T H E T E N T
In architectural design, the integration of mashrabiya screens plays a pivotal role in managing light, ventilation, and privacy within the structure. These screens serve the dual purpose of enabling outward views while maintaining an obscured interior. The filtered sunlight passing through the intricately designed mashrabiya patterns imparts a unique and atmospheric ambiance to the interior spaces. This geometric ornamentation is inspired by the rich heritage of Islamic architecture, and it is meticulously incorporated throughout the design. Furthermore, the doors themselves are adorned with elaborate engravings, drawing from the Islamic artistic tradition.
The United Arab Emirates experienced a remarkable transformation during the petroleum era, a period characterized by drastic growth and modernization. The need for a new architectural revival becomes evident, one that is a careful synthesis of both worlds—the traditional with its deep-seated cultural, climatic, and nostalgic values, and the contemporary with its emphasis on comfort and convenience. It is essential to strike a balance that pays homage to the rich heritage while ensuring that the architectural landscape is both sustainable and responsive to the demands of the modern age.
'The Tent' seeks to harmonize the wisdom of traditional architecture with the needs and aspirations of a rapidly evolving society, rekindling a cultural identity that resonates with the people of this region. Through this innovative approach, a new chapter unfolds—one that blends the charm of tradition with the possibilities of the future, forging an architecture that reflects the true essence of the UAE and its people.
Views and vistas
At the third stage of design, we have further split the vertical work segment into platforms which capture the very essence of street life. This stage was keeping in mind better penetration of sunlight and better airflow even to the lowest levels of the building. The ease of connectivity will stimulate chance interactions and add to the overall mental and emotional connectedness of its inhabitants.
Housing typology
designed keeping in mind the lowest number of corridors for the building while maximising usable area per liveable units, there is only 1 corridor in every 3 floors. The saved corridors double as the platforms which connect with the workspace.
providing balconies and other openings towards both sides thus creating a visibility of the squares of the work unit from each apartment. Thus we get to keep the innate street- balcony relationship intact especially considering the dynamic nature of community life that unfolds in the streets.
Rental typology
Trying to create an interactive mix between diverse groups of people. Instead of using money as the sole enabler of livelihoods, we have created public interaction spaces for activities such as pizza making, music performances, yoga classes, etc.
These platforms and streets also respond and adapt to the seasonal changes – both climatic and cultural. During winters, designated public spaces will double as ice rinks for skating while in summers, they form a lush landscape for outdoor flea markets. The squares also accommodates for traditional Czech cultural activities like that of theatre.
Transport Solution
Considering existing connections and transport ways, the access to the new building is given directly through the main road from the front. The entrance to the underground parking is given adjacent to the existing road to the parking of TESCO. The requires the widening of the existing junction in front of the entrance. However, this approach ensures minimum addition to the existing condition.
