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.

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.

Hammam and Glass Workshop_Helen Flynn

Miniature glass domes are a key feature of the Hammam in Fez. These small objects, when clustered in a group and placed in small holes in the domed roof of the Hammam provide the correct environmental and privacy conditions for bathing. The bulbs allow light to penetrate the space, keep water and air from entering the space, which must remain warm and humid and also maintains privacy for the users. The craft of making these small glass domes has since disappeared from Fez, and as there is currently a movement to refurbish a number of Hammams to their former glory, the glass domes must be bought in from other cities or countries.

Edible Fez_Sara Dowle

An immediate response to Place Lalla Yeddouna is its dynamic character and the constant flow of activity. Although the craftspeople give the square an element of identity and the stream of people is buzzing and incessant, the space can currently only be considered as a thoroughfare.