Text: Caroline Kruit, International Business Developer for Metadecor

Invite a hundred-plus architects to a hotel in magical Oman for a weekend and confront them with a group of suppliers of building materials from across the world. Get the dialogue started with inspiring lectures of peers, make sure that the atmosphere and food are good and make a program that keeps them busy from breakfast until a late afternoon drink at the bar. Metadecor International was present at Arc Middle East and this is what we learned from that rollercoaster of conversations.

Arc Middle East programs one-on-one discussions and lectures about AI, hospitality and building certifications.

The real estate business in the Middle East is booming and lots of people from all over the world are flocking together in the region to play a part. A few hundred of them attended the three day Bond Event in Muscat. A more international group of architects, real estate developers and suppliers is hard to imagine: all continents were present. That fact is interesting in itself and it generates multiple perspectives on contemporary architecture and themes that are on the table during the early stages of projects. Worldwide.

Selling shadow (and façades?)

Looking back at the many conversations I had during the event, there are a few insights that I would like to share. Funnily enough, these insights have less to do with façades and shadow – the items that I was selling as a supplier – but more with the general attitude of the architects towards their designs. Yes, I had a couple of in-depth talks about energy efficiency and the significant function of the building envelope to create comfortable and healthy buildings. There were interesting discussions about resourcing aluminium, about material efficiency during the design process and designing for a circular building economy. These are most important topics, that we address on a daily basis at Metadecor. But what about architecture? In my opinion, beautiful (-ly made) architecture is the most sustainable form of building - wherever you build.

Bespoke does not equal expensive

In a world where costs are a (or: the) main driving factor in decision making in real estate – the Middle East is no exception to that rule – it seems that even the thought of budget cuts limits the creative process of architects. The need to ‘design within budget’ presses hard on first proposals, early sketches and professional ambition. To choose regular, of the shelve products is a safe strategy. But what if you are not aware of the costs of a certain – bespoke - solution? Is it that more expensive to make a unique pattern for your façade? No! Should all façade panels be square or rectangular? No, of course not! Bend and curve all you like – it won’t cost the world if you make a smart plan.

Do not close the door

Closing the door on creative and unique options, before you even open it – it is an attitude that is averse to the education of architects. No wonder that I sensed a mild (?) disappointment in the profession here and there, during my talks with architects. And this was my response: “Dare to design!” Take the effort, make the hours. Yes, it takes time to make something that nobody has made before. And time is money, we understand that. But the time you spend in designing a bespoke façade gives you something as a bonus: the love for your own profession.

Oman was the location for Arc Middle East 2025: it inspired even an International Business Developer to some creativity.

Feel the love, walk the mile

Our message to architects and developers worldwide: ask for our advice and we will work with you towards a bespoke solution that will fit that stringent budget. Let’s walk the extra mile and invest time (and creativity) into something that is not standard, but unique and beautiful on its own. And functional, of course. While we’re at it, we can incorporate multiple qualities in the design and the façade itself. It makes the effort even more worthwhile, to add invisible features to a very much visible architecture. Use the knowledge and experience at Metadecor to optimize, simplify and make the best translation from design to production. Start with the ambition and work from there. Do not ask for our catalogue. Metadecor doesn’t have one. Perhaps it would make your job a little bit easier – but that is just what we want to avoid. We dare you. Please challenge us too.

Arc Middle East in Oman, February 2025 - an event with architects, project developers and suppliers, discussing innovation and current developments in architecture and building technology.