Shelter 0 explores the potenital of recycled materials such as rubber to create spatial conditions that are reminiscent of vernacular Arish (palm frond) summer desert shelters. Shelter 0 is conceived as an inhabitable shelter developed for the Zero Eco-Exhibition organized by Maraya Art Centre and Bee’ah. Similar to vernacular spatial conditions, Shelter 0 is perceived through its intense surface texture, and less so as a singular object. Moreover, the use of locally made recycled material and its integration with contemporary digital fabrication techniques allows for a rethinking of vernacular spatial conditions in the 21st century.

Rubber tiles manufactured by Bee’ah are the primary material system explored in Shelter 0. Here, mass produced and recylced rubber tiles are cut into linear strips that resemble the raw form in which Arish (palm-fronds) were used to make vernacular desert houses. The result is a dynamic and highly textured interior condition that is reflects the interiors of vernacular summer houses.