ASSIGNEMENT 1

MAQADES AL-NAISSANI 201720507

 Review of the Agha Khan awards.

01. 1999-2001 (CYCLE 8) : NUBIAN MUSEUM,ASWAN,EGYPT

02. 2020-2022 (CYCLE 20) : ARGO CONTEMPORARY ART
MUSEUM & CULTURAL CENTRE ,TEHRAN ,IRAN

CONTENTS PAGE 02
1.NUBIAN MUSEUM,ASWAN,EGYPT

Award Cycle: 1999-2001

Status: Awad recipient
Country of origin: Egypt
Location: Aswan,Egypt
Architect: Mahmud El Hakim
Size: 50,000 SQR
Completed: 1997

PAGE 03
1-The Nubian Museum in Aswan, Egypt, celebrates the
rich cultural heritage and civilization of the Nubian region
from ancient times to the present day. Located on the
eastern bank of the Nile, approximately 899 kilometers
south of Cairo, the museum is housed in a three-story
building with an outdoor exhibition area.

2-Its collection primarily consists of artifacts recovered

during the UNESCO salvage campaign conducted during
the construction of the High Dam, which submerged much
of the Nubian region. Notable exhibits include a diorama
showcasing the daily life of Nubian villagers.

3-Beyond its exhibits, the museum serves as a

community-oriented institution, offering educational
programs such as trips, lectures, and workshops for
schoolchildren, as well as cultural events for the wider
public. In April 2000, UNESCO recognized the museum as
a center for museology and the preservation and
conservation of archaeological remains, emphasizing its
significance for both Africa and the Middle East.

INTRODUCTION PAGE 04
Traditional Nubian architecture is either the vernacular
architecture of the villages, built in mud brick, or the
architecture of the great temples. These were simple
buildings of granite or 1 stone consisting of one or more
gateways leading to a colonnaded courtyard, which led
in turn to a hypostyle hall, followed by a vestibule and
then the sanctuary, usually at the highest level. Nubian
villages spread along the Nile in clustered terraces, and
throughout Nubia the principal entrances to houses face
the river.

ARCHITECTURE PAGE 05
The main entrance opens onto a courtyard with mastabas –
raised seating areas. The rooms of the house are arranged
along the courtyard’s far wall, the most important being the
mandara, or guest room, which has a separate entrance and
a catenary vault roof. Some living rooms – called tents or
khayma – are simply open with a flat roof of palm branches.
The houses are of mud, mud brick or stone, plastered inside
and out by the women and children, who decorate the
walls, especially the entrances, with bright and colourful
designs. The roofs of the houses are of palm trunks or
timber beams covered with palm thatch. Small openings at
high level help to circulate the air brought into the house
via the courtyard, which acts as a ventilating space and a
‘private piece of sky’ for the benefit of the household.

PAGE 06
A HARMONIOUS BLEND OF FORM AND FUNCTION
The positioning of the building was planned jointly by
the architect, Dr El-Hakim, and Dr Werkmeister, the
first landscape architect to work on the project. The
museum was placed on the ridge of the site to
preserve rock formations and provide an open view
of the Fatimid Cemetery and the Unfinished Obelisk
to the east. An overpass across the main airport road
was even proposed to link these three sites, making
the museum part of a tourist circuit. The entrance is
located on the west side of the building, oriented
towards the Nile in the same way as traditional
Nubian houses. The building is organized so that the
main exhibition hall is placed centrally between the
educational facilities to the north and the laboratories
and service areas to the south.

PAGE 07
FUSING LANDSCAPE HARMONY WITH ARCHITECTURAL ELEGANCE
The architectural massing of the Nubian Museum
seamlessly integrates with the natural contours of
the site and harmonizes with the surrounding rock
formations. Inspired by Pharaonic temples, the
central zone of the building rises taller,
emphasizing its significance within the
architectural composition.
Dr. El-Hakim's original vision for the internal
planning of the museum featured a series of ramps
leading to a platform offering panoramic views of
the entire exhibition area, with a central focus on
the statue of Rameses II illuminated by skylights.
However, due to a client misunderstanding, the
ramps were omitted from the final design, and
visitors now descend directly into the exhibition
area via steps.
Engineering Terms: Massing, Spatial Planning,
Pharaonic Architecture, Ramps, Skylights,
Functionality
OPTIMIZING FUNCTIONALITY IN THE DESIGN OF THE NUBIAN MUSEUM PAGE 08
Security concerns led to the elimination of garden
access, redirecting the exhibition flow to conclude at
the foot of the main entrance stairs. The façades, clad
in locally sourced hand-textured sandstone, feature
long, narrow, lozenge-shaped windows grouped in
pairs. A traditional Nubian open triangle motif adorns
the west façade.
The landscaping concept focuses on preserving and
highlighting the granite rock formation, with Dr.
Werkmeister designing a rock formation to climb the
building from the east, linking a roof garden to the
lower levels of the scheme.
Engineering Terms: Security Measures, Façade
Cladding, Window Design, Landscape Preservation,
Rock Formation Integration

THE EVOLUTION OF LANDSCAPE INTEGRATION AT THE NUBIAN MUSEUM PAGE 09

A water stream originating from the rock
formation served dual purposes: irrigating plants
and culminating in a small pond at the Nubian
'village'. In 1988, Dr. Leila Masri of Sites
International joined the landscaping efforts,
envisioning the landscape as a representation of
the Nile Valley.
Her concept organized the outdoor exhibition
area chronologically, mirroring the journey along
the Nile, starting with prehistoric caves, leading
to the Nubian village and amphitheater, and
culminating at the museum's front entrance.
Engineering Terms: Water Irrigation, Landscape
Symbolism, Chronological Organization, Outdoor
Exhibition Design

LANDSCAPE DESIGN EVOLUTION PAGE 10

Both designers envisioned garden entry from the lowest point of the internal
exhibition, creating a seamless continuation of the visitor experience. They
connected the roof garden to the main garden using a rock formation, ensuring
cohesive design integration.
Furthermore, they selected indigenous plants that require minimal soil and
water, addressing the challenges posed by the granite terrain. Drilling was
necessary to create drainage channels and add soil for planting, demonstrating a
commitment to sustainable landscaping practices.
Engineering Terms: Garden Integration, Sustainable Landscaping, Indigenous
Plant Selection, Drainage Solutions

COORDINATED DESIGN VISION AND SUSTAINABLE LANDSCAPING PAGE 11

Sites International introduced waterfalls into
the stream to evoke the historical
significance of the cataracts in the Nubian
environment. The 'source of the Nile' was
symbolized by the water originating from the
rock formation adjacent to the building.
Abundant planting was incorporated to
represent agricultural crops, while all paving
and hard landscaping utilized granite and
sandstone materials.
This pioneering project marked the first
landscape endeavor in Egypt undertaken by
an Egyptian firm, showcasing innovative
design concepts and sustainable practices in
landscaping.
Engineering Terms: Symbolic Water
Features, Sustainable Landscaping,
Indigenous Planting, Granite and Sandstone
Paving

SYMBOLIC WATER FEATURES AND SUSTAINABLE DESIGN PAGE 12

2.ARGO CONTEMPORARY ART MUSEUM & CULTURAL CENTRE
,TEHRAN ,IRAN

Award Cycle: 2020-2022 cycle

Status: Awad recipient
Country of origin: Iran
Location: Tehran,Iran
Architect: ASA NORTH/Ahmadreza schricker design
Completed: 2020

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The Argo Contemporary Art Museum & Cultural
Centre, situated in Tehran, was originally a 1920s
beer distillery. It underwent transformation by
Ahmadreza Schricker Architecture North (ASA
North) into a modern arts center, now housing the
Pejman Foundation. The renovated facility boasts
six distinct gallery spaces, a permanent collection,
library, artist residency, event spaces, private
studio apartment, art shop, VIP observation deck,
offices, and a non-alcoholic bar serving re-issued
Argo draft beers. This adaptive reuse project
breathes new life into a historic structure,
repurposing it as a vibrant hub for contemporary
art and cultural activities.

INTRODUCTION PAGE 14
The design process for the Argo Contemporary Art
Museum & Cultural Centre began by introducing new
structural foundations while preserving the distinctive
exposed brick load-bearing walls. Five pitched concrete
roof structures, reminiscent of neighboring historic
roofs, were added, floating 50 cm above the existing
walls. These structures serve as architectural "hats" for
climate-controlled galleries, effectively transforming
the previously exposed upper level. The split between
old and new allows diffused sunlight to filter into the
expansive 8.5-meter-high galleries, creating a dynamic
interplay of light and space. This innovative approach
combines preservation of heritage elements with
modern architectural interventions to create a unique
and functional space for contemporary art.

MODERNIZING HERITAGE PAGE 15

Former basement cellars have been converted into sunken
galleries and a completely new isolated L shaped exhibition
space for the permanent collection is now located in the
underground level. A new 70 square-meter capsule tower
located on a narrow footprint at the southern edge of the
Factory, clad in diverse strata of cast in place concrete,
houses a space for artists-in-residence.

REPURPOSING SPACES: TRANSFORMATIVE DESIGN ELEMENTS PAGE 16

Led by Iranian-Austrian architect Ahmadreza Schricker, founder
of ASA North, in collaboration with Hobgood Architects, the
Argo Factory's transformation into a museum resulted in a
significant increase in space, expanding by approximately 85%
from 480 m2 to 1,890 m2. The project features three distinct
event spaces: (A) a high-capacity auditorium for film screenings
and forums, (B) an intimate penthouse-level observatory
offering panoramic views of Tehran, and (C) a grand curved
staircase, seamlessly integrated into the existing structure,
serving as a monumental connection between the lobby and
modern galleries above.

Engineering Terms: Net Increase in Space, High-Capacity

Auditorium, Panoramic Observatory, Grand Curved Staircase,
Architectural Integration

ARCHITECTURAL COLLABORATION AND EXPANSION PAGE 17

The new underpinning structure, engineered by Behrang
Bani Adam, facilitates a harmonious dialogue between
old and new architectural elements at the Argo
Contemporary Art Museum & Cultural Centre. Inspired by
traditional metal roofs of Tehran houses, the design
introduces five floating concrete roofs as the sole
addition to the original factory's exterior form. These
roofs, each curated to create unique lighting
atmospheres, pay homage to the local architectural
heritage while infusing the cultural program spaces below
with a modern and dynamic ambiance.

REDEFINING TRADITION PAGE 18

The selection of Cycle 8 (1999-2001) and Cycle 20 (2020-2022) of the Aga Khan Award for
Architecture was based on their significance in showcasing modern approaches to architectural
design and innovation. In Cycle 8, the focus on cultural preservation and community engagement,
exemplified by the Nubian Museum in Egypt, drew attention due to its unique blend of traditional and
modern architectural elements. Cycle 20 featured the transformation of the Argo Contemporary Art
Museum & Cultural Centre in Tehran, highlighting adaptive reuse and cultural revitalization in a
historic industrial setting. These cycles were chosen for their representation of innovative
architectural projects that address cultural, social, and environmental concerns.

CHOOSING THOSE TWO CYCLES PAGE 20

 Design concept: The overarching vision and approach to architectural design.

NUBIAN ARGO
MUSEUM MUSEUM
The design concept of the Nubian Museum
The design concept for the Argo Museum
revolves around the integration of traditional
focuses on adaptive reuse and architectural
Nubian architectural elements with modern
innovation. Transforming a historic beer
design principles. The museum's architecture
distillery into a contemporary art museum,
reflects the cultural identity and heritage of
the design concept highlights the
the Nubian region, creating a space that
revitalization of cultural spaces and the
celebrates Nubian civilization.
integration of modern artistic expression.

THE ARCHITECTURAL ATTRIBUTES CONSIDERED IN THE DISCUSSION FOR

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EACH PROJECT INCLUDE
 Cultural Context:

NUBIAN ARGO
MUSEUM MUSEUM
The Nubian Museum celebrates Nubian
The Argo Museum acknowledges the cultural
culture and heritage through its architectural
context of Tehran's urban fabric and
design and exhibits. It integrates traditional
repurposes a historic industrial site into a
Nubian building techniques, materials, and
modern cultural center. It preserves the
decorative elements, offering visitors an
industrial heritage of the building while
immersive experience into Nubian history and
providing a platform for contemporary
identity.
artistic expression, contributing to the
cultural vibrancy of the city.

THE ARCHITECTURAL ATTRIBUTES CONSIDERED IN THE DISCUSSION FOR

PAGE 22
EACH PROJECT INCLUDE
 Spatial Organization:

NUBIAN ARGO
MUSEUM MUSEUM
The spatial organization of the Nubian
The spatial organization of the Argo Museum
Museum is arranged to guide visitors through
is designed to accommodate various
a chronological journey of Nubian history and
functions, including gallery spaces, event
civilization. Spaces are carefully curated to
areas, and artist studios. The adaptive reuse
create a narrative flow, leading visitors from
of the historic beer distillery allows for
prehistoric times to the present day.
flexible spatial configurations, offering
diverse experiences for visitors.

THE ARCHITECTURAL ATTRIBUTES CONSIDERED IN THE DISCUSSION FOR

PAGE 23
EACH PROJECT INCLUDE
 Circulation:

NUBIAN ARGO
MUSEUM MUSEUM
The circulation within the Nubian Museum is
: The circulation within the Argo Museum is
designed to facilitate a smooth flow of
carefully orchestrated to connect different
visitors through the exhibition spaces while
levels and functions within the building.
allowing for moments of pause and reflection.
Staircases, elevators, and corridors provide
Ramps and pathways guide visitors through
efficient access to gallery spaces, event
the museum, ensuring accessibility and ease
areas, and amenities, enhancing the overall
of movement.
visitor experience.

THE ARCHITECTURAL ATTRIBUTES CONSIDERED IN THE DISCUSSION FOR

PAGE 24
EACH PROJECT INCLUDE
 Sustainability:

NUBIAN ARGO
MUSEUM MUSEUM
The Nubian Museum incorporates sustainable
The Argo Museum implements sustainable
design principles such as passive cooling
practices such as adaptive reuse of existing
strategies, natural daylighting, and the use of
structures, energy-efficient systems, and
locally sourced materials. Its design
green building materials. By repurposing a
minimizes energy consumption and
historic building, the museum reduces
environmental impact, reflecting a
resource consumption and promotes
commitment to sustainability.
environmental stewardship.

THE ARCHITECTURAL ATTRIBUTES CONSIDERED IN THE DISCUSSION FOR

PAGE 25
EACH PROJECT INCLUDE
 Landscaping:
NUBIAN
MUSEUM
The landscaping around the Nubian Museum
is designed to complement the architectural
aesthetic and celebrate the natural beauty of
the surrounding environment. Indigenous
plants, water features, and outdoor exhibition
areas enhance the visitor experience and
create a harmonious connection to the
landscape
THE ARCHITECTURAL ATTRIBUTES CONSIDERED IN THE DISCUSSION FOR
EACH PROJECT INCLUDE
ARGO
MUSEUM
The landscaping at the Argo Museum is
integrated into the urban context of Tehran,
creating outdoor spaces that serve as
extensions of the museum experience.
Courtyards, plazas, and greenery provide
opportunities for relaxation, social
interaction, and artistic engagement.
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 Structural Innovation:

NUBIAN
MUSEUM
The Nubian Museum incorporates innovative
structural solutions to support its
architectural vision and accommodate the
exhibition program. Structural elements such
as vaulted roofs, load-bearing walls, and
integrated ramps contribute to the
functionality and aesthetics of the museum.
ARGO
MUSEUM
The Argo Museum showcases structural
innovation through the adaptive reuse of the
historic beer distillery. New structural
elements, such as floating concrete roofs and
underpinning foundations, are introduced to
enhance the spatial quality and flexibility of
the museum while preserving the integrity of
the original structure.

THE ARCHITECTURAL ATTRIBUTES CONSIDERED IN THE DISCUSSION FOR

PAGE 27
EACH PROJECT INCLUDE
comparative discussion, the uniqueness of each project can be highlighted along
with their similarities and differences:

The Nubian Museum celebrates Nubian culture and heritage through its architectural design and exhibits,
showcasing traditional and modern elements. In contrast, the Argo Contemporary Art Museum repurposes a
historic industrial site into a modern cultural center, emphasizing adaptive reuse and architectural
innovation.
Both projects prioritize cultural preservation, community engagement, and sustainability, albeit in different
contexts. The Nubian Museum focuses on preserving and showcasing Nubian heritage, while the Argo
Museum revitalizes urban space and fosters contemporary artistic expression.
Despite their distinct contexts and design approaches, both projects demonstrate a commitment to
architectural excellence and cultural significance, contributing to the enrichment of their respective
communities and heritage preservation.

U
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THANK YOU