In the desert of Aqaba, Jordan, a community for 3500 workers employed in the region. Designed by architects Mahmoud Mahadeen, the complex incorporates two food courts, 22 apartment units, three storeys each as well as other amenities to support life in this remote region.

Three types of workers were planned for in the housing design, engineers, foremen and labourers. The requirements of each were met through unique layouts that were configured within the overall building envelope, allowing uniformity of construction, yet providing the comfortable quarters each group needed.

The complete building structure is made of built up sections of steel beams and columns. Joists are a hybrid construction comprised of constructed sections and cold-formed double ‘C' galvanized profiles. Steel sheeting was used for deck work for concrete floors. Steel sandwich panels were used for exterior cladding with a pre-painted galvanized steel finish to maintain its rich contrast to the surrounding desert over time. The sandwich panels with 40 kg/m³ density polyurethane provide efficient heat insulation to reduce heat build up during the day and provide heat containment during cold desert nights. Solar panels installed at rooftop provide heating for residents' hot water.

Steel was chosen for the project because of the advantage of speed to final construction and occupancy. The entire complex required just four months to complete, from kick off date to the move in.

The colour schemes used were designed to break the monotony of the surrounding desert, while the relative orientation of the buildings create a sense of community for the compound.

Key information

Number of storeys	3
Living area (m2)	429 m2
New-build home

Location of steel solutions

External wall
Floor
Foundation
Light steel sections
Roof
Water systems

Types of steel used in the building

Long carbon steel
Pre-painted flat carbon steel
Steel Sandwich Panels

Community in the Desert