Coralscape

Coralscape references the marine heritage of the UAE and its historic and cultural influences. Coral stones were a locally available natural resource that was essential to the development of the UAE because they played a key role in pre-oil architecture of the region.

Three walls stand at various angles to yield a dynamic spatial experience for the visitors. The secondary frame within the walls allows some of the stones to seem suspended over a gradient. The porosity of the material is reflected in its arrangement as the design allows for a degree of transparency across the walls.

Red was chosen as the color for the grid to bring awareness to the current state of the oceans. Pollution, overfishing and other manmade problems has limited the growth of natural resources.

Coralscape pays tribute to the architectural history of the UAE and the materials that helped create it. The project aims to provide a rich visual experience that offers a glimpse of historical seafaring culture of the Gulf and an increased awareness of its future.

Commissioned by Dubai Culture for the Sikka Art and Design Festival 2022