Mashrabiya. The True Significance Of Traditional Lattice

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by Alexandra Mansilla

Mashrabiya. The True Significance Of Traditional Lattice

28 Mar 2024

Let's begin by defining the term. So, what is mashrabiya? It is an exquisite lattice-like screen celebrated for its intricate patterns and geometric precision. It is commonly found adorning buildings, including windows, balconies, or serving as interior partitions.

The exact origins of the mashrabiya are uncertain. However, historical records suggest that the earliest instances of it emerged in the 12th century in Baghdad.

"The Horse Market" (1867) by Jean-Léon Gérôme

What does the word mean?

The term "Mashrabiya" originates from an Arabic root denoting a spot where water pitchers were placed for cooling. "Mashraba" is derived from the Arabic verb "yashrab," meaning "to drink." Some also suggest that "mashrabiya" is a variation of "mashrafiya," taken from the Arabic verb "yoshrif," signifying "to observe" or "to watch." This is because "mashrafiya" refers to a prominent part of a window, allowing the ladies of the household to observe the street outside in relative privacy.

"The Siesta" (1876) by John Frederick Lewis

Another explanation traces the word to "Maherba," a type of wood used in crafting screens. Maherba wood is known for its quality, boasting strength and resilience against the sun's heat and harsh climates.

What purpose does a mashrabiya serve?

There are essentially five functions of mashrabiya:

To control light. It manages how much sunlight enters a space.

To manage airflow. It regulates how much air moves through.

To cool air. It helps lower the temperature of incoming air.

To add humidity. In dry climates, it can make the air a bit moister.

To provide privacy. It blocks views from outside.

How does mashrabiya inspire modern architecture?

The first example (pretty obvious one) of modern architecture influenced by traditional mashrabiya screens is undoubtedly the Louvre Abu Dhabi, particularly its iconic dome. This massive structure boasts a diameter of 590 feet and weighs a staggering 7,500 tonnes. Its steel framework comprises an intricate eight-layered mashrabiya lattice, consisting of 400,000 components and 7,850 unique interlocked stars, allowing natural light to filter through and illuminate the spaces below.

Photo: Nikita Berezhnoy

Another notable example is the King Abdullah Financial District Metro Station in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, slated to open in 2025. Spanning an expansive area of 45,000 square meters, this station features a perforated exterior inspired by traditional mashrabiya screens.

Source: www.zaha-hadid.com

Additionally, the 150-meter-tall Al Bahar Towers by Aedas Architects, completed in June 2012, incorporate the Mashrabiya shading system. This system employs a parametric description to simulate the operation of the facade panels in response to sun exposure and changing angles throughout the year.

Source: Unsplash in collaboration with Getty Images

Other notable structures influenced by mashrabiya include the Doha Tower, Musée Yves Saint Laurent in Marrakech, Abu Dhabi Central Market, and the Ali Mohammed T. Al-Ghanim Clinic, among others.

Furthermore, mashrabiya serves as inspiration for artists as well. Recently, Karim Tamerji and Elias El Hage from the studio "Karim + Elias" created the work “From This Earth,” where each piece was located atop the other, resembling a mashrabiya-like construction.

by Alexandra Mansilla