Treasure Trove

Under an undulating, cave-like ceiling, Ammar Basheir creates a vibrant and artsy ambience for The Green Corner, which serves as a centre for archival restoration and collection of art, documents and tomes that record Bahrain’s history

- VARUNI MOHAN

Minimal, sophisticated and a hint of retro glamour best describe The Green Corner centre in Bahrain, which is a museum of sorts. This edgy space is planned by Ammar Basheir within a Brutalist-styled structure. Its vision? To serve as a landmark to archive and restore the rich literary and artistic history of the country.

Located in the heart of Muharraq, Bahrain’s former capital, this open-to-the-public space is unlike any of its contemporaries. One of the most striking interior design elements is the dramatic, rock finish, cast concrete ceiling fabricated by Studio Anne Holtrop, which is reminiscent of the undulating ceilings of grottos. The visual impact of this raw rusticity is offset by the use of custom furnishings and curated objects d’art.