needs of patients, families and care providers."

Student: Waad Amir
Tutors: Naglaa Mahmoud and Omnia Ahmed
Email: 201910901[at]ajmanuni.ac.ae

Sensescape community hub by Dalia Aboueldahab

"SenseScape is an inclusive community hub for blind and visually impaired individuals, designed through a holistic five-senses approach that integrates touch, sound, smell, movement and spatial awareness.

"The project fosters independence, social interaction and wellbeing by creating a multi-sensory environment accessible to people of all ages and abilities.

"It bridges the gap between visually impaired and fully sighted users through shared activities and specialised sensory programmes.

"SenseScape ensures safety and accessibility by adhering to clear codes and regulations, providing tactile systems, Braille labels and an intuitive wayfinding for confident, seamless navigation."

Student: Dalia Aboueldahab
Tutors: Naglaa Mahmoud and Omnia Ahmed
Email: dahabdalia78[at]gmail.com

Partnership content

This school show is a partnership between Dezeen and Ajman University. Find out more about Dezeen partnership content here.

The post Accessible community centre among projects from Ajman University appeared first on Dezeen.