Architecture

Bawiti's Timeless Scene

Salma Ali
Cairo University, Faculty of Engineering Architecture Department.
Egypt

Project idea

In Western Desert of Egypt, Bawiti's Timeless Scene Cultural Center cultural and social revival in Bahariya Oasis. This project harnesses the unique cultural heritage and traditional craftsmanship of the region to create a dynamic hub for community engagement and local economic development.

Project description

Bawiti's Timeless Scene Cultural Center aims to revitalize Bahariya Oasis in Egypt by leveraging its unique cultural heritage and traditional craftsmanship to create a dynamic community and economic hub. The Center will unify scattered local markets and talents under one roof, fostering community engagement and enhancing local commerce and tourism. Inspired by traditional desert architecture, the Center uses local materials and sustainable practices to reflect Bahariya's daily life and seasonal rhythms. Positioned on the outskirts of the city center to preserve existing market dynamics, it will serve as a marketplace and cultural showcase, offering spaces for workshops, art exhibitions, and community events to support and promote local traditions and crafts in a modern context.

Technical information


Context and Necessity:
Bahariya Oasis, characterized by its dispersed markets, variety of local talents and rich historical backdrop, faces challenges in maintaining cohesive community interaction and maximizing economic potential. The Cultural Center aims to unify these scattered markets under one roof, create workshops where the local talents can be magnified, thereby fostering a structured yet vibrant cultural center that encourages local commerce and tourism.
Concept and Design:
Inspired by the intricate urban fabric and traditional desert architecture of Bawiti, the Cultural Center integrates local materials and sustainable building practices. The design reflects the rhythm of daily life in Bahariya, capturing the essence of its seasons through space and structure. Each zone within the center is thoughtfully designed to support artistic crafts and culinary arts, creating a living narrative of the oasis's cultural timeline.
Market Integration and Community Focus:
To respect the existing Bawiti, the project is executed on the peripherals of the city center while however preserving the traditional market feel. It serves not only as a marketplace but also as a cultural showcase, offering spaces for workshops, art exhibitions, and community gatherings. This approach revitalizes local traditions and crafts, providing them with a platform to thrive in the modern context.

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