SHAM SPIRES — Crowned Geometry in Sculpted Alabaster
Design
This lighting piece was designed with a vision that brings together the warm softness of alabaster and the elegance of Damascene mosaic, creating a piece with a unique presence in any space.
Its inspiration comes from the smooth rise of the conical form, a poetic gesture symbolizing light and elevation.
The alabaster glows with a gentle radiance reminiscent of dawn over the stones of Damascus, while the mosaic at its peak adds a touch of authentic craftsmanship that tells the story of a place and the spirit of a timeless city.
Material
Alabaster combined with Damascene wooden mosaic, crafted into a unified structure that highlights depth, authenticity, and timeless elegance.
Impact
A functional art piece that enriches spaces with architectural presence and timeless heritage.
Colors of Damascus: The Tale of Damascene wooden mosaic
The Story of Damascene Wooden Mosaic
In the heart of historic Damascus, a unique craft took shape, the Damascene wooden mosaic, a refined art of hand-cut wooden inlay that reflects the city’s deep cultural and artistic legacy. More than decoration, it became a visual language expressing balance, harmony, and identity.
Developed over centuries, this craft is rooted in meticulous craftsmanship. Skilled Syrian artisans combined natural woods, such as walnut, lemon wood, olive wood, rosewood, and mahogany, often enhanced with mother of pearl, to create intricate geometric compositions inspired by Islamic art and architectural symmetry.
Each piece is constructed from thousands of precisely cut elements, assembled entirely by hand. The patterns do not depict figurative scenes, but instead rely on geometry, repetition, and proportion, symbolizing infinity, order, and unity.
The Damascene wooden mosaic was traditionally used in furniture, boxes, wall panels, and architectural details. Its beauty lies not only in its visual richness, but in the tactile experience, the warmth of natural wood, the subtle contrast of materials, and the quiet rhythm of repeating forms.
Over time, this craft became a symbol of Syrian heritage, passed down through generations of artisans. Today, it stands as a testament to patience, precision, and timeless design, where true artistry is found in detail and endures beyond time.
CHAM SPIRES — Sculptural Alabaster Pendant Light
CHAM SPIRES — Sculptural Alabaster Pendant Light
Inspired by the timeless art of Damascene wooden mosaics, each piece is handcrafted with love from fine materials such as mother of pearl, lemon wood, walnut wood, rosewood, mahogany, and olive wood. Every tiny piece is carefully assembled by skilled artisans into intricate patterns, carrying the heritage of generations.
May this piece bring the beauty of this heritage into your place. Discover more mosaic creations crafted by MDN Design Studio
About the Designer
Majdi Alkuzbari is an interior architect, educator, and co-founder of MDN Design Studio, and a highly respected figure in the world of interior architecture, with a distinguished career spanning over fifty years. His profound dedication to cultural heritage, particularly the rich artistic legacy of Syria, has positioned him as a leading voice in the reinterpretation of tradition within contemporary design.
His remarkable portfolio includes landmark hospitality projects, medical and commercial developments, refined residential spaces, and contributions to prestigious international exhibitions across Syria, the Gulf, and Europe — including Expo 2020 Dubai. His work is recognized for its ability to infuse architecture with story, soul, and a deep sense of identity.
Renowned for his innovative use of Arabic calligraphy as an architectural and artistic language, he continues to inspire new generations of designers and artists, leaving a lasting cultural impact through every project he shapes.