Like so many things in life, it is wondering about something that sets you on a course of learning.
The first introduction to the Ismaili Center was the architecture. I was walking down Cromwell Road near the Victoria and Albert Museum in London. Looking to one side, I saw a beautiful building of white, blue, and gray. Set both on corners of the exterior and under the overhang of the third floor were ornate teak windows that served not just as accents but a means for inviting one to explore more. From that point forward, I always made a point to walk next to the building while in the area so to take in all the various decorative elements embedded in the exterior – including those windows.
But it was not until my wife saw notice that the gardens situated on the top floor would be open for garden day – an annual event in London, where private gardens are opened to the public – that the exterior gave way to the interior. She phoned me to tell me the rooftop garden was open, and we agreed to meet. Walking into the lobby on our way to the garden, we were greeted by several individuals. The lobby itself was quite modern, with the light walls punctuated with the wooden windows and various displays. Sitting areas were filled with people chatting and enjoying refreshments. Others walked about the room, looking at photos and reading text from the display.
Left:
The Ismaili Centre
London
Photo
Courtesy of:
The Ismaili Centre
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