Cultural Center of Jazirat Al Dahab

Project idea

This project revolves around a center built on an island in the heart of Giza, Egypt with low accessibility; Jazirat Al Dahab. The function is twofold – firstly; development, by allowing the residents of a low socioeconomic class of the island to sharpen their handcrafting skills and by creating job opportunities, and secondly; commercial by encouraging outsiders to visit and learn about the island’s history via activities. This fulfills the SDGs of – providing facilities, creating large outdoor areas, and encouraging sustainability.

Project description

- Developing zones: workshops, working stations, and a medical building. - Commercial zones: restaurant, activity hall, coffee shop, and commercial building - Developing and commercial combined: Souq (Bazaar) and landscape area

Technical information

- The need for columns to support the building has been disregarded by the integration of post tension system for wide spans constructed with steel structures. - Sustainable materials, as well as solar panels, have been used throughout the project to reduce CO2 emissions, maintain environmental consciousness and prevent unethical disposal of waste, especially due to its closeness in location to the Nile river. - Thermal insulation has been added to the design of the building due to the naturally warm climate in Egypt. - The building relies on passive natural ventilation to minimize the use of artificial HVAC systems.