AGA KHAN CENTRE, KING’S CROSS

A contemporary expression of a traditional Islamic garden, this tranquil courtyard is designed to encourage contemplation. Located on the roof of the Aga Khan Centre in London, the garden is enclosed on two sides by geometric screens. The tradition of Islamic pattern making influenced the composition of the screens, and alludes to the mysterious order and principles uncovered in nature. The panels frame the sky, and register the position of the sun, by casting intricate shadows across the serene stone floor. Poetry calligraphed and inscribed in marble plaques immerses the visitor in the tradition of contemplation and scholarship in Muslim heritage.

Alisha managed a team at Nelson Byrd Woltz Landscape Architects, helping to design, coordinate, and administer construction with a group of expert artisans and architects in London and Japan. The building, commissioned by the Aga Khan Development Network, and designed by Maki Architects, is part of a larger center at King’s Cross, London, intending to share the diverse knowledge and heritage of Muslim cultures across the world.