The Mutrah Fish Market has long been a thriving commercial and trading hub, contributing significantly to Oman’s cultural and economic legacy. The market represents Oman’s close relationship to the sea, as fishing is an important element of the country’s economy and culture. Historically, it has functioned as a social hub for fishermen, traders, and townspeople, highlighting the market’s significance not only for trade but also as a symbol of Oman’s nautical heritage.
The New Mutrah Market, although modern in style, has been criticized for losing the original feel of the previous market. Some people believe that its commercialized approach takes away from the traditional Omani experience and the unique charm of the ancient fish market.
Architectural preservation is a fallacy. The very essence of preservation leads to the demise of its true identity.
INEVITABLE DEATH BY ARCHITECTURE
Exploring the concept of architectural preservation through a comic, this approach delves into the search for the right methods to preserve historical buildings.It investigates the tension between preserving cultural heritage and adapting to current requirements, emphasizing the difficulties and consequences of selecting the most effective preservation solutions for both the built environment and the community.
Analysing different approaches to architectural preservation and understanding the positive and negative impacts through various precedents
Preservation is a necessary act that needs to be committed in order to celebrate its historical significance.
What is the right way.................................................................................?
We Aim to achieve this by embracing the imperfection of the old and damaged structure and celebrating it with integration of modern materials and technology. While recreating the life that once thrived around it.
Challenge: Designing a research center for Archiam
Archiam is a renowned international architecture and urban design firm with a presence in the Middle East, Southeast Asia, and Europe. Known for its innovative and sustainable design solutions, the firm creates spaces that integrate with their environment while addressing social, cultural, and environmental factors, enhancing urban life across diverse regions.
Location
Harat Al-Aqr, Nizwa, Oman
22.932438104984154, 57.530554680689164
Built in 1668 by Imam Sultan Bin Saif Al Ya’rubi, who played an important part in Oman’s history as the country’s old capital. Located approximately 175 km south of the capital Muscat, and is bordered by the western section of the Jabal al-Akhdar (Hajar al Gharbi). Nizwa has played a vital role in politics and culture in ancient times.
The Sultanate of Oman
Ad-Dakhilliyah
Nizwa
Harat Al-Aqr
One of Oman’s most visited national monuments, which provides a huge opportunity for tourism.
The Nizwa fort, Castle, AlQaala mosque, the souq and the goat market are some of the most popular tourist attractions in Nizwa.
The round tower of the fort is the largest on the Arabic Peninsula measuring a whopping 39 meters in diameter.
Culture and Traditions
Every house and structure once stood as a home for people, where civilizations flourished and cultural stories were passed down through generations.
These homes were filled with traditions, celebrations, and shared events, serving as the backdrop to the daily lives of their inhabitants.
People spent their time gathering together, connecting with one another creating a community and connection with nature.
Whether in courtyards, gardens, or open-air gathering places, and nature played an integral role in their lives, offering a peaceful retreat and a vital connection to the world around them.
Site Challenges
The city’s walls and houses are not well preserved, some local guides claim that they were not intrested in pre-islamic architecture. Hence, the detoriation of the city by occational rains and winds. Moreover, due to lack of preservation in the overall city, the visitors usually only visit the souq, followed by a short trip to the fort and depart to other atteraction in Oman.
Nizwa’s potential as a weekend trip destination is currently underutilized.
Weaving & Textiles
Weaving is a cherished tradition in Oman, especially in Nizwa, where skilled artisans have crafted intricate textiles for centuries. Using local materials like palm fronds and wool, these artisans create everything from khanjar sheaths to vibrant mats, showcasing their craftsmanship and preserving Nizwa’s rich cultural heritage.
Natural landscape
Nizwa is surrounded by the rugged Hajar Mountains, featuring a stepped terrain of steep cliffs and terraced slopes. This dramatic landscape rises sharply from the plains, with deep valleys and cultivated terraces that have shaped the region’s culture and history.
Aflaj system
The aflaj irrigation system in Nizwa is an ancient network of channels that directs water from mountain springs to agricultural lands. This traditional system, essential for farming in the arid region, has been maintained by the local community for centuries.
old vs new
garden space
Exterior Exhibiton
Cafe Workshop
“What is lost is preserved, and what is preserved is lost.”
