Oman debuts at Venice Biennale with Sablah-inspired pavilion
DUBAI: The Sultanate of Oman has marked its debut at the 19th International Architecture Exhibition of La Biennale di Venezia with a thought-provoking pavilion titled 'Traces,' curated by Omani architect Majeda Alhinai.
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Drawing inspiration from the Sablah — Oman's traditional communal gathering space — the pavilion reimagines this architectural concept as a modern civic space, rooted in cultural continuity and adaptive design.
Unlike conventional references, the Sablah in 'Traces' functions as an architectural method, not merely an aesthetic reference. Its open circulation, shared presence and adaptability are reinterpreted for contemporary public life.
It proposes a new civic space that remains culturally specific while addressing global concerns of collectivity, sustainability and architectural responsibility.
The pavilion's structure is built entirely from raw aluminum, utilizing a custom system of folded and cut panels.
Each panel is precision-cut with patterns inspired by Omani cultural practices — palm frond weaving, carved wooden doors, and the Falaj irrigation system.
One of the pavilion's standout features is its commitment to sustainability and reuse. The entire assembly is designed for easy disassembly and transportation, ensuring no material loss.
Following the Biennale, the structure will be permanently installed in Oman, maintaining its scale and purpose as a civic gathering space.
Curator Majeda Alhinai said: 'The pavilion is not a symbol of tradition. It is a working model for how civic space can be reimagined through inherited systems of making, maintenance, and adaptation.'
The Omani pavilion opened on May 10 and will be at the venue until Nov. 23.
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