Annik Keoseyan 
Arquitecta
︎︎︎

INFRASTRUCTURAL LINES
Client: Irthi Council for Contemporary Crafts
Work: Text & Drawings 
Location: Milan Design Fair, Italy 
Date: 2023

︎ All Rights Reserved ︎

This project, commissioned by the Irthi Contemporary Crafts Council, explores the poiesis of falaj systems—ancient irrigation networks that have sustained oasis and nurtured life in arid regions for centuries. Initially conceived as an article, this exploration evolved into a publication titled "Architecture of Culture".

ARCHITECTURE OF CULTURE︎︎︎

"Architecture of Culture" is a rich compendium that weaves together the systems, strategies, recipes, and traditions of Emirati heritage, presenting them through a contemporary lens. By examining the ingenuity of these cultural practices, the publication aims to highlight their enduring relevance and inspire innovative applications in modern contexts.
Through vivid storytelling, detailed illustrations, and insightful analysis, "Architecture of Culture" not only documents the tangible aspects of Emirati traditions but also celebrates the intangible values they embody—resilience, adaptability, and a deep-rooted connection to the land. These narratives are complemented by contemporary reinterpretations, offering readers a vision of how heritage can inform design strategies that address present-day challenges such as climate change, resource scarcity, and urbanization.

The publication serves as a bridge between the past and the future, inviting architects, designers, and cultural practitioners to reimagine the application of traditional systems in ways that honor their origins while fostering creativity and progress. By bringing these stories to light, "Architecture of Culture" aspires to not only preserve but also evolve the Emirati identity in a rapidly changing world.