RAK Academy,
A Campus Reimagined
In the heart of Ras Al Khaimah’s downtown, framed by mangroves and civic landmarks, a familiar school campus has been transformed into something extraordinary. The RAK Academy renovation began with a simple but ambitious idea: to adapt an existing structure into a future-ready environment that could inspire students and foster a stronger sense of community.
The campus, a G+2 building with over 130 classrooms, an auditorium, dining hall, and library, had served generations of learners. But its traditional layout—long corridors and clusters of classrooms—no longer reflected contemporary approaches to teaching and learning. The design team saw potential not in tearing down, but in reimagining.
Corridors were opened into breakout “oasis” spaces, daylight was drawn deeper inside, and the interiors were given a calm, neutral palette. At the center, a new “School Heart” was created: a light-filled lobby with performance steps and a café, designed as the natural gathering place for students, parents, and teachers alike.
“Our vision was to rethink the way space shapes education,” says Abdallah Gad, Lead Architect.
More Than Function: A Social Landscape
Designing for education requires a mindset distinct from hospitality or commercial projects, as children and young adults are the primary users. Spaces must balance academic needs with social, emotional, and developmental ones—supporting both concentration and interaction, safety and freedom. Scale, acoustics, and visibility are critical, while environments should encourage collaboration, foster inclusion, and feel secure yet inspiring. Above all, schools must be adaptable, evolving with students as they grow and creating places where lasting memories and a sense of belonging can take root.
“Schools are where children build friendships and memories,” Gad reflects. “The environment has to feel safe and inspiring.”
The Role of Materials
The design relied on a simple, timeless palette: gray floors, white walls, and carefully placed accents that allow light and materials to define the atmosphere. Here, RAK Ceramics’ wide portfolio of tiles and sanitary ware became a cornerstone of the project.
Durability and easy maintenance were just as important as aesthetics. In a high-traffic campus, products must withstand years of use without losing their character. RAK Ceramics’ breadth of finishes provided the flexibility to refine spaces for both function and mood.
“RAK Ceramics gave us confidence that the project could balance beauty, resilience, and practicality.” – Abdallah Gad
Sustainability in Action
In line with Ras Al Khaimah’s vision for sustainable development, the renovation embedded a strong sustainability agenda by integrating RAK Ceramics’ Take Back Program. Through this initiative, used tiles and sanitary ware were collected and recycled rather than sent to landfill, reducing construction waste and contributing to a circular economy where materials are reintroduced into new production cycles. Beyond design, the renovation also embraced
“Sustainability is no longer optional—it’s a responsibility,” Gad notes.
A Campus for the Future
The completed project reflects more than a renovation—it represents a shift in how schools can be imagined. Large windows frame views of green landscapes, indoor spaces flow seamlessly into outdoor ones, and every corner feels purposeful. Students, teachers, and parents now experience a renewed sense of pride and belonging in their campus.
