New architectural intervention in historically sensitive contexts: humanistic approach in historic Cairo

Abstract

All previous researches and studies that dealt with the issue of inserting new architectural development in the historic areas have focussed on the formalistic approaches of the intervention. On the other hand, design principles and guidelines issued by local authorities to control and guide the new architectural intervention in these areas focusses on character, expression and façade’s detailing. Yet, the new architectural intervention in historically sensitive contexts has not been researched at the level of humanistic approach with its socio-cultural and economic implications. This research aims to tackle this issue and establish principles and guidelines for dealing with new architectural intervention in these contexts through a humanistic approach with its reflections on the physical and nonphysical aspects. The research aims also to answer the question; are design guidelines issued by local authorities for historic areas adequate in capturing the difficult questions of integrating new and historic buildings. To attain the research objectives and answer its questions, an in-depth field study carried out at MSA University in historic Cairo is analyzed, investigated and discussed. Through this analysis and investigation, the intervention approaches are examined and assessed to establish principles and guidelines that could be followed in dealing with the issue of new architectural intervention. The case study analysis is guided by significant principles that followed in a relevant project in old Cairo that received international recognition and awarded the Aga Khan Award for Architecture for its perfect integration with the historic context. The research also examines and discusses the appropriateness of the design guidelines issued by local authorities in historic Cairo to deal with the new buildings. The results of this research are expected to help those involved in making decisions affecting the quality of the historic built environment at all levels.