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 Link: A Women's Refuge_Emily King

The Link: A Women's Refuge aims to aid victims of domestic violence and trafficking in Fez Medina. 14% of the female population of Morocco are believed to have experienced emotional or physical violence. It is now a problem which has been brought to the forefront of Moroccan society. The refuge provides accommodation for single, homeless women seeking safety and shelter as well as rooms for women with young children. Drop-in day facilities have been incorporated to create a community within the existing, disused courtyard houses. The proposal will help women to rebuild their lives and learn skills to help them find work to provide for their families in the future.

Remediating the River_Sam Morris

The city of Fez is located within one of Morocco’s most fertile valleys, the Medina is crossed by several watercourses and is well known for its hydraulic potential. Data reveals that the River Fez is relatively clean before reaching the medina and that contamination emerges from within. Given the importance of the Sebou river basin to Morocco’s agricultural sector and its overall economy, it is imperative that contamination be reduced at its source and strategies for remediation be implemented.

Artefacts of Andalus, Rue Guernis, Fes, Morocco_Benjamin Hale

It would sound strange in the 1970s if the term ‘post-impact conservation’ was mentioned, as far as conservation is concerned, this was when the median and the city of Fez as a whole saw it's greatest expansion with the influx of local immigrants into the medina. Broadly speaking, conservation signifies archeological preservation of valuable objects that may likely become extinct. Today, it goes beyond a mere celebration of an historical icon. The pressure of human needs in urban heritage sites has widened the scope of conservation in order to go in tandem with social and economic development. Conservationists came to realise that their task of scrutinising stones and cleaning surfaces is negatively affected by a dearth of funding. The pressing need of the people whose heritage is a living and not a static legacy is consequently dashed.

Twenty First Century Funduq_Rob Chilton

Having discovered the vital transitions that take place at Ain Azliten, between the Medina and the outside, it was essential to re-organise this currently chaotic space. A funduq is traditionally a place where travelling merchants would spend the night and store their wares. Here, the building forms a link between two contrasting landscapes. It includes flexible units, giving the opportunity to sell, work and store, providing excellent spaces for interchange to take place. A new 'street' takes inspiration from the intricate network of the medina, encouraging chance encounter and conversation.

Restore & Reside_Bryn Lee

A centrally located reside for the homeless. Linked and accessed by the major arteries of the Fez Medina.

Remaining clusters in the site boundaries are linkable for future expansion of the homeless reside. When expansion occurs, similar architectural techniques seen in the following illustrations will be adopted.

Culture Tangle_Philippa Birch

A sympathetic bridging element between two existing courtyard houses providing different functions. This intervention is a meeting point and knowledge exchange between tourist (tourist information centre/cafe) and guide (a guide school for children aged 15+)  keeping clear of the thread makers working in the streets. It is a catalyst to encourage circulation above ground: rooftop walkways in the winter months. It also encourages a healthy attitude for future riad owners as they have a change to sample and learn about the culture.