Idris Khan’s Monument and Pavilion of Honour for Wahat Al Karama, UAE’s Memorial Park, receives an American Architecture Prize

The American Architecture Prize recognises individuals and teams who have made a substantial contribution to all areas of architecture

Wahat Al Karama (Oasis of Dignity)

Winner in Architectural Design / Cultural Architecture

Lead Designer Idris Khan with bureau^proberts and UAP (Urban Art Projects)

This work exemplifies the power of fusion between art  and architecture in a project that conveys purpose and emotion and creates a place of reflection, serenity and significance for its nation.

At the heart of Wahat Al Karama park is the MONUMENT which serves as a unifying poetic moment despite its monumentality. The complex structure is comprised of 31 aluminium vertical tablets, the largest soaring 23 metres in height. The tablets appear to gently rest on each other symbolizing the united strength of the seven nations of the UAE. It features Arabic poems and quotes from both the late Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan and Sheikh Mohamed Bin Zayed Al Nahyan and entice the viewer to read, reflect and touch the artwork, creating a personal relationship with the Memorial. 

The PAVILION OF HONOUR marks the end of the memorial journey as a place of reflection and honour. The circular structure is centered by seven standing glass panels surrounded by a water feature, and 2,800 aluminium plates inscribed with the names of the UAE’s 
heroes. As a collaboration of artist, curator and architect it is a built expression of the artists practice and the aspirations of the region for its heroes.

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