Located in the vibrant Mazzeh Street in Damascus, Syria, a groundbreaking project is unfolding to transform an existing building into a hotel and commercial podium with a visually stunning facade inspired by Islamic architecture. Our team in Reparametrize Ateliers worked together to design a skin that adapts carefully with the existing building. The innovative skin design, crafted through advanced computational design methods, seamlessly blends traditional Islamic motifs with contemporary aesthetics. This fusion of ancient design principles with cutting-edge technology not only pays homage to the rich Islamic architectural heritage but also ensures a harmonious integration with the surroundings of Mazzeh Street. 

The hotel's exterior undergoes a mesmerizing transformation inspired by the rich tapestry of Islamic architecture, specifically the pointed stars and diamond shapes seen in the ornaments of the Umayyad Mosque in the old city of Damascus. Through a meticulous design process, these iconic elements are subjected to a profound abstraction, guided by the precision of computational design methods. The result is a sophisticated geometric pattern that gracefully manifests on the building's skin. The meticulously abstracted forms find expression in the orderly arrangement of vertical panels. As a cohesive ensemble, these panels create a harmonious rhythm, transforming the hotel into a living canvas that pays homage to the rich cultural heritage of Damascus while exuding a contemporary and innovative allure.

The skin of the hotel is ingeniously structured using a diagrid framework, demonstrating a sophisticated architectural approach. The diagrid, a diagonal grid of interconnected elements, imparts both strength and flexibility to the building envelope. This design enhances the structural integrity of the facade and allows for an open and visually dynamic appearance. Inspired by the efficiency of natural systems, the diagrid framework minimizes material usage while optimizing load distribution, resulting in a lightweight and sustainable structure.

This skin design emphasizes sustainability with a composition of low-E glass and Glass Fiber Reinforced Concrete (GFRC). Low-E glass enhances energy efficiency by minimizing heat transfer, while GFRC provides durability and flexibility with its lightweight properties, offering a sustainable alternative to traditional concrete. It also facilitates intricate detailing, allowing for the seamless incorporation of the geometric patterns inspired by the Umayyad Mosque's ornamental elements.
The entrance canopy seamlessly combines Ultra High Performance Concrete (UHPC) for robust structural elements with Ethylene Tetrafluoroethylene (ETFE) panels, ensuring durability and transparency. UHPC provides strength and sleek profiles, while ETFE allows natural light transmission, creating an inviting atmosphere. This material synergy not only enhances the canopy's modern aesthetic but also underscores a commitment to both durability and sustainability in the design.