Iraq

Client: Kirkuk Governorate
Location: Kirkuk – Iraq

Built-Up Area: 668,000 sq.m
Starting Date: March 2014
Affiliation: Kirkuk Global LLC

Challenge
Kirkuk, a historically rich city and a major oil hub in Iraq, required an updated master plan to address urban expansion challenges, informal settlements, and infrastructure inefficiencies. The previous master plan from the 1950s no longer aligned with the city’s spatial, economic, and environmental realities. The need was to redefine development strategies while preserving Kirkuk’s historical character and ensuring a balanced urban future.

Approach
DAO conducted an extensive urban analysis using GIS mapping and satellite imagery to evaluate land use patterns, infrastructure conditions, and demographic trends. The plan focused on structured urban expansion, revitalizing the riverfront and historic core, and integrating green spaces to enhance livability. A new industrial city was proposed to stimulate economic growth, while strategic zoning redefined the allocation of commercial, residential, and public spaces. Infrastructure upgrades, including improved water supply, electricity, transport networks, and sanitation, were also central to the plan’s vision.

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Iraq

Client: Ministry of Municipalities and Tourism
Location: Sulaymaniyah Governorate, Iraq

Plot Size: 48.293 km²
Year: 2013

Challenge
The master planning of Arbat, Darbandikhan, and Said-Sadq aimed to address urban expansion, infrastructure development, and resource management while ensuring balanced growth in alignment with the region’s environmental and socio-economic context. Each city had unique needs, with Arbat’s proximity to Sulaymaniyah influencing its urban dynamics, while Darbandikhan and Said-Sadq required structured planning to accommodate their populations and future development.

Approach
DAO conducted a comprehensive urban assessment, analyzing population distribution, land use, and infrastructure capacities. The strategy involved defining expansion areas, optimizing transportation networks, and integrating sustainable solutions for water and energy resources. Consideration was given to preserving natural landscapes, particularly in Darbandikhan, known for its reservoir and ecological importance.

Impact
The master plans provided a structured development framework, ensuring efficient land utilization and improved urban connectivity. By incorporating sustainable infrastructure solutions and urban zoning strategies, the project laid the groundwork for resilient and well-planned urban centers that support both economic growth and environmental conservation.

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Iraq

Client: Confidential
Location: Baghdad, Iraq

Total Built-up Area: 60,000 m²
Starting Date: 1982
Completion Date: 1982
Capacity: 40,000 Person

Challenge:
The State Grand Mosque was envisioned as a landmark of spiritual and architectural significance, serving as one of the largest religious structures in Baghdad. The challenge was to design a monumental mosque that could accommodate 40,000 worshippers, while ensuring a strong connection to Iraq’s historical and cultural identity. Additionally, the project required a design that balanced grandeur with functionality, creating an accessible and spiritually immersive environment for worshippers.

Approach:
Winning first place in an international design competition, the proposed concept aimed to merge traditional Islamic architectural elements with a contemporary vision. The mosque’s layout was carefully planned to organize large congregational spaces efficiently, ensuring that both interior and exterior prayer areas were seamlessly integrated. The design emphasized a grand prayer hall, supported by courtyards and shaded arcades, creating a spatial sequence that enhanced the spiritual experience.

The architecture reflected a balance of geometric harmony and monumental scale, with forms that resonated with Islamic architectural traditions while adapting to the climatic conditions of Baghdad. The use of structured open spaces allowed for natural ventilation and cooling, ensuring comfort for large gatherings. The mosque’s visual identity was shaped by its striking proportions and carefully articulated facades, reinforcing its role as a central religious and cultural landmark.

Impact:
The State Grand Mosque of Baghdad stands as a testament to architectural excellence, representing Iraq’s dedication to preserving its religious and cultural heritage. Through its scale, spatial organization, and careful integration of traditional Islamic elements, the project set a benchmark for large-scale mosque design. As a symbol of faith and identity, the mosque continues to be a cornerstone of Baghdad’s architectural landscape, embodying the spirit of both history and modernity

Sketches