Al Bait Al Gharbi, UAE

Bait Al Gharbi—originally constructed in 1928 by the local community using traditional materials—embodies the living heritage of old Sharjah. Over nearly a century, the building endured the passage of time and underwent successive restorations by the Sharjah Institute for Heritage, first in 1997, then in 2014, and most recently in 2025. The 2025 restoration sought not only to preserve but to reanimate the historic fabric; lighting design played a crucial role.

The lighting scheme respects the authenticity of the original architectural elements—mud-brick walls, timber beams, courtyards—while introducing soft, warm illumination that reveals texture and depth without overshadowing the heritage character. Carefully positioned fixtures highlight the rhythmic pattern of arches, and the natural grain of wood. The lighting  restore a sense of volumetric calm, guiding visitors through the restored spaces with reverence and quiet intimacy.

By integrating contemporary lighting discreetly into the traditional structure, Bait Al Gharbi transforms from a conserved relic into a living heritage space—where light revives memory, enhances materiality, and enables heritage to be experienced anew by future generations.