Abou-Bakr Al-Sediq Azhar Institute

Full design was developed for this religious educational complex with the goal of creating a self-financed, resource-conscious institution tailored to the needs of its rural community. Surrounded by green fields and irrigation canals, the site offers natural ventilation, daylight, and open views, all of which were leveraged to inform the design.
The project consists of two U-shaped buildings, one for primary, the other for secondary education, arranged around a central courtyard. The mosque and main entrance form a natural axis between the two. Wide arcades define the courtyard edge, creating shaded circulation and spaces for student activities. Vertical shafts separate the arcades from the classrooms, maximizing airflow and natural lighting.
The architecture draws on traditional Egyptian rural forms, expressed through simplified volumes, pitched roofs, and modest detailing. Materials were selected for local availability and cost-efficiency: white cement-based paints, brickwork, terrazzo tiles, and wooden railings. The structural system is a simple column-and-beam frame using readily available materials like cement, steel, and brick,allowing for faster construction and local execution.

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ABOU-BAKR AL-SEDIQ AZHAR INSTITUTE

Location: Koom Al-Farag, Abo Al-Matameer, Al-Behaira, Egypt

Date: 1999

Scope of work: Full Design and site supervision

Site Area: 4,332 sqm

Built Up Area: 3,350 sqm