Ansam Ahmed
student
Al-Nahrain University
Iraq
Architektura
The lack of open-air spaces and integrated landscapes in Baghdad represents a significant urban challenge, as contemporary malls, shopping centers, and… more
Esmaeil GHASEMZADEH
advisor
Islamic Republic of Iran
My architecture begins in silence — in listening to the ground before drawing a line.I do not seek… more
"The 'Baghdad Tower & Mall Center' presents a courageous architectural vision that seeks to heal the urban fabric of Baghdad by introducing integrated landscapes and open-air social spaces. The design successfully challenges the 'closed concrete box' typology of traditional malls. I particularly appreciate the metaphor of 'new birth' and the organic, plant-like emergence of the form, which creates a powerful visual landmark for the city's renewal. From a technical standpoint, the structural organization—including the central shear wall core and the 9x9m grid system—is well-conceived, providing the necessary flexibility for a complex mixed-use program that includes a hotel, offices, and commercial zones."
To further supplement this ambitious project and elevate its Atmospheric DNA, I recommend the following refinements:
Facade Performance & Breathability: While the fluid massing is striking, consider developing the building's skin to be more than just a formal gesture. A 'breathable' or kinetic facade system could help the building actively respond to Baghdad's climate, enhancing the quality of the interior 'pauses' and transition zones.
Defining the 'Sacred Void': Within the 3-floor shopping mall, I recommend introducing more deliberate 'voids' or internal courtyards. These should act as acoustic and sensory sanctuaries, breaking the rigid flow of commercial activity and offering a silent, reflective experience for the users.
Tactile Materiality: Supplement the reinforced concrete and glass with a contemporary interpretation of local materials. This would create a more nuanced sensory experience, bridging the innovative biomorphic form with Iraq's rich architectural heritage
06.05.2026