Abualhassan mohamed
student
Shorouk Academy
Egypt
Urban Design and Landscape
Creating a new educational campus in Egypt combines art, heritage, and education. It features buildings inspired by traditional Egyptian architecture,… more
Ho-gyeum Kim
advisor
Columbia University, Columbia Graduate School of Architecture, Planning and Preservation
Republic of Korea
Seasoned architect with expertises in multiple uses, including Mixed-use highries, hospitality,… more
The Marouth Art & Intelligence campus master plan adeptly integrates diverse programmatic requirements while celebrating Egypt's rich cultural heritage, notably the Giza pyramids. Each programmatic cluster, including the art academy, library, and AI campus, is thoughtfully arranged to face the pyramids, with shaded courtyards providing focal points that meander through the site perpendicular to the pyramid axis. This spine-like arrangement facilitates experiential circulation, complemented by water features and public programs, and offers a varied sense of scale ranging from single to three stories, enhancing the outdoor experience.
Refinements to the master plan could involve breaking the rigid north-south axis by introducing subtle rotations and curvature. This adjustment would improve the fluidity of circulation, maintaining connectivity between courtyards. A unified gesture spanning the entire site would create a more cohesive arrangement, enhancing the contrast between the Giza pyramids and the art campus. Additionally, incorporating greenery from the northwest and southeast edges into the site design would integrate natural elements more seamlessly, defining interactions with pedestrians and the road system. This interplay between landscape elements and the parking layout would elevate the overall design, moving beyond a mere arrangement of buildings and circulation axis.
While the traditional architectural language used throughout the major spaces—art academy, library, AI campus, and theater—reflects the context, a blend of contemporary and traditional forms could enrich the narrative, particularly at the AI campus. This fusion of styles would create a dynamic and inspiring environment for students, resonating with the campus's innovative spirit.
Despite its complexity, the Marouth Art & Intelligence campus stands as a well-designed project that harmonizes with its surroundings and holds potential to inspire and transform urban landscapes. Further developments in the arrangement could enhance its impact and functionality.