Exterior Majlis Design


Exterior Majlis Design
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558.00 Square Feet Exterior Majlis Design.
✦ Projects By: Reflection Engineering Consultancy, Abu Dhabi, Khalifa City A.
✦ Designer               : Abdul Nazar KM
✦ Location                : Abu Dhabi
✦ Submitted Date   : (22-08-2021)
✦ Finishing Date      : (18-04-2025)
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CLASSIC OPTION 01:

This architectural elevation presents a refined fusion of classical grandeur and modern outdoor living. The most striking feature is the use of classical Greco-Roman architectural elements—fluted columns topped with ornate Corinthian capitals and an intricately detailed cornice that crowns the structure with timeless elegance. These vertical columns not only support the extended roof but also frame the large glass openings, allowing for generous daylight while maintaining a stately rhythm across the façade.

Contrasting beautifully with the classic form is a modern, open pergola structure to the right, composed of vertical wooden slats that define a semi-covered outdoor lounge area. This integration of traditional and contemporary design languages brings a dynamic balance of formality and relaxed openness to the space. The lattice brick feature wall, with its pixelated 3D pattern, acts as a decorative screen that filters light and provides a subtle backdrop to the cozy seating area.

The use of natural materials is evident in the wooden deck flooring, wicker furniture, and the ambient lantern lighting, all of which add warmth and texture to the setting. The landscaped foreground, featuring lush green turf, flowering plants, and neat gravel walkways, further enhances the visual richness and organic connection of the space.

Overall, this design stands as a testament to elegant juxtaposition, where classic symmetry and detail meet minimalist, modern outdoor luxury in a harmonious architectural composition. Let me know if you'd like this adapted for a portfolio, marketing brochure, or presentation.

CLASSIC OPTION 02:

This architectural rendering exemplifies a seamless blend of neoclassical grandeur with contemporary outdoor comfort. The defining element of the façade is a majestic row of fluted columns adorned with ornate Corinthian capitals, reinforcing the classical language of architecture and instilling a sense of permanence, elegance, and hierarchy. These columns uphold an elaborate entablature with detailed cornices and dentils, showcasing fine craftsmanship and symmetry.

Contrasting this traditional form is a thoughtfully integrated outdoor living space, accentuated by natural wooden decking and comfortable lounge furniture. A modern wooden pergola structure on the right introduces linearity and warmth, balancing the historical influence of the classical elements with sleek, minimalistic design. The façade also features a creative jaali wall—an ornamental perforated screen that not only filters light in artistic patterns but also enhances ventilation and privacy.

Floor-to-ceiling glass panels in between the columns invite daylight into the interior while maintaining a transparent visual connection with the surrounding greenery. The garden landscaping is meticulous, with manicured lawns, flowering plants, potted greenery, and subtle ground lighting that elevates the ambiance during twilight hours. Gravel walkways and stone tiling in the foreground enhance functionality while contributing to the overall texture of the design.

This elevation achieves a refined architectural narrative, merging timeless classicism with relaxed, modern sensibilities, making it an ideal choice for a luxurious yet welcoming residential setting. Let me know if you’d like a breakdown for client presentation or design portfolio use.

CLASSIC OPTION 03:


This beautifully designed outdoor pavilion blends classical elegance with contemporary elements. The structure features grand neoclassical columns and intricate cornice detailing that evoke a timeless charm. A distinctive lattice-style feature wall adds texture and visual intrigue, offering both style and a hint of privacy. Large arched glass windows reflect the natural surroundings while seamlessly connecting the indoor and outdoor spaces. The seating area rests on a raised wooden deck, creating a cozy and defined social space surrounded by lush green landscaping. Modern pergola beams add a sleek contrast, filtering light beautifully while framing the open-air lounge. Thoughtfully placed lighting, manicured grass, flowering plants, and ornamental trees complete the serene and luxurious atmosphere, making it perfect for gatherings like barbecues or evening soirees.

This architectural masterpiece presents a harmonious fusion of classical grandeur and modern minimalism, ideal for luxury residential or hospitality settings. The pavilion is anchored by majestic Corinthian-style columns, intricately adorned with acanthus leaf capitals and refined molding that reflect timeless Greco-Roman influence. These classical elements are balanced by clean, contemporary lines seen in the vertical pergola slats and the geometric privacy wall — a unique façade element that provides ventilation, filtered light, and sculptural interest.

The elevation is framed by floor-to-ceiling glass panels that amplify natural light, visually expanding the interior space while blurring the line between inside and out. The arched entry, with its symmetrical proportions and refined detailing, acts as a focal point that draws the eye and enhances the sense of entry and sophistication.

The lounge area is laid out on a warm-toned, elevated wooden deck that contrasts beautifully with the surrounding vibrant green lawn. The transition from hardscape to softscape is seamless, with delicate flower beds and stone borders adding natural texture and color variation. Contemporary outdoor furnishings, paired with accent lighting such as lantern-style floor lamps, create an inviting space perfect for relaxation or entertaining guests.

To the side, tall palm trees and strategically placed potted plants frame the structure, contributing to the tropical-modern ambiance. The entire space is thoughtfully landscaped with privacy in mind, bordered by lush hedges and elegant fencing to maintain a secluded, resort-like feel. This setting not only emphasizes aesthetic beauty but also functionality—ideal for open-air dining, weekend barbecues, or peaceful evening retreats.

CLASSIC OPTION 04:

This modern outdoor lounge concept exudes a sleek, minimalist elegance with a bold architectural presence. The structure is defined by its clean lines, flat roof profile, and sharp contrast between light and dark materials. The standout feature is the imposing wooden frame pergola, constructed with rich, vertical timber slats that extend from the ground and wrap overhead to form a dramatic open-air canopy. It adds warmth, texture, and a sculptural quality to the otherwise crisp design.

A feature wall composed of black and white patterned tiles introduces a creative focal point, blending art with function. Vertical plantings enhance this wall, softening the contrast with natural greenery. The main facade showcases expansive floor-to-ceiling glass panels framed in dark stone or black cladding, allowing for an abundance of light while creating seamless indoor-outdoor flow and offering unobstructed views of the landscaped surroundings.

The lounge area is elevated on a wooden deck and furnished with cozy, neutral-toned outdoor seating that invites relaxation and socialization. Integrated lighting elements, such as the woven lantern and ground-level garden lights, provide ambient illumination that highlights the lush greenery and floral accents after dark. Framed by palm trees, flowering beds, and manicured hedges, this space blends nature with architecture, offering a perfect setting for modern outdoor living or entertaining.

MODERN OPTION 01:

This architectural rendering showcases a modern, single-story building with a sleek and minimalist design. The structure features a clean, rectangular form with a striking combination of concrete textures and large glass panels, emphasizing transparency and a connection with nature. The façade incorporates full-height windows framed in black, allowing ample natural light to flood the interior while offering picturesque views of the surrounding landscape.

A unique vertical wooden slat accent adds warmth and breaks the linearity of the exterior. To the left, an open seating area is partially enclosed with a concrete roof and framed by hanging pendant lights, creating an inviting outdoor living space. The landscaping complements the architecture, with well-maintained greenery, flowering plants, and strategically placed trees that provide shade and enhance visual appeal. The use of reflective surfaces and subtle lighting contributes to a sophisticated ambiance, especially at dusk or early evening. Overall, the design strikes a harmonious balance between contemporary aesthetics and natural integration.

The right side elevation of this contemporary residence reflects a masterful blend of architectural modernism and organic integration. Dominated by linear geometry, the structure embraces a minimalist ethos with clean lines and a balanced use of materials. The prominent use of dark, textured concrete gives the building a bold, grounded presence, while smooth white plaster contrasts sharply, adding lightness and clarity to the composition.

A key feature of the elevation is the expansive glass façade that acts as both a visual and functional connection between the indoor and outdoor environments. These floor-to-ceiling windows not only allow for breathtaking views of the adjacent water body and lush garden but also emphasize energy efficiency and passive lighting. The black metal grid framing the glass enhances the building's sleek, industrial edge.

The projecting roof on the left side forms a semi-enclosed patio area—perfectly shaded and furnished with modern seating and hanging pendant lights, making it ideal for outdoor dining or relaxing. Above this, the roofline is flat and subtly highlighted by ambient LED lighting, which adds a futuristic touch, especially as evening falls.

Natural elements play a vital role in the design. Trees are thoughtfully integrated into the site plan, with one emerging through an opening in the patio roof, blurring the boundary between built and natural environments. The vertical wooden slats running along the central façade provide both decorative rhythm and functional shading, casting dynamic shadows throughout the day.

The base of the structure is bordered by well-maintained garden beds filled with a mix of colorful shrubs and low-lying plants, softening the strong edges of the concrete walls. In front, a polished stone pavement leads to the entry, reflecting the ambient light and enhancing the overall sophistication of the approach.

Materials Details 

  • Wall: The walls of the majlis are crafted to balance aesthetic elegance with climatic resilience, making use of high-performance materials that echo the architectural theme of classic-meets-contemporary. The primary structural walls are composed of reinforced concrete masonry units (RCMUs), chosen for their strength, thermal mass, and durability under the intense heat and humidity of Abu Dhabi’s climate. These are finished with smooth white stucco render, which not only enhances the clean neoclassical look but also provides reflective qualities to mitigate heat absorption. The signature feature wall on the left elevation showcases an ornamental 3D jali screen, created from GFRC (Glass Fiber Reinforced Concrete) panels. This material allows intricate geometric patterns while maintaining structural integrity and weather resistance. The jali serves both decorative and passive cooling functions, allowing air and diffused light to pass through. Interior-facing wall surfaces are further protected with UV-resistant, breathable coatings to prevent moisture entrapment and cracking. Every junction, whether between wall and column or wall and glazing, is meticulously sealed with weatherproof silicone and concealed expansion joints to ensure longevity and a seamless visual flow.
  • Parapet Wall: The parapet wall in this majlis design is more than a functional element—it serves as a subtle architectural crown that completes the classical façade. Constructed from reinforced concrete, the parapet rises modestly above the roofline, maintaining proportions that align with the neoclassical aesthetic of the overall structure. The outer face is treated with the same smooth stucco finish as the primary walls, ensuring visual continuity and a clean, polished appearance. Atop the parapet, a decorative precast concrete coping is installed to protect the wall from water ingress and to add an ornamental finishing touch. This coping features a shallow bevel and cornice-inspired moldings, enhancing the silhouette of the roofline when viewed from a distance. Internally, the parapet includes a concealed waterproof membrane system and drip edges, channeling rainwater away from vertical surfaces to prevent staining or erosion. In areas where the parapet meets open sections, such as the pergola transition or jaali screen, metal flashing and sealants are used to reinforce weatherproofing without disrupting the architectural rhythm. The parapet thus acts as both a protective and aesthetic boundary, subtly reinforcing the majlis’s identity as a dignified and enduring outdoor space.
  • Windows: The windows in this majlis are thoughtfully designed to support both form and function, enhancing natural light, ventilation, and visual openness while aligning with the architectural character of the space. Framed by the stately classical columns, the windows are made of high-performance tempered glass, housed in powder-coated aluminum frames in a matte bronze or sand-tone finish to complement the earthy elegance of the façade. The glazing is double-paned with a low-emissivity (Low-E) coating, providing thermal insulation, UV protection, and acoustic control—critical for maintaining comfort in Abu Dhabi's harsh climate. Fixed panels are strategically positioned to frame views of the surrounding garden, while select sections include operable tilt-and-turn sashes to promote cross-ventilation when desired. The integration of glass into the façade breaks the visual heaviness of solid walls, creating a seamless indoor-outdoor connection that amplifies the open majlis concept. Mullions and transoms are kept minimal and clean-lined to maintain a modern profile while subtly nodding to traditional proportions. Silicone-sealed joints and concealed drainage channels within the frames ensure weather resistance and longevity. Custom laser-cut screens or motorized roller shades can also be added for enhanced privacy and sun control, without interrupting the overall design language.
  • Doors: The Doors area uses three types of wood, cast aluminum, and aluminum. Wood materials are used in the main interior areas for the entrance, living hall, family sitting, dining, and bedrooms. Cast aluminum doors are suitable for sunlight-touch regions and coastal areas with high humidity and salt exposure. Aluminum doors are used in the bathroom, kitchen, maid's room, driver's room, and other service areas.
  • Roof: Solar reflective roof coating paint, Summer Cool roof, and Heat Resistance Paint.
  • Interior Flooring: Interior floors use different types of materials, such as granite, marble, tile, and washable emulsion paint. 
  • Exterior Flooring: The exterior flooring of the majlis is designed to blend aesthetic appeal with functionality, comfort, and durability, making it ideal for year-round use in Abu Dhabi’s climate. The primary surface under the main seating area is elevated and finished with engineered wood decking or Wood-Plastic Composite (WPC) planks. This material is selected for its warm, natural appearance, anti-slip properties, and resistance to moisture, UV rays, and temperature fluctuations, ensuring minimal maintenance and long-term visual consistency. The decking is installed using a hidden fastener system over a treated aluminum or galvanized steel subframe, allowing for slight expansion and contraction while maintaining a clean, seamless look. Surrounding walkways and transitional spaces feature non-slip natural stone pavers—such as travertine, sandstone, or flamed granite—laid in a modular pattern to emphasize structure and movement. These stones are chosen for their earthy tones and textural richness, complementing the classical architectural palette. Expansion joints and subtle grading are incorporated into the layout to support proper drainage and prevent water pooling during rare rain events. The junction between flooring types is defined with brushed metal trims or flush stone borders, maintaining a cohesive and elegant finish throughout the space.

Architecture Detailing 

 Archi visuals:- This 558.00 square feet exterior majlis design is a refined blend of classical elegance and modern sophistication. Designed by Abdul Nazar KM and located in Abu Dhabi, the structure showcases a commanding presence through its neoclassical elements, most notably the ornate Corinthian columns and intricately detailed cornices. The façade features a balanced use of symmetry, with vertical elements that draw the eye upward, giving the space a grand and open feel. A decorative lattice wall adds texture and subtle privacy, while also serving as a visual highlight. The open-plan seating area is defined by a wooden deck and furnished with contemporary outdoor lounges, encouraging relaxed social interaction. Surrounding landscape elements such as manicured lawns, tropical plants, and accent lighting enhance the overall aesthetic and comfort of the space. A modern pergola element, contrasting in material and geometry, gracefully frames the outdoor lounge and introduces a transitional design feature between traditional and contemporary architecture. Completed on 17th April 2025, this majlis design harmoniously merges cultural identity with a luxurious lifestyle, making it ideal for both private relaxation and social gatherings.

This 558-square-foot exterior majlis design exemplifies a perfect harmony between classical grandeur and modern elegance. Rooted in traditional Arabian hospitality, the majlis serves as a semi-open gathering space designed to host guests in a setting that reflects cultural values, luxurious taste, and architectural refinement. The space reinterprets classical Greco-Roman motifs with a contemporary flair, creating a timeless ambiance that resonates with both tradition and modern comfort.

The façade is defined by majestic Corinthian columns, meticulously detailed with fluted shafts and ornate capitals. These columns support an elaborate entablature crowned with a richly molded cornice, reinforcing the majlis’s stately appearance. One side of the structure features an intricately perforated jaali (lattice) screen wall, adding texture, depth, and an interplay of light and shadow that changes throughout the day, blending privacy with artistic expression.

The spatial configuration is open yet subtly segmented. The main seating area is elevated on a polished wooden deck, delineating the social zone without physical barriers. Contemporary outdoor furniture in neutral tones enhances comfort while maintaining design coherence. Accents such as woven lanterns, low coffee tables, and potted greenery contribute to the inviting and laid-back character of the space.

A modern pergola frames one end of the structure, constructed using vertically stacked timber or metallic slats. This feature introduces a linear, minimalist rhythm that contrasts beautifully with the classical geometry of the columns, symbolizing the bridge between heritage and innovation. Indirect lighting is integrated throughout the landscape, spotlighting garden beds, architectural details, and pathways, creating a serene atmosphere during twilight hours.

Surrounding the majlis is a carefully curated landscape: a manicured lawn punctuated by flowering shrubs, tropical palms, and ornamental trees like frangipani. Potted plants in contemporary ceramic planters soften the edges of the paved approach, while the use of gravel and natural stone ensures texture diversity and practical drainage.

Materiality throughout the design emphasizes both durability and aesthetics. Natural stone paving, weather-resistant decking, and high-quality render finishes ensure that the structure is as enduring as it is beautiful. Glass panels along the rear façade allow for visual continuity with the surrounding garden while offering protection from wind without obstructing views.

The architectural intent behind this design is to create a luxurious yet welcoming environment where culture, comfort, and aesthetics meet. It is not just a space—it is an experience that honors the traditional majlis while embracing the evolving tastes and lifestyles of modern living in the UAE.

This exterior majlis stands as a refined manifestation of cultural heritage, artistic form, and functional design. Nestled in a private garden in Abu Dhabi, it is conceived as a retreat for socialization, reflection, and hospitality—a seamless extension of Emirati tradition into a modern architectural context. The structure occupies a modest 558 square feet, yet its visual impact and spatial generosity far exceed its footprint, achieved through strategic spatial planning, height emphasis, and an open design philosophy.

Architectural Language and Symbolism

The use of classical columns—featuring Corinthian capitals and vertical fluting—anchors the design in timeless architectural language, evoking a sense of permanence, stability, and regal presence. These elements, while inspired by ancient Greek and Roman architecture, are reinterpreted here to serve a cultural narrative of dignity and welcome. The columns frame large vertical glass panels, which symbolize openness and transparency, echoing the spirit of hospitality central to the function of a majlis.

Above, the entablature and cornice are richly detailed with classical ornamentation, yet refined to avoid visual clutter. This transition between vertical and horizontal lines is designed to lead the eye upward, subtly enhancing the sense of verticality and grandeur.

The lattice feature wall serves multiple roles: it provides a textural counterpoint to the solid columns, allows natural light to filter through in artistic patterns, and offers a sense of enclosure without sacrificing ventilation. This element also draws from Islamic geometric design, celebrating cultural identity through architectural form.

Spatial Functionality

The layout adheres to open-plan principles, where furniture placement rather than structural divisions defines zones of use. The central wooden deck functions as a raised platform, creating both a stage-like presence for the seating area and a psychological threshold that signals a transition from the external garden to the more intimate majlis space. The flexible arrangement of seating can accommodate formal gatherings, casual relaxation, or even evening events under the stars.

To the side, a modern pergola crafted with vertical louvers or fins provides partial shading while maintaining airflow. This not only protects the seating area from harsh sunlight but also casts linear shadows throughout the day, enriching the space with dynamic visual texture.

Material Palette and Detailing

Every material in the design was chosen for both performance and poetry. The columns and cornice likely utilize high-density composite or cast stone, offering the classical aesthetic without the structural weight of marble. The deck is composed of weather-resistant hardwood or WPC (wood-plastic composite), offering warmth underfoot and durability in high-heat conditions.

Lighting plays a subtle yet powerful role in the ambiance. Ground-level uplighting highlights plant beds and the architectural massing, while recessed step lights and under-deck LEDs ensure safety and soft nighttime aesthetics. The lantern-style light fixture serves as a cultural nod and focal piece, anchoring the seating area with a cozy, intimate glow.

Environmental Responsiveness

This majlis isn’t just beautiful—it’s also context-aware. The open design maximizes natural ventilation, reducing the need for artificial cooling. The strategic placement of trees and plantings around the perimeter acts as both natural shade and a privacy buffer, while the combination of gravel and hardscape ensures permeability and reduced heat absorption.

Plant selections, including plumeria (frangipani), palms, and hardy tropicals, are both ornamental and low-maintenance, suited to the arid Abu Dhabi climate. They bring seasonal fragrance, greenery, and color, further enhancing the sensory experience of the space.

Construction and Execution

From concept to completion, the project showcases expert coordination between architectural design, landscape planning, and civil detailing. Executed over a period concluding in April 2025, the majlis likely involved a multidisciplinary team to manage structural integrity, MEP (mechanical, electrical, plumbing) integration, and finishing standards. The precision in column alignment, cornice detailing, and material transitions speaks to a high level of craftsmanship and quality control throughout the process.


Conclusion

More than a structure, this exterior majlis is a thoughtfully curated environment where classical architecture, cultural depth, and modern lifestyle converge. It invites meaningful conversation, quiet retreat, and an immersive experience of elegance under open skies. Whether used for afternoon tea, late-night storytelling, or reflective solitude, the space offers timeless grace paired with practical comfort, standing as a testament to architectural storytelling at its best.

Designer Details

ABDUL NAZAR.KM
Profession: Architectural Designer
Mob (UAE)  : +971 581404130 (WhatsApp)
Mob (INDIA): +91 9544240031(WhatsApp)
Email: nazarkmofficial@gmail.com