Sharjah, UAE / 2018

Al Dhaid heritage park is a historically important site with the presence of a restored archeological fort, and existing buildings of historical value all set within a beautiful Oasis.

X Architects has been challenged to design a visitor center in such a sensitive site, without causing disturbance to the historically valuable context. To leave a minimal visual impact on the historical surroundings and at the same time highlight the newly restored watch tower, the visitor pavilion was Sunken and covered with stage-like-camouflage skin made from sundried-mudbricks from the site sand. 

Visitors get immersed into an underground hidden oasis, that showcases the richness of indigenous oasis Flora with a water pond and network of water channels designed to resemble a Falaj: the traditional water irrigation system. A mirage effect was created by using hammered reflective stainless-steel underside of the oasis roof. 

design team

Ahmed Al-Ali, Farid Esmaeil, Sebastian Baldan, Jacky Tang, Farah Abou Hamza, Emerson Angeles, Arvin Padayo, Dixie Parcutela, Eyad Zarafeh