This contemporary museum is inspired by the Islamic architectural principles of light, geometry and water. Built on reclaimed land off the coast of Doha, the island museum comprises a five-storey main building and an education centre with a courtyard in between. The main building is monolithic limestone apart from the glass curtain walling to the north, facing the Arabian Gulf. The plan form is a square surmounted by an octagon and then a circle, which is the dome above the atrium. The dome’s facets reflect sunlight from the oculus, a play of light enhanced by chandeliers. Fountains and mist gardens complete the traditional Islamic references.

Source:

The Aga Khan Trust for Culture, 2011.