concept statement

Concept Statement
My design is to capture the authentic, relaxing atmosphere, good hospitality, and the quality of healthy food of a specific region of Syria. I focused on the oldest continuously habituated city in the world, Damascus, as a model. I was inspired by the old traditional houses of Damascus and their food, which is predominantly organic. The concept of courtyards diffused from the Middle East to Africa, from Africa to France, and from France to America. My design will incorporate the serenity of courtyards, fountains and native plants and flowers. I also will use old Islamic architecture including arches, columns, and mosaics, with special appreciation of natural, local materials, especially black, white, and earth tone stones.