Project: Architectural Competition - 2018
Placement: Finalist
Launched by: Archstorming
Location: Dubai

 

The intent of this competition project was to call architectural designers to design a pavilion that would represent their country or a country of their choosing in a Universal Exposition. I chose Iraq because it is the country where I grew up. 

 

Project Brief: 

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In what is often referred to as the fertile crescent of human civilization, Iraq obtains its rich history in large part because of the rivers it has. The region was referred to as Ancient Mesopotamia, which translates to “Between two rivers” -in reference to the Tigris and Euphrates rivers. This region became the home of the Akkadian, Sumerian, Assyrian, and Babylonian empires, where for the first time calligraphy, literature, laws and urban living were in practice - and now the country has the second  largest city in the Arab region. 
 
To be installed in Dubai, the Iraqi Pavilion is the embodiment of modern spirit that thrives in Iraq’s rich culture. The fusing of contemporary construction we know today with the deep roots of history allows for a hybrid of traditional following, and contemporary flow. 
 
A heavy concrete mass inspired by and derived from the lines of the eight pointed star (the symbol of “Inanna” the ancient Sumerian Goddess of political power, war, justice, beauty, love and fertility) leaves two openings leading to a courtyard enshrined with mashrabiya, exposing a modern curtain wall facade surrounded by palm trees and water features that bring the center of the space to life.