| THE AWARD |
| CATEGORIES |
| REGISTRATION |
| SUBMIT YOUR WORK |
| ENTRY INSTRUCTIONS |
| TERMS & CONDITIONS |
| PUBLICATIONS |
| DATES & FEES |
| METHODOLOGY |
| CONTACT |
| WINNERS |
| PRESS ROOM |
| GET INVOLVED |
| DESIGN PRIZE |
| DESIGN STORE |
| THE AWARD | JURY | CATEGORIES | REGISTRATION | PRESS | WINNERS | PUBLICATIONS | ENTRY INSTRUCTIONS |
Mtown Makadi Heights Downtown by Innovation Design Studio |
Home > Winners > Design #158978 >Interview |
 |
|
FS: What is the main principle, idea and inspiration behind your design?
ID: Our approach in designing Downtown Makadi is centered on creating a spine’s experience by incorporating building blocks around the spiral spine, connecting the entire project with the main node. This strategy adds depth and enriches the town’s core by creating intimate piazzas between clusters, each with distinct characters and activities. Introducing the village fabric allows users to immerse themselves in the downtown from with- in the clusters, providing a diverse range of experiences. A key aspect of our design is the extension of the central park. Additionally, we’ve introduced a green commercial spine overlooking the central park, fostering a deeper connection with nature for residents and users. Our focus on well-being is paramount, aligning with principles promoting long-term health for building occupants. Research underscores the impact of architecture and urban design on psychological well-being, influ- encing overall health. Our commitment is reflected in prioritizing the health and well-being of individuals, considering physical, mental, and emotional effects on both building occupants and the surrounding communities. This commitment shapes the essence of our meticulously crafted master plan for downtown Makadi. The embodiment of well-being is prominently displayed through its walkability. Prioritizing the safety of pedestrians, we’ve meticulously designed an environment that is alive with a joyful and vibrant atmosphere. Navigating through this space is not just a journey but an experience that evokes a sense of fun and happiness. Nature is intricately woven into the fabric of the surround- ings, creating a harmonious blend which fosters a serene and refreshing atmosphere, enhancing the overall well-being of those who engage with the space. Our commitment to creating a walkable, safe, lively, and nature-infused environment stands as a testament to the holistic approach embedded in the master plan’s design.
FS: What has been your main focus in designing this work? Especially what did you want to achieve?
ID: The wellbeing of the user! Creating a well-being centered design is of utmost importance as it plays a crucial role in promoting long-term health for building occupants. Extensive research has shown that architecture and urban design have a significant impact on the psychological well-being of individuals, hence influencing their overall health in the long term. A good design should prioritize the health and well-being of all people, taking into account the physical, mental, and emotional effects on both the building occupants and the surrounding community.
FS: What are your future plans for this award winning design?
ID: We are delighted to let you know that they started field work and we cannot wait to see the project in real life, liveable and alive.
FS: How long did it take you to design this particular concept?
ID: it took a month as it was required to be finished quickly for marketing purposes.
FS: Why did you design this particular concept? Was this design commissioned or did you decide to pursuit an inspiration?
ID: it was commissionedby the developer of Makadi Heights land, Orascom Development is one of the leading developers in Egypt and worldwide, mostly known for touristic destinations. And they have been our beloved client ever since the first project we did with them. We have worked with them in Gouna projects, Makadi Heights, Oman and recently in Senegale!
FS: Is your design being produced or used by another company, or do you plan to sell or lease the production rights or do you intent to produce your work yourself?
ID: The developer are hiring a contractor for that job but they keep us on board to follow-up on the design and supervise the work on site.
FS: What made you design this particular type of work?
ID: We love that kind of projects where the architecture is highly impacting the urban fabric and vise-versa. it fulfills our passion of space making and influencing people's lives.
FS: Where there any other designs and/or designers that helped the influence the design of your work?
ID: We definitely get inspired by other designers and projects during the design process.
FS: Who is the target customer for his design?
ID: Someone who loves to travel around, walk around and explore the beauty of cozy open spaces.
FS: What sets this design apart from other similar or resembling concepts?
ID: What makes this design unique from others resembling it is that it has it all with all oppositions! Openness yet closeness and coziness. Village fabric, yet large Central Park, water feature along the project, walkability, the allocation of the F&B that creates the right vibe for the project along the different spines and within the different clusters.
FS: How did you come up with the name for this design? What does it mean?
ID: The developer is the one who came up with the name.
FS: Which design tools did you use when you were working on this project?
ID: Sketches, Autcoad, SketchUp and 3D max
FS: What is the most unique aspect of your design?
ID: the village urban fabric and having different characters for the clusters yet all are in harmony and all have the same look & feel.
FS: Who did you collaborate with for this design? Did you work with people with technical / specialized skills?
ID: We worked with a structural design firm as well as an MEP firm to develop the IFC package of the project.
FS: What is the role of technology in this particular design?
ID: The use of AI for the marketing materials and introducing smart town, planning for the use of Electric vehicles only within the town.
FS: Is your design influenced by data or analytical research in any way? What kind of research did you conduct for making this design?
ID: Yes, all data and analysis we received from the client were put into consideration throughout the design process, as well as site analysis i.e. climate analysis, location and natural contou, land surrounding, road studies, the demography of the destination, opportunities and constraints.. etc..
FS: What are some of the challenges you faced during the design/realization of your concept?
ID: The main challenge was the level difference within the land and how to absorb it smoothly throughout the project and how to make use of it. Another challenge was to make this land free of vehicles safeguarding the pedestrian spine for optimal safety and convenience. Last but not least, the segregation between the service map and the users circulation.
FS: How did you decide to submit your design to an international design competition?
ID: We want to be recognized worldwide as we see our work has high standards and needs to be recognized, and our team are doing great in each and every project and we are excited to give them a hint of acknowledgment.
FS: What did you learn or how did you improve yourself during the designing of this work?
ID: Teamwork has definitely improved throughout the process and the methods of translating the project to the client has improved as well.
FS: Thank you for providing us with this opportunity to interview you.
A' Design Award and Competitions grants rights to press members and bloggers to use parts of this interview. This interview is provided as it is; DesignPRWire and A' Design Award and Competitions cannot be held responsible for the answers given by participating designers.
| SOCIAL |
| + Add to Likes / Favorites | Send to My Email | Comment | View Press-Release |
