PORTFOLIO Marina Qaldas
URBAN PLANNING | ARCHITECTURE | INTERIOR DESIGN | FURNITURE
CIRRICULUM VITAE
CONTENTS INTERIOR DESIGN Torre del Gallo Apartments
Botique Hotel
Leather Tanning Museum
Loggia Exhibition
FURNITURE/LIGHTING DESIGN Popcorn Couch
Dior Store Displays
Sliding Table
Table Lamp
ARCHITECTURE Cardboard Installation
Copenhagen Library
Micro-Finance Bank
URBAN PLANNING Wadi Al Aqiq, Medina
PAINTINGS/SKETCHES
Residential Development, Cairo
Residential Compound, Cairo
Architecture School Extension
Architecture School
Family Vacation House
Art Gallery Pavillion
INTERIOR | TORRE DEL GALO APARTMENTS, FLORENCE A historical building located outside Florence city center on the mountains overlooking the center and a magniďŹ cent view. The Torre del Gallo apartments rehabilitate the building and optimize the view using a stepping treehouse concept in which each room of the house overlooks the city. The exterior is completely preserved and utilized within the design.
The building itself is partially submerged within the earth in a very sharp topographical site. A stepping treehouse grows from within and extendeds outwards creating balconies for every space within, as if reaching out and growing onto the landscape. A periphery of skylight provides natural light during the day, inďŹ lling the open spaces inside the building.
TOPOGRAPHY
EXTENDED BALCONIES
BUILDING FRONT
GROUND FLOOR PLAN
FIRST FLOOR PLAN
MATERIALS
SITE EXISTING MATERIALS
New materials consist of natural elements like carrara marble, oxidised copper, fair-faced concrete, and wooden planks.
All rooms in the house, bathrooms, bedrooms etc. have vertical openings which open to the large oeversized windows in the facade overlooking the view, so the user is constantly aware of this majestic location.
Balconies extend from the interior, each one at a level to overlook the view and enjoy the outdoors, directly open to the garden landscape.
SECTION B-B
SECTION C-C
INTERIOR | BOUTIQUE HOTEL, FLORENCE Three floors in a historically documented building in Piazza di Repubblicca, city center Florence. The rehabilitation project, inspired by the urban density and formation of the city of Florence. The solid and void map of the city translates into a tight passageways and dramatic space climax inside the hotel capturing the essence of walking through the city. The hotel consists of luxury suites and double rooms.
Study plans and section showing translation of city’s solid to void, arriving at large open spaces decorated by a ceiling installation of copper rods - each at different length, capturing the area and demanding awe. As the user steps forward, every view is different from every angle, much as one would stare at the magnificent Florence Duomo and continue to see new details every single time.
THIRD FLOOR PLAN
FOURTH FLOOR PLAN
FIFTH FLOOR PLAN
MATERIALS A minimalist approach was used for the room sinteriors. Natural and uninterfering materials used for room interiors with copper used for furniture details as a continuation of the outside. Carrara marble, a Florentine speciality, earth colors for fabrics and wood.
INTERIOR DESIGN | LEATHER TANNING MUSEUM, CAIRO The site is located in Old Cairo, adjacent to the massive stone aqueduct from the Mamluk era which runs from the Nile banks in Fum al-Khalij to the square close to the Citadel. The site lays in the area Magra Al Uyun, right in the heart of Old Cairo. History Tannery district ‘Al Madabegh’ has been laying in Magra El Uyun since the Mamluk era. The area is home to a tight-knit community of 450 factories that has produced quality leather for over 60 years. The Problem The community could face extinction in the wake of increasing material costs and the inability to expand. In addition, the government aims to transform Old Cairo into a touristic area. Hence, it is relocating the tanning factory to an industrial area, about 50km outside of Cairo, leaving workers of the area and local craftsmen unemployed. Project Aim This project aims to foresee an urban renewal scheme for the area. After assessing the needs of the working community, a new function for the main leather tannery workshop space is proposed – a historical museum for leather manufacture, providing jobs for the existing area residents, who have been working for years in the industry and possess the complete knowledge of the process and can “tell their story”.
Existing plan shows main warehouse structure preserved. Three separate arms have been added to the main warehouse over the years for expansion.
The museum processes are organised in their order of production. Museum machinery layout: Leather production process: Wet area Warehousing and sorting Soaking De-fleshing Liming Tanning Samming Shaving Dye and retain drums Drying Staking Dry area Conditioning Polishing Spraying Measuring Sorting
MUSEUM PLAN
Design Concept The museum provides an experiential learning experience; not simply a showcase of tanning leather history. The design recreates the atmosphere and setting of the environment in the old tannery. A physical exertion and demand is made to pass through the processes which further enforces the harsh and demanding process of tanning leather. A language of sharp contrasts is used to recreate this feeling. Contrasts in light and shadow, artiďŹ cial and natural, contrasts in materials, original preserved versus new, and contrasts in space formations; tightness and chaotic versus open and spacious.
SECTION B-B
The entrance is through a long dark dramatic corridor with raw hides disp dierent processes and machines to view them from every ange, while exhe hides, infringing on personal space, depicting the suocating smell of leath relax while viewing a screeen narrating the process and the old conditions dark narrow spaces previously visit
SECTION A-A
The Journey
persed in chaos. The user turns into another corridor which levels up, winding through the erting physical effort to climb up. Another corridor and the user enters into a room of hanging her dyeing. Finally, having finished the difficult portion, the user walks down and is allowed to of the factory. Finally, he/she reaches a large dramatic climax, completely contrasting to the ted and into an open naturally lit center, showing the process of leather drying, the final step.
Stylized Concept The main axes of the building were formed by its original structure. This was followed in all introduced architecture– columns, beams, glass mullions. Technology & Signage Videos, sounds, projections playing on the original walls during the tour help the user experience and get acquainted with the real imagery of the historical tannery. Scripts are written in white on the dark new walls or stands for sharp contrast and easy observation.
INTERIOR | LOGGIA EXHIBITION, FLORENCE
3
Formed by three main bays, Loggia dei Rucellai is a 15th century palatial townhouse located in Florence, Italy. Today, it is commercially used as fashion merchandise store.
4
1
The concept is inspired by the exhibitions residents - the Greek mythological pieces of art. The loggia conveys a pureness, and mystical atmosphere by using light natural materials, water, natural light, clear glass and stone. A wrought iron frames each piece of work, contrasting with its surroundings and highlighting the piece.
5
7
2
The water pool embracing the loggia reects the sun’s light, creating further penetration of natural light into the piazza.
6
FLOOR PLAN
1
2
Torso of Man
SECTIONS
Torso of Venus
3
Entablature remains
4
Aphrodite Kneeling
5
7
6
Apollo
Diana
Roman Sarcophagus
MATERIALS Whtire carrara marble, light grey matte stone floors, water, glass and wrought iron materials.
STAND CONSTRUCTION DETAILS
3 4
1
5
7
2 6
CIRCULATION
FURNITURE | POPCORN COUCH Inspired by popcorn and its airy and ‘fluffy’ nature. Popcorn couch provides a pool of varies sized soft cushions expressing comfort and inviting people to sink in.
Five-six different cushion sizes in mold; attached. These are then cut apart and covered n fabric. The steel structure in the cushion is also accounted for in the molding.
COTTON AND VELVET FABRIC COLORS (2 VERSIONS)
FURNITURE | DIOR DISPLAY Inspired by a study of Dior luxury brand’s existing style and philosophy through its history. Elegance, classy, feminine, timeless and symmetry are all defining aspects of the brand and are reflected in this three set display, including a cashier desk.
FRONT OPTION DESIGN 1
SIDE
FRONT OPTION DESIGN 2
WALL DISPLAY
FOUR SEPARATED PIECES
FRONT PIECES COMBINED
FRONT
SIDE
CASHIER AND ITEMS DISPLAY
INDEPENDENT FEATURE UNIT DISPLAY
BACK
SIDE
FURNITURE | SLIDING TABLE Sliding table is a two purpose table, providing a desk and a low table with a simple mechanism to slide into both the different heights.
50
50
50 70
70
70
TOP VIEW
TOP VIEW
TOP VIEW 16 45
16
16
26
26
42
78
16
62
78 33
38
FRONT
SIDE VIEW
BACK
16
42 26
26 38
FRONT
SIDE VIEW
BACK
FRONT
SIDE VIEW
BACK
snap to lock position and avoid hinge movement
1
2
3 maximum angle achieved
THREE MAIN PARTS: EXTRA PLANK SLIDES OUT IN PART 3
MECHANISM
hinge limitation
MATERIAL PLYWOOD
LIGHTING | TABLE LIGHT This table light or center piece uses a single element in repetition and design. Toothpicks are used to design units and then put together to create this ďŹ xture. A candle can be used to create a warm internal glow or a small single bulb unit. Two units are made: one spherical and the other cylindrical.
ARCHITECTURE | CARDBAORD PAVILLION 1:1 INSTALLATION Course project was to derive a concept statement for the architecture department in the American University in Cairo and build a pavillion representing that statement. The challenge was to build a life-size pavillion out of a selected material - cardboard. The 4 meter cubed space which could be walked in or through. Only cardboard was to be used without any adhesive support like glue or tape, or additional elements like wires, nails or staples. The structure was to support itself completely. Each slice is unique in size and shape - symbolic of each student’s unique footprint and impact in the department. The mesh structure shows that every slice contributes to the structure, joining forces and creating stability. Wedges provide strength through unity. Interactive pavillion: provides seating and storage of items for users. PROCESS
ARCHITECTURE | LIBRARY, COPENHAGEN This project was entered in an international competition by AWR for a library in the city of Copenhagen. Given the background and nature of the Danish culture, the proposed Library aims to fulfill the concept of “hygge”. The library offers various “cozy” spaces and activities which help encourage communal and social hotspots in the city. The atmosphere is one of a show-full ambiance, always creating a need to enter into the library. It is an expression of a zest for life, always inspiring and expressive of the concept of “hygge”. Design Concept The books form the backbone of the library; the source of culture; the root of the city from which all other aspects arise. Literature, science and all forms of knowledge form the basis of a vibrant and variant culture. The books are located in a tower which is centralized, emphasized and visually dominant. The spaces encircle the tower and overlook the sea and the adjacent garden. The entire structure is capped with a glass cube as a showcase to the energetic spaces and circulation within the library, hence inviting and welcoming its users.
ARCHITECTURE | MICRO-FINANCE BANK & DEVELOPMENT CENT [REHABILITATION OF ALEXANDRIA HISTORICAL STOCK EXCHANG
The micro-finance bank, built for the locals of Mina El Basal in Alexandria, Egypt, rehabilitates the historical first stock exchange building of Alexandria. The Stock Exchange bu in 1967. Its exterior facades are fully preserved and the 2-storey building is in good condition for re-use of function.
GROUND FLOOR PLAN
SECTION B-B
FIRST FLOOR PLAN
SECOND FLOOR PLAN
SECTION A-A
TER GE BUILDING]
uilding initiated in 1872 and closed
THIRD FLOOR PLAN
SUSTAINABILITY AND ENVIRONMENTAL FACTORS
VOLUMETRIC SPACES
STRUCTURE STUDY
ARCHITECTURE | ARCHITECTURE SCHOOL EXTEN
The architecture department at the American University in Cairo was not a planned space. It inhabited the previous chemistry de accomodate for the architecture students’ needs. The extension serves the needs of the students. The course required a struct choice of structure for the architecture department extension to follow the concept statement.
GROUND FLOOR PLAN
SECTION A-A
FIRST FLOOR PLAN
NSION, CAIRO
epartment. Hence, its function did not tural challenge. Space frames was the
SECOND FLOOR PLAN
SECTION B-B
THIRD FLOOR PLAN
LAYOUT
SECTION C-C
ARCHITECTURE | ARCHITECTURE SCHOOL, CAIRO The course project required a re-design of the old science building in the American Univerisity in Cairo’s old campus in Tahrir. The science building was constructed for the purpose of housing science laboratories. The requirements were to transform the science building to house a new architecture school in the American University in Cairo. The modular science building was ‘hit by a bomb of creativity’, which is the architecture school. The figurative explosion results into the new, irregular forms which are the insides of the old science building protruding out. The new structure rests on hybrid bamboo concrete columns. It uses the concept of nature as a building block. This is very irresistable to dead & wind loads according to its arrangement. The bamboo reinforcement is also used in the concrete in slab work. The bamboo creates an outdoor jungle-like experience. Green roofs are also easily accesible from every level.
CIRCULATION STUDIES
SECTIONS
SECOND FLOOR PLAN
THIRD FLOOR PLAN
ARCHITECTURE | FAMILY VACATION HOUSE, HURGHADA Designing in the philosophy of Rem Koolhaas The course project required the design of a family beach house in the philosophy of a renowned architect. The student is required to address how their “role” architect would build in the assigned contextenvironmental, geographic, socio-cultural, political and historical. The architect chosen is Rem Koolhaas. The family requirements were set by the student and the design criteria was decided accordingly. This family consisted of a father who is a musician, a mother, a son and a daughter with down syndrome. The design of the house required, therefore, a musician’s room, and a possible design where the daughter could be in clear visual connection at all times. These factors dictated and influenced the design of the house, as Rem Koolhas would have managed it. Central play room is sunk below floor level and has visual access from all spaces in the house, including parents room in the first floor. This is achieved through glass walls and the slant of the roof of the house.
GROUND FLOOR PLAN
SECTION
FIRST FLOOR PLAN
ARCHITE
The requirement ca collected of the Eg University in Cairo.
Design Concept: O
The Pavilion expres Square, different g One Element, rep ground much like th led in ‘captivity’.
PLAN
ECTURE | ART GALLERY PAVILLION
alled for “Architecture for Expression�. The project required a pavillion to house the archive gyptian Revolution of 2011. This pavillion was to be built on the campus of the American
One People, Unity, Love of Nation
sses Unity, the very concept that led to the success of the Egyptian Revolution. In Tahrir gender, religion, social classes and backgrounds came together as one. The use of peated to create a form which expresses unity and its victory. The model arises from the he people of the revolution symbolically rising from the dead; rising from the silent lives they
URBAN PLANNING | WADI AL AQIQ, MEDINA Developing a land of 1800 acres in Medina, Saudi Arabia into a large-scale urban hub containing all od residential, social and commercial branches. A concept was generated and inspired by the existing physical conditions of the land. The result targeted cultural, social, economical and physical sustainablity.
WATER TREATMENT Finding sufficient water to cover the needs of Medina citizens and agriculture has become extremely difficult. Water sources now include treated water from sewage plans in addtions to addition to groundwater, now too salty to be used. An innovative water treatment system has been developed, providing water suitable for agriculture uses as well as most sanitary uses.
CONCEPTUAL DIAGRAM OF NANOSILVER WATER TREATMENT PLANT
NATURAL DESERT VEINS
LAYOUT LAYERING
MAIN ROAD NETWORK
NEIGHBORHOOD DIVISIONS
URBAN MASSING
AGRICULTURAL LAND
A replenished Wadi Aqiq provides vast possibilities in the development of agriculture in Medina. The wadi reaches the inner lands through streams, inspired by the natural veins formed in the desert land of Medina.
Two wadis run through the site, Aqiq and Qana. They will be restored and replenished. Extension of existing lake in Medina through Wadi Aqiq.
The main read network flows north-south, providing quick access to the whole site.
Each neighborhood is divided using the dry land inspiration-reminiscent of Old Medina Urbanization.
The architecture of the project is placed along the road network, facilitating efficient movement.
All architectural masses have been placed within the agricultural lands, creating an oasis hub.
PARCEL LAYOUT
URBAN PLANNING | RESIDENTIAL DEVELOPMENT IN BOULAQ, CAIRO This course about housing in Cairo requires a survey and thorough analysis of a given problem area, in this project, Boulaq Abu El E’la in Cairo, to be re-planned for housing and services area.
STUDYING TWO ALTERNATIVE LAYOUT PROPOSALS
PLANS PROTOTYPES
SITE LAYOUT
CLUSTER FORMATION BUILDING ELEVATIONS
SECTION THROUGH CENTRAL AREA
PLANNING | RESIDENTIAL COMPOUND The objective of this project is to design a residential urban area that is oriented around a focal point while accounting for parameters of north orientation, view, light penetration and wind direction. The project accounts for form and space generation in landscape architecture.
MASTERPLAN LAYOUT
SECTION THROUGH MASTERPLAN
UNIT PLAN PROTOTYPE
PAINTINGS, DRAWINGS, HAND-MADE & DIGITAL VIEWS
Marina Qaldas