Fresh perspectives: Asad Moosa, Civil/ Structural Engineer and Director MSPACE Pvt. Ltd.

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Celebrating structural forms

In many cases, the structural engineer’s job is to ensure the structure remains discrete while performing its function, especially when that aligns with the architectural design intent. Even when a structure does stand out, it should do so in a way that complements the overall design. In rare cases, however, the structure itself becomes central to the architectural or interior concept while still serving its functional purpose.

For structural engineer Asad Moosa, though smaller and intricate as they might be, these are the types of projects he finds most fulfilling: when the structure and architectural design seamlessly intertwine. And he believes that good communication between engineers and architects is the key when it comes to the more complex projects.

Passionate about both 3D modelling and drawing, Asad thrives in projects that allow him to apply these skills to achieve complex forms. For him, presenting a detailed 2D and 3D visualisation is crucial when it comes to aligning the solutions with the architect's vision, which also gives confidence that everyone involved in a project remains on the same page, from concept to construction. 3D modelling has also helped Asad identify potential issues early on and explore structurally viable alternatives when certain architectural concepts are not physically feasible.

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One such example is the main building of Riveli Beach Club, particularly its L-shaped floating staircase and the concrete wall that supports both the stairs and the first-floor slab. The design process was iterative: the architect “Habitual spaces” proposed a concept; Asad sized and modelled the structure in 3D based on the dimensions required structurally, and the design evolved through continuous back-and-forth until a final solution was reached.

While some structures may appear minimal or effortless when complete, they often involve extensive behind-the-scenes work, modelling, analysis, calculation, and detailing. In an upcoming resort project working alongside Italian Architect “HUS”, a design firm based in Italy, Asad was asked to design villas with diamond-shaped reinforced concrete beams that split at intermediate points forming a wishbone and also support a floating column beneath the roof ridge. Standard beam equations didn’t apply, so the calculations had to be derived from scratch. The end result, though structurally complex, looks clean and minimal to anyone observing these beams on site now that they have been cast.

Ultimately, it’s the architect who envisions form and the engineer who brings it to life without compromising on integrity. Although it’s often said that “an architect’s dream is a civil engineer’s nightmare,” Asad believes the most successful collaborations arise when architects bring an intuitive understanding of structure, and both sides engage with mutual curiosity and respect. In those moments, challenges evolve into opportunities, and what begins as a complex brief can become a dream project for the engineer as well.

Asad's philosophy is also guided by a quote from Sir Ove Nyquist Arup, founder of Arup Group Limited: “The architect should be part engineer and the engineer should be part architect in order to achieve a fruitful collaboration."

This belief continually shapes Asad's approach to his work. He strives to understand design perspectives and communicate structural solutions in a way that allows architects to grasp them easily. Currently working alongside the team at MSPACE, Asad is driving efforts to redefine what’s possible when structural engineering and architectural design move in lockstep. This philosophy is being brought to life through one of the firm’s most ambitious projects currently under construction.

Asad offers a fresh perspective that is both practical and innovative, which is remarkable in an industry where technical precision rarely intersects with creative vision in one individual. Asad keeps us all in awe with the reminder that when engineering meets artistry, the results can be extraordinary.

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Brush Machine: A Game-Changer in Turf Care

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Maldives Assure Supply is popular in the Maldives for offering top quality sporting infrastructure solutions. In addition to providing sporting infrastructure solutions and consultations, Maldives Assure Supply brings a wide range of high-quality products for sports facilities.

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Premier Construction Materials - Timber House

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Timber House provides end-to-end material solutions and custom-cut timber  for large-scale builds. Their wide-ranging inventory includes everything from  hardwoods and outdoor-grade Balau and Kapur, to treated and untreated pines from South Africa, Russia, and New Zealand. Every order is supported by a highly experienced team with many of whom have been with the company for over a decade—ensuring consistent quality, technical insight, and timely delivery.

Top Construction Company- AMIN Construction

Foundations That Endure

Few names carry the weight that AMIN Construction does in the Maldives. Established in 1984 by the current chairman, Mr. Abdulla Mohamed, and still helmed by the family, the company was nascent in 1984, its roots grounded in humble beginnings that would later define a legacy. The work that began as cutting wood to supply to resorts has evolved into one of the leading construction companies in the Maldives. Its expansive portfolio includes the development and management of a luxury resort, marking a full-circle moment in the company's legacy. The projects also include renowned buildings in the country like Maldives Monetary Authority (MMA), STO Main Office Building, and Velaanaage Building. Add to this the various schools, airports, and harbors, along with the residential buildings that include their own iconic Amin Residences.

AMIN Construction is where it is today, not just because of the scale of its completed projects but rather because of the consistency of its work. The company is committed to timely deliveries and stands firm in leading with clarity and reliability. AMIN Construction is proof that in an island nation such as ours, built on coral and grit, some foundations truly do last.

Most Innovative Project - Thilamalé Bridge

Built to Connect

Thilamalé Bridge is among the most ambitious government projects, promising connectivity between the capital city of Malé, Villingili, Gulhifalhu, and Thilafushi. Officially termed the Greater Malé Connectivity Project (GMCP), the project is carried out in collaboration with neighbouring India and is built by a leading construction company in the country – Afcons Infrastructure.

With most of the country’s population residing in the greater Malé area – either in Malé, Hulhumalé, or Villingili - transport often becomes difficult between the islands, as people need to travel daily between these islands for work, school, or the hospital. Ten years ago, no one would have imagined that the ferry ride from Hulhumalé to Malé would be replaced by a short ride on a bridge. Since the opening of the Sinamalé Bridge in 2018, it has significantly made the daily commute much easier with the bonus of a scenic drive.

Similarly, Thilamalé Bridge aims to enhance the daily lives of people by eliminating the hassle of traveling and offering. Expected to be complete in the third quarter of 2026, it will be the longest bridge in the country. With piling, pier columns, and navigation structures in place, more than half of the bridge construction has already been completed.

Thilamalé Bridge is the largest infrastructure project yet, and it stands as a testament to the government’s efforts towards innovation and urban transformation.