The Cistern

Project idea

Water is the essence of the cistern. The cistern preserves and preserves water and gives it back to nature for life. The climate crisis facing Morocco is destroying water, that is, life. In order to protect against these difficult conditions brought by Geography, an ecosystem has been created that allows people to experience water underground. The cistern, designed to collect water and use that water in dry times, has been transformed into a cultural center. People come together here and contribute to sustainability through various activities

Project description

Before starting the design, the main decisions were taken from the upper scales. First the analysis of Morocco, then the analysis of Marrakech, and then the analysis of the area. According to the analysis, a future scenario is created and solutions to these problems is sought. Near the construction site is agricultural fields and tourist areas. The project have to resolve the disconnect between these two areas now or in the future. The lake was a means of establishing a relationship with the nearby settlements, and the roads previously created by humans were preserved and delivered to the dam. Then the form of algae was taken as a metaphor and settled among the green tissue, and the landscape was taken underground to protect it from difficult climatic and reproductive conditions

Technical information

Materials are one of the most important factors reflecting Marrakech's culture. Structures and landscape have been reconstructed with the soil that emerged when moving structures and landscape underground. Brick walls have become installation art elements with parametric design tools. People touch the material, feel it, and the material guides them. Thick compacted earth walls protect people from the scorching sun. Algae ensure sustainability and act as a natural Sunbreaker as an architectural element. Local crafts, wood and fabric weaving and urban furniture are produced and water are provided to the surrounding animals and green are preserved and reproduced and bring together with people.