When: Wednesday 16 September 2026 @ 18:00 (Dubai time)

Where: Online/Blue Hall, The Arts Center at NYU Abu Dhabi, Saadiyat Island, Abu Dhabi

Speakers

Román Viñoly, Rafael Viñoly Architects, partner

Bassam Komati, AIA, OEAB; Rafael Viñoly Architects, partner; partner-in-Charge of the National Medal of Honor Museum.

Moderator

Stephanie Kinnick,AIA, LEED AP BDC, RIBA, AIA International 2027 Vice President, AIA Middle East Regional Director

Description

AIA Middle East members are invited to join an evening exploring the ideas, design processes, and complexities behind contemporary museum architecture.

Presented by the RIBA Gulf, the conversation will feature Román Viñoly and Bassam Komati AIA OEAB, Partners at Rafael Viñoly Architects, to discuss approaches to museum design through projects across four countries and a range of cultural and geographic contexts, followed by an audience Q&A.

From an institution’s initial vision to the visitor experience, technical delivery, and broader civic impact, Román and Bassam will discuss how architectural ideas evolve through design and construction to create enduring places for culture, memory, and public life.


Admission is free.

Registration is required for both in-person attendance and access to the live online broadcast.