The Muscat Cultural centre or the Oman Cultural Centre in Oman is a project that brings together the National Theatre, the National Archives and the National Library. This complex, like an oasis is surrounded by a dense canopy of palm greenery, which evolves into mineral columns of the complex. It emerges in a unique landscape between the sea and the mountains.
The cultural centre is remarkable by its canopy inspired by the Musharabiah- a perforated panel that allows for sunlight and viewing.
From above, the complex, with its orthogonal shape makes reference to the ordered nature Arabian gardens. The covered gardens add to the feel of an oasis.
Contracting authority: Sultanate of Oman
Architect: AS. Architecture-Studio
Co-architect: Gulf Engineering Consultancy
Engineering: SETEC Bâtiment
Acoustics: AVA
Environmental engineering: Eco-Cités
Scope of work: Complete assignment
Area: 70,000 sqm
International competition: 2008, winner
By Hassan Mohammed Yakubu
Courtesy of AS.Architecture-Studio