Peace Bench: The Story Behind Qatar National Museum’s Iconic Design

If you've ever visited the Qatar National Museum, you've certainly noticed a half-circular silver bench in the shape of a warm smile in front of the building, with the Desert Rose in the background, which makes the silver bench the best location for Instagram photos, but do you know the full story behind it?

The Qatar National Museum's peace bench, which was designed by Snøhetta, a Norwegian design firm, is only the second of its sort in the world. The first one was recommended by the Nobel Peace Center and put in front of the UN headquarters in New York in the summer of 2019, before being transferred to a prominent location in Oslo.

‘Best Weapon’ was its previous name, but it's now known as Peace Bench. It's 6.5 meters long and constructed of 100% recyclable aluminum from Norwegian manufacturer Hydro, and it was created in partnership with the well-known Norwegian furniture business Vester. It is a message of peace and interaction across nations. The design of the chair is purposefully inclined in the center, forcing individuals to sit near each other when they sit in it. It is a deliberate method of bringing strangers together and encouraging interaction.

 If you're curious why it's dubbed the "best weapon," it's because it's named after a quotation by Nelson Mandela that's carved on the chair's roof: "the best weapon is to sit and talk."

How did the chair become up to the National Museum of Qatar?

In 2019, The Nobel Peace Center picked the Qatar National Museum to receive the bench as a gift because that the museum's essential role in bringing together many social groups to learn about Qatar's past, present, and future.

This sculpture is a representation of diplomacy and dialogue, which we urgently require in the current world.

The concept of a "peace bench" is to encourage people to sit and converse, not just with their friends, but also with strangers and enemies. "Choosing the Qatar National Museum will be a fantastic method to promote this message."  Said Nobel Peace Center Executive Director Liv Tørres.

The Qatar National Museum gives Qatar's rich legacy, culture, and future aspirations a distinct voice. All visitors from diverse cultures are welcome to explore the museum's immersive atmosphere and learn about Qatar's past, present, and future.