ADS74 is a dynamic international practice that combines bold architectural design with cutting-edge engineering. Our multidisciplinary approach allows us to craft visionary, sustainable solutions for urban and architectural projects across the globe.
EXPERTISE
ARCHITECTURE
ARCHITECTURE
We design buildings that are practical, thoughtful, and built to last. Each project is a careful balance of creative ideas and realistic planning.
URBAN DESIGN & MASTERPLANNING
We develop urban plans that focus on connection, culture, and sustainability. Our aim is to create places that work well for people now and into the future.
INTERIOR ARCHITECTURE
We design interiors that feel good to be in and serve their purpose well — whether it’s a home, shop, or office, we focus on comfort, clarity, and experience.
ENGINEERING
ENGINEERING
Our engineering team helps ensure that each structure is safe, efficient, and built to perform, working closely with all disciplines throughout the project.
FEASIBILITY AND ECONOMICS
We provide clear, detailed studies to help determine whether a project makes sense — both practically and financially — and to support smart decision-making.
PLACEMAKING AND STRATEGIC DESIGN
We help shape places that bring people together. Our approach is grounded in local identity, usability, and long-term value for communities.
FURNITURE AND PRODUCT DESIGN
We design custom furniture and products with a focus on simplicity, durability, and usefulness — all designed to fit naturally within their spaces.
RESEARCH AND INNOVATION
We take time to explore new materials, tools, and ways of thinking about space and cities, always looking for better solutions through curiosity and experimentation.
SELECTED PROJECTS
MIXED USE
DIAMOND CENTER
GATE OF MALTA
TOPAZ
BUIKSLOTERMEER 161
S TOWER
MASTERPLAN
HITTIN MASTERPLAN
COMINO ISLAND
SAN CRISTOFORO
SAN GALLO
RESIDENTIAL
DELFT HOUSE
C4
MOSTA
NAXXAR
BK VILLA
SCENOPOLIS
YBK VILLA
VILLA 7
HOTEL
HITTIN HOTEL
MOZAIK
ISOUARD STREET
RETAIL
GEOX FLAGSHIP STORE
RISTORANTE TORRE
BORSALINO
GALLERIA BARSHA RETAIL CENTRE
MARINA DI VALETTA
CASCO BAZAAR
CANTINA LUCIGNANO
CULTURAL
MUTI CONCERT HALL
SUNCHEON NEW CITY HALL
AL SERKAL AVENUE
CHOPIN INTERNATIONAL MUSIC CENTER
DISTRICT CULTURE AND ART MUSEUM
KING SALMAN PARK HUB02
KING SALMAN PARK HUB07
AL UQAIR
FORTEZZA DA BASSO
KOREAN MUSEUM U&A
NEW CYPRUS MUSEUM
MUSEO DELLA CERAMICA
WORKSPACE AND EDUCATION
AIRPORT SKYPARKS 2
SCUOLA
ABOUT ADS74
ADS74 is a multidisciplinary architecture and design studio based in Rotterdam and Dubai, operating at the intersection of art, engineering, and technology.
We craft transformative, human-centered environments that elevate everyday life and foster global connection.
ADS74 is a contemporary Janus-balancing visionary thinking with buildable precision. One face of the studio looks toward cultural and artistic exploration; the other toward technical innovation and performance. This dual nature defines our approach: sculptural yet pragmatic, bold yet human.
We work across scales, from scenography and small installations to urban masterplans, museums, residential towers, retail spaces, and hospitality environments. Each project is rooted in bold creativity and cultural insight, designed to inspire, endure, and evolve with the communities it serves.
We engage in open dialogue with clients, communities, engineers, and interdisciplinary teams to ensure originality and quality in every project. Sustainability is central to our practice, guiding our environmental and social responsibility throughout all phases of design and execution.
Our studio functions as a creative laboratory where architecture, landscape, art, and design converge to make a positive impact on the world. We challenge convention, honor local identities, and prioritize the human experience-crafting spaces that connect emotionally, spark curiosity, and enrich lives.
TEAM
ALESSANDRO DE SANTIS
Alessandro De Santis is an Italian architect and designer with over 20 years of international experience in architecture, urban design, and brand environments.
In 2015, he began shaping his own practice, which evolved into ADS74, now based in Rotterdam and Dubai. His portfolio includes theatres, residential towers, office buildings, hotels, retail spaces, sports venues, educational facilities, and infrastructure projects.
Before founding ADS74, Alessandro collaborated with OMA / Rem Koolhaas (2008–2015), and later co-founded 7478 Architects, leading international commissions across Europe and the Middle East.
He studied Architecture at the University of Florence, Italy. His extensive background provides him with a deep understanding of the architectural landscape and the ability to address the unique challenges of each project.
ADNAN SAYYED DARWISH
Managing Director Partner of ADS74 Dubai. Adnan is an RIBA Chartered Architect and Project Manager with over 22 years of proven performance and team leadership in the architecture and construction industry, delivering a variety of project types in Australia and the UAE through all stages of a project cycle. Worked in a leadership role at a multi-disciplinary tier-A consulting firm in Dubai. He owned and managed a construction company in Melbourne that delivers Design & Build high-end residential projects. Passionate about strategy consulting, startups, entrepreneurship, and technology.
