Date: 2011
Client: private
Area: 25000m2
Status: Under Construction
Collaboration: Hawa and Moujaes Architects, Mariana Yazbek, Mohamad Al Zein
In Islamic Gardens, water was rich in symbolism. It was a source of life. In gardens and courtyards water formed the symbolic center, the basis of the design. A cube or rectangle reflected stability or earthly paradise. In fact water is an element that provides a welcome contrast to the solidity and stability or architecture. The reflection of the sky on the still surface of a pool introduces light, brightness and a further impression of space, while the image of passing clouds symbolizes transience. The English word ‘paradise’ is derived from Paridaeza meaning an ‘enclosure’ or ‘park’ in old Avestan, a language that predated Persian. This Paradise was conceived as the ideal garden, and was portrayed as a state of blessedness. In Islam, a prized Garden was always compared to paradise. Reference is made in the Quran to olive and fig trees as well as pomegranates.