🏡 Designing a Unique Vernacular House in Ramses Wissa Wassef Art Center 🎨

I am thrilled to share with you the exciting project I worked on during the spring 2023 semester at Ain Shams University's College of Architecture. In collaboration with the renowned Ramses Wissa Wassef Art Center in Al Haraneyah, I had the privilege of designing a captivating house that embraces the Egyptian Vernacular style. This architectural masterpiece not only pays homage to local traditions but also harmonizes with the surrounding context, climate, and environmental features.

Located in the picturesque village of Al Haraneyah, Abo El Nomros, Giza Governorate, the Ramses Wissa Wassef Art Center complex provided an ideal canvas for my creative exploration. The Egyptian Vernacular style, characterized by the use of traditional materials and iconic features such as arches, domes, and vaults, became the guiding principle of my design. I was determined to capture the essence of this unique style while ensuring the aesthetic quality of the house.

To make this project truly personal and meaningful, I chose a specific scenario for my design. Imagining a vibrant family of five, consisting of two parents, a grandparent, and two children—a 19-year-old boy and a 25-year-old girl—I tailored the house to meet their diverse needs and aspirations.

The parents both work from home, with the father being an Egyptology researcher and the mother a passionate trainer in textile handcrafting. She dedicates her time to nurturing the skills of young girls, aged 10 to 15, in the art of carpet crafting. Evenings are cherished moments when the family gathers to socialize, with the exception of the grandfather, who finds solace in reading amidst the serenity of the external garden.

Throughout the design process, I carefully considered various factors to create a functional, sustainable, and aesthetically pleasing dwelling. 

Here are some key design considerations that shaped my approach:

📏 Size and Layout: The house occupies a total built-up area of 400 m², ensuring a comfortable living space while preserving the harmonious proportions of the surroundings. The footprint of the house does not exceed 20% of the total land plot area, respecting the site's openness and connection to nature. The design incorporates a maximum of two floors above ground level, balancing functionality and visual appeal.

🏠 Integration with Existing Structure: As the house is attached to the existing building on the east side, a shared wall enhances the sense of unity within the art center complex. This integration not only fosters a harmonious relationship between old and new but also maximizes the efficient use of space.

🏚️ Vernacular Design Features: The essence of the Egyptian Vernacular style permeates every aspect of the design. From the selection of local traditional materials to the skillful incorporation of arches, domes, and vaults, I strived to maintain the authenticity and cultural richness of the architectural style while adding a contemporary touch.

🔀 Functional Relationships: Creating appropriate relationships between different functions and spaces was paramount to ensure a smooth flow within the house. Thoughtfully designed areas for work, relaxation, and family interactions allow each family member to find their own sanctuary while fostering togetherness and connectivity.

🏗️ Structural System: The chosen structural system is not only robust but also complements the overall design aesthetic. By combining traditional construction techniques with modern engineering principles, I ensured that the house stands strong and withstands the test of time.

🌬️ Orientation and Climate Considerations: To optimize comfort and energy efficiency, the main buildings are thoughtfully oriented towards the prevailing wind direction. This allows for natural ventilation, minimizing reliance on artificial cooling systems. Moreover, a light color palette was employed for