Biography
Zahi Adra is a Lebanese architect based in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia with extensive experience in various aspects of the field, including computational design and digital fabrication. Adra holds a Bachelor of Architecture (BArch) and Master of Architecture (March), both validated by the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA Part II and Part I, respectively), from the Faculty of Architecture, Design, and Built Environment at BAU in Lebanon. Adra also attended many international workshops related to the parametric design field, especially the Parametric Design and Kinetic Technology workshop at Sapienza Università di Roma in 2018.
In addition to their formal education, Adra has gained valuable experience through various workshops and projects. They completed an Autodesk BIM Diploma for Architectural Engineers, where they gained expertise in Revit BIM engineering, arch BIM specialization, families, BIM management, and more. Adra also participated in the (Re)Contextualizing Contested Heritage project at the University of Leeds, which sought to respond to the destruction of cultural heritage in conflict regions through an interdisciplinary approach using arts and humanities research. Adra has worked in both part-time and freelance capacities, showcasing their versatility and adaptability. They have produced various interior design proposals for clients at different consulting offices, where they utilized their 3D modeling and rendering skills. Adra also worked as a site engineer and supervisor at Edco-LB Contracting, where they executed shop drawings on-site for private residential projects. Additionally, they have established their own 3D printing and model-making service, Rubiks3D, and participated in a program on digital design and fabrication for pavilion construction in Beirut.
Adra currently works as an architect on the design team at MBL in Riyadh, They are involved in the Confidential Palaces Project and are responsible for developing parametric modules and producing high-end luxurious interiors through the creation of digital models using advanced computational design techniques. Their role involves the production of ID drawings and IFC shop drawings, as well as overseeing the drafting and detailing processes. as well as managing and supervising the drafting and detailing processes.
With his diverse skill set and experience, Zahi Adra is a versatile and innovative architect who is well-equipped to tackle any project in the field.