The initiative to revitalize the Al-Nazlah area in Fayoum represents a pioneering effort to establish a model project within a distinct cultural context. This historic district has long been home to pottery workshops, preserving age-old techniques used in construction since Ancient Egyptian times. Through meticulous experimentation and innovation, the traditional method of bonding clay pots together has been refined, maintaining its authenticity while introducing new architectural forms for roofing.
Community Engagement and Sustainability
Initiated by Architect El-Setouhy, the project fosters community engagement through participatory processes, empowering locals to appreciate, create, and govern their cultural heritage. This approach embodies the principles of social, economic, and environmental sustainability, ensuring the project’s long-term viability. Recognized with prestigious awards such as the Baku International Architecture Award and nominations for the Aga-Khan Award and Arab Association Award, the project serves as a model for sustainable environmental development.
Architectural Ingenuity
At the heart of the project is the innovative use of clay pots as a primary construction material. Each pot, with a diameter of 25cm and a thickness of 7mm, features a hollow cavity that facilitates interlocking to form load-bearing arches. The repetition and variation of these elements create diverse spatial configurations and roof treatments. The construction process, characterized by zero waste, not only promotes climatic sustainability but also ensures internal temperatures are in harmony with the surrounding environment.
Environmental Benefits
The geometric configuration of the roof design facilitates diffused sunlight, resulting in lower internal temperatures compared to conventional construction methods. This architectural intervention minimizes heat transfer, enhancing the comfort of indoor spaces. Furthermore, the project revitalizes a fading heritage practice, preserving traditional construction techniques in a contemporary context that celebrates architectural aesthetics and enriches the visitor experience.
The Reviving Al-Nazlah Center stands as a testament to the harmonious fusion of tradition and innovation, offering a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of Fayoum while embracing the challenges of sustainable development in the modern era.
