Transforming Heritage: Nada Debs’ Vision at the Okhun Gozar Craft Salon
Lebanese designer Nada Debs has embarked on an inspiring journey of transformation at the historic Okhun Gozar Mosque in Tashkent, Uzbekistan. This 18th-century edifice, once a vibrant social hub, has been revitalized into a contemporary exhibition space that honors local craftsmanship, showcasing ceramics, embroidery, woodcarving, and jewelry.
A Unique Commission
Debs was commissioned by the Uzbekistan Art and Culture Development Foundation to breathe new life into the disused building. The goal was clear: maintain the mosque’s historic significance while adapting it for modern use. The design philosophy emphasizes cultural continuity, allowing visitors to engage with traditional Uzbek craftsmanship in a contemporary context.
Preserving Historical Essence
Although the mosque had fallen into neglect, its architectural integrity remained largely intact. Debs’ design approach involved preserving and enhancing its original features. The building’s cupolas and arches contribute to a rhythm that invigorates the interior space, subtly acknowledging Tashkent’s storied past as a pivotal stop on the Silk Road.
Debs shared her vision, stating, “The goal of the space was to create a mood that draws from the spirit of the Silk Road.” The materials chosen for the renovation — woodwork, plaster, and local Gazgan marble — serve as a warm backdrop that highlights the displayed crafts.
Architectural and Design Elements
Within the space, sophisticated interventions were introduced. The existing surfaces were restored using traditional Uzbek plasterwork, while strategic openings improved circulation. A consistent datum line ties the various spaces together, creating a cohesive flow.
To complement the heritage architecture, Debs selected a muted material palette. Bespoke wooden cabinets fitting elegantly into the arches feature traditional carvings that serve as delicate embellishments. This approach ensures that local craftsmanship is not merely decoration but an integral aspect of the overall experience.
Craftsmanship as Core Design
Throughout the project, craftsmanship is interwoven into the very fabric of the design. For instance, the distinctive ribbing of the Gange plasterwork applied to the main cupola adds a dynamic interplay of light and shadow. At the base of the cupola, intricate muqarnas (a form of honeycomb-like decorative feature) resonates with Islamic architectural traditions while enhancing the spatial experience.
Wood paneling introduces a sense of warmth to the main hall, adorned with traditional carvings. Meanwhile, green ceramic tiles embellish some display stands, and statement lighting accentuates the grandeur of the cupolas.
Custom Elements Reflecting Cultural Heritage
One hallmark of Debs’ work is her commitment to integrating custom furniture and design elements that employ traditional crafting techniques. This not only celebrates local artisanship but also provides a modern twist on classic forms. Additionally, Debs previously collaborated with master craftsman Sirojiddin Rakhmatillaev to create contemporary interpretations of traditional Uzbek outdoor seating, demonstrating her dedication to the dialogue between craft and modern design.
Conclusion
Nada Debs’ transformation of the Okhun Gozar Mosque into a craft salon illustrates a poignant intersection of history, culture, and contemporary design. The project not only preserves the architectural splendor of the past but also fosters a renewed sense of community, ensuring that the art of traditional Uzbek craftsmanship thrives in a modern context.
As visitors explore the space, they become part of a narrative that transcends time, celebrating the richness of cultural heritage while engaging with the vibrancy of contemporary artistic expressions.