Contemporary Egyptian Architects

An architect that might represent the future of Egyptian architecture*** is one like Abdelhalim I. Abdelhalim (see archnet bio) who can combine the past with the present. In one of his most well known projects The Cultural Park for Children in Cairo ('90) he used traditional symbols like arches and vaulted roofs and a Islamic geometrical layout in a contemporary setting and use. This project is another Aga Khan award winner recognized for its enrichment of the poor urban context of this part of Cairo. Abdelhalim aslo designed the Imam Mohamed Ibn Saud Mosque and Square which made use of windtowers and desert landscaping (see archnet project info).

Conclusion

With the projects of these and other Egyptian architects one can see the work that Hassan Fathy started is being continued and expanded on by a new generation of architects. Although the exposure to the West and an international style has made an impact on Egypt as well as the rest of the Middle East, its encouraging to see that it has not erased the rich cultural and historical traditions of the region. A new building or project need not abandon the architectural roots of the region to be considered a contemporary work. Rather an incorporation of those roots seems to only enhance the project and this is something this new generation fortunately recognizes.

Much of the information in this article can be found in Contemporary Architecture in the Arab States, by Udo Kultermann as well as the various internet sources listed throughout the article.

* p27 Contemporary Architecture in the Arab States, by Udo Kultermann
** p28 Contemporary Architecture in the Arab States, by Udo Kultermann
*** p30 Contemporary Architecture in the Arab States, by Udo Kultermann

links on Egyptian architecture:
Egyptian Architecture On Line
FOCUS on EGYPT - Attractions of Modern Cairo

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