A striking new pavilion has captured attention at Explora Park in Saint-Étienne, France, blending Middle Eastern and Andalusian architectural motifs with contemporary environmental concerns. The unusual structure, named Muqarnas after the traditional Islamic architectural ornament, stands as a unique intersection of art and architecture while raising questions about biodiversity, microbiomes, and ancestral craftsmanship techniques.
The pavilion's most distinctive feature is its split vault design that presents two contrasting faces to visitors. One side showcases intricate ceramic decorations featuring traditional Oriental patterns, while the opposite side is covered in vegetation that serves as a habitat for birds, insects, and small rodents. This dramatic visual contrast makes it impossible for park visitors to pass by without stopping to examine the intriguing artwork more closely.
The project represents a collaborative effort led by architect and educator Meriem Chabani, working alongside John Edom and Radhi Ben Hadid. Students from the National School of Architecture of Saint-Étienne also contributed to the pavilion's development, making it both an educational initiative and an artistic achievement. The international scope of the collaboration involved partnerships between New South (based in Algiers and Paris), Radhi Ben Hadid (operating from Tunis and Paris), and Gorbon Ceramics from Istanbul.
Beyond its aesthetic appeal, the Muqarnas pavilion serves as a platform for exploring rare craftsmanship skills and raising architectural questions about sustainability and cultural heritage. The structure demonstrates how traditional Middle Eastern and North African design elements can be reimagined in contemporary contexts while addressing modern environmental challenges.
The pavilion has already begun receiving international recognition for its innovative approach to combining cultural heritage with ecological awareness. Its design philosophy reflects a sustainable approach that honors traditional craftsmanship while creating new habitats for local wildlife, representing a model for future architectural projects that seek to balance cultural expression with environmental responsibility.
