A place of learning: a School of Architecture in Old Town

Abstract

"... a realization of what particularized the domain of spaces ideal for "school" would make the designing of an institution of learning challenge the architect and awaken in him an awareness of what 'school ' wants to be, which is the same as saying an awareness of the form: ’school'. "

L. Kahn

The aim of this design thesis is to consider 'the spirit of place' in a learning institution and explore how this 'spirit' may be expressed in a work of architecture.

The project is a new School of Architecture in Old Town, Alexandria. Issues of concern include designing with sensitivity to an existing urban fabric, the articulation of boundary between public and private domains, order vs. spatial variety, and creating a place for students and the community which celebrates learning.