anne holtrop mimics naturally cut rocks with a 'suq' intervention in bahrain

a new ‘suq’ marketplace in bahrain

dutch architecture practice studio anne holtrop again takes to the winding streets of muharraq, bahrain with its ‘qaysariyah suq.’ the project stands as the restoration of an existing complex of shops, and marks the latest part of a larger plan to revive the ancient ‘suq’ or ‘market.’ while the built structure is characterized by its austere and raw stone materiality, the intervention will revitalize the area into a vibrant marketplace filled with cafés and shops.

with its raw edge conditions and strong reliefs which resemble a geological cut, the work echoes the nearby green corner building, which the studio, whose second office is located in muharraq, completed last year.

images by studio anne holtrop

studio anne holtrop’s master vision

the design team at studio anne holtrop introduces its ‘qaysariyah suq’ in celebration of the markets of the former bahrain capital. working together with cultural authority pearling path, the architects note the island city’s heritage and role in the pearling economy, and its location along an important trade route. with this in mind, the overall plan for the area’s rehabilitation will see not only the introduction of the new buildings, but the preservation of the existing structures throughout the suq as well. the masterplan will respect the ancient fabric of the city, creating an harmonious dialogue between the old and new.

built of sand cast concrete

like the green corner building nearby, anne holtrop’s ‘qaysariyah suq’ express unique rough edge and surface conditions with a sand-casted concrete. the strategy serves to harmonize with the coral stone materiality of the neighboring heritage buildings. hosting commercial spaces, the building hybridizes this raw expression with a cool and contemporary language.

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project info:

project title: qaysariyah suq

architecture: studio anne holtrop | @studioanneholtrop

location: muharraq, bahrain

collaborator: pearling path

photography: