Nazrin Aliyeva

advisor

AUAC / Azerbaijan University of Architecture and Construction

Azerbaijan

more

Concept and Vision
The project demonstrates a commendable effort in preserving the cultural heritage of Al Alamein while addressing the modernization and urbanization challenges the city faces today. The integration of the Badwian traditions and the maritime history of the region into the museum's concept adds immense value, creating a narrative that bridges the past with the future. The vision of making Al Alamein a year-round cultural hub instead of a seasonal tourist destination is particularly inspiring and has great potential for long-term impact.

Strengths

Cultural Preservation: Highlighting underwater treasures and their historical significance is a unique and powerful concept. It not only sheds light on maritime heritage but also engages visitors with a less explored aspect of Egyptian history.
Sustainability: The focus on energy efficiency and adapting the building to its environment is noteworthy. Utilizing light-colored materials to reduce heat gain and incorporating energy-generating devices demonstrates thoughtful and responsible design.
Resilience to Climate Change: The consideration of rising sea levels and the incorporation of defensive design elements to mitigate future risks show a forward-thinking approach, ensuring the longevity of the project.
Contextual Aesthetics: The use of rough-textured materials aligns with the cultural and environmental context of the region, enhancing the visual harmony of the project with its surroundings.
Areas for Improvement

Community Integration: While the project seeks to serve the local community, additional spaces or activities specifically designed to engage the Badwian culture (e.g., exhibitions, workshops, or craft markets) could strengthen the cultural link between the museum and the local people.
Technical Detailing: The structural system of steel trusses and sandwich panels is efficient, but more detailed information about how these elements cope with the environmental stresses, such as saltwater corrosion, would provide clarity on the building's durability and maintenance requirements.
Visitor Experience: To ensure the museum becomes a year-round attraction, incorporating interactive or immersive experiences (e.g., augmented reality tours, underwater simulations) could enhance engagement, especially for younger audiences and international visitors.
Energy Systems: While the energy-generating device is a strong addition, more clarity on the specific technology (e.g., solar panels, wind turbines) and its capacity to support museum operations would strengthen the sustainability narrative.
Opportunities

The museum could collaborate with international researchers or universities specializing in underwater archaeology to expand its influence and gain additional funding.
Hosting seasonal cultural events or educational programs tied to the underwater and Badwian heritage could further position the museum as a focal point of the city.
The roof’s energy systems could also serve as an educational feature, showcasing sustainable practices to visitors.
Overall Impression
This project reflects a deep understanding of Al Alamein's history and culture while addressing pressing contemporary issues such as climate change and energy crises. By integrating sustainability, cultural preservation, and urban resilience, the museum has the potential to become a landmark that honors the past and inspires the future. A few refinements in community engagement and technical detailing would further enhance the project's impact and success.

Dear Nazrin Aliyeva,
I’d love to thank you for your time and effort in giving my project the chance to have this amazing feedback from such a great juror!!
Your words mean alot and gave me a further look and a deeper connection to the project putting spotlights on some interesting ideas and additions that could benefit the project and push it’s vision forward..
Sincerely,
Mohamed Mamdouh