The 50 Masters of Design 2026

Abdulmajid Karanouh is an architect and design leader known for his involvement in projects that explore the relationship between architecture, climate, and technology, particularly within the Middle East. His work has been associated with the development of performance-driven buildings that respond to environmental conditions while maintaining a strong architectural identity.

Karanouh has been connected to leading international practices, including Aedas, where he contributed to design and research initiatives focused on innovation and sustainability. His work reflects a broader interest in how buildings can adapt to their surroundings through responsive systems and advanced façade technologies.

He is widely associated with the Al Bahar Towers in Abu Dhabi, a project recognized for its innovative approach to environmental design. The towers feature a dynamic shading system inspired by traditional mashrabiya patterns, which adjusts in response to sunlight to help reduce solar gain. The project has been referenced in architectural and engineering discussions as an example of how contemporary design can reinterpret regional heritage while addressing modern sustainability challenges.

Karanouh’s work has also been linked to research and development in adaptive building systems, where architecture and engineering intersect to create more efficient and responsive structures. His contributions are often positioned within a broader conversation about sustainable urban growth, particularly in regions with demanding climatic conditions.

Rather than focusing solely on form, his approach emphasizes performance and functionality, with design decisions informed by environmental considerations. This perspective aligns with a growing shift in architecture toward solutions that balance aesthetic ambition with measurable efficiency.

Through his involvement in projects such as Al Bahar Towers, Abdulmajid Karanouh has contributed to the ongoing development of climate-responsive architecture in the region. His work reflects a continued interest in how design can evolve to meet both environmental and cultural demands, offering a direction for future architectural practice in rapidly developing urban contexts.