A Day at Liwan: Celebrating ODD’s Successful Year

As ODD approaches the end of a successful year, it’s hard not to reflect on the incredible journey that has unfolded. To celebrate, we decided to organize a photoshoot that encapsulated the essence of this special year—emphasizing how ODD has evolved from a concept into a community.

The choice of venue for this memorable photoshoot? Liwan. The moment we saw this beautiful old school, we knew it was the perfect place to bring our vision to life. Liwan's historic walls are steeped in stories, providing the ideal backdrop to showcase how far ODD has come in such a short time.

A Venue with a Rich Legacy

Liwan, which closed its doors as a school in 2005, served the local community for five decades. In 2019, a major restoration began to preserve its historical and architectural value, spearheaded by Qatar Museums. The unique design elements of the building were preserved, alongside a small collection of objects that tell the story of its educational past.

This restoration has transformed Liwan into a space that beautifully balances heritage with modern creativity. Stepping into its halls felt like stepping into a time capsule—perfectly in sync with ODD’s ethos of blending tradition with contemporary culture.

A Vibrant Collaboration with Weekend House Kids

For the photoshoot, the kids dressed in charming ODD outfits: girls in dusty pink, and boys in warm sunset brown. These outfits were a special collaboration between ODD and Weekend House Kids, a renowned Spanish brand known for its sustainable, playful designs for kids. The colors echoed the soft, natural tones of Liwan’s architecture, enhancing the overall aesthetic of the shoot.

The resulting images captured the joy and freedom of children running through the preserved halls and courtyards of the old school, bringing an infectious energy to the space. Liwan’s atmosphere of nostalgia was alive with laughter, as these young models brought the place back to life.

A Moment of Reflection

As the children posed for photos in the old library, flipping through vintage books, a sense of connection to the past was tangible. Watching these moments unfold against the backdrop of Liwan’s grand architecture, one couldn’t help but marvel at the passage of time and the way old spaces can be transformed by new energy.

This photoshoot was more than just a visual project—it was a celebration of growth. In one year, ODD has blossomed into a community, and this milestone event at Liwan was a fitting way to honor that achievement.

As we look ahead, we’re excited to continue building on the foundation we’ve laid over the past year. ODD’s journey is just beginning, and we’re thrilled to have you—our community—alongside us as we grow, evolve, and make even more memories.

Liwan was not just a venue; it was a symbol of the past meeting the present, much like ODD itself. Here’s to many more successful years of creativity, community, and collaboration.