Rafidain Bank in Al-Salhiya

Notes

This facade of the building is designed as an interplay of surfaces, panels, and voids. Following the concrete structure, the brick facade spread over the elevation is perforated. Along the two floors of the building, these perforations are repeated with the same width. except for two that pronounce the entrance. Panels of turquoise ceramics are set within the perforations with different compositions. On the upper floor, the panels are either orthogonal or arched with vertical compositions occupying the height of the perforations. On the ground floor, each perforation displays two panels, one above the other, and only feature arched openings. In the interior, steel columns are used to strengthen the structure, but they transcend their structural function to a decorative sculptural one as the architect adheres to them a multitude of metallic profiles as ornaments.

Sources

Chadirji, Rifaat, Al-Ukhaider and the Crystal Palace, London: Riad El-Rayyes Books Ltd, 1991, pp. 392

Chadirji Foundation for Architecture and Society
 

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