< PreviousCOVER STORY www.mepmiddleeast.com 20 MEP Middle East | March 2025www.mepmiddleeast.com feature of the luxury apartments, double as self-shading elements that dramatically reduce solar heat gains. THE POWER OF PASSIVE DESIGN “The building form played a major part in reducing the space cooling loads,” AESG explained, noting that the terraces not only provide outdoor space but also serve to self-shade the building, further enhancing the energy efficiency. AESG also highlighted the impact of the expansive glazing, saying: “The luxury Benjamin Piper, Design Partner, Benjelloun Piper Architecture Expansive terraces double as self-shading elements that dramatically reduce solar heat gains “ Structurally, we worked closely with engineers to ensure that the terraces didn’t compromise the tower’s integrity” Benjamin Piper, Design Partner, Benjelloun Piper Architecture MEP_Mar2025_18-23_CoverStory_13521881.indd 2007/03/2025 15:20COVER STORY www.mepmiddleeast.comMarch 2025 | MEP Middle East 21 www.mepmiddleeast.com apartments have expansive terrace areas which also serve to provide self-shading, reducing the direct solar gains significantly and helping to minimise the solar gain despite the floor-to-ceiling glazing that maximises the views, particularly from the upper-level, Burj Khalifa-facing apartments and penthouses.” A VISION FOR LUXURY LIVING From a developer’s perspective, the Fairmont Residences Solara Tower represents a delicate balance between ambition and pragmatism. As the Founder and CEO of SOL Properties, Ajay Bhatia sees the project as more than just another development—it’s a statement of Dubai’s ambition and the growing demand for high-end, sustainable urban living. However, achieving this vision hasn’t come without its share of challenges. “The unique architectural design, with progressively larger terraces as the “ The unique architectural design and progressively larger terraces as the tower rises, presented a significant structural challenge” Ajay Bhatia, Founder and CEO, SOL Properties Ajay Bhatia, Founder and CEO, SOL Properties tower rises, presented a significant structural challenge,” Bhatia notes. “To address this, we collaborated with international formwork companies to implement effective solutions while ensuring construction timelines remained unaffected.” The substantial steel canopy on the rooftop posed another technical hurdle, one that SOL Properties overcame by engaging top-tier steel companies in the UAE. Efficiency has been a guiding principle throughout the construction phase, with SOL Properties leveraging advanced technologies such as automatic climbing formwork systems, post-tension slabs, prefabricated steel components, and BMS and home automation systems equipped with sensors. “These methods not only improve time and cost efficiency, but also ensure a superior level of quality,” Bhatia adds. When it comes to sustainability, district cooling has played a central role. “Tabreed, the exclusive provider of chilled water networks in Downtown Dubai, was our natural choice,” says Bhatia. “Their system aligns perfectly with our commitment to sustainable, energy-efficient solutions.” Fairmont Residences Solara Tower is more than just its technical and engineering achievements; it’s a holistic living experience. From luxurious amenities like a 60-metre pool designed with a beach concept to exclusive penthouses offering panoramic views, every detail reflects a commitment to excellence. “We have incorporated features that elevate urban living, from home automation systems to world-class leisure facilities, ensuring residents enjoy an unparalleled lifestyle,” Bhatia concludes. DESIGN INNOVATION Benjelloun Piper Architecture’s design philosophy for the Solara Tower reflects a seamless integration of aesthetics and practicality. Benjamin Piper, Design Partner, MEP_Mar2025_18-23_CoverStory_13521881.indd 2107/03/2025 15:20COVER STORY www.mepmiddleeast.com 22 MEP Middle East | March 2025www.mepmiddleeast.com explains the inspiration behind the rooftop canopy and expansive pool areas. “The rooftop canopy was inspired by the idea of lightness and fluidity,” explains Piper. “It is crafted from lightweight materials and structural elements that mimic the organic forms found in nature, almost as though it’s gently draped over the space. It provides shade during the day and offers an intimate, open-air experience at night, when the city’s lights come alive. The choice of materials also ensures the durability needed to withstand Dubai’s climate while maintaining an elegant form.” The pool areas, strategically positioned to maximise Burj Khalifa views, epitomise the seamless integration of architecture and environment. “The infinity-edge design blurs the line between the pool and the city, offering an immersive experience that celebrates Dubai’s iconic skyline,” Piper adds. The tower’s terraces, with their curved edges and floor-to-ceiling glazing, add depth and fluidity to its facade while ensuring structural integrity. “Structurally, we worked closely with engineers to ensure that the terraces didn’t compromise the tower’s integrity. Each terrace is designed Fairmont Residences Solara Tower MEP_Mar2025_18-23_CoverStory_13521881.indd 2207/03/2025 15:20COVER STORY www.mepmiddleeast.comMarch 2025 | MEP Middle East 23 www.mepmiddleeast.com to meet stringent load-bearing requirements while allowing for the cantilevered design,” says Piper. “The result is a series of outdoor spaces that feel like natural extensions of the interior living areas.” Sustainability is woven into every aspect of the design. “We incorporated advanced solar shading devices, high-performance glazing, and landscaped terraces to minimise heat gain and reduce the urban heat island effect,” says Piper. He continues: “Additionally, the building is equipped with smart building systems that monitor and control energy consumption, water use, and HVAC performance. These systems are integrated into the design in such a way that they are virtually invisible to the residents, creating a seamless, user-friendly experience that promotes sustainable living without compromising comfort. “We also prioritised the use of locally sourced, sustainable materials in both the structural and finishing phases of the design, reducing the overall carbon footprint of the project. For example, we used low-VOC paints and materials with high recycled content, further ensuring that the building aligns with Dubai’s Green Building Regulations.” A COLLABORATIVE TRIUMPH The Fairmont Residences Solara Tower is a testament to what can be achieved when engineering, design, and development converge in harmony. As the tower nears completion, it stands as a symbol of Dubai’s architectural ambition and a model for sustainable urban development. With its innovative engineering, a striking design, and luxurious amenities, the Fairmont Residences Solara Tower promises to be a jewel in Dubai’s skyline, an achievement made possible by the relentless pursuit of excellence by its creators. The building is equipped with smart building systems that monitor and control energy consumption, water use, and HVAC performance Sustainability forms the basis of the design of the tower MEP_Mar2025_18-23_CoverStory_13521881.indd 2307/03/2025 15:20PARTNER CONTENT www.mepmiddleeast.com 24 MEP Middle East | March 2025www.mepmiddleeast.com SUCCESS THROUGH STRATEGY Nathan Hanns, Managing Director, ALEMCO ALEMCO is known for its exceptional MEP solutions. What has been your strategy for selecting projects? At ALEMCO, we carefully select projects and clients that align with our commitment to delivering high-quality MEP solutions. We focus on projects that match our technical expertise, ensuring that we can execute them to the highest standards. Building long-term relationships with clients who value collaboration, transparency, and mutual growth is a key priority for us. Additionally, we take on technically challenging projects that push our capabilities and off er opportunities for growth. What’s the most challenging project you’ve worked on, and how did you and your team overcome those challenges? Our One Za’abeel project has been our most challenging to date. The project involved a high level of complexity, requiring the integration of advanced techniques such as BIM and modular construction. Our skilled artisans played a crucial role in maintaining quality and precision throughout. Additionally, we collaborated closely with ALEC, ALEC Fitout, and ALEC Technologies to navigate and address various technical and logistical challenges. This strong coordination allowed us to overcome obstacles and successfully deliver the project despite its complexity. Sustainability is a major focus today. How is ALEMCO incorporating green practices into its MEP solutions? At ALEMCO, sustainability is a core priority. We engineer solutions that emphasise energy effi ciency and reduce long-term environmental impact. Through modular and off site prefabrication, we minimise waste and accelerate project timelines. We also actively monitor resource consumption across our offi ce and construction activities, Nathan Hanns, Managing Director at ALEMCO, discusses strategy, challenges, and the future of MEP services “We are developing an engineering platform that allows us to track costs from tender through procurement and engineering, ensuring budget adherence ” MEP_Mar2025_24-25_ALEMCO interview_13547457.indd 2408/03/2025 15:26PARTNER CONTENT www.mepmiddleeast.comMarch 2025 | MEP Middle East 25 www.mepmiddleeast.com One Za’abeel, Dubai continuously seeking ways to enhance effi ciency and reduce waste. How do you balance cost, quality, and timelines on large-scale projects while maintaining high performance? Balancing these factors requires a combination of smart processes and technology. We focus on implementing a streamlined process that tracks costs from tender through procurement and engineering, ensuring we stick to the budget. With our BIM engineering capabilities, we create procurement schedules tied directly to costs for smooth execution. Additionally, real-time tracking of engineering and procurement helps us identify and address potential overruns early. Our GPS-based productivity tracking system helps monitor performance, recognise top-performing teams, and uphold quality standards. We also engage third-party quality assurance teams to maintain excellence throughout the project lifecycle. What are the top three qualities that diff erentiate an MEP contractor from the competition in this market? Firstly, collaboration is key. We engage proactively with project stakeholders from the outset to ensure alignment and a seamless workfl ow, minimising delays. Secondly, we leverage technical expertise, particularly through our engineering teams, BIM, and modular construction. These tools enhance precision, streamline procurement, and optimise project execution. Lastly, we maintain a strong commitment to quality and on-time delivery. By tracking every step of the process, we ensure projects remain on schedule without compromising on standards. This combination of proactive collaboration, cutting-edge technology, and unwavering quality sets us apart in the industry. Can you share a “behind-the-scenes” story from a recent project that demonstrates what it takes to deliver excellence? On a recent project, we encountered obstacles with design-related information deliverables. To address this, our team worked closely with the client and main contractor, ensuring that critical construction deliverables and long-lead procurement items were swiftly developed and deployed. This proactive collaboration minimised delays and kept the project on track, highlighting the importance of teamwork and adaptability in delivering excellence. How do you see the future of MEP services evolving in the Middle East? Are there any trends you believe will be game changers? The future of MEP services in the Middle East is moving in exciting directions. AI-generated systems will play a crucial role in helping the construction industry analyse information and engineering data, enabling faster and more accurate decision-making. The adoption of these technologies will improve process tracking from construction to operation, making the entire building lifecycle more effi cient. There is also a growing shift towards modular fabrication in building design. This approach allows for faster construction, reduced waste, and more effi cient buildings from the outset—especially as projects become increasingly complex. I believe the industry will place greater emphasis on lifecycle costing rather than just upfront costs. The focus will shift towards designs that enable more effi cient construction processes and intelligent building systems that save energy, incorporate predictive maintenance, and enhance long-term performance— ultimately making buildings more sustainable. There is a rising focus on work-life balance and retaining skilled construction professionals. As projects become more demanding, supporting the well-being of our teams will be essential to attracting and retaining top talent. MEP_Mar2025_24-25_ALEMCO interview_13547457.indd 2508/03/2025 15:26www.mepmiddleeast.com 26 MEP Middle East | March 2025www.mepmiddleeast.com WOMEN IN MEP www.mepmiddleeast.com 26 MEP Middle East | March 2025www.mepmiddleeast.com WOMEN IN MEP MEP_Mar2025_26-59_Women in MEP_13544170.indd 2608/03/2025 15:14www.mepmiddleeast.comMarch 2025 | MEP Middle East 27 www.mepmiddleeast.com WOMEN IN MEP BEYOND BARRIERS The MEP industry has long been perceived as a man’s world, but these women are challenging that narrative. As technical experts, project managers, and CEOs, they are not just part of the industry; they are actively driving its evolution. From optimising infrastructure to managing critical systems, their work ensures cities function, hospitals operate efficiently, and the spaces we rely on remain safe and efficient. Whether leading teams on-site or making strategic decisions in the boardroom, these women are breaking barriers, challenging outdated perceptions, and paving the way for a more inclusive MEP sector. Note: This list is not ranked and does not imply any order of importance. Meet the women designing, building and shaping the future of MEP www.mepmiddleeast.comMarch 2025 | MEP Middle East 27 www.mepmiddleeast.com WOMEN IN MEP MEP_Mar2025_26-59_Women in MEP_13544170.indd 2708/03/2025 15:14www.mepmiddleeast.com 28 MEP Middle East | March 2025www.mepmiddleeast.com WOMEN IN MEP With over two decades of experience in the HVAC industry, Lubna Shaikh has made a remarkable impact as Senior Manager of Business Development at TROSTEN Industries in Dubai. Throughout her career, she has been instrumental in positioning TROSTEN as one of the top GCC manufacturers for major projects. Her expertise spans HVAC technologies, with a particular focus on centralised air conditioning and kitchen ventilation systems. Having earned multiple accolades for her contributions to the industry, she emphasises the importance of continuous learning and mentorship in playing a key role in her success. “Failure is a stepping stone to growth. Embrace setbacks as learning opportunities and don’t let them defi ne you,” she says. Encouraging others to view challenges as chances for improvement, Shaikh is also a prominent advocate for diversity and inclusion, particularly in the UAE. She acknowledges the progress made in incorporating more women in the fi eld but stresses the need for more leadership representation and equal opportunities. “Women in HVAC often face challenges like being underestimated and excluded from key networking opportunities,” she notes, adding that resilience comes from building strong support networks and staying adaptable. Her advice? “Stay curious, seek knowledge, and build strong connections with mentors, colleagues, and clients. Success takes time, and challenges are inevitable, but resilience and perseverance are key to thriving.” LUBNA SHAIKH SENIOR MANAGER – BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT TROSTEN INDUSTRIES “Failure is a stepping stone to growth. Embrace setbacks as learning opportunities and don’t let them define you” MEP_Mar2025_26-59_Women in MEP_13544170.indd 2808/03/2025 15:14www.mepmiddleeast.comMarch 2025 | MEP Middle East 29 www.mepmiddleeast.com WOMEN IN MEP Valerie Allard-Latour has built a career centred around driving meaningful impact in the industry. She takes pride in leading projects like ‘24 Degrees for 2024’ and the CSR campaign ‘iMatter’ which highlight how small actions can create lasting change. Passionate about reinvention, she believes in promoting brands and products through artistic collaborations and sensory experiences that push creative boundaries. While the industry has made strides in diversity and inclusion, Valerie stresses that there is still work to be done. “We must not rest on our laurels and continue moving forward, no matter what,” she says. For her, companies should move beyond basic inclusion eff orts and focus on building leadership pipelines and mentorship programs that guide women into top decision- making roles. What advice would she give her younger self about entering and thriving in the MEP industry? “Explore the world, experiment, and keep learning everyday, as studies are not everything.” She believes that nothing is impossible because the sky is the limit. Challenges in the industry remain, but she has never let them hold her back. “Being the only woman in the room doesn’t intimidate me—I speak up, always with a smile,” says Valerie. “No challenge is too great for a woman to tackle.” Her advice to the next generation? Take risks, own your voice, and never wait for permission to lead. VALERIE ALLARD-LATOUR SENIOR MARKETING MANAGER TAQEEF “No challenge is too great for a woman to tackle. Empowering my team, especially women, is my dream job” MEP_Mar2025_26-59_Women in MEP_13544170.indd 2908/03/2025 15:14Next >