The Building Housing The Art

 The Islamic Museum of Art in Doha has a beautifully designed building by architect I.M. Pei.  He spent 6 months touring the Middle East before he began designing the museum.  He was inspired by mosques and the geometry of their designs.

 It sits on the edge of the Persian Gulf. There is even a boat dock on the lower level.

 In the lobby looking up to a central skylight.  The illuminated semi-circle is an Islamic inspired circular chandelier.

 I love the little circular bubbles of water rising from the granite squares, which in turn form an eight point star.

 Even the stacked napkins in the cafeteria repeat the black and white striped motif found in many parts of the museum.

 the circular staircase and overhanging chandelier make for a wonderful repeating circle design.

 

Fourth floor shot of the lobby and cafeteria.  The window overlooks the Persian Gulf and the skyscrapers of downtown Doha in the distance. (They need to extend the white leather couch to the ends of the window)

 The inverted triangle adds tension to structure.

 The exaggerated stair-step with the black and white striped stones behind it were just one of my favorite design features.

 They matched the napkins.

 I think this is most beautiful museum I have ever visited.

 Brendon and Clark enjoying the outdoor pavillion facing the Gulf.

 Qatar has only recently discovered oil. Doha used to be a sleepy pearl fishing village.

 G and G with MD and C.

Next entry will be the Islamic art housed in this work of art.