The ‘Majlis’ is a predominant spatial typology in the Gulf residences, it is also a celebrated one. Majlis or a guest reception is built typically to be the epicenter of the home for social gatherings, conversation and interactions to entertain guests. It is located slightly detached from the private family spaces in Saudi homes. 

With the new age of technologies, transforming landscapes and forms; Majlis as a space holds enormous potential for exploration and research. At quartz, we have reimagined the spatial layouts, design attributes and language of a typical Majlis. We’ve perceived our concept from the traditional Najdi designs through a contemporary lens. 

Najdi art and architecture are fundamentally an amalgamation of geometric shapes denoting harmony in nature. The Najdi ornaments are a repetitive combination of triangles and squares in both horizontal and vertical patterns. These are often inspired by the nature-driven surroundings of Saudi and the daily objects we see around us.

We have created three proposals to challenge the potential of new age design with our rooted philosophy titled:

• Contemporary Collective

• Conventional Order

• Minimal Traditional

Contemporary Collective

This proposal incorporates a contemporary approach to the traditional designs of the Sadu technique, Wejar and Kemar. Sadu designs, usually found as tent coverings are used as upholstery and drape fabric. The Wejar shelving ideas are implemented to adorn the central wall to display art and decor. 

The spatial language of this Majilis design takes cues from the Najdi forms and its geometric aspects. The tonality of the space attempts to embrace cultural traditions of hospitality and generosity with a modern view.

The fireplace design is based on Kemar; a traditional heating system for beverages. The coffee table designs are inspired by the traditional attributes of Saudi history and hospitality. 

Conventional Order

This proposal is inspired by the Najdi patterns, developed around geometric and floral themes, with inspiration from the nearby surroundings and vegetation. It revolves around the central fireplace created as a decorative element. A customised Mabkhara; an oud or incense dispenser design is introduced in this space. Customisation also extends to the coffee table and the furniture which resembles the Nakgheer coffee grinder. This coffee table is a modern approach to the traditional Nakeer table where its base is a marble stone and the top is made using a wooden slab with golden accents on its edge.

Minimal Traditional

Inspired by the floral motifs of the Najdi pattern, this design concept uses the idea of the six-leaf motifs across the space and elements. The central wall’s six niches concept with the inverted square patterns is based on the mathematical order of this floral motif and its leaf pattern.

There is sunken seating for added comfort with a cloverleaf-inspired coffee table. These designs are drawn with strong inspirations of the floral motifs of traditional Najdi patterns. It is a modern ideology without showcasing or using the motif, but rather infusing it in a subtle and sober fashion.

A Majlis is usually a space for greeting and socializing with guests where a warm environment is expected to show the host’s generosity, hospitality and cultural values. The three proposals highlight multiple facets of the traditional pattern like the geometric shapes, general stance and floral motifs of the Najdis designs. To design a Majlis that is based on a culture’s roots with a contemporary outlook was the fundamental idea behind these spaces.