Ghutra Weaving

Designed: ALBAL DESIGN STUDIO x LAM.WEAVINGSPACES
Manufactured and Installed: LAM.WEAVINGSPACES
Location: DUBAI. UAE

The ghutra, the traditional headscarf worn by Arab men, was a striking image when LAM began exploring Dubai in particular and the Gulf region (GCC) in general. It protects the wearer from sun, dust, and sand, while also symbolizing elegance, dignity, and national pride. From this reference, LAM developed the idea of a ghutra tailored specifically for the Albal building. Located along a vibrant central boulevard, the building features a contemporary architecture with sharp, assertive lines, often associated with a masculine character. In response, a ghutra with softer lines, tones, and imagery reminiscent of the undulating desert dunes offered a more complementary and contextual layer. Using a foldable honeycomb structure made from diamond-shaped modules sewn from outdoor mesh, the facade functioned as a light filtered layer for the garden below. The density of the mesh and the tilt angles were carefully calculated to control the amount of light. At the same time, the openness of both structure and material helped reduce wind load, making the entire facade system light and breathable. Packaged into three packages that met air cargo size and weight standards, the structure was fabricated and test-assembled in Vietnam, then compactly packed and transported to Dubai. Working with local workers, the entire facade was installed quickly and efficiently.

Image:  © Design team,  © Photographer,  © Lam Weaving Spaces