Ultra-Leggera

MAJLIS MANIA

Majlis Mania is a reimagined social space inspired by the structure and play of the Carrom board game. It challenges the traditional Majlis by integrating movement, interaction, and modularity. The central seating represents the starting point- where guests gather before dispersing to the game corners, just like Carrom pieces. Drawing from Marcello Gandini’s automotive legacy, the design combines dynamic form, expressive color, and modular functionality in a modern context.

CONCEPT

INSPIRATION

Circular door inspired by the Lancia Sibilo’s moving window
The design of Majlis Mania is inspired by the Carrom board, a game deeply rooted in traditional Majlis gatherings.
The layout mirrors the game board: a central circular space (like the game’s center) surrounded by four activity zones (like the game’s pockets).
The space encourages strategic movement and interaction, just like gameplay - guests gather, disperse, and re-engage.
Cushions are hung on the walls and picked up when needed, mimicking the tactile interaction of playing with Carrom coins.
The Majlis becomes more than just a seating areait’s an interactive, modular, and playful space that promotes community, conversation, and creativity.

CONCEPTUAL INTERPRETATION

MATERIALITY

Carpeted floors reduce noise for Carrom gameplay
Metallic accents echo automotive precision
Stained glass = modern reinterpretation of traditional Windows

SPACIAL LAYOUT & CIRCULATION

Movable Planters for Privacy & Play :

Instead of just acting as partitions, what if these planters had built-in scent diffusers (like Arabian oud, or herbs)? This could enhance sensory engagement in the Majlis while maintaining flexibility in space arrangement.

DIGITAL RENDERS

Placement of doors and windows based on the layout of the carrom game itself.

The windows are strategically placed on four corners like four pockets on the board and two centered sliding doors on two opposite side maintaining symmetry and balance.

FINAL MODEL

EXHIBITION BITS

Majlis Mania was exhibited at the National Museum of Qatar as part of the ULTRALEGGERA: A Design Journey with Marcello Gandini exhibition. The project was presented to Her Highness Sheikha Al Mayassa bint Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, highlighting its cultural and design significance.

The exhibition later traveled internationally to Museo Nazionale dell’Automobile (MAUTO), Torino, establishing a cultural dialogue between Qatar and Italy and showcasing the work in a global context.