The Oman Across Ages Museum in Manah, Governorate of A’Dakhiliyah, a project commissioned by the Royal Court Affairs, Sultanate of Oman, cleverly illuminated by independent lighting design consultancy DHA Designs.
Opening in March 2023, by His Majesty Sultan Haitham bin Tarik, the museum foundation stone was laid in 2015 by the late Sultan Qaboos bin Said. The museum showcases the unique characteristics and historical significance of the Sultanate of Oman, comprising a knowledge center and auditorium, permanent and temporary exhibition galleries, a vast garden and several dining venues.
DHA were appointed by exhibition designers Event Communications for the lighting design and commissioning of the permanent exhibition project. The aim of the project was to reflect the modern country that Oman has become, while still retaining a sense of its authentic culture and identity.
The History Gallery tells the story of Oman from its geological formation to current era. For the lighting scheme, the brief was to create a sense of place throughout the hall. DHA achieved this by providing animated lighting, allowing the space to follow a day-to-night sequence that amplifies the natural history narrative. The striking design of the exhibition mirrors Oman’s rugged landscape, with the lighting revealing the space in the way that natural light does – creating various contrasting shadows and highlights as the day changes.
The second hall, the Renaissance Gallery, explores the social, political, economic and industrial transformation of Oman. The goal was to reveal the incredible technological advances of the country in a short time by marrying the lighting with sophisticated audio-visual displays.
Throughout, delicate and valuable historical objects, from archaeological collections to modern documents, were carefully lit to conservation levels, within display cases designed especially for the project.
Sofia Henriques, Exhibition Design Coordinator at Oman Across Ages Museum said: “DHA were key in bringing the atmosphere of the museum to life. The lighting told a story, creating distinct ambiences and transforming each space to reflect the historic climate it was representing. The tone of each area was set to guide the visitors on a journey throughout Oman, and the lighting truly immerses people into the space through its overarching quality. Lighting is a key part of visual experiences and DHA have proven how to achieve this effectively.”
Jonathan Howard, Director at DHA Designs added: “It was an honour to work on this prestigious project. We are incredibly grateful to Event Communications and the Sultanate of Oman for appointing us to deliver the lighting scheme to inject the exhibition space with light and bring it to life. This project is a poignant example of how lighting can create a sense of place, transform a space and truly immerse visitors into an experience.”
The lighting design will highlight the history and present day of Oman for years to come, illuminating visitors who come to learn about the culture.
Project credits:
Client – Royal Court Affairs, Sultanate of Oman
Exhibition Designers – Event Communications
Building Architects – Cox Architecture
