Aquaponic Fields

Project idea

The project explores architecture as a tool for ecological restoration, sustainable food production, and water purification in Lake Manzala, Egypt. It proposes an Aquaponic and Salicornia Research Center that integrates saline agriculture, aquaponic systems, constructed wetlands, scientific research, education, and public engagement. By cultivating salicornia and naturally treating lake water, the project transforms degraded wetlands into productive landscapes while creating a new architectural landmark that reconnects people with the surrounding ecosystem.

Project description

The project is a multidisciplinary research and cultivation center located on Lake Manzala, Egypt. It integrates scientific research, saline agriculture, aquaponic farming, water purification, education, and public spaces within a single environmental hub. The center includes research laboratories, aquaponic farming facilities, salicornia cultivation and harvesting areas, educational and exhibition spaces, administration offices, a public market, and outdoor gathering areas.

The signature curved roof functions as an active agricultural landscape where salicornia is cultivated and harvested through integrated maintenance platforms. As a highly salt tolerant plant, salicornia is used for food production, animal feed, biofuel research, pharmaceutical and cosmetic applications, and salt extraction, demonstrating the economic potential of saline agriculture.

The environmental strategy combines an aquaponic system with constructed wetlands to create a closed water cycle. Lake water is naturally filtered through wetland zones before being used in the aquaponic and irrigation systems. Nutrient rich water supports salicornia cultivation, while excess water is treated again through the constructed wetlands before being safely returned to Lake Manzala. This integrated system restores water quality, supports biodiversity, promotes sustainable agriculture, and demonstrates how architecture can become an active part of ecological regeneration.

Technical information

The building is designed with a primary structural system of curved steel trusses supported by reinforced concrete cores and perimeter columns. Secondary framing supports the roof cultivation system, integrated harvesting platforms, and maintenance rails. The façade combines exposed timber structure with high performance low iron glazing to maximize natural daylight while minimizing heat gain.

The curved roof incorporates multiple functional layers including waterproofing, drainage, irrigation, engineered growing medium, and salicornia planting beds. An integrated aquaponic system recirculates nutrient-rich water to support plant growth while reducing water consumption. Constructed wetland zones provide natural biological filtration that removes pollutants and improves water quality before clean water is returned to Lake Manzala. Passive environmental strategies including natural ventilation, daylighting, and sustainable materials reduce energy demand and enhance overall environmental performance.

Documentation

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