Our original artwork is part of ceramic tile ornament from Jameh’s mosque in Isfahan, Iran. An important feature of the artwork is the Rumi motif,  in which spiraling vines grow in intricate patterns around central circles.  These contrast the long smooth lines opposite of the small motifs in the pattern. We explore techniques of nesting and folding that could be used to create openings and connected exhibition spaces. 

What’s more, the thesis of this design is to make ornament spatial. At the scale of the site, we used the Rumi motif to design the building’s footprint to maximize the 360-degree view of Dubai’s downtown. The east side of the building contains smaller galleries, shops, and opening which allow visitors to appreciate the artwork while taking in scenic views. The west side calls back to the long, continuous curves of the artwork, which aids the flow and continuity of spaces along the interior. Inside the main gallery, there are two atriums for displaying large-scale exhibitions, while smaller exhibition spaces nest and flow along the atriums, allowing for unique combinations of art to be exhibited.