THE NOMAD was unveiled at the Rootstein Hopkins Parade Ground, Chelsea College of Arts, during the 2015 edition of the Shubbak Festival, conceptualised by KHALID SHAFAR. This public installation, supported by Dubai Design District (d3) and Abu Dhabi Festival, reimagined the traditional Emirati house, or Arish, not with traditional materials but with teakwood, reflecting its modern reinterpretation through the lens of contemporary art and architecture.

True to its name, THE NOMAD boasted nomadic attributes; the structure was designed to be movable, easily dismantled, and reassembled within a few hours, making it a travelling installation that journeyed from London to Berlin, Abu Dhabi, and Dubai. This adaptability highlighted the installation's functional and social utility, designed to facilitate engagement and relaxation in various urban settings.

Strategically positioned to foster communal interactions, THE NOMAD integrated the essence of Emirati architectural heritage with cutting-edge design principles. It served as a dynamic focal point within the festival’s landscape and as a vivid demonstration of how traditional forms could be reinterpreted in contemporary contexts to meet both social and aesthetic needs. By revisiting architectural heritage through a modern design lens, THE NOMAD stood as a poignant symbol of cultural dialogue and architectural innovation, showcasing the versatility and adaptability of traditional design in modern urban development.

Collaboration Partner: Dubai Design District (d3) & Abu Dhabi Festival
Location: Chelsea College of Arts, London, UK
Year: 2015