Nabta Medicinal And Aromatic Plants Research Center

Faculty of Fine Arts, Alexandria University in Alexandria

Project idea

Establishing an aromatic and medicinal plants research center in Egypt holds immense importance for various reasons. Egypt boasts a remarkable wealth of aromatic and medicinal plants, deeply rooted in its ancient history and traditional healing practices.
The country's diverse climate, ranging from the fertile Nile Delta to the arid desert regions, creates a unique ecosystem that supports a wide variety of plant species.
From the aromatic treasures like chamomile, lavender, and geranium to medicinal powerhouses such as aloe vera, henna, and nigella sativa (black seed), Egypt is a treasure trove of botanical riches. These plants possess a range of therapeutic properties, including anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, antioxidant, and analgesic effects. They have been used for generations in traditional Egyptian medicine to treat various ailments, from digestive disorders to skin conditions, respiratory issues, and beyond.
By establishing a dedicated research center, comprehensive studies can be conducted to delve deeper into the chemical composition, pharmacological properties, and potential applications of these plants. This research would not only contribute to expanding the knowledge base of aromatic and medicinal plants but also lay the foundation for developing evidence-based treatments and natural remedies. Furthermore, a research center would play a vital role in preserving Egypt's botanical heritage. 
By documenting and conserving the native plant species, it would safeguard their genetic diversity and prevent the loss of valuable medicinal knowledge that has been passed down through generations.
In addition to the therapeutic value, the aromatic and medicinal plants of Egypt hold economic significance.
These plants have the potential to support local industries such as herbal medicine production, perfumery, cosmetics, and organic agriculture. By fostering research, innovation, and entrepreneurship in these sectors, the research center can stimulate economic growth, job creation, and sustainable development.
Moreover, caring for the aromatic and medicinal plants of Egypt is essential for environmental conservation.
These plants play a crucial role in maintaining biodiversity, supporting pollinators, and preserving ecosystem balance.
By promoting sustainable cultivation practices, such as organic farming and responsible wild harvesting, the research center would ensure the long-term viability and ecological sustainability of these valuable plant resources.
Investing in an aromatic and medicinal plants research center in Egypt is not only a testament to the nation's rich cultural heritage and traditional knowledge but also a strategic step towards harnessing the economic and health benefits these plants offer.
By combining scientific research, conservation efforts, and community engagement, such a center would contribute to a holistic approach that safeguards Egypt's botanical treasures, advances healthcare solutions, and promotes sustainable development for the benefit of present and future generations.

Project description

The incorporation of organic lines and natural elements into the interior design serves as a fundamental element in reinforcing the core idea of the project.

By utilizing organic lines, characterized by their fluidity, gentle curves, and harmonious flow, the interior design achieves a sense of naturalness and organic integration. These lines mimic the forms found in nature, such as the graceful curves of leaves, the meandering flow of water, or the gentle contours of landscapes. By incorporating these organic lines into the design, the space becomes more inviting, soothing, and in harmony with its surroundings.

Moreover, the use of natural elements further enhances the idea by creating a seamless connection between the interior and the external environment.
By incorporating materials like wood, stone, and natural fibers, the design embraces the inherent beauty and textures found in nature.
The presence of natural light, coupled with the integration of plants and living elements, introduces a refreshing and rejuvenating atmosphere within the space.

The combination of organic lines and natural elements not only creates a visually pleasing aesthetic but also fosters a sense of well-being and tranquility.
This design approach aligns with the project's focus on aromatic and medicinal plants, as it establishes an environment that evokes the healing and therapeutic qualities of nature.
Overall, the integration of organic lines and natural elements in the interior design plays a pivotal role in enhancing the project's concept.

By harmonizing with nature through fluid and organic forms, as well as the use of natural materials, the design fosters a connection to the rich botanical heritage of Egypt. It creates an immersive and soothing environment that not only stimulates research and innovation but also promotes well-being, making it an integral part of the overall vision for the aromatic and medicinal plants research center.

Technical information

PCM Material

In rooms with natural ventilation heating requirement of the building is reduced by using PCM heat storage materialPCM heat storage material takes up cooling heat charges in operation time without energy investmentThe heat accumulated in the heat storage material shall be removed by ventilation at nightin order to ensure that the heat storage material be able to reduce cooling requirementCross- ventilation is provided within the building structureNatural removal of the heat accumulated in the PCM material is achieved by the ventilation at night of the space between the external insulated layer of the spatial lattice girder and the internal space limiting structure containing PCM material

Used Materials

Regarding the used materials, environmental awareness and sustainability considerations increase healthy and comfortable sensation and improve the working conditions of the users of the buildingLow emission of harmful substances in the materials is the basis of the healthy inner ambienceFurthermore, concerning the used materials we do our best to give preference to recycled materials (recycled aluminium claddingrecycled concrete foundations, insulation and interior finishing materials from renewable or quickly regenerating resources)Wood used in the building are from a fully sustainable forestry, this way also minimising the CO, footprint caused by the construction and the building.

The glass in the exterior building is the same glass used in Albert Einstein Medicine School building which :

act as a grid-shell to efficiently vault 86m+ with minimum structural steel weight. The roof is designed as an assembly of layers that filter sunlight, mitigate heat, and absorb sound. The outer skylight is made up of 1,854 ultra-transparent glass panels, coated with triple-silver solar protection to reduce heat gain, and printed with a pattern of translucent ceramic dots to shade sunlight.
The glass has minimal reflectivity to avoid disturbing exterior reflections.

The inner effect:

The inner layer of the roof is a transparent membrane, micro-perforated to absorb noise and printed with a custom pattern of translucent dots that provide shading, but also glow in the light. The increasing density of dots towards the East and West ends shades low-angle sun, while the central dome is entirely clear, allowing full sunlight to reach the denser planting in the center garden. As seen from below, the overlapping layers of dots are like seeing dappled sunlight through the overlapping leaves of a tree, evoking the feeling of being under a tree canopy.