SYN Architects’ Open Segments Pavilion at Concéntrico 10 Reimagines Najdi Architecture

Reimagining the traditional courtyard house typology for the public realm, SYN Architects' Open Segments pavilion captures the essence of Najdi architecture. Unveiled at the tenth edition of Concéntrico in Logroño, Spain, this innovative installation encourages small-scale interactions, examining elements of regional space-making and culture. A cluster of volumes, shaded by palm trees, recalls the rectilinear units that form the small neighborhoods typical of Saudi Arabia's Najd region. Wrapped in wooden columns and fabric derived from regional flora and fauna, the pavilion creates an interplay of translucent fragments and openings that invite exploration and play.

Open Segments delves into the spatial and cultural ideals embodied by the courtyard home, which typically hosts private moments and communal Majlis-like gatherings. This duality of purpose and resulting flexibility inspired Riyadh-based SYN Architects to conceive building forms that can be configured in various ways using just two simple building blocks. The modular construction system employs a series of vertically laid planks along the perimeter of the space, held together by a semi-translucent mesh material. This continuous repetition of the spine wall is punctuated by various openings along two adjacent facades, which softly filter in sunlight, creating future interpretations while preserving the integrity of traditional architectural language.

Reflecting Najdi's Architectural Principles

The design of the Open Segments pavilion reflects the principles of Najdi architecture, which is known for its functionality and adaptability. By incorporating wooden columns and regional fabrics, SYN Architects pays homage to the traditional materials and construction techniques of the Najd region. The wooden columns provide structural support and aesthetic appeal, while the fabric, produced from local flora and fauna, adds a tactile quality to the pavilion. These materials not only enhance the pavilion's visual and sensory experience but also ground it in the cultural and environmental context of Saudi Arabia.

Modular Design for Flexibility and Adaptability

The modular design of the Open Segments pavilion allows for flexibility and adaptability, which are key aspects of traditional Najdi architecture. These pavilions' structure is made of two structure blocks that can interlock each other to create abundant spatial arrangements. This adaptability strategizes the response to different functional demands and forms a space to host whatever activities the beaver clan prefers, from a family gathering to a public arena. Furthermore, the system's modular nature enables fast assembly and disassembly, thus ensuring that the pavilion is a long-term and relocatable architectural solution.

Exploring the Duality of Public and Private Spaces

The Pearling pavilion's core theme is the duality between public and private space instruction; this feature is embedded in the courtyard house typology. The pavilion's design blends in aspects that enable courteous, one-on-one settings and interruptive social areas. An intersection of the openness and closeness of the spaces is gained via the semi-transparent mesh material, which offers a sense of enclosure while allowing light and air to pass through the space. The right strategy of proximity and flowing passage around form an intimate triangle where curious visitors would freely intermingle with one another to achieve a more dynamic and interactive space.

Celebrating the Collective Memory of Space

At Concéntrico, Logroño's Festival of Architecture and Design, the Open Segments pavilion invokes the collective memory of space, resulting in various physical and intangible narratives. Its configuration showcases the flexibility and sequences of fragmentation and continuity of native architectural and social structures. The pavilion's design reflects the layers of history and cultural significance associated with Najdi architecture, creating a dialogue between the past and present. The pavilion's presence at the festival not only celebrates the rich architectural heritage of Saudi Arabia but also offers a contemporary interpretation of traditional space-making practices.

Sustainability and Future Life Cycle

After the conclusion of Concéntrico, the Open Segments pavilion will be dismantled and returned to Saudi Arabia. Its fabric components will be repurposed to extend their life cycle at Tanween 2024, an event exploring design and art innovation. This sustainable approach reflects SYN Architects' commitment to environmental responsibility and resource efficiency. By reusing and repurposing materials, the pavilion's life cycle is prolonged, and its environmental impact is minimized. The patina of its time in Spain will add a layer of history and character to the pavilion, enriching its narrative and cultural significance.

Concéntrico returned to Logroño, Spain, for its tenth edition from April 25th to May 1st, envisioning the future of cities and the lessons learned about urban processes. The festival explores new formats for integrating the public and addresses the challenges of urban and social design, emphasizing time as a factor of change. The Open Segments pavilion by SYN Architects contributes to this discourse by offering a fresh perspective on traditional architecture and its relevance in contemporary urban contexts. The pavilion's innovative design and cultural resonance invite visitors to reflect on the relationship between architecture, culture, and community.

SYN Architects' Open Segments pavilion at Concéntrico 10 is a remarkable exploration of Najdi architecture and its application in a contemporary public setting. The pavilion fosters small-scale interactions and examines regional space-making elements by reimagining the courtyard house typology. Modular design, sustainable materials, and integration of public and private spaces highlight the pavilion's adaptability and cultural significance. As the pavilion continues its journey to Tanween 2024, it carries with it the collective memory of its time in Spain, embodying the rich architectural heritage of the Najd region and offering a vision for the future of urban design.