An MSA unit blog



An academic blog of the msa under unit guidance from Magda Sibley, Griff Evans and Isabelle Doucet.

Thursday 26 January 2012

Medina Community Complex_Mariam Shaari

The new complex will support activities for youth and adults, expected to be an exemplary cultural site, economic stimulator and generator for the development of other projects in Fez, its region and Morocco. Aimed to refurbish and rebuild existing historic structures whilst providing a mixed use of urban spaces for the community as well as visitors to the Medina.

The concept of Restore and Rejuvenate is to restore the old existing building and rejuvenate the surrounding environment. The outline of the old building will be maintained but improved for the purpose of design to eliminate the need for a total demolition. The focus is also placed on the idea of encouraging local activities in the area and promoting the rejuvenation of social activities directly, and the nearby river indirectly. The outcome of the design is also aimed at the intention to preserve and promote comprehension of unique local cultures and activities.









The idea of site preservation is less about the building itself but more about the preservation of day to day social activities that occur in it. The spaces are designed to allow users to see first hand the work craftsmen and appreciate the plaza. In terms of crafts, this building intends to provide craftsmen with a suitable and strategic place to do business, thus allowing local arts and culture to prosper.

The design also aims to revitalise the river by inviting people to visit the area and understand its true nature thus allowing visitors greater exposure and better understanding on it's function in the society, beyond just a mere crossing. The building will also have guestrooms for people to lodge and appreciate the plaza and nearby river.









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