Anatomy of a Majlis

When we were invited to participate in the inaugural Design Doha biennale it challenged us to question our namesake—the majlis. Anatomy of a Majlis encourages visitors to explore the various roles of the majlis: Does it merely provide entertainment, or does it also offer a haven for privacy? How does it serve as a platform for meaningful conversations, and in what ways can it facilitate deeper engagement in today's context?

Despite its widespread recognition, the definition of the majlis remains elusive—its essence is often understood more intuitively than explicitly. At its core, the majlis embodies a paradox. It is pervasive in the Arab world—influencing design across disciplines—and yet defies simple categorization. It is mainstream but intricate in function.

The majlis has historically been at the heart of community dialog, conflict resolution and strengthening social ties. It is even recognized by UNESCO for its cultural significance. But while its form has remained largely untouched, its purposes have expanded to encompass versatility amidst change—providing space for amusement, escapism and self-reflection.

Our interpretation of the majlis challenges visitors to contemplate on how this space functions both as a static construct and as a living tradition: What roles does the majlis play in contemporary social dynamics, and how does it adapt while preserving its essence?

Anatomy of a Majlis revolves around the acts of conversation, self-reflection, socializing, entertainment, hospitality and comfort. It places the majlis at the intersection of culture, design and communication.