Sa’af is a research-led project that works to safeguard the craft native to the Eastern Provinces of Saudi Arabia; palm frond weaving. For the pavilion, Azaz Architects worked directly with craftspeople to develop innovative textiles and experiment with their application, each textile being an interpretation of a process and story, interlocking them is the symbolic representation of a people.

A giant suspended surface is composed of different woven styles mixing color, scale and texture. The pavilion was designed to maximize interaction with both the inner and outer skins of the textiles. The mesh melts to the ground inviting people to climb up the surface where activity and the movement of people can be seen. Visitors were invited to wander through the cocoon to become very close with the textures to inspect them, depending on where one stands the surfaces are brought to life, and the scale of the weaves evokes a dynamic game of light and shadow. The project explored the potential of a classic craft in transmitting a unique spatial experience.

About Azaz Architects

Shahad Alazzaz is the founder of Azaz Architects. The boutique firm provides architectural services for interior and exterior projects being entirely client-centric aiming at excellence in quality of design. This proven approach has created a broad and rich portfolio for Azaz Architects, despite its two-year history. Since establishing, the firm has been recognised by the International Property Awards in two categories: Architecture Single Residence and Mixed-Use Architecture. Additionally, the firm was recently awarded the title of 2019 Best Boutique Design Firm in Saudi Arabia by Lux Life Magazine. Shahad is also the representative of Riyadh to the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA). Learn more about Azaz Architects.

About Abwab

Abwab translates as ‘doors’ in Arabic and is an annually remodeled exhibition dedicated to commissioning work from across the Middle East, North Africa, and South Asia with a purpose to promote design talent and stimulate information exchange, uniquely experienced at Dubai Design Week.