JUDICIAL COMPLEX , MAKKAH

The formal organization of the complex originates from the number 28 in Arabic script. The number 28 holds important meaning to Muslim thinkers. There are 28 letters in the Arabic alphabet.  In addition, the Muslim calendar follows the “mansions of the moon” with 28 days in a month.

While this building complex has a strong connection to the symbolic aspect of the Muslim tradition, it does not lose contact with architectural elements of traditional Arabic architecture.  These more traditional elements of the old Arabic-style influenced the design of the project.

The exterior façade developed from a geometric composition of mosaics traditionally found in Arabic architecture.  At the heart of the complex, the inner square connecting the buildings is protected by a cover of glass patchwork whose form and colour reflect that of a Bedouin tent commonly found in the desert.

The coloured pattern of the glass remembers the mosaics of traditional architecture.