Seminar on future of architectural identity of Muscat

MUSCAT: A seminar on the future of Architectural Identity of the Governorate of Muscat, organised by Muscat Municipality (MM), in collaboration the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA), started at Al Wahat Club in the Wilayat of Seeb on Tuesday under the auspices of Mohsen bin Mohammed al Sheikh, Chairman of Muscat Municipality (MM). Several international, regional experts and stakeholders take part at the two-day seminar to discuss the future of the architectural identity of the Governorate of Muscat in a bid to update the municipality’s construction laws and regulations. The seminar also addresses means of utilising modern technologies in ensuring unique architectural identity for Muscat. The first day included three sessions, the first of which was on challenges facing the construction environment in Muscat and the effect of urban planning and urban design practices on the identity of the city. The second panel discussion discussed practical examples of development projects. The third session touched on shaping the identity of the city through the traditional architecture, the differences between local architecture and modern architecture, as well as the contemporary architectural arts. — ONA