Cultural Lattices: The Architectural Evolution of the Modern Mashrabiya

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Unity — it’s something many of us feel we need more of right now. Each day, the world seems to become more connected yet ever more fragmented. From the beginning, architecture has been used as a way to express identity and cultural values, with many genres over the centuries being embedded with symbolism and societal significance. Today, amongst architects and enthusiasts alike, there is a growing appreciation for architectural elements that honor heritage and are rooted in authenticity. Such features allow architects to bridge the divide between local and global communities, helping unify us through a deeper understanding of other societies and building appreciation of our shared histories.

Abrahamic Family House by Adjaye Associates, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates | Jury Winner, Religious Buildings and Memorials, 12th Annual A+Awards | Photo by Dror Baldinger

The mashrabiya, a hallmark of Islamic architecture, is one such element — a time-honored feature that speaks to the ingenuity of our ancestors, is full of symbolism, and continues to have a functionality that is as relevant and useful in the modern world as it was in ancient times.

The origins of mashrabiya might just be as varied as the patterns they are made of. Emerging from the Islamic world’s golden age (somewhere between the 8th and 14th centuries), this innovative architectural element has traveled across time and continents. Having left its mark on buildings from Marrakesh to Baghdad, from the palatial homes of Ottoman Istanbul to the wind-swept streets of Al-Andalus. It is since then, in these varied locations, that the mashrabiya has been adopted and adapted by many different regions and cultures.

The term “mashrabiya” is derived from the Arabic word “mashrafa,” which means a place of drinking or refreshment. Initially, it referred to an area where water jars were placed to cool, benefiting from the breeze that would pass through the detailed latticework. Over time, mashrabiya evolved into the name for an intricate wooden screen that adorned the windows and balconies of not only this space but all windows in the home.

Abrahamic Family House by Adjaye Associates, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates | Jury Winner, Religious Buildings and Memorials, 12th Annual A+Awards. | Photo by Dror Baldinger

It’s easy to be captivated by the intricate wooden lattices of mashrabiyas. They typically have delicate patterns that cast dappled light onto floors and walls. Many would think they are merely decorative elements, embellishments to simple stone buildings. However, these lattices are an ingenious blend of form and function and were some of the earliest methods for controlling solar gain in regions with high solar irradiance.

Mashrabiyas shield interiors from the harsh glare of the sun, channeling cooling breezes into rooms and offering privacy without severing the connection to the world outside. The latticework allows for diffused light to enter a room, reducing glare and minimizing the harshness of direct sunlight. This diffusion of light protects interiors from overheating and minimizes the need for artificial lighting, ultimately conserving energy. Studies in passive cooling techniques have demonstrated that these kinds of traditional methods can reduce indoor temperatures by as much as 50 to 60 degrees Fahrenheit (10 to 15 degrees Celsius), creating more comfortable living conditions without reliance on modern HVAC systems.

United States Consulate General by Richärd Kennedy Architects, Hyderabad, India | Jury Winner, Government and Civic Buildings, 12th Annual A+Awards | Photograph by Gabe Border

Equally, mashrabiyas are designed to improve and facilitate natural ventilation. The small apertures in the lattice create a stack effect, where cooler air from the exterior is drawn in while warmer air is expelled through other openings, which creates a natural cooling breeze within the space without the need for excessive energy use.In recent years, with many towns and cities facing an increase in overall temperature and a desire to adopt energy-conscious architectural systems, mashrabiyas are experiencing a revival. As architects and designers search for ways to infuse contemporary buildings with local character and sustainable design principles, the centuries-old mashrabiya is regarded as an obvious solution. It is being reinterpreted and reimagined, not only in the Middle East but in cities around the globe.

United States Consulate General by Richärd Kennedy Architects, Hyderabad, India | Jury Winner, Government and Civic Buildings, 12th Annual A+Awards | Photo by Gabe Border

While installing a mashrabiya is a fantastic technical solution for climate issues, there is an additional benefit to adopting such historically and culturally significant design styles. These styles have the potential to bridge divides — not just between interior and exterior spaces but also between cultures, eras and even ideologies.

The patterns of the mashrabiya are not arbitrary. They often follow complex geometric principles that are found in various forms of Islamic art. In Islamic culture, geometric patterns are used to represent the infinite nature of creation and the togetherness of the cosmos. The repetition of geometric shapes symbolizes the infinite nature of Allah, a theme that is incredibly meaningful within Islamic spiritual thought. With that in mind, this same symbolism is a useful tool for architects who wish to convey unity with their designs.

Additionally, the mashrabiya is an excellent example of commonly explored architectural philosophy, the reconciliation of opposites, or juxtapositions. Mashrabiya can balance light and shade, control visibility and privacy, and today blend tradition and innovation. This duality is a direct reflection of the rich culture that defines Islamic architecture and one that resonates powerfully across the wider architecture community.

OFFICE @ 63 by Sanjay Puri Architects, Navi Mumbai, India | Popular Winner, Commercial Interiors (<25000 sq ft), 12th Annual A+Awards | (Also pictured at top of article)  

In multicultural urban centers, mashrabiya-inspired designs can be used as a visual and conceptual link for unity. They can honor local heritage while implementing highly modern architectural techniques, creating buildings that are both a celebration of culture and forward-thinking architecture. Whether in the context of a modern skyscraper or a restored historic building, the mashrabiya is a feature that highlights how architecture has the potential to be more than just a building.

In the end, the mashrabiya, an amazing, functional architectural element, can also be seen as an opportunity to navigate the complexities of the modern world. It shows us that true innovation often lies in the reimagining of tradition and that in finding new ways to balance the needs of the individual with those of the community, the local with the global, we might look to symbolism for answers. As we continue to search for solutions to the challenges of our time, the mashrabiya offers a model of how architecture can contribute to a more harmonious, interconnected world. And in its delicate latticework, we might just find the key to unlocking a future that is as cohesive as it is diverse.