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Dual Facade And Rainwater Harvesting Define A Sustainable Urban Hub

Authors:
Mohamed Madbully, Kariman Ahmed, Mohamed Talaat
Dual Facade And Rainwater Harvesting Define A Sustainable Urban Hub

Project in-detail

The integration of a dual facade with rainwater harvesting systems enhances sustainability while transforming Ramsis Square into a multifunctional urban hub serving diverse community needs.
5 key facts about this project
01
Incorporates a dual facade to enhance energy efficiency and acoustic performance.
02
Features rainwater harvesting systems for sustainable water management.
03
Integrates traditional brickwork with modern glass and steel elements.
04
Includes a strategically located microbus station for improved transit access.
05
Design prioritizes adaptable spaces to accommodate evolving community needs.
The Cairo Nexus project is a strategic architectural intervention designed to revitalize Ramsis Square in downtown Cairo, Egypt. This site serves as a crucial urban hub, facilitating transportation and accessibility while embodying significant cultural and historical context. The project focuses on creating a multifunctional space that accommodates local communities, businesses, and tourists, promoting interaction and engagement.

One of the key components of the project's functionality is the integration of commercial spaces alongside public areas, offering diverse uses that include retail, office, and leisure options. The design emphasizes accessibility, ensuring seamless connections between various modes of transportation, including buses and pedestrian pathways. By centering around a large open plaza, the project fosters social interaction, allowing for community gatherings and events.

Unique Design Approaches

The Cairo Nexus distinguishes itself through several unique design approaches. The use of a double skin facade enhances the building’s energy efficiency while providing sound insulation, which is critical in a busy urban environment. This design feature not only improves the sustainability of the project but also contributes to the overall aesthetic by creating a dynamic play of light and shadow throughout the day.

Additionally, the project incorporates rainwater harvesting systems, which facilitate sustainable water management. This aspect of the design illustrates a commitment to environmental responsibility and supports the landscape's irrigation needs. The integration of traditional motifs alongside modern materials, such as brick and glass, pays homage to Cairo's architectural heritage, creating a dialogue between the past and present.

Architectural Details and Materiality

The material palette of the Cairo Nexus project includes concrete for structural elements, ensuring durability, while brick reflects local craftsmanship, providing a visual connection to the surrounding context. Use of glass enhances transparency, allowing natural light to permeate interior spaces, thereby creating a welcoming environment. Steel contributes to the structural framework, enabling flexibility in design and ensuring adaptability for future uses.

These material choices and design strategies culminate in a cohesive architectural statement that revitalizes Ramsis Square and enhances the urban landscape of Cairo. By merging sustainability with cultural sensitivity, this project presents a clear model for contemporary urban development.

For a comprehensive understanding of the Cairo Nexus project, including architectural plans, architectural sections, and architectural designs, further exploration of the project presentation is encouraged. This detailed analysis provides essential insights into the architectural ideas that define this significant urban transformation.
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100,000€ Prize / 2025

Design a new small-scale home concept in the 10th edition of MICROHOME — 100,000 € prize + construction

Competition organisers

The 10th edition of the MICROHOME architecture competition invites architects and designers from around the world to explore the possibilities of compact, sustainable living. Hosted by Buildner in collaboration with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this special edition challenges participants to design an off-grid, modular microhome for a young professional couple, with a maximum floor area of 25 m². Designs should prioritize innovation, efficiency, and real-world feasibility. 

A total prize fund of 100,000 € will be awarded, including three main prizes, the Kingspan Award, and the Hapi Homes Award, which will grant 15,000 € and lead to the construction of the selected design. The final registration deadline is September 25, 2025, and winners will be announced on Decebmer 9, 2025. For full competition details and submission guidelines, visit microhome.info.

Microhome

Design a new small-scale home concept in the 10th edition of MICROHOME — 100,000 € prize + construction

100,000 € PRIZE FUND / KINGPSAN EDITION #10 IDEAS COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 € + Potential realisation
Eligibility Open to all
Early bird registration deadline 22 May 2025
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