The project addresses the theme of forced marriage, exploring the emotional and psychological effects on women. Located in Tahrir Square in Cairo, Egypt, it serves as a pavilion that encourages discussion about societal norms and personal freedom. The design aims to reflect the clash between individual aspirations and imposed expectations, highlighting the internal conflicts that arise when young women are pressured into marriage.

Structural Framework

The pavilion is built with cold steel rods, forming a robust and unyielding structure. This choice of material underscores both strength and emotional distance, symbolizing the feelings of confinement that accompany forced marriage. The framework acts as a representation of societal limitations, effectively capturing the entrapment experienced by women in these circumstances.



Spatial Experience

Visitors walk along a path within the pavilion that reflects the journey of young women transitioning from independence to obligation. The design of the aisle evokes a sense of being trapped in a conventional setting, where the sacredness of marriage is overshadowed by anxiety and pressure. This movement through space engages the audience, prompting them to think about the complex emotions linked to forced unions.




Thematic Juxtaposition

Draped partially with wedding veil fabrics, the pavilion contrasts the cold steel with softer, romantic images associated with weddings. This combination creates a visual tension that highlights the conflicting messages surrounding marriage. Rather than depicting a joyful occasion, the design brings forth the struggles and challenges that many women face in forced marriages.




Cultural Context

By placing the structure in Tahrir Square, the project connects to the area's historical significance as a site of social change. This location adds depth to the themes presented, linking the issue of forced marriage to larger discussions about women's rights and societal development. The pavilion stands as a reminder that change is possible and encourages reflection on the realities faced by women today.

As individuals move through the pavilion, the play of light and shadow interacts with the surfaces, creating intricate patterns that mirror the complexity of hope within restriction.