Origins Reframed explored the transformation of UAE-based innovative materials derived from raw local resources into functional interior and exterior materials. This installation served as an educational platform, examining the potential of natural and recycled resources in sustainable design. It highlighted local heritage alongside international influences, aligning with the UAE’s focus on sustainability and responsible design practices.

Curated by UAE-based artist and interior architect Sana Maarrawi, the mural is an abstract reinterpretation of the Golden Falcon, the official emblem of the UAE, which incorporates the UAE flag and the seven stars representing the seven Emirates of the federation.“The ‘Origins Reframed’ artwork has been made entirely from locally crafted materials by a selection of talented innovators. It aims to showcase the potential of materials and how they can be reframed to achieve beautiful and responsible design,” Maarrawi explains.

At its core, the installation featured a mural crafted from UAE-made materials, accompanied by an exhibition of Colab’s materials collection, showcasing each material’s origins, process, research, and development. The display included unprocessed materials such as date seeds, palm biomass, dried pods, and construction waste, underscoring the often-overlooked local resources and illustrating their transformation into functional, commercially viable sustainable materials. This layered installation provided insight into the creative use of repurposed resources, aiming to inform and engage visitors on the role of materials in responsible design.