SAQIFAH

Third Prize
Barjeel Museum for Modern Arab Art
Sharjah, UAE
​2019

Based on traditional roots, reflected on a contemporary envelop, the scheme features a distinctive square volume that is partially elevated from the ground creating a public void underneath, this void fundamentally becomes part of the building, creating an informal cultural plaza within the formal boundary of the building which will provide a new sense of dynamic interaction between the city and the art community, and creating a much needed public cultural space that is resistant to the harsh desert climate of Sharjah.

“This is a novel proposal that presents some very dramatic possibilities for interaction with the surrounding community and context. The design considers the heritage and local culture, and its clearness is admirable. The simplicity of the cube and plaza below creates a calm reflective space embedded in the geology and culture."

                                                                                            ​                                                                          Competition Jury

The floating volume is perforated with a series of lightwells to create a natural, illuminated interior further lit by square shaped glazed introverted façade, as such also providing the cultural plaza below with centers of natural light and air ventilation. So in a way this floating perforated volume will work as a contemporary urban “Saqifah” for the cultural plaza. And “Saqifah” is a traditional Arabic latticed shed structure that was used widely for gatherings and events in Arabian gulf.

The museum program is arranged within the elevated volume which is defined by a contemporary open plan that is human oriented creating an interactive cultural environment that is benefiting from the play of light and shadow created by the lighwells in the different exhibition spaces.

"As a cultural plaza with a central public space, the design offers an attractive and inviting area for meetings, community building, temporary events and performances. This intervention under the raised volume of the museum is a strong statement, and the sloping ground level takes on the character of an amphitheatre. The patios further act as lightwells, and bring daylight into the lower domain. Through these patios, a glimpse of the exhibition space can be seen from below – a wonderful contrast to the hermetically sealed outer façade of the lifted box, and a powerful and beautiful field of tension​.”​

                                                                                            ​                                                                          Competition Jury