Mashrabiya or cobogó: learn when (and how!) to use each one traduzido por: OPENROUTER

Hollow elements have been occupying an increasingly larger space in contemporary architecture because they allow integration between projects without completely eliminating visual boundaries. Among the most used solutions, the choice between muxarabi or cobogó appears in projects that seek balance between ventilation, natural lighting and sense of privacy.

Projeto de Andrea Chicharo. (Gui Morelli/CASACOR)

Although both resources share the proposal of creating permeability in spaces, each one produces quite different effects in architecture and in decoration. By understanding the characteristics of muxarabi or cobogó, it becomes easier to identify which solution best responds to the needs of the project and the desired atmosphere.

Main characteristics of muxarabi

The muxarabi originates from Arab architecture and is traditionally formed by hollow wooden structures with detailed geometric designs. Its main purpose is to allow air circulation and entry of light without completely exposing the projects, creating a more filtered relationship between interior and exterior.

Sonho de Banheiro: Sala de Banho São Geraldo, por Palloma Meneghello / (Haruo Mikami/CASACOR)

In contemporary projects, muxarabi appears in fixed panels, sliding doors, partitions and light enclosures. The delicacy of the designs and the presence of wood help create more welcoming and sophisticated projects, especially in interiors that value natural materials and a visually quieter atmosphere.

Main characteristics of cobogó

The cobogó emerged in Brazil and quickly became one of the most striking elements of national modernist architecture. Produced in concrete, ceramic or cement, it is composed of hollow blocks that create geometric patterns and allow constant ventilation between spaces.

Sala de Jantar - Naomi Abe. Projeto da CASACOR São Paulo 2018. (Divulgação/CASACOR)

Different from the visual lightness of muxarabi, cobogó has a more structural and sculptural presence. Besides functioning as a partition, it also creates very striking plays of light and shadow throughout the day. In interiors, it usually appears in facades, hallways, kitchens and transition areas between indoor and outdoor projects.

Muxarabi or cobogó: when does each one stand out?

The choice between the two elements depends on the desired function in the project, the aesthetics of the project and the way light and ventilation will be worked with.

To create privacy with visual lightness

Between muxarabi or cobogó, muxarabi is usually more recommended when the priority is to preserve privacy without visually weighing down the project. The hollow weaves filter the view in a more delicate way, working well in bedrooms, balconies and internal divisions.

Hannah Cabral e Monique Pampolha - Suíte Oriel. Projeto da CASACOR Rio de Janeiro 2023. (André Nazareth/CASACOR)

To highlight the architecture of the space

The cobogó tends to take on greater visual prominence within the projects. Its modules create texture, depth, and rhythm on surfaces, making it an interesting choice for accent walls, facades, and outdoor areas.

GF Arquitetos – Beto Gebara e Marila Filátiga e Terraço Paisagismo – Rodrigo Gheller - “Eu sou daqui, eu não sou de Marte”. Projeto da CASACOR Santa Catarina 2022. (Mariana Boro/CASACOR)

For cozier projects

Projects with a more natural and intimate aesthetic tend to work better with muxarabi. The presence of wood helps soften the spaces and reinforces a sense of coziness without compromising ventilation.

Projeto de Fabiano Ravaglia. (Juliano Colodeti, do MCA Estúdio/CASACOR)

For greater air circulation

The cobogó favors constant ventilation due to its wider openings. In hot regions or areas that need greater air exchange, such as laundry rooms and kitchens, it works as an efficient solution integrated with the architecture.

(Divulgação/CASACOR)

For flexible spaces

Muxarabi often appears in movable panels and sliding partitions, allowing the projects to be reorganized as needed. This feature makes a difference in integrated apartments or compact spaces.

Projeto de Mariana Monnerat. (Daniela Magario/CASACOR)

How to combine the two elements

Despite the comparison between muxarabi or cobogó, the two resources can coexist within the same project when used in a balanced way. The secret lies in understanding the function of each element and distributing their applications coherently throughout the projects.

Sebastian Gomez Arquitetura - Loft Essência. (André Nazareth/CASACOR)

While the mashrabiya tends to work better in lighter and cozier internal divisions, the cobogó can take on areas of greater architectural prominence or transition between interior and exterior. When combined with attention to proportion and materiality, both elements help create more ventilated, illuminated, and visually dynamic spaces.

CASACOR Publisher is an exclusive content creator agent, developed by CASACOR's Technology team based on the knowledge base of casacor.com.br. This text was edited by Milena Garcia.

traduzido por: OPENROUTER