The Development of Qatari Architectural Patterns
Introduction
Patterns and motifs constitute a significant element in
traditional and contemporary architecture. They represent cultural values and
significant identities in different parts of the world. Architecture works as a
container of different art works, among them are patterns and decorative motifs
that articulate the architectural design and enforce messages and meanings
conveyed by the architect to the public. The use of patterns and motifs by
architects in contemporary Qatari architecture does not rely on valid and
reliable information and knowledge. Patterns are being imported from different
parts of the world and used in Qatari buildings without reference to historical
or cultural context. This is due to the lack of rigorous research and
publications in that area of research. This eclectic practice resulted in the
loss of contemporary Qatari architectural identity. In order to achieve a
contemporary Qatari architectural identity, research in the areas of
architectural elements and principles used during the development of Qatari
architecture is required.
Background
Patterns and motifs were always a significant element of
architecture. In the Islamic world, patterns were used on religious, public and
private buildings. They signified important religious, cultural and social
aspects. Patterns and motifs reflect significant signs and symbols valued by
the society and have always formed a major part of Islamic aesthetic
expression. Traditional patters were used not only as a decorative element but
they also served environmental, social and cultural needs. Open carved panels
(naqsh) were used to allow north breeze (shamal) inside the rooms while
protecting it from sand and dust. It also provided appropriate privacy levels
to women inside the house. In this system, the relief carving was taken right
through the plaster panel, normally about 50mm thick. Examples are present in
few traditional buildings in Qatar including old palace of Sheikh Hamad bin
Abdullah at Rayyan, the wind tower building in the centre of Doha and in some of
the buildings in al Wakra.
Contemporary Architecture
Modern architecture of the 20th century called for the
abundance of patterns and motifs and the use of plain walls. Modern materials
such as reinforced concrete, steel and aluminum also promoted the abundance of
the use of patterns and motifs. Modern architecture resulted in the loss of
identity and the repetition of the same
architecture styles all over the world. During the 1970s, Post-modern
architecture attempted to consider the past and revitalize it. Yet, no
consideration was given to the local historical and geographic locality.
Critical regionalism called for the recognition of subtle differences between
different regions and localities. During the turn of the century and the impact
of globalization of communication and services, architects and designers from
different parts of the world are offering their services to clients in
different parts of the world. Lack of understanding and scientific references
prevented these professional from access to valid and reliable resources.
Many
contemporary architects of the 21st century are utilizing architectural
patterns and motifs in their interior and exterior design to cover the surfaces
of their design, utilizing advanced technologies to form steel and aluminum
into decorative patterns. These second building skins serve several purposes
including; representing cultural identity, providing sun protection and
displaying high-tech image. Yet many of them are not using appropriate
reference to Qatari patterns due to the lack of valid and rigorous sources.
Contemporary buildings such as Doha Tower and Texas A&M at Qatar Foundation
are utilizing Islamic patterns to cover their facades. While these patterns
might belong to Islamic patterns in general yet they are not reflecting the particular
identity of Qatar.
References
Issam El-Said, Tarek El-Bouri (1998) Islamic Art and
Architecture: The System of Geometric Design. Garnet Publishing Ltd.
Eric Broug (2008) Islamic Geometric Patterns. Thames &
Hudson.
Daud Sutton (2007) Islamic Design: A Genius for Geometry.
Wooden Books.
Eva Wilson (1988) Islamic Designs. The British Museum
Pattern Books.
Sheila R. Canby (2005) Islamic Art in Detail. British Museum
Press.
J. Bourgoin (1974) Arabic Geometrical Pattern and Design.
Dover Publications Inc.
Pepin Van Roojen (2009) Islamic Designs. Agile Rabbit.
Pepin van Roojen (2011) Arabian Geometric Patterns:
Neuauflage. Pepin Press.
Shigeki Nakamura (2009) Pattern Sourcebook: Patterns from
Nature 2: 250 Patterns Inspired by Nature: 2. Rockport Publishers.
