In the vibrant city of Dubai, where tradition and modernity converge, Riyad Joucka has emerged as a leading figure in architecture. As the founder of MEAN* (Middle East Architecture Network), Joucka combines cutting-edge technology with a deep respect for local culture, creating innovative and sustainable designs that resonate across the Middle East and beyond.
Riyad Joucka’s passion for architecture was nurtured early, born into a family of architects in Amman, Jordan. His grandfather, the renowned Syrian painter Hahmoud Hammad, likely influenced his creative perspective. Joucka pursued his undergraduate studies in architecture at Carleton University in Ottawa, Canada, before earning a Master of Architecture with Distinction from the Emergent Technologies & Design program at the Architectural Association (AA) School of Architecture in London. This prestigious program equipped him with expertise in computational design, material research, and innovative construction techniques, which became the cornerstone of his professional philosophy.
His global experience, including work in New York and Hong Kong from 2012 to 2017, further shaped his approach. At firms like SHoP Architects, Woods Bagot, and FR-EE, Joucka contributed to major cultural, public, and infrastructure projects, honing his skills in complex structures and building technologies. This diverse background prepared him to launch a practice that bridges global innovation with regional identity.
Founding MEAN*
In 2016, Riyad Joucka founded MEAN*, a Dubai-based architecture practice that operates as a collaborative network of architects, designers, programmers, and artists. MEAN* stands out for its interdisciplinary approach, leveraging technologies such as 3D printing, robotics, and computational design to create architecture that responds to the Middle East’s unique environmental, cultural, and social challenges. The practice aims to develop a site-specific architectural language that respects local traditions while embracing avant-garde methods, ensuring designs are both functional and forward-thinking.
MEAN*’s mission is to amalgamate computation, material research, and digital fabrication to provide solutions that address contemporary issues like sustainability and urbanization. This vision has resulted in a diverse portfolio, ranging from small-scale installations to large public structures, all characterized by innovative materials and construction techniques.
Notable Projects by MEAN*
Audi Innovation Hub (2018, Dubai)
Designed for Dubai Design Week, this 165 sqm pavilion used recycled rubber and generative design to symbolize “Connections.” It hosted innovation talks and earned praise for its sustainable concept.
Deciduous 3D Printed Pavilion (2019, Dubai)
This pavilion showcased MEAN*’s digital fabrication skills, using 3D printing to achieve complex forms unachievable by traditional methods.
Desert Pavilion (2020, Wadi Rum, Jordan)
A 3D printed structure celebrating Bedouin hospitality, merging technology with cultural and environmental sensitivity.
Other Works
Projects like the Sabeel Water Fountain and EXPO 2020 Boulevard Roundabout reflect MEAN*’s talent for blending cultural meaning with public space design.
Teaching and Research
Beyond his practice, Joucka is deeply committed to architectural education. He serves as an Assistant Professor and Inaugural Research Fellow in Practice at Zayed University’s College of Arts and Creative Enterprises (CACE) in Dubai. His research explores vernacular architecture and material experimentation, bridging academic inquiry with practical application. Joucka also directs the annual AA Visiting School Dubai, a program focused on innovative design research, where he mentors aspiring architects at Zayed University.
His teaching extends globally, having led architectural design workshops in cities like Paris, Penang, Shanghai, Tehran, and Santiago. These efforts underscore his dedication to nurturing a new generation of architects who value both tradition and innovation.
Impact and Vision
Riyad Joucka’s work with MEAN* has significantly influenced Middle Eastern architecture. By integrating advanced technologies with local contexts, he has helped define a new architectural language that is both rooted in tradition and forward-looking. His projects serve as models for sustainable and innovative design, inspiring architects across the region and beyond Architizer.
Joucka’s vision for MEAN* is to continue exploring new materials and construction methods while maintaining a commitment to sustainability and cultural relevance. He aims to create spaces that meet current needs while anticipating future challenges, such as climate change and urbanization. His interdisciplinary approach, combining architecture with programming and material science, positions MEAN* as a leader in the field.
Riyad Joucka, through his leadership of MEAN*, has established himself as a visionary architect reshaping the Middle East’s built environment. His ability to merge technology with tradition, coupled with his dedication to education and research, makes him a pivotal figure in contemporary architecture. As MEAN* continues to grow, Joucka’s influence will likely leave a lasting mark on the region and the global architectural community.
