Ammar Kammash: Weaving Architecture With Culture And Materials

The Jordanian architect, Ammar Kammash, is renowned for his ability to interweave tradition with the surrounding environment in a contemporary context. His several years of experience in various Middle Eastern countries demonstrate his capability to blend and create a symbiosis between humans and the natural environment. 

The philosophy of architecture by Amar is based on the context, materials, art, and architecture itself. A project that does not understand what surrounds it and does not use materials effectively cannot be considered true architecture. He asserts that the architect is the Site itself. Thus, it is the site that conditions, inspires, and aids in making stylistic or architectural decisions. The materiality itself, the natural conditions, the client’s requirements, and tastes all progress in parallel and interact with each other. Understanding the site demonstrates that not everything can be built everywhere. 

Based on this concept, all of his proposals reflect the philosophy he holds regarding materials and art. For example, in his studio project in Wadi Al Sheta, the use of local materials predominates.  

Art studio in Wadi Al Sheta 

Architecturally, the most striking feature of the studio is the dramatic, undulating roof that extends beyond the building’s walls to create a dynamic and sculptural form. The roof is comprised of tiered layers, possibly inspired by the local topography. It includes an overhang that provides shade and could also function as a passive cooling system, moderating the interior climate. 

The architecture is designed to blend with the surrounding environment. The construction materials appear to be locally sourced, with warm tones that harmonize with the setting and serve to offer shade. 

This kind of approach is visible in all his works. For example, at the Pella – Resthouse, stone, thick walls brutalism is evident. The Pella Rest House project combines historical context with modern architectural intervention, incorporating contemporary elements like concrete supports and traditional stone walls. The inclusion of  living trees suggests respect for the natural environment and sustainability. The architecture complements the landscape with ruins or historical structures, using similar materials and maintaining a low profile. The use of local stone for walls reflects the area’s architectural heritage, ensuring new additions are sympathetic to the original structures and blend with the natural terrain. The project pays homage to the site’s history by enhancing the landscape and architectural remnants.  

Pella – Resthouse.  

Amar believes that architecture should primarily aim to serve and function, placing less emphasis on the artistic aspect. He argues that art should be distinct from architecture, avoiding the transformation of buildings into sculptures. Instead, the objective should be to create optimal spaces for the user.  

The Feynan Ecolodge is a traditional desert architecture designed for sustainability and integration with the arid environment. It features dome-shaped roofs and locally sourced materials like adobe or mud brick, blending with the landscape’s earthy tones. The building’s thermal mass keeps interiors cool and warm, while its rough, organic walls complement the natural setting. The repetitive pattern of structural elements reduces heat gain and maximizes shading, reflecting the region’s vernacular architecture. 

The Feynan Ecolodge project  

While Khammash focuses on balancing materials and their environments, he also respects the heritage and culture of the place. He believes that technology allows for faster cultural progress and enhances cultural heritage, enabling the revision and swift advancement of practices. For this reason, he collaborates with experts to explore the intersections between botany and physics, embracing the fusion of nature and technology.  

This concept is reflected in his proposal for the Columbian University Middle East Research Centre.  The research center is designed to be a tranquil haven amidst the cacophony of its locale, seemingly suspended from the sheer rock cliff that forms a striking feature in the site’s vertical profile. Envisioned as contorted beams, the structure appears to dangle from the rocky surface, anchored by colossal concrete nails that emerge from the upright bedrock. 

Columbian University Middle East Research Centre proposal archdaily.com

Further the collaboration between architecture and technology is reflected in the proposal for the Middle East Modern Art Space. The project features an asymmetrical structure with a complex, textured facade that appears to float above narrow supporting structure. The design marries traditional elements in a contemporary fashion, potentially reflecting the region’s culture and history. The building integrates with its environment through colour and material choices and challenges conventional architectural perspectives by creating a space that encourages reflection on both its external form and internal art. 

Ammar’s proposal for the Middle East Modern Art Space  

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