Green lamps dangle from a ceiling framed by ornate carvings. The tirelessly detailed patterns, eclectic and timeless, continue along the walls, arched windows and crevices. The colors, some rustic and some pastel, rise in contrast to the floor with its shiny off-whiteness and large geometric designs. Oil lamps, water pipes and perfume bottles tastefully adorn tables and shelves. Golden Arabic calligraphy panels the walls above, and the photograph is taken in such a way that you feel as if, with a single step, you could enter into the “Syrian Room.” Tim Street-Porter’s large and backlit photograph welcomes viewers into the Nasher’s newest exhibition opening Thursday, August 29th 2013: Doris Duke’s Shangri La: Architecture, Landscape, and Islamic Art.

Read More: New Doris Duke Exhibition Brings Islamic Art to Nasher Museum

See also: An Earthly Retreat, A Shrine to Art