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INTRODUCTION 013 014 016 019
Thematic background Scope and study Approach and outline (methodology) Report structure PART 1: REVIEW INTEGRATION: THAREER PLAZA & MIDAN PLAZA AS INTERFACE ZONE CHAPTER 1
INTERFACE ZONES BETWEEN AL RASHEED AND BAGHDAD: GENERAL ISSUES Functional and spatial logics Morphological integration Cultural integration Historical integration Historical urban structure and morphology Tradition and modernity interaction
CHAPTER 2
THE TWO GATES INTERFACE Al Rasheed – Baghdad integration
023 023 024 026 030 035
041
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042 043 043
Emerging segregation. Preponderance of Al Rasheed over Baghdad Growth and centralization, decentralization and decay CHAPTER 3
044 044 048 049 049 049 052
ENVOLVING PLANNING VISION Previous plans JCP JCCF Integration strategies Polservice Traffic study aspects Infrastructure
PART II: ANALYSIS EVOLUTION: THE SHAPING OF AL RASHEED AREA CHAPTER 4 057 061 074 074 076 000 089 093 097 000
EMERGENCE AND RISE OF A GATEWAY DISCRICT. Evolution and modern times Major element of the traditional urban system Analysis of existing conditions General land use pattern in the study areas Evaluation of the present urban fabric of the area Field Survey Living conditions in the residential quarters Commercial and industrial activities Road network transportation and traffic problems Infrastructure need to new rout
154 156 156 154 163
AL RASHEED STREET The area vs. Street 1918-1980 modernizing Morphology description Existing physical condition Architectural interest
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TIGRIS RIVER FRONT AND HISTORICAL SPINES INTIGRATION Historical background Urban design vocabulary Defining the focal area
171 173 177
183 185 190 191
TRADITIONAL SUQ Historical background Inventory of the Suqs GIS technical Report Existing conditions of the Suqs area
193 195
FROM AL RASHEED TO RIVER FRONT INSIDE DISCRICT Areas definition Area character in the strategic nodes PART III: VISION RECOVERY: GOALS, CONSTRAINS, OPPORTUNITIES AND BASIC OPTIONS CHAPTER 5
201 202
GOALS, SCENARIOS AND SOLUTIONS Opportunities for rehabilitation and redevelopment Evaluation of various development options
203 204
Area integration Horizontal integration Vertical integration
000 205
Revitalization The public domain
207 208
Infrastructure Modernizing Evaluation of various option
226 236
Traffic Cars vs. pedestrian Evaluation various option
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PART VI: THE PLAN PLAN: FROM VISION TO FUTURE PLANS CHAPTER 6 241 000 000 000
TOWARD COMPREHENSION STRUCTURAL PLAN Structure plan: Introduction Continuity and change Strategic principle Urban system Comprehensive structure plan Proposed urban structure concept Proposed traffic strategies Proposed land use scheme Interventions Comprehensive criteria Historical fabric control Morphological control
242 243 260 264 267 268
PART VI: THE DESIGN DESIGN: THE SHAPING FRONTAGES CHAPTER 7 272 274
SHAPING THE AL RSHEED FRONTAGE Al Rasheed frontage Horizontal and vertical ordering system From Brick jacketing to Brick - Cladding
275 276 276 277
River frontage Overall River front profiles Traces the shaping of River front Suggestions for focal areas Streetscape
279 279 279
District character Adapting Streetscape to district character Streetscape control and design guideline Landscape
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279 279 279
Hardscape Lighting Other furniture Revitalizing, public, private and cultural domain Revitalization of heritage building Conservation strategies Conservation guidelines The public domain Developing the strategic nodes (Plazas Cultural domain Historical control Intervention criteria Typological control
281 281 285 288 292 298 298 398 300
THE IMPLIMINTATION FROM DESIGN VISION TO REALITY CHAPTER 8 305 305 306 311 312 313 ANNEX p
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INSTITUTIONAL AND OPERATIONAL FRAMEWORK A master plan formative ideas Special provisions for conservation area Al Rasheed real estate development Implementation aspects Overall tasks and Implementation methods Phasing and priorities
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1. Thematic background 2. Scope and study 3. Approach and outline (methodology). 4. Report structure
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Thematic Background Rasheed Street epitomizes the two waves of modernization that have shaped the townscape of Baghdad. The first wave introduced modernity at the turn of the twentieth century. One century later, the second wave historicizes this modernity and moved it forward. Baghdad modern past, has been in incorporated the present and future life of the city as a catalyst, a point of departure for a new modernity as well as a new centrality. As such, Rasheed Street reveals the unique relationship of Baghdad to its past and future. It also illustrates the basic dialectics engendered on the urban and architectural level. Rasheed Street project aims to initiate a wave of modernization, to reshaping the function and structure of Baghdad Central District and bringing it up to international standards. As one of the few areas in the city centre to have escapes severe physical damages, Rasheed Street formed the most important link between the city and its recent past. For this reason, it has come to be valued as Baghdad historic core. It has recovered its civic space and formal townscape. By upgrade and enhance, the area will incorporates the largest pedestrian zone in the capital. Its architectural restoration, which will adopt the latest strategies and techniques, has generated a new ' building type': the renovated office building, with a historical faรงade and a modern interior. The phases of modernization of the Rasheed Street area revolved around three issues:
- The issue of its integration in its immediate urban context and its symbiotic relationship with the historic core as an intermediate zone between the city centre and the River. - The issue of its recovery; how to reconcile townscape and architectural conservation with the exigencies of economic revitalization, to mediate between preservation and modernization or, more generally, past and future, when a historic area is subjected to the contemporary demands of economic development. This dialectic was expressed at the public level by reconciling the cultural identity of the place with the modernization of the infrastructure; and at the private level by the adaptive re-use of conserved structures for modern business. -The issue of mediation or how to translate an urban design vision into an operational process ensuring its realization. For the second time in Baghdad recent history, Rasheed Street will become a successful example of a modernizing vision translated into reality. In this case, it meant establishing a design and legislative framework that could link planning to implementation. As in other cases of reconstruction and historic district revitalization, there are no standard formulas for resolving such broad issues. Strategies are site and area-specific; they are tied to functional and economic contexts, the history of the place and the prevalent private and public sector relationships. Nevertheless, a number of useful ideas experiences of integration, mediation and recovery may be adapted to other area at the city and national level.
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Scope and study The Al-Rasheed study was started Mayoralty Of Baghdad in Feb 2009, as an attempt to establish urban planning concept and design strategies (urban design solution) which preserves and enhances the surviving historical heritage of the area. The project was to be completed by the end of 2009, and it should provide the Authorities with both a "structure plan", for the study area includes development in addition to integrating the old building that will be kept along the Rasheed Street. with the new ones, and conserving the buildings with historical and heritage values. and a selection of action areas with more detailed indications concerning future planning policies and types of intervention.
Fig (01) Al RAsheed Street tradition & modernity
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The study area includes the part of the old city on the eastern bank of the Tigris, from the River to the former front of the building on Rasheed Street east side and from the Citadel to Tahrir Square. The project thus covers both the most important of the remaining historic quarters of Baghdad, as well as a substantial part of the modern Central Business District, which has developed within the historic area. The development of the modern city centre had already started during the First World War, but it was only during the past 20—30 years, with the explosive growth of the Metropolis, that there arose a major conflict between conservation and development. Accordingly, the prime objective of the project is to resolve the conflict between a rapidly developing modern business district of national importance and the remaining parts of a traditional historic city of highest cultural significance. Its function is to interrelate conservation and development, to make them compatible and to provide a well-differentiated development framework, which will place future architectural projects — both in conservation areas and in modern redevelopment areas - within an appropriate and meaningful urban context. As a result, the coherence and the balance of the urban structure will be re-established by contrast with the uncoordinated architectural interventions of the recent past. The concepts for the Rasheed area, developed within polservice master plan of 1973, did not take into account the value of the surviving historic fabric and considered only a few major monuments which
were treated without concern for their environmental context. Yet, the previous comprehensive planning concept, “study on conservation and redevelopment of historical centre of Baghdad City� take into account the value of the serving historic fabric on the area. The study considered Al-Rasheed area. An area of special significance posing both conservation and redevelopment problems. Furthermore, there are projects on a city scale such as the new Metro line, the Comprehensive Transportation Study, and the River Training Project, which have an impact on the study area. Finally, the comprehensive Master Plan for Baghdad 2030 should be mentioned. Most of these studies will receive due consideration within the present document, although their implications may vary. Of the above projects, only those which have been formally agreed by Mayoralty Of Baghdad are incorporated in this study. It was considered that the establishment of the comprehensive planning and design strategies of the Rusafa study should have the priority, and therefore changes may be suggested in some cases. Comprehensive studies already completed, such as the BCTS report, have been evaluated. Regarding the studies still in progress, such as the Master Plan, Metro and River Training Studies, permanent coordination must be established between the groups concerned. On a few issues, however, the recommendations of the Al Rasheed study may vary from the recommendations of the other consultants and, in such project may vary from the
recommendations of the other cases, it will be necessary for Mayoralty Of Baghdad to make the final decision. The Rasheed study is extremely complex: on the one hand it had to accept already-committed projects, trying to harmonies them with the surrounding areas and to minimize their possible negative impact on the historic fabric; on the other hand, it has to provide a consistent framework for all noncommitted areas of the old city, with a special emphasis on conservation goals.
Fig. (02) lack of urban organization
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Approach and outline (methodology)
During the last years, the conservation of historic city centers in the rapidly developing countries of the Arab World has become a matter of prime importance to the governments concerned. This is mainly due to the awareness that the national cultural identity may eventually be threatened by indiscriminate use of western style models.
"freeze" the historic area in its present physical conditions; nor would it be reasonable to attempt a total redevelopment, containing isolated areas of conservation where historic buildings would appear in a museum setting. Instead, Al- Rasheed area is in need of a planning framework which would allow for harmonious coexistence between modern and historic elements.
During the Abbasid period Baghdad was one of the great centers of Islamic civilization; yet, due to unfortunate historic circumstances, only a few architectural traces of its glorious past have remained. Comparing it with other surviving historic city centers in the Arab World, Al- Rasheed area can be seen as a relatively young, somewhat scattered, but still homogeneous historic fabric. It contains a comparatively small number of outstanding historic monuments, and the residential quarters are in rather poor physical condition, yet they offer considerable potential for rehabilitation. The basic problem of the 'Old City' lies in its position at the centre of the growing metropolis. More than most other examples, it has become the nucleus of a much larger urban system. Accordingly, it suffers from tremendous pressures, which have resulted in carving into the historic fabric large carriageways and redevelopment areas. The dimensions of the study area, its population and its economic activities, as well as the dispersal of historic elements, call for a new type of combined conservation and development philosophy outlined in the following paragraphs. It would not be feasible to
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Fig. (03) Historic, traditional & modern urban structure
Thus, an integrated development strategy is suggested which would involve three inter-related levels of planning; A comprehensive structure planning framework geared to conservation goals, so as to assess the role of Al- Rasheed within the total urban system, to establish a balance between conservation of historic areas and modern development, to solve conflicts between different types of existing urban structures, to minimize pressures on the historic fabric and to offer optimal development opportunities to the Central Business District. An urban design concept related to the main components of Al- Rasheed area, so as to repair disrupted townscape relations, to re-establish proper connections between different typological and functional entities, to improve environmental conditions and to establish guidelines for new developments compatible with the historic character of the area. A conservation strategy focused on the remaining homogeneous areas of historic character, defining plot by plot their potential for restoration, rehabilitation and adapted renewal, and developing corresponding schemes for future implementation adapted to the respective architectural values, social conditions and financial feasibility. Being an essential component of the project, the above conservation strategy implies a number of goals and objectives which will necessarily adopt the character of pre-established development constraints. These will be developed at length in chapter 7 part (VI) the design, dealing with goals,
needs and opportunities. It is, however, necessary to point out that some of these constraints will be in contradiction to the development prevailing in the area during the past few years. To some extent, The Al Rasheed Area Study will therefore imply a reversal of previous trends, which were characterized by a strong dichotomy between a decaying historic fabric and explosive modern development. The fact that some major goals and constraints are fixed from the outset had its impact on the planning methodology. In fact, these constraints, as well as the short duration of the project and the availability of existing information and feasibility studies, called for a goal-oriented planning process: instead of defining goals after a time-consuming period of extended data collection, the project started from basic assumption and hypotheses, which were refined and adjusted during the further The planning process. This allowed for selective surveys and more in-depth studies of typical problems by concentrating on the relevant questions rather than compiling information for its own sake. This approach implied that the conceptual aspects in both analysis and proposals had to be stressed: in the analysis stage, this was done by clarifying the socio-economic mechanisms of change and the interdependencies between various activities, rather than accumulating statistical data which may be uncertain, soon outdated or irrelevant. In the proposal stage it was achieved by giving special attention to the comprehensive framework into which individual elements had to fit, and by outlining typical development and design principles rather than concentrating on detail proposals.
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The emphasis on goals and concepts seemed especially appropriate with regard to the global Master Plan of Baghdad: as the ongoing master plan studies were not sufficiently advanced to give input to our study, the opportunity had to be taken to confront the master plan group with an "ideal" planning concept for Al- Rasheed area, which may eventually be adjusted according to the results of later discussions. In a project such as the Al- Rasheed Study, the importance of the historic urban fabric is such that much of the future development will have to match the given physical framework. While in a planning project "on virgin ground" socio-economic factors may predetermine the structure of the physical fabric, here it is the fabric which to some extent is responsible for determining the appropriate land use and the corresponding development policies. Consequently, planning had to proceed on two levels simultaneously. On the one hand, different types of existing urban texture, the conditions of the historic buildings and their potential for rehabilitation had to
Fig (4) The Study area, a satellite image
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be evaluated, in order to assess the state and the capacity of the traditional urban fabric. On the other hand, the functional systems making use of this physical framework had to be analysed, with special regard to the dynamic factors of change such as economic activity and traffic. In a third stage, or rather during the whole planning process, the results of these two types of analyses had to be compared. As a result of this interaction, the main areas of conflict between the traditional morphology and present activities emerged, and a synthesis between conservation goals, rehabilitation opportunities, redevelopment potentials and new development needs could be worked out. In view of its large scope and short duration, the whole study was conducted; the main objective was to establish a consistent overall framework for conservation and development, identifying the policies to be applied to the components of the study area. In order to exemplify these policies in greater depth, typical or especially relevant areas were selected for more detailed treatment in terms of urban design and conservation.
Report structure
The aim of the Report is to give a concise and consistent overall view of the project and contains the essential technical information on the comprehensive Structure Plan of Al Rasheed area, as well as a number of Preliminary Urban Design Schemes. The Report contains all supporting data and additional surveys related to the historic fabric. This extensive Report may be especially useful to the staff of the Mayoralty of Baghdad in dealing in a more detailed manner with certain aspects or areas of the Al Rasheed In order to distinguish between the levels of planning and urban design and to allow for more flexibility, the Report has been split into 6 parts PART I REVIEW This section reviews the existing situation of Al Rasheed Street and the study area. The review deals with a comprehensive field and photographic survey and data collection made by the consultant survey teams through months of daily field work through more than 750,000m2 and (1389) buildings. It also includes a review for the previous studies and plans made by other consultants in the last 30 years. PART II ANALYSIS This section of the study is dedicated for the results of the analysis of the various data and findings collected in the REVIEW section to highlight and identify the problem areas, constraints and potentials. PART III VISION Based on the understanding of the history, REVIEW, and ANALYSIS, a vision for the future of the area and Street should evolve taking into consideration the future trends and international indicators and trends. PART VI THE PLAN This section translates the VISION into planning policies and maps that includes land use, traffic and infrastructure in addition to other factors that affects the urban design.
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PART V THE DESIGN A revive for the design proposals which are based on THE PLAN which covers all urban design elements, architectural elements and Street furniture etc. PART IV IMPLEMENTATION A brief section highlighting the possibilities and methods for the implementation plan and the steps required to achieve the required goals
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INTEGRATION: THAREER PLAZA & MIDAN PLAZA AS INTERFACE ZONES CHAPTER 1. Interface zones between Al Rasheed and Baghdad: General issues CHAPTER 2. The two gates interface CHAPTER 3. Evolving planning vision
The study area is part of Baghdad Historic City Center, the house for the main cultural architectural heritage that represents the historic city through its ages. Surveying and recording data and information the existing situation is the first step in the planning process and the main planning tool. Survey teams have been working for months over an area of more than 800,000 m2 stretches through 3.8 km between Al Rasheed Street and Tigris River, where thousands of dwellings have been surveyed and documented.
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Integration: Tahrir Plaza & Midan Plaza as Interface Zones
Chapter 1: Interface Zones between Al Rasheed and Baghdad: general issues.
Introduction The interface zone reflects their mutual adjustment to different operative logics pertaining to external relations, spatial expansion, functional and internal structuring. These act in opposite directions - Rasheed Street and Baghdad – and it is the degree of integration or segregation between Rasheed Street and city, or the preponderance of one over the other, that shapes the functional and spatial configuration of interface zones. Rasheed Street is a typical example of an interface zone that has been shaped through this kind of interaction. A consideration of the conceptual bases of interaction between Rasheed Area and Baghdad may help provide an understanding of how interface zones work and help identify their general issues. After defining the distinct logics of Al Rasheed Street and Baghdad city in general, this chapter proceeds to analyze the way in which the interaction between
the two has been accommodated morphologically and culturally through their interface zone, and identify the manner in which Baghdad responded to the pressures of modernization on hand, and colonization on the other hand. Using this approach, an attempt will then be made to place Baghdad within its general and regional context.
Functional and Spatial Logics The city is by definition a central entity, which provides goods and services to surrounding area; its functional and spatial structure is determined by civic design decisions, as well as by the particularities of its local socio-economic and political dynamics.
Morphological Integration The logics of Rasheed Street and city are mediated through their interface zone. The Rasheed Street negotiates accessibility for traffic and trade through the city to the Hinterland; the city looks to the Rasheed Street. for accessibility to the Tigris for travel and recreation. The further inland the city moves, the more the need for efficient
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access to the waterfront. The more the city extends along the River, The more permeable the frontal parallel development needs to be. "This function, Spatial and visual permeability constitute the main integrative force between River and inland. It underlies the morphology of the interface as a terrain of their ' simultaneous and common history, exhibiting the "analogies and resonance effects that have grown up over generations amidst the sharing of infrastructure". The historical dimension of the interface zone stems from the fact that most River cities have experienced the passage of many civilizations, each having left its imprint in the archaeological layer that lead back to the origins of urban and River evolution. Accordingly, morphological integration is made up of two aspects: • A horizontal integration between River and Inland, between national and local networks expressed through design strategies of visual permeability, functional complementariness and accessibility. • A vertical integration between townscapes And archaeological layers, expressed through the design strategies of townscape articulation and heritage conservation; that is, the reinforcement of the identity of place.
Fig. (05) An early 20th century shows the importance of the Tigris River to Baghdad
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Cultural Integration The dynamics of morphological integration, both vertical and horizontal, are subject to the geographic and historic contexts and conditioned by the cultural exposure and exchange specific to each setting. This is particularly relevant in the case of rive cities, which by virtue of their location are exposed to extensive foreign influence and act as intermediate territories between the local, the regional and the global.
Morphological mutations, or the resulting changes in the functional and physical configuration of urban area, are substantially shaped by the encounter of the traditional with the modern, i.e. new trends in architecture and advances in infrastructure and construction technology. They are also determines by the interaction between the metropolitan and the provincial, the global and the local.
As access poles for national trade; culture, they tend to exhibit cosmopolitan River fronts gateway districts that 'frame' the access from the River to the city. This usually means that the River city simultaneously looks to the indigenous and the foreign, the local and the international, modernization and preservation. These dual viewpoints are generators of cross culture exchange, the scope of which depends on the degree of cultural permeability of the social and political setting; namely, the extent to which each River city is willing to absorb and assimilate foreign input culturally and socially. At the morphological level, permeability can take different forms, ranging from the superimposition and overlapping to the juxtaposition of traditional and modern urban patterns. As accelerated and sustainers process of Morphological mutation constantly redefines, in particular, the regional and local in identity of a River city's interface zone.
Fig. (06) Ancient City of Baghdad and the Tigris river
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Historical Historical Urban Structure and Morphology
established caravan routes, logically faced the five main orientations:The main Spines of the city area Bab Al-Muadham
It is a fact that the date 1869 marks a turning point in the morphological evolution of Baghdad. It was then when the Governor of the 'Baghdad Willayat', Midhat Pasha (1869-71), decided to pull down the walls that surrounded and contained the medina for over 600 years. Together with other numerous western-inspired municipal measures Baghdad underwent major and even dramatic morphological changes. The purpose of this artical, however, is to describe the urban structure and morphological constituents of the old Rasheed area. The compact and severely dense fabric of AlRasheed area meant that the inhabitants were always within a walking distance from the Tigris River. To understand the pattern of this fabric one must take note of the fact that the Tigris was really the main Street of the city. In one sence even the pattern of the alleyways, the location of the Suqs, the Citadel and the Serai Government Buildings were all decisively determined by the obvious need to be located on or very close by the main spine of the city — the Tigris, the single most important component of the city. Originally, the rectangular box of the old city( Rusafa area) was walled from all sides — even the Riverfront, and was pierced by only five openings or gates which, for historical reasons of long
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North-towards A'adhamiya, Baquba or Samarra Bab Al-Wastani East-towards the northeastern cities and beyond Bab Al-Talism East, also towards eastern cities and Persia Bab Al-Sharqi -South towards Salman Pak, Kut and Amara etc. The BridgeWest-towards Karkh, Hilla, Kerballa and Najaf, etc.
Consequently, the five major pulls together with the River in Rasheed area were reflected physically in the tissue and circulation network pattern. That is why one sees that the majority of main intermahalla alleyways were always oriented towards these five openings. Similarly, most of the important Streets radiated from the River at certain established points called sharia'a or quays and ran towards main functional nodes such as Suqs or shrines and then eventually reached one of these four gates.
• • • • • •
Residential Circulation network Commercial and industrial Public administrative Religious and cultural Agricultural
Fig. (07) Boat bridge and old Riverfront in 1920 Baghdad Fig. (08) Record photo of Bab Al Sharqi, and The major factors affecting and eventually deciding the overall morphology of Al-Rasheed are important to understand the shape of the old city. But it is equally vital to understand how the major urban and functional components of Al-Rasheed worked vis-avis the overall land use. Six major urban components in Al-Rasheed can be clearly identified. These are:
below during its demolishing in 1937
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would give a gross residential density of residential density of
Fig. (09) Historic urban structure Residential Al-Rasheed area consisted of (15) Mahallas. Each mahalla or neighbourhood residential unit had a distinct ethnic or tribal character irrespective of its size or location. But usually the Mahalla represented the smallest urban unit almost self-contained and self-sufficient. It had its own local Suq, small mosque (masjid), perhaps a local bath (hammam) and several small necessary functions such as a bakery and a local cafe, etc. The total population of Rusafa was then estimated at about 60,000. This
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about 1,800 inhabitants/ha. This corresponds with many Mahallas today.
roughly
It is also important to know that these Mahallas never really had any clear physical boundaries with the exceptions of some which were contained within their own walls for ethnic reasons or better security. Most of them can be simply regarded as small or large zones of a certain name which give them their distinction rather than any difference in their urban tissue.
Fig (10) Circulation network
Although the overwhelming majority of the population was Moslem and Arab,. These minorities lived in distinct locations and established the social character of their respective Mahallas. The start of the physical disintegration of old tissue the early 1916's when the major modern Streets were cut through it (Rasheed Street), most of these Mahallas were either completely destroyed or divided into two or even more segments and therefore severely disrupted. Today these Mahallas do not really have the same past socio-economic or even ethnic significance. This is obviously due to the massive changes that have been taking place within the last three decades. Not only have most original owners long moved away to modern suburban areas outside the area, but the whole social fabric has changed. The traditional areas are now mostly occupied by non-owner’s.
Consequently, from the urban planning point of view these Mahallas have now been restructured into defined islands surrounded by new Streets from all four sides. But that should not be understood to mean accepting the present situation but rather one should attempt to positively reconnect any lost or cut main alleyways or other historic spines and to retrieve the historical continuity by careful surgical intervention. The other important factor is how to reintegrate the old tissue with the modern fringe surroundings these islands— especially in physical and urban terms. Leaving these historic areas behind a tall concrete wall, as it were, is to accept its negative impact. Because of the massive scale difference and social considerations some transitional or buffer zone must be introduced to act as an intermediate fringe thereby offering some softening effect.
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Circulation network Typical of all Arab medians, Al-Rasheed area circulation network works on organic-like zuqaq system or pattern. Super facially, the labyrinthine pattern of pedestrian alleyways looks accumulative and even haphazard. But a closer examination of the network reveals a distinct hierarchical gradation in their order as well as scale. These alleyways, especially main ones, developed and evolved very slowly over the centuries because of functional as well as topographical reasons.
- Secondary alleyways (darb, also zuqaq and aqd) These are next in importance and link Mahalla to Mahalla but without necessarily eventually reaching any important zone such as the central Suqs or the River. In other words, they are purely for interMahalla circulation. Their width averages between 2 to 3 m.
The hierarchical order of the circulation network in Al-Rasheed area can be put as follows: -
Main alleyways or Streets (Tariq or Shari)
These are the main pedestrian Streets in the medina and therefore they are also the widest 3—4 m and the most vital in economic and commercial activity.
Fig. (12) Circulation network and typical Mahalla alleyway
Fig. (11) Baghdadi Zuqaq (AGID)
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These are the smallest and narrowest alleyways in the whole system. They serve a purely local purpose and link houses together within a Mahalla and, therefore, many of them are dead-end alleyways (cul-de-sacs). Their width ranges between 1 - 2 m and constitute the majority of the whole network.
An important feature in this organically shaped network is the junctions which are often developed into sahas i.e., squares or small open spaces. These are often the only playgrounds available for the children of the mahalla. Such junctions are also architecturally emphasized by the rounding of the corners of the houses which lie on them. The typical section of a traditional alleyway is long and high in overall proportion — a ratio of about 1:6 which helps in providing almost continuous shade for pedestrians throughout the year
They are nearly always open but some are partly covered. A linear Suq system is usually divided into several quite distinct functional segments each of which deal only in a special product. Thus one finds that the Suqs start with groceries and vegetables, then to granary, then to textiles and so on.
Commercial and Industrial The commercial heart of Al-Rasheed area is the Suq complex of Bab Al Agha. This squarish site, approximately 300 by 300 m, is the established continuation of the famous pre-Abbasid Tuesday . As with alleyways, the Suqs have certain types and hierarchy. Their hierarchy, however, can be explained as follows:
Fig. (13) Old Suqs zone
- Central Suq system As in Bab Al Agha, this is the main Suq area and therefore, often tends to be an extensive conglomeration of different Suqs — open and covered, each specializing in a certain commodity and/or production. This zone serves the whole city and even the surrounding region. - Linear Suq system These represent the main commercial spines of the old city and they tend to develop only along primary circulation alleyways as expected.
Examples: o Mustansir Street textiles and boutiques o Shorja Suq
spices, foods, wares, etc.
o Taht Al Takya Suqclothes, glass, wares, etc. o Mutanabi Street
books, stationery, etc.
o Serai Suq
books, stationery, etc.
o Sarajin Suq
leatherwork, sandles, bags,
etc.
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Modern Streets such as Rasheed Street are or can be considered as the contemporary examples of the linear Suq system
Public Administration In old Baghdad, the seat of power and public administration has for over 600 years remained more or less in the same location, i.e., the upper northern most corner of Al-Rasheed close to the Tigris. The main components of this zone are:
Fig. (15)
Fig (14) Old vaulted cover Suq in Baghdad (Al Bazazin Suq) -
Mahalla Suqs Obviously, this is the smallest of Suqs and is often confined only to one Mahalla. It can consist of only a handful of local shops which serve the immediate daily needs of the locals.
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Fig (16) Public administration area
- The Citadel (AL QALA’A) A square site occupying an area of about 10 ha and housing the seat of the Governor and his army.
Most of this system is now still intact and includes architecturally, the most interesting and significant buildings in Baghdad city.
- The Maidan
Religious and Cultural
The main open civic space. In Al-Rasheed area this was about 40 m wide and 350 m long, adjacent to the Citadel and served as the only public space for special civic occasions.
This category of land use is not confined to one zone in Al-Rasheed area but rather it is scattered throughout the traditional area. Major monumental mosques tend to be distributed not according to any deliberate reason but because of historical associations with religious events or persons. Religious buildings are mosques, Masjids, Takyas, Madrasas, Hussainiyas, tombs and churches. Examples: o o o o o
Serai Mosque Haidarkhana Mosque Ahmadiya (Maidan) Mosque Omar Sahrawardi Mosque
Fig (17) Main entrance of Al Maidan in 1918 - The Serai A longish site on the Riverfront measuring about 100 m by 500 m. This zone consisted of the Serai Buildings (Government House), the Qushla, the Civil Courts, the Municipality, and the State Serai Mosque. Later, it included the Police Headquarters, the main Post Office Building, and the Military School.
Fig. (18) Religious facilities
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Fig. (19) Hayderkhana Mosque
Fig. (20) Agricultural areas
Agricultural Within walled of the old city there were very few agricultural areas. This can be easily explained by the fact that most of the area surrounding Baghdad is extensively agricultural anyway. Consequently, there was little need for plantations within the city and, at any case; it would have been quite difficult to irrigate fields within the city. However, there were some palm orchards and green areas mostly in the southern edge of the old city. Those were system of canals uninterrupted by residential areas. Examples: o o o o o
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Sinak Orchards Jamal Bustan Najib Shishakli Bustan Issawi Bustan Naqib Bustan
Fig. (21) Baghdad City illustration showing Gates
Tradition and modernity interaction
The starting point for the transformation of old city into a modern city centre was the demolition of the walls by Midhat Pasha in 1869, which opened the way for further expansion. Nadhim Pasha (1911 - 12) built a new earth embankment around eastern Baghdad to protect it from flooding. European models of urban life became evident when a new Street (Rasheed Street) was cut through the dense urban fabric of Rusafa ini which soon became the most important commercial Street in the city.
Simultaneously with these physical transformations a change in living-concept attitudes and habits took place, especially within the leading upper class. This resulted in the trend towards a more European life style, and in the exodus from the quarters of the old city towards the new suburbs. This movement was accelerated after 1956.
Fig. (22 ) Urban change of Baghdad
The opening of Rasheed Street 1916 marked a funda mental shift towards a more westerninspired approach in the City's road network. The establishment of the Kingdom of Iraq under a British Mandate in 1921 marked another turning point in the course of Baghdad's modern history. The introduction of the horse-drawn carriage and later the motor car strongly influenced the authorities to "open-up'' Baghdad, especially Rusafa, by new wide and straight roads. Sinak area, for example, represents a Mahalla based on a rectangular grid designed in the late 1920s, to accommodate motorised traffic. Its architectural style, too, reflects a more open urban layout and, together with the introduction of new building materials and technologies, it represents an interesting phase in the evolution of the City.
Baghdad- 1917 (by Military)
At the same time, ambitious plans for the redevelopment of Rusafa area into a modern CBD came under discussion and their gradual implementation had a strong impact on the traditional urban fabric in Rasheed area.
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- The Impact of New Development On The Historic Area The problematic aspects of the described recent evolution in Al-Rasheed are clearly reflected in the disintegration of the traditional urban fabric. In terms
Fig. (23) Urban change of Baghdad
Baghdad- 1929 (by department of public works)
of urban form, there is a clash between two diametrically opposed principles of spatial organization as there is in many pre-industrial Islamic cities. Originally Al-Rasheed was structured on a celluiar pattern defined by introverted spatial "containers" of different size and function, juxtaposed to each other. The residential alley-ways were integrated into this cellular tissue, while the main public spines were
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framed by Suqs. Houses were mostly contiguous and formed residential clusters which could be attached "back to back" to other structures such as the central Suqs or the khans. This pattern allowed for a clear functional differentiation between residential quarters and the central area. At the same time, individual buildings merged into a totally integrated urban fabric, thus offering a variety of mixed uses within a small-scale environment. By contrast modern western-style developments are usually based on a strong division of both function and volume, separating and concentrating activities into massive single-use blocks. In addition, high-rise structures imply large distances between the blocks and do not allow for contiguous buildings, thereby disrupting the continuity of the urban fabric. Segregation is further stressed by the priority given to vehicular traffic: in most modern developments highways act as primary shaping forces and thus enforce the fragmentation of the old fabric, eventually leading to the almost total isolation of individual buildings. As in other historic cities, the construction of new highway systems through the traditional fabric of old city has disrupted the old pedestrian network by imposing new main directions and by creating new focal points for commercial activities, which has led to a gradual shift of the CBD and to a corresponding decline in status of the traditional Suqs. The first modern city centre was established with Rasheed Street in 1916, cutting through the old pedestrian spine which
led from the Riverside through the Shorja Suqs towards the northern gate. Size and typology of this avenue were dictated by vehicular traffic and by western town planning models. Although in conflict with the traditional urban structure, it respected the scale of surrounding building volumes and made an attempt to knit together the two different types of urban texture. No attempt was made to establish a proper transition in terms of urban form, to treat the damaged fringes of the old city or to reconnect broken sections of the old pedestrian system. Thus, the historic urban fabric has been used as a quarry as it were, out of which space for new developments has been carved.
As a result the spatial organization and the land use patterns of the old city have been heavily disturbed, especially in the area between Rasheed Street and the River-front. The previously coherent urban fabric has been broken into disconnected pieces. The old pedestrian connections, a major factor of unity within the old urban system, have been heavily disrupted Simultaneously with the described physical changes, the traditional Suqs, as well as Rasheed Street, have suffered from social and physical deterioration, due to the shift of the gravity centre of the Central Area. This was instrumental in merging the two older central areas, which shared a common fate. In the residential districts, the exodus of the original inhabitants, the neglect of building stock and lack of control have contributed to converting the old quarters into a shelter for rural immigrants . The situation was also exploited by semi-industrial enterprises which have made use of large parts of the traditional housing stock for workshops and warehouses. Thus, a chaotic production system was established in the old city, which can only be efficient by the abuse and progressive destruction of the historic urban fabric.
- Present Trends in Development and Conservation
Fig. (24) Urban Structure change
The present development of the Al-Rasheed area is characterized by a rapid and uncontrolled
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transformation of large parts of the old city into a modem CBD of national and international dimensions. This process is in itself inevitable and to some extent even desirable; but due to the speed of development and to the lack of coordination between individual operations its possible benefits have not been fully realized and negatives side effects are so predominant that the balance of the system as a whole has been lost. In fact, the prevailing trend is to conceive development as a somewhat haphazard addition of isolated interventions. A number of largescale architectural projects have been commissioned in the study area, but they lack a comprehensive planning and urban design concept to which they would relate, and have not had the benefit of an appropriate study of the structure and the conservation priorities of the old districts. Most of the projects suffer from a lack of coherence, because their site and function have not been analysed and justified within a comprehensive framework, and because their shape is rarely related to the architectural context — be it historic or modern. Admittedly, there have been one attempt at producing more integral development schemes for larger parts of Al-Rasheed, but showed much concern for the old city and were not seriously considered for implementation. The first one was the action area masterplan produced by Polservice in 1973.
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In the last few years, Mayorality of Baghdad has recognised the risks and dangers connected with major redevelopment projects "out of context". Accordingly, a number of conservation projects have been initiated to counterbalance these negative effects, such as Al Rasheed study. After analysing the whole historic building stock of Al-Rasheed area, - by far the largest of all these conservation areas — it is doubtful whether the priorities in the smaller conservation areas can stay the same as before
Fig. (25) A view in al Rasheed street as it is today The present trends indicate a rapid disappearance of the historic area in Al-Rasheed area, as a result of two parallel processes: the first or "active" one is generated by the uncontrolled growth of modern development expanding into the historic areas, in search of additional space for commercial facilities. The second or "passive" process is that of the
gradual decay of historic structures which are no longer regularly maintained, while being occupied by inappropriate functions, his process of urban decay applies to the inner parts of the old residential districts, where speculative pressures are less, but could eventually result in the need for total redevelopment, once the process has reached a certain critical stage beyond which conservation becomes impossible and meaningless. It will therefore be a prime task of the present project to provide a planning concept which allows both for a controlled CBD expansion and
a comprehensive rehabilitation of large coherent portions of the remaining historic fabric. It should also be accepted that Al-Rasheed area is only a part and the most sensitive part of the growing modern CBD of the capital and will therefore not be able to satisfy the total demand of space and facilities. Finally, it should be stressed that Khulafa Street area offer a considerable reserve of space for commercial and business use which should cope with the future demand for several years ahead.
Fig. (26) AL RAsheed and area is the main business center for the city
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Fig. (27)
25 years of change Change in the Urban struscture between 1983 and 2009 in the study area
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The Two Gates Interface
Emerging Segregation
Al Rasheed Baghdad integration
The rapid growth of Baghdad is linked with its evolution into a regional city that accomdated residents from the region.
To the late modern period, the Tahrir.Plaza: Midan.Plaza area retained its vocation as an interface zone between the River and the city. The area came to reflect Baghdad double status as a regional and capital city and served as a common ground for their evolution. In view of its homogenous architectural character, Tahrir and Midan are generally perceived as a single entity. In fact, its two subareas were historically clearly demarcated-to the nort west, Bab Al Muadham, which traditionally constituted the city district; and to the south east, Bab Al Sharqi, which lay in the heart of the capital city and epitomized national political life.
Its role was reinforced by the opening of the railway access to north: south of Iraq and to neighboring countries, which provided a link to the outside world. To accommodate the increasing activity, the enlargement and modernization of the city linter become an economic necessity. The migration of residential functions towards the peripheries of the old city accentuated its transformation into a modern business district. This was reinforced by two trends that were to set in during the following decades; the centralization and specialization of inner city functions.
The area has thus been conditioned by two factors; Tigers River, the evolution trade activity; and landward the forces of the urban centralization or decentralization of administrative, commercial and financial activities. As in other River cities, the scope and dynamics of those different activities initiated a progressive relation between River and city, constantly calling for a redefinition of the relationship between Baghdad's city center and its waterfront.. This chapter intends to show how each phase of the development of this area brought forth new strategies of horizontal integration between land and River.
Fig. (28) Shanashil Al Rasheed is deminishing
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Preponderance of Al Rasheed over Baghdad The opening of the old city core to the other part of the city preceded by making of it as wholesale trade district and as a new administrative ,
Fig. (29) River Front Houses are unfunctional and under sever decay
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institutional and retail trade district . Hence, in less than twenty years Baghdad dual identity as trade center and capital city was imprinted in the morphology of the interface zone between Al Rasheed and Baghdad.
Evolving Planning Vision The Comprehensive Master Plan for the City of Baghdad in 2000 (Polservice Study in 1973) The suggested method of land-use tries to preserve and maintain part of the important historic characteristics of the City of Baghdad, including the old traditional areas. At the same time, it tries to introduce modern innovations and creativity, aiming at preserving and maintaining elements that gave Baghdad a special and distinctive particularity. The Master plan set in 1973 for the City of Baghdad, specified land-use in the study area by "the Commercial Central Area" as being the centre of administrative and economic activities. The land-use in the Area of the Centre and its functions include the area of businesses' centers including the area of banks, the commercial area and shops in Al-Rasheed Street.
o
Centers of technical services situated in "AlSheikh Omar" Street.
The Master plan suggests, as far as land-use is concerned, to benefit from the River Front and introduce a wide variety on its two banks by establishing housing complexes of multiple floors and apartments, parks, tourist areas, hotels, restaurants, and pedestrian Streets. Moreover, the Design suggests linking the River's banks with the internal areas by using a system similar to pedestrian roads or green bands towards the River area. Besides, new roads and Streets must be available at all beaches of the Tigris River, because some of them will help alleviate traffic jam in "AlRasheed" Street which must be gradually converted into a pedestrian road. This cannot be achieved until the corniche (coast road) is organized and finalized.
In the eastern part of the central area and the area of businesses' centers, the main following functions are there: o
o
Centers of administrative works, and the commercial centers located between the Tigris River and "Al-Jumhuriyyah Street", intended for high density and concentrated construction. There, are situated the main banks, financial institutions, commercial departments, big hotels, old markets, cinemas, airline offices and some important institutions. The civil centre located in the eastern part of "AlJumhuriyyah Street", and its neighbouring areas.
Fig. (30) The Comprehensive Master Plan for Baghdad in 2000 (Polservice Study in 1973)
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The master plan proposed the separation of the different vehicles' roads from the pedestrian paths. In the central business area, the system of integrated big buildings' groups (super blocks) must be applied, securing total separation of the vehicles' roads from the pedestrian paths which in turn, are designed as green bands securing the freedom of walking and security for pedestrians.
Study on conservation and redevelopment of historical center of Baghdad city (1984) Review of the suggested structural plan for the conserving and re-developing the historic center of Baghdad
The JCP Study adopted the re-development of "AlRasafa" area lying between "Mohammad Al-Qasem" Highway in the north-east, the Tigris River in the south-west, "Al-Bab Al-Sharqi" area in the southeast, and "Al-Bab-Mo'atham" in the north east, within an area of 5.4 square kilometers. The study comprised three levels as follows: o The first level: the comprehensive framework o The second level: the urban design or plan o The third level: the conservation The second and the third levels are of great importance for the rehabilitation and development of "Al-Rasheed" Street at present, due to the specificity of the project and the nature of work. Then comes the first level.
)
Fig (31) JCP propsal For the Hisoric center of Baghdad (RUSAFA
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Lnd-use
In accordance with what was mentioned in the JCP Study, the land-use for the area of study was specified as follows: 1- The River front area: a pedestrian road, recreational and cultural services, decoration of the River pedestrian road, tourist services and anchorage for boats. 2- "Al-Rasheed Street" area: traditional functions of the business & trade area, with some residential areas, limitation of any new wide constructions, as in the figure below.
•
•
The study includes the main specificities related to the urban design (plan) and the conservation within a comprehensive general framework and parallel specificities of modernization, as follows:
study in order to eliminate the unsuitable or incompatible activities, in agreement with the Municipality of Baghdad. Concentrating on the axes of the pedestrian paths, and enhancing them in what concerns the design & furniture that fit or match with the nature of services & activities available along the pedestrians' axes. Laying emphasis on the human aspect while dealing with the design of additional items, fitting the particularity of the project, and securing dialogue & communication with the recipient especially that the process is being the conversion towards the axes of pedestrian paths.
Conservation Urban design and plan •
•
Attributing a high-standard particularity or characteristic to the Tigris River especially for its part related to the study area, investing the visual & motive or dynamic axes which are perpendicular with the River, enhancing pedestrian roads (or paths), as well as the cultural & recreational services which suit the particularity of the history & heritage of the area, investing in the fluvial transportation as a tourist quality of the River, and protecting the River's bank from corrosion and clayey sedimentation (mud precipitation). Conducting a study for the classification of the present commercial activities, and to what extent they are harmonious with the particularity of the area & the objective of the
•
•
Maintaining & preserving the traditional functions of historic and heritage quality, as well as reconsidering the new challenging functions that lead to distorting the old urban fabric (or structure), in addition to limiting the commercial functions, specifying its size and type to fit the particularity of the area. Affirming the importance of the historic axes as well as the axes of markets within the urban fabric.
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Execution program The JCP Study specified the period for carrying out all stages for the whole study as being (15 years), divided into three stages or phases: short term, medium term and long term, the duration of each being 5 years. • Short term five-year plan period (1985-1990):
specified for the
o Conserving and enhancing the cultural heritage o Maintenance of the historic landmarks o Conservation of the historic fabric o Reviving "Al-Rasheed" Street o Enhancing the River's bank • Administrative buildings in "Al-Khulafa' Street" – Al-Rasafa study. • A historic alley - Al-Rasafa study (JCP). • "Al-Rasheed" Street – Business Center in Baghdad - Al-Rasafa study (JCP).
• Medium term five-year plan specified for the period (1991-1995): o Continuing the work on the abovementioned paragraphs. o Re-developing important areas in "AlRasheed" Street. o Re-developing markets. o Securing educational facilities. o Securing social facilities. o Creating or establishing parking lots (car parks). o Establishing governmental housing units. • Long term five-year plan specified for the period (1996-2000): o Continuing the work on the abovementioned paragraphs.
Fig.(32) a plan clarifying the distribution of the execution areas (JCP)
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The benefit from the above-mentioned JCP study is to clarify the period for carrying out the tasks mentioned in the said paragraphs, and to what extent it matches with the present study for the rehabilitation and development of "Al-Rasheed Street". This depends on the following: • Parties involved and concerned with the execution process (public sector, private sector, mixed sectors), as well as the concentration on the investment sector. • Technical specifications that must be applied or followed in the execution process. • Available labor force. • Logistic facilities provided by the employer (Municipality of Baghdad). • Terms, conditions and commitments set by the employer (Municipality of Baghdad). Moreover, the timetable for the execution process mainly depends on the technical specifications set by the Consultant (Consultative Group). It is noteworthy that many areas needing conservation, mentioned in the JCP study, were subjected to destruction or devastation and removal, which reduced the number or percentage of the conservation areas mentioned in the JCP study. This shall be specified after carrying out field surveys and re-classifying the old urban fabric, the buildings, and the activities.
Fig. (33) "Al-Rasheed Street" – urban progression columns of buildings
city, and serving the general policy at that time. The Study divided the study area into landmarks, historic fabric, open spaces, and parking lots (car parks). The percentage of the historic fabric mentioned in the said study is bigger than what it is at present, due to natural and unnatural extinction elements such as destruction, devastation and change in their use. This affected the available historic fabric as well as the historic & heritage buildings.
The future outlook (scene) of the city The (JCP) Study indicated and outlined the future vision for the city of "Al-Rusafa", including "AlRasheed Street", securing an ideal balance for the
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Master Plan for Baghdad in 2001 (JCCF Study)
The primary plan for land-use in Baghdad to be, emphasizes four regular concepts: the center of the city, the services' axes, borders, as well as the cultural & natural heritage. The main principle for the structural organization of the city center, is to fortify the pattern of developing bands from ancient times, along the Tigris River, and at the same time, to enhance the role of the traditional nucleus through affirming the pattern of the city center as being a historic urban area, as well as designing it carefully in order to reflect the symbol of Baghdad, the Capital, where the area of the project lies within the central part.
Fig. (35)
Fig. (34) Master plan of JCCF
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Traffic study aspects
Comprehensive study for transportation in Baghdad (BCTS) – Scott Wilson 1983 . The study comprised the division of Baghdad into 9 sectors that divide into 301 traffic areas. A big number of studies and field surveys were conducted for three years. The default of this study is that it depended on fixed growth rates in what concerns the forecast (prediction) of the traffic movement and the other elements affecting transportation. Consequently, the said predictions lacked accuracy, and it is not feasible to adopt them for future or subsequent studies.
Fig. (37)
The study's suggestions focused on the objective set for it by the Municipality of Baghdad, which is the enhancement of the public transportation. Accordingly, its suggestions focused on this objective. The study comprised the following two aspects: -
Fig. (36) Zoning system of BCTS
Suggesting 158 lines for buses carrying passengers. Suggesting two lines for the metro.
It is noteworthy that the study area comprised two main suggestions: establishing the coast road (cornice) and limiting "Al-Rasheed Street" for the passing of busses and cars' service only
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Study on conservation and re-developing the historic center of the City of Baghdad – (JCP) 1984 The JCP Study focused on the conservation and development of the historic center of Baghdad in AlRasafa. The Scott Wilson Study was reviewed by a team work of consultants, and was considered as the basis for predicting the traffic movement. The suggestions of the JCP studies focused on the traffic policies and the organizational procedures of the Traffic Department. Three choices were suggested for the traffic movement; all of them allocating "AlRasheed Street" for busses and local traffic only.
Fig. (38) Traffic circulation proposals of JCP
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JAICA Study – 1988
The JAICA Study is considered to be an evaluation study of Scott Wilson Study by comparing it with state of affairs in 1988. It included a number of studies and field surveys. The City of Baghdad was divided into 32 traffic areas, focusing on zoning the central area in a way similar to the zoning of Scott Wilson in order to facilitate the comparison between the two studies.
As for the study area, it was suggested to develop "Al-Rasheed Street" as a transit mall.
Fig. (40) Existing Traffic Situation
Fig. (39) Study area Zones of JAICA
The Study focused, in its suggestions, on the strategic aspects for the management (administration) of the transportation system, whereby the system was divided into seven secondary systems: the employees, the roads, the traffic, the pedestrian paths, the parking lots, the public transportation, and the security on roads.
Fig. (41) Existing Traffic Situation
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Infrastructure Existing Situation:
3. Storm water system: The area is not completely covered
Based on the data collected by survey teams from Mayoralty of Baghdad and the relative departments, which was reviewed in detail in the preliminary studies report submitted in July 2009, the following conclusions were made: 1. Water (Drinkable) network: The network is old, inadequate and should be upgraded 2. Sewage: The Sewer network is connected to Baghdad sewer system is out dated and needs to be upgraded
Fig (43) Existing Electrical wiring and cabling situation
4. Electricity Power generation in general is not sufficient Cables & wiring are either laid underground and wiring is above ground High risk of fire Generators are distributed and linked without regulations
Fig. (42) Existing Garbage, Sewerage and rainwater situation
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5. Telephone lines/It & cable Telephone system and wiring is out dated/No it cables 6. Gas supply None 7. Fire outlets None
Fig (44) Rasheed Street at 19th century
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EVOLUTION: THE SHAPING OF AL RASHEED AREA Chapter 4: Emergence and rise of a Gateway District. -
Al Rasheed Street Tigris River front and historical spines integration Traditional Suq From Al Rasheed To River Front: Inside District
THE ANALYSIS the data collected and reviewed in Part I of this report shall provide an overall understanding for the powers that controls and affects the area as well as to know the factors which have led to the existing condition and decay. The analysis was done with the use of previous studies done in the last decades for the Baghdad and the area. In addition, it was made through the GIS assisted programs that provided much of the results found.
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EVOLUTION: THE SHAPING OF AL RASHEED AREA Emergence and rise of a gateway District Evolution and modern times Baghdad's history in Islamic times started when the second Abbasid Caliph Al-Mansur decided in 762 to build a new capital on the Tigris, thus shifting the seat of power from Damascus to Baghdad. Of the Round City of Mansur, on which we are informed by contemporary descriptions, no traces have so far been discovered. It did not survive more than 300 years after its foundation. Soon after the completion of the Round City on the western side of the Tigris, various urban settlements began to grow on the eastern side, starting with the original "Rusafa" which was the encampment of the army of Mahdi, son of Al-Mansur.
Fig. (45) Old Baghdad 762-946
During the reign of Caliph Harun Al-Rasheed (786809) and his immediate successors, the eastern side extended from Shamasiya (today Silaikh) northwards to Mukharim area (today Bab Al Muadham area). This eastern settlement, which was contained within the walls of Mustain, was about 6 km in length and 2.5 km in width (i.e. about twice the area of today's old Rusafa). It was linked with the western side by three bridges of which the central one led to the Khurasan Gate of the Round City. Original Rusafa was centred mainly around the Shrine of Abu Harifa (existing today) which had been a major pre-lslamic cemetery. The southern Gate opened towards the The short-lived transfer of the Caliphate to Samarra by Mutasim, which lasted from 836—892, signalled the decline of Baghdad. When Mutamid returned to live in Baghdad he chose the eastern side, while the western side was allowed to diminish.
Fig.(46) Old Baghdad
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Fig. (48) Baghdad during the Abbasin period
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The Buwaihid period (946-1055) was characterised by general unrest and a weak government. The eastern side gradually shifted southward and finally settled, much reduced in size, where Rusafa stands today. The western side was reduced to a small settlement called Karkh. The Turkish Seljuqs (1055—1152) made a more lasting morphological impact on the eastern side than their predecessors, as they cnstructed new walls which were to define the urban form of Rusafa for the coming eight centuries. During this period, the northern quarters of Shamasiya and Mukharim were gradually abandoned. Three bridges, constructed of boats, spanned the Tigris at its narrowest width. These were later replaced by a single bridge continuously kept in the same location for more than seven centuries. The Later Abbasid period (1152-1258) witnessed a marked resurgence of the Caliphate, and Baghdad itself seems to have flourished during this last but brief period. An important feature developed during this time was the Caliphal precinct (Dar el-Khilafa). It was a semicircular area, about 2 km in diameter, located between todays Shorja market and Sultan Ali Mosque, and the Tigris and Khulafa Street. It included several major palaces and governmental buildings and had its own inner wall with four gates. According to Ibn Jubair, the Caliphal precinct occupied about a quarter or more of the area of eastern Baghdad. Several very important buildings survive today which indicate the magnificent architectural achievements of Abbasid builders. These include: Khafafin Mosque (1202), Zumurrud Khatun Tomb (1202), Karkhi Mosque (1215), Abbasid Palace (1226), Mustansirya Madrasa (1234), and Sahrawardi Mosque (1234). The sack and partial destruction of Baghdad in 1258 by the Mongols put an end to Arab rule and reduced
Fig. (49) Baghdad during the Seljuqiol period
Fig. (50) Baghdad during the 18th century the City to a small insignificant town. The llkhanid period (1258—1338) was marked by strife and religious sectarianism. Among the interesting travellers' accounts is that by Ibn Battuta who visited the City in 1337. His description of the eastern side indicates that Baghdad was spared from full destruction and that the Mongols, after their adoption of Islam, seem to have repaired some of their damage and built several new mosques and other major buildings. These include the Caliph's Mosque (rebuilt in 1289) and Aquli Mosque (1328).
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The Jalairid period (1338—1411) was marked by the stagnation and disruption of socio-economic and political life. Two major architectural examples survive today from this period and show remarkable architectural sophistication. These are Mirjan Mosque (1356) and Mirjan Khan (1359), which are both built within the Tuesday Market area just north of the Caliphal Precinct. From 1411 to 1508, Baghdad was ruled by the Turkoman "black sheep" and "white sheep" dynasties consecutively. The city further declined and its eastern side remained largely stagnant. Between 1508 and 1638 Baghdad was the scene of several bloody struggles between the Persians and the Turks. The Ottoman dynasty prevailed and ruled the country from 1638 for almost three centuries. The Mamluk phase (1704—1831) witnessed a consolidation of the Ottoman rule. In 1766 the first British residency was established, marking the beginning of the British influence in the City. Several important major buildings were built. These include the Serai Buildings, Ahmadiya Mosque in Maidan and Haidarkhana Mosque.
Fig. (51) Boat Bridge
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Fig.(52) Old Baghdad -1258 Several contemporary accounts by Arab and European travellers confirm that Baghdad, and especially the eastern side, has not changed much since the late Abbasid period. The most remarkable historic survey of Baghdad in Ottoman times was made by Felix Jones in 1853. His map shows almost every important urban and architectural feature on both sides of the River. According to Jones, Rusafa included 63 mahallas, 309 alleyways, 55 mosques, 47 Suqs and 39 khans. The total population was estimated at 60,000. The later Ottoman period witnessed several significant changes in the City's evolution. Between 1860 and 1917, and especially under the rule of Midhat and Namiq Pashas, Baghdad underwent a series of western-inspired modernisation schemes. Midhat Pasha demolished the walls in 1869 and introduced numerous municipal and economic reforms. The city was opened up for expansion outside its walls for the first time in some 800 years.
reached the River at certain established points called sharia'a (quays), which served for embarkation.
Fig.(53) Old Baghdad -1893
Major element of the traditional urban system. The old Medina of Rusafa is roughly rectangular in shape was walled on all four sides, including the Riverfront. The River was the main Street of the city, as it were, and determined the location of major elements such as the Citadel, the Sarai and the Suqs. The walls were pierced by only five gates which, because of long-established caravan routes, faced five main orientations: o o o o o
Bab Bab Bab Bab The
Al Muadham/North Al Wastani/ East-and north-eastern Al Talism/East Al Sharqi/South Bridge/West
These five major directions were obviously reflected in the main circulation network. The important spines connected the gates with the main nodes of public activity such as Suqs or shrines and eventually
Al-Rasheed area’s network consisted of narrow alleyways hardly wider than 3—4 metres and often less than 2 metres within the residential quarters, therefore providing abundant shade throughout the year. The network shows a clear hierarchy, with primary alleyways (Tariq or Shari) acting as major public thoroughfares, with secondary alleyways (Darb, Zuqaq or Aqd) serving as transit routes through the residential districts or "mahallas", and with tertiary alleyways (Darbuna) providing local access to individual housing units, often in form of semi-private cul-de-sacs. A similar hierarchy applies to the Suqs, which are divided into the central Suq system and the local mahalla Suqs. The central Suq system showed a large concentration of interconnected specialised markets in the Bab al-Agha area, near the Riverfront, and was linearly extended in various directions along the main pedestrian spines (e.g. Shorja, Mustansir Street, Sarai Suq). With all the varieties of merchandise it offered, and with the wholesale and storage facilities provided by the attached khans, it served as the traditional centra! business district. Adjacent mosques and Madrasas complemented the commercial functions by religious and cultural activities, and their large courtyards provided a welcome contrast to the crowded market lanes. Thus the central Suqs constituted a focus of civic life, while the small Mahalla Suqs operated on a much more modest scale, related to the daily needs of the residential community.
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Each Mahalla was self-contained and self-sufficient and therefore had its own local Suq, its mosque (Masjid), perhaps a local bath (Hammam) and several small but necessary services such as a bakery and a local tea or coffee house. The religious and cultural institutions in Al-Rasheed area were not confined to one zone but were scattered throughout the traditional area. The location of major monumental mosques tended to be defined by association with religious persons or events, and was often linked to the tomb of an eminent saint or sheikh. The seat of power and public administration has for over 600 years remained more or less in the same location, i.e., close to the Tigris. The main components of this zone are:
Fig.(54) Al Qushla and the clock tower
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Fig.(55) Al Sarai building o The Citadel, a squarish site occupying an area of about 10 hectares and housing the seat of the Governor and his army. o The Maidan, the main open civic space. In study area this was about 40 metres wide and 350 metres long, adjacent to the Citadel and being the only public space to serve for special civic occasions. o The Sarai, a longish site on the Riverfront measuring about 100 metres by 500 metres. This zone consisted of the Sarai Buildings (Government House), the Qushla, the Civil Courts, the Municipality, and the State Sarai Mosque. Later, it in cluded the Police Headquarters, the main Post Office building, and the Military School. Most of this system is still intact and includes, architectually, the most interesting and significant public buildings of Rusafa.
The Traditional Architecture of Rasheed Area
describes those built between 1918 and the late 1930's because of their differing architectural and constructional characteristics.
Passing from the urban to the architectural level, this article describes the typical features of historic buildings in the Al-Rasheed area, concentrating on private houses, mosques and Suqs. Special emphasis will be given to the analysis of the traditional Baghdadi Houses, as these buildings form the majority of the architectural heritage and had a decisive impact on the traditional townscape of AlRasheed area. A more complete account on traditional Baghdadi architecture, as well as an inventory of all monuments of cultural interest, is to be found in the () Houses Frequent floods, fires, wars and other disasters, have resulted in the total destruction of all medieval houses in Baghdad. Another reason for the disappearance of older houses was perhaps that they were not regularly maintained or restored. In contrast to mosques and other revered items, houses were allowed to dilapidate before being eventually demolished and replaced by new ones. In other words, there seems to have been a continuous urban renewal process in traditional Mahallas throughout Baghdad's history. Thus, while some items of public interest survive from the late eleventh century (Wastani Gate), the oldest surviving houses date back to around 1840, only. In the following description, the term "traditional" is used to describe houses which are older than 1918 and of vernacular design, while "transitional"
Fig. (56) Traditional houses in Sayid Sultan Ali Mahalla
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The traditional social life of Islam was sharply divided between the private and the public domain, between man and woman. In physical terms, this was reflected by the division of the house into two distinct sections: the "Diwan-khana" — for the males and their male guests, and the "Haram" — for the women, servants and women guests. Often, these two sections had their own separate entrances.
adapted to the structural constraints resulting from the lay-out in the upper floor. For most traditional houses, even modest ones, an elaborately ornamented entrance portal was provided. The entrance corridor was always broken by a ninety-degree turn to make it impossible for strangers and passers-by to see the women of the family.
All traditional houses were planned as enclosed "containers" around an open courtyard (Hosh, Fina), which represents the focal element of the domestic space. The central courtyard has an age-old tradition in Iraq; it provided privacy to the family life and protected the interior of the house against excessive summer heat. The shortage of space within the old city walls, and especially the deliberate concentration on the interior aspects of the house favored the merging of individual building units into coherent clusters, thus reducing and partly eliminating external walls and corresponding elevations. The majorities of houses, with the exception of a few larger mansions or palaces, were built on small, irregular and often contiguous plots of 50—150 square meters, and usually were two to three floors high. The upper storey was often used to include the "Diwan-khana" section of the house and, therefore, it required the maximum architectural attention and detailing. The elaborate ornamentation and decoration of some first floor rooms was meant to impress the guests and enhance the social status of the owner, while the ground floor was mostly reserved for smaller service rooms, which were
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Fig. (57) Traditional houses The courtyard was usually rectilinear in plan and its dimensions ranged from 3x3 metres in small houses to over 10x10 metres in larger ones. Its height, which was often more than eight metres, was generally greater than its plan dimensions, thus affording adequate shade even from the near vertical midday sun. Many courtyards were provided with trees or with a fountain (Shithirwan), which was placed at the centre and helped to raise the level of humidity and cool the air within the walls.
The interior elevations were usually dominated by centrally placed bays or loggias opening onto the courtyard, called "Talar" and "Iwan". Both could be either at ground floor or on the upper floor. In contrast to the talar, the opening of the iwan does not include any columns. Some of the later traditional houses of the early twentieth century were provided with removable windows which covered the iwan to provide shelter against cold and wind. Both iwans and talars were usually provided with ornamented windows at their side walls to allow some light to penetrate into adjacent rooms.
("Neems") were very important elements. They were extensively used for siesta sleeping as well as for storing large quantities of food. The Sirdabs were illuminated from skylights at courtyard level. Their planning was largely limited to an ante-room and a main room, but sometimes the whole courtyard had cellars underneath it. Neems and sirdabs were ventilated by high shafts called "Badgeers". These wind-catchers were oriented so that they could catch the maximum amount of cool breezes from the north-west.
The main reception room was the so-called "Ursi"; it was distinguished by a specially decorated large sash-window, which took the whole front of the room towards the courtyard and was considered the artistic "showpiece" of the house. In its structure, it resembled a screened talar and was always located on the first floor of the house. As a rule, the first floor contained a colonnade, running around the courtyard, called "Tarma". It gave direct access to every single room, and especially to the ursi and/or the talar. The tarma was sometimes prolongated by small open corridors into the corners of the house, to separate the ursi from adjacent rooms. These corridors were called "Iwanchas", i.e. small iwans, and were usually topped by small and very low rooms called "Kabishkans", which allowed women to watch receptions and festivities going on in the ursi or the talar beneath. In traditional houses in Baghdad and elsewhere in Iraq, the cellars ("Sirdabs") and half-cellars
Fig. (58) Traditional houses -Section The exterior elevations of traditional houses were marked by oriel windows in the upper floors, projecting into the Street and called "Shanashil". Staggered shanashil windows were often used for correcting the odd shape of the plot. However, the serration of these projected wooden windows often gave the traditional house its typical external characteristic appearance.
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trend of outwardness which was largely associated with Western customs. For the same reason, the use of the conservative bent entrance was gradually abandoned. In general, the plans lost some of their former rigidity. Many architectural features, such as the iwanchas and the talar, were discarded in the first floor plan. The ursi room, however, continued to be used, but with much less elaboration in its ornamentation. The tarma was also retained but it was not now always colonnaded. Neem cellars continued to be built, but with a drastic reduction in drop below courtyard level. There were now fewer kabishkans and almost no wall recesses ("Razunas"). Ornamentation as a whole began to show a marked European influence; in stucco work, there was more use of floral and foliated pattern than geometric. Altogether, there was a clear trend towards simplicity and economy in design.
Fig. (59) types of traditional columns Compared to its traditional forerunner, the transitional Baghdadi house, as evolved during the early twentieth century shows a general shift from introversion to extraversion. But some of the earlier elements, such as the internal courtyards, were maintained and were only abandoned in the early 1940's. For the first time, low external windows directly fronting the Street were provided on the ground floor level. Another significant new introduction was the use of an external verandah or balconies instead of shanashils. This reflected the new socio-cultural
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Fig. (60) types of traditional openings
The most obvious difference between the transitional and the traditional house was the method of construction. Traditional houses had palm-tree trunks or round timbers for joists spaced at about 40 cms, above which were mats of reed, covered with a layer of earth and with shallow square bricks forming the floor surface. The roof was constructed in a similar manner, but finished with a mixture of wet earth and straw gently sloped for drainage. The ceilings of many traditional houses were of very richly ornamented woodwork which reached an almost unbelievable complexity and sophistication.
Fig. (62) Traditiona l houses in the alleys
With the end of World War 1, however, the British occupation of Iraq lead to the introduction of the socalled "Jack-Arch" construction system. This involved the use of l-section rolled steel joists at about 70— 80 cms, supporting very shallow brick tunnel vaulting. Precast terrazzo tiles "Kashi" became popular as a floor finish. In other words, steel joists simply replaced timber joists and, consequently, the new system did not alter the basic appearance of the transitional house. In dating such a house the use of jack-arching indicates that it was built after 1918. Fig. (61) Traditiona l houses in the alleys
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Mosques and Religious Buildings
There are about 150 old mosques in Baghdad today, The majority of the listed mosques in Baghdad belong to the Ottoman period, while the majority of mosques in Iraq to show a hybrid mixture of Abbasid, Persian, and Ottoman influences on their plan and architectural treatment. Although it is difficult to formulate safe generalizations about mosques in Baghdad, because of the successive and often major restorations, some common architectural features can be distinguished. The mosque building is normally provided with an open courtyard in which ablution places "Matahir" are located, and with a colonnaded or arcaded portico in front of the prayer area. The portico sometimes contains its own mihrab and is used as a summer prayer space. The entrance, usually centrally located off the portico, leads directly to the interior prayer space. The praying area is usually rectangular in plan with its southwestern wall containing the mihrab. In older mosques, i.e. before the advent of jack-arching or reinforced concrete, it was always divided into two or more aisles and roofed by a system of domes which were supported by pointed arches. For large spans, heavy brick piers or walls by characteristic triangular cross-ribbed pendentives. Often the dome over the mihrab area was the largest and highest. In tomb-mosques, the tomb is always placed separately in a single square room of the haram area. The tomb itself is presented as a cenotaph-box "Sanduq"
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always covered with green drapery and surrounded by an elaborated wooden screen.
Fig. (63) Mustansiriya Madrasa Minarets are only present in Friday mosques. They are usually located at one corner of the mosque near the portico, but sometimes incorporated within the entrance arch. In Iraq, minarets are usually cylindrical in body, unlike the square minarets of Syria and North Africa. They rise from an octagonal base to a round balcony from which the call for prayer used to be made. The balcony is usually corbelled out in two or more rows of "muqarnas" brickwork. The upper section of the body is smaller in diameter and crowned by a fluted cupola and a metal-beaded finial. Most minarets are provided with an internal spiral stairway and are finished in very richly coloured and patterned glazed kashani tiles. These tiles often include one or two bands with inscriptions in Kufic or some other type of Arab calligraphy. Domes range from the pointed, depressed or shallow type to the conical one, or are raised on a drum. Often they are finished in plain turquoise colour tiles, but some mosques contain richly ornamented domes
in geometric or foliated patterns. The domes and minarets of important Shiite mosques, such as Kadhiman, are often finished in gold-plated tiles. Most mosques in Baghdad included a "Saqaya" or "Sabil-Khana", i.e. public fountains which were erected by pious individuals as waqf endowments. It is unfortunate that none of the originals exist today in Baghdad. Elaborate fountains which once existed in the open courtyards of mosques have now been either removed or disused. Instead, prayers use modern water taps for ablution Because most mosques are surrounded by shops or houses, they lack exterior elevations. Only a few can justifiably claim to have consciously-designed facades. Indeed, even large and important mosques such as Kadhimiya and Gailani are surrounded by a plain wall; many small mosques are very difficult to distinguish from ordinary houses from the outside. Often, the only external sign of a mosque is a small portal or frontispiece. Recently, the Awqaf has, rather ill-advisedly, "added" new elevations to several important mosques, as an attempt to enhance their external appearance. Other religious institutions related to the mosque, but showing a distinct architectural typology are the Madrasa and the Takya. The madrasa is a theological college for teaching the Quranic sciences and has been specially promoted by the Seljuq and the late Abbasid dynasties in order to train orthodox government officials. It therefore came under the patronage of the state and was given salaried teaching staff. The Takya or Khanqa was usually associated with a religious order "Tariqa" which
would assemble there for regular prayers and sittings "Dhikr", and lodge i visitors. Both madrasa and Takya therefore combine prayer halls and assembly rooms with a series of small cells, where students, teachers and sheikhs would find accomodation. Three outstanding examples of madrasas in Baghdad are those of Mustansiriya (built in 1234), the Abbasid Palace or Sharabiya (built in 1226), and Aliya (built in 1762). All of them are designed on two floors around a central open courtyard. Their monumental character is stressed by large two storey high iwans which dominate the interior elevations. Lower arcades surround the courtyard and give access to the small students' cells. Two examples of surviving takyas in Baghdad are those of Bandanigi, and Ihsai or Khalidiya, which both contain the tombs of their founders.
Fig. (64) Mustansiriya Madrasa, representing a superb example of Abbasid architectures
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Hammams Hammams or public baths are usually found near mosques, as bodily cleanliness is a ritual duty in Islamic life. Because traditional houses did not have today's sophisticated hygienical equipment, the hammam represented an important public facility and at the same time was a focus of community life. For 1884, Duri mentioned the figure of forty hammams in Baghdad, of which only a few have survived to the present day. The basic plan of hammam consists of a series of spaces designed to meet this sequential programme. This includes: o o o o
Changing room "Manza" Intermediate room "Wastani-Barrani" Heated room "Wastani-Jawani" Steam-room "Jawani"
o Fig. (65) The typical view of Hammam
(Hammam Al Basha) 1960’s
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Fig. (66) Hammam Al Basha today The changing room is nearly always rectangular in plan and is often the largest space in the hammam. The steam room, on the other hand, is usually of the cross-axial four-iwan type, and nearly always octagonal in plan. Often it is the most interesting room in the whole building, as it is surmounted by a large dome pierced by small round oculi which are arranged in an interesting geometrical pattern. The dome is supported on heavy piers, pointed arches, and more frequently with squinches, but never muqarnased pendentives. The iwans themselves are often barrel-vaulted and are provided with brick or stone benches, and with hot and cold water taps and small water basins for use by individual bathers. Like mosques, hammams in Baghdad are not expressed externally. All of the seven listed hammams are either entirely hidden by shops or simply provided with a plain wall. Unlike many Ottoman hammams, which are often richly ornamented, those in Baghdad seem to have been regarded as functional buildings only and were therefore treated with austerity
Suqs and Khans The central markets of Al Rsheed are probably the oldest surviving Suq complex in Iraq. As it stands now, it is roughly square in shape, about 300 m by 300 m, or nine hectares in area. Its regular shape is largely due to the modern Streets which surround it today, while it originally extended well beyond its present boundaries. The site of this Suq complex is believed to have been used since Sassanid times, and some historical accounts suggest that it included the famous Tuesday Market. Various types of commercial structures can be distinguished, such as the covered Suq, the khan, the open Suq and the open market square "Maidan". As the two latter ones are rather informal structures making use of the existing Street network and available open spaces, we shall concentrate on the architecturally articulated forms of the Suq. The survey resulted in listing 24 historic Suqs and 13 khans still operating in Al Rasheed. The Suqs of the central market complex are arranged on a grid pattern, the meshes of which are occupied by khans. Suqs are closely interrelated and follow certain characteristic divisions of trades, goods and crafts. Sarai Suq, for instance, which specialises in books and stationery, is located next to Mutanabi Street which specialises in printworks and stationery storage. Similarly, Sarafin Suq which is occupied by moneylenders and exchangers is now conveniently situated near the modern bank district. The vaulted Suq is basically a covered, narrow Street with a row of small shops on either side. Its width ranges from two to three metres but its length can
run into several hundreds of metres, sometimes even more than a kilometre. The floors of shops were usually raised about half a metre above ground level to allow for a better view and to act as seating for customers. Because they are very small (by Western standards) they do not have adequate storage space and therefore they make use of nearby khans for this purpose, which implies a certain amount of congestion due to the transport of merchandise. Several Suqs contain an upper storey for additional shops or storage, e.g. Sarrajin and Astarabadi. The roof, usually constructed in brick and mortar, consists of a long series of vaults above pointed arches with projecting ribs following each other at regular intervals of 2—3 metres. Crossings of two or more Suqs are often emphasized by larger vaults or domes. Both vaults and domes are normally pierced with small round oculi and, like Hammams, these skylights throw very interesting bands of sunlight in daytime. The roof structure is often built in parquetlike "Hasiri" pattern in brickwork.
Fig. (67) Khan Mirjan
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Neglect and lack of regular maintenance have resulted in the decay and collapse of several traditional Suqs in the city. Some roofs have been replaced by cheap corrugated iron sheets fixed on timber or iron girders. The sheets are then pierced with numerous small holes for sunlight. Sarrajin Suq has recently been well restored by the Awqaf and serves as a good (but rare) example of how restoration can be successfully achieved without destroying the original fabric, as was the case with the superb Qaplani Suq demolished by Awqaf in 1976.
Fig. (68) AlMustansiriya Suq Khans usually consist of a large open courtyard around which a series of cellular structures on two levels are arranged — for storage in the ground floor and for storage or lodging in the upper floor. These cells could be rented to visiting traders from other towns or countries. Unfortunately, very few medieval khans exist today. The most outstanding examples in Baghdad today are Khan Zurur and Khan Mirjan.
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Khan Mirjan, which was built in 1356 by an llkhanid governor, is unique in Islam because its courtyard is entirely covered by a splendid vaulted roof. Some old khans have been so much modified or taken over by modern shops that their original fabric is hardly recognisable any longer. Khan Gghan, now known as Suq Danial, is a good example of this type of gradual destruction. Built in 1590 by a local Pasha called Gghal Zada it survived to function as a major khan in Baghdad until the early decades of this century when it began to be taken over by shops. Its once open courtyard is now entirely occupied by a modern Suq
Fig. (69)Khan and Suq area in Bab Al Agha
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Analysis of existing conditions: Population and General land use pattern in the study areas. The population of Baghdad has rapidly increased in the past few decades. It was approximately 200,000 in 1918. The growth was particularly pronounced after 1965. It doubled in the 15 years between 1965 and 1980 and the average growth rate reached 5.0%. Baghdad population was (2.7) millions according to the (1977) general census. It increased up to (3.8) millions in (1987) with an annual growth rate of (3.02) %. In (1997) the population of Baghdad reached (4.4) millions with an annual growth rate of (1.36) % for the period (1987-1997). The reason behind this decline of the growth for this period was due to the central policy pursued to control the growth of the capital. In addition, the unnatural circumstances that prevailed during those years were other reasons such as (Iran war, Gulf wars, and Kuwait liberation). According to these population growths for the past periods the population of Baghdad will be doubled in (19-50) years (as high and low expectations). On average, safe, and moderate expectation, on can say that Baghdad will need (30-40) years to double its population. For Baghdad 2030 Vision expectation, the population will be doubled to (8.8-9.0) millions in average. This will be valid argument unless specific measures are taken to control its growth or increasing it. This will assume an annual growth rate of (2) % annually. According to 2007 estimates, the total population of Al Rasheed areas is approximately 15,915
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The age structure of the population shows a high proportion of youths, with almost 50% of 0 — 14 years old people against the same number of 15 — 60 year old people. The working population accounts for approximately 50% of the inhabitants.. The large majority of the inhabitants live in relatively poor economic conditions. The study area has an extremely high density of work places (250 persons/ ha), and this concentration of capital, business opportunities and employment is particularly evident in the area between Al Rasheed Street and the Riverfront. year
Estimated population
1977 1980 1997 1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009
2,920,000 3,377,000 5478804 5610471 5756723 5907246 5907426 6222186 6386067 6554126 6726432 6962650 7145470 7332256 7522787
*Sensus 2007 Table ( ) Al Rashwed population forcast
In order to allow for a better breakdown of overall statistic information, the study area has been subdivided into 6 Zones. Each Zone in itself contains a mixture use areas. However, the subdivisions show clear functional differentiations within the study area.
National total Age Group
Urban area total
boys
girls
0 -4 5-9 10 -14 15 -19 20 -24 25 -29 30 -34 35 -39 40 - 44 45 - 49 50 - 54 55 - 59 60 - 64 65 - 69 70 - 74 75 - 79 80 +
589514 505481 431579 388685 337069 289550 244797 202392 159510 127579 98354 75978 56476 39762 25175 14750 16573
560411 479532 417658 375356 325975 282303 241662 202999 164810 133673 104049 80877 59663 43500 29423 18659 21696
total
3603224
3542246
Data source: Census2007
total
boys
girls
total
1149925 985013 849237 764041 663044 571853 486459 405391 324320 261252 202403 156855 116139 83262 54598 33409 38269
497317 428952 368473 334648 292924 253581 216240 180228 143552 115452 89343 69087 51224 35984 22693 13124 14115
472862 407044 356988 323224 283053 246710 212607 179589 146749 119397 93088 72431 53415 38942 26343 16588 18801
970179 835996 725461 657872 575977 500291 428847 359817 290301 234849 182431 141518 104639 74926 49036 29712 32916
7145470
3126937
3067831
6194768
Table ( ) Comparison study area to CBD and Baghdad Cit
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As expected, most employment can be found with an emphasis on Rasheed Street. Due to the small rain of the traditional Suqs and to their trend to concentrate a maximum of commercial activities within a minimum of space, the density rises to as much as 590 working places/ha, which is more than 6 times the average of the national average According to these factors, it is clear that Rasheed area unbalanced with regard to the ratio between residents and employment. There are a very high percentage of people who live and work in the study area.
photographic record of the historic sections of the study area. o o o o o o o o o o
Evaluation of Area urban fabric As a result of the changes and transformations described in the previous chapter, Al-Rasheed area today suffers from an extremely heterogeneous urban form. On one hand, it retains many traces of its traditional urban fabric; on the other hand it reflects a series of sometimes erratic modern developments with a different type of scale and spatial organization. It therefore resembles a "battlefield", as it were, of different architectural styles and ideologies. The incoherent character of the existing fabric becomes apparent when looking at the volumetric (isometric) view of the study area in its present condition. In order to analyze in greater detail the physical conditions and the architectural merits of the existing fabric, a series of interrelated surveys have been undertaken, which cover the whole study areabuilding by building, including a comprehensive
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Survey of land and building use Survey of building height Survey of structural conditions Survey of existing ownership Arcade Survey Survey of existing building of architectural interest Survey of listed historical building Survey of historical side of the building Survey of architectural significant for historical and heritage building Survey of urban morphology and building typologies
The first three surveys provide general physical evaluations without specific reference to historic structures. The first map highlights the discrepancies in built form, especially in certain areas on the Riverfront, near the Suqs, where modern high-rise buildings clash with the traditional 1-2 storey structures. The survey on building use shows that approximately 2% of the buildings in the study area are in residential use, while mixed-use accounts for about 3% and commercial, business and administrative (CBA)uses together for about 64%. The map will be especially useful for determining possible conflicts with regard to specific historic buildings emerging from the second series of maps. Similarly, the survey of structural conditions has to be used in conjunction with
the evaluation of historical and architectural merit. In fact, it shows that (574) buildings in the study area are old structures in poor or very poor condition. This should, however, not be interpreted as an automatic endorsement for redevelopment, as buildings in poor condition but with high historic and architectural value must be treated according to special guidelines, which will be explained in following article , when discussing criteria for future intervention in the Conservation Districts. The last two surveys provide more specific information on the historic fabric, which will condition future planning constraints and types of control. The survey of historical monuments is mainly concerned with individual buildings remarkable for their architectural features or for their historic value. (A detailed list and description of these buildings is included in chapter 4) in order to place the monuments within a broader urban context and to define coherent and relatively homogeneous parts of the urban fabric, a typological survey was made, which includes the listed monuments. It shows special concern for the traditional pattern as a whole, defining the typical features of the architectural components, which together constitute the complex morphologic structure of the old city. As this typological survey will be the basic instrument for defining future conservation and development policies, it will be discussed in greater detail. The method used to classify buildings and to identify the composition of typological groupings was established on the basis of a preliminary study of the different morphological structures which today make up the historic centre of Al-Rasheed area. The
approach was based on the dialectic relationship between each building and the urban structure of which it is part. Within this relationship, the degree of coherence of various sectors of the historic fabric has been evaluated. This will make it possible to take decisions at an architectural level concerning the full range of future interventions, such as restoration, rehabilitation, substitution and reconstruction. From a typological point of view, we can distinguish the following basic urban textures: o The traditional Arab/Islamic urban fabric, reflecting the urban organisation of the late 19th century: Its very coherent pattern integrates individual components such as houses, Suqs, and pedestrian networks into a contiguous urban structure. o The transitional urban fabric of the early 20th century. o The large urban renewal operations of the early - mid 20th century, developed along the new roads such as Rasheed Street. They introduced a new type of arcaded building of considerable homogenity, with arcades and 23 upper floors forming continuous building lines along the Street sides. o The large-scale developments of the modern period after the Second World War, with freestanding high-rise blocks, such as the new bank buildings near the River.
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Land use Occupies a surface of only 80.1ha. This predominance must be attributed to the historic importance of Al-Rasheed area as the traditional city centre of Baghdad. The development of the modern city centre in AlRasheed, as started in 1916 but especially since the 1950s, has transformed the traditional land use patterns. As a result of this process, the following major changes have occurred: o The commercial areas of the centre were first extended from the Bab Al Agha Suq to Rashd Street and to residential areas adjacent to the old Suqs, where most of the houses were converted into stores, khans or workshops. This also applies to most of the old houses between Mustansir Street and the Riverfront. South of Rasheed Street, in the traditional banks quarter, a modern banking centre with large high rise buildings was erected.. o This has led to the establishment of two differently structured CBD, the old one o Some of these spaces, especially those near the Streets are used for uncontrolled parking of those within the old city will offer valuable o reserve space for future investment projects.
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remaining within an adapted traditional and transitional urban fabric (Shorja, Mustansir Street and Rasheed Street). o The workshops and small industries producing for the growing demand of the local markets are still expanding and already have occupied large parts of residential areas. The old balance of mixed use patterns is in many cases destroyed through predominant industrial activities with corresponding problems such as access, stock of materials, Street occupancy, noise etc. o Accordingly, there is a decline of pure residential areas within the former old city, and especially in the area south of Al-Rasheed Street to the River between midan area to Mutanibi Street, where residential use has survived in only a few isolated areas. o Large amounts of empty areas with undefined land use exist in Al-Rasheed area, partly resulting from demolition and uncompleted modern redevelopment, partly resulting from total collapse of houses in the historic areas. The map of existing land use, together with the schedule of occupied surfaces gives a comprehensive picture of the present state of the Al-Rasheed area.
Existing land use condition After examination of the provided database, buildings usage was distributed into 13 category as folTable ( ) Category Mixed - use area of CBA Mixed – use area of residential and other Pure residential Mixed – use area or CBA and industrial Pure industrial Public facilities Religious facilities Recreation facilities Car parking Park and open space Not occupied building Vacant area Ruined area
Percentage 64% 3% 2% 1% 6% 1% 2% 2% 2% 1% 10% 1% 5%
Count 886 37 27 18 90 19 27 21 32 7 142 15 64
Existing land us
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Existing building height map: 21% of Al Rasheed surveyed buildings have 1 story that represents 296 buildings, 44% (612 buildings) have 2 stories, 18% (244 buildings) 3 stories, 4% (58 buildings) with 4 stories, 4% (51 buildings) have 5 to 9 stories, 1% (12 buildings) have more than 10 stories, and 8% (116 buildings) represent a vacant area.
Existing structural condition: Surveyed buildings structural condition was distributed into seven classes: Under construction 0.5% (2 buildings), Good condition 22% (301 buildings), Fair condition 32% (456 buildings), Poor condition 24% (337 builings), Very poor condition 13% (174 buildings), collapsed structure 4.5% (63 buildings), Vacant area 4% (52 buildings).
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Existing ownership (property): Ownership of the Area of intrest is distributed as follows: Private ownership 81.8% (equivalent to 1005 buildings) Public ownership 11% (138 builings), Religious property 7% (91 buildings) and 0.2 % have a mixed goernmental ownership (2 buildings).
Arcade Map: 21% (300 buildings) of surveyed buildings have Arcades 78% (1089 buildings) doesn't and 1% (15 buildings) is a vacant land.
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Existing building of architectural interest: After examination of the provided database, buildings usage was distributed into 13 category as follows:
Category
Percentage
Count
Monument
3
47
Early tradition
6
84
Art Nouveau
6
80
Art DĂŠcor
9
122
Modern building (1950 and over)
12
162
No architectural interest
55
770
9
124
Vacant area
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Listed Historic Buildings: The historical buildings are listed as follows: 78% Art nouveau (164 buildings) and 22% Early tradition (47 buildings).
Historical Side of the building: The historical side of the buildings was studied by a classification into three classes: 71% of historical buildings represent a historical Period (212 buildings), 27% report a historical usage (78 buildings), and 2% refer to a historic person (7 buildings).
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Architecturally significant for historic and heritage building map: 74% of Al Rasheed surveyed historic and heritage buildings have an architectural signification that's represents 234 buildings. Where 16% (51 buildings) are partialy sgnificant in terms of architecture and 10 % (31 buildings) have some architectural elements.
GIS Maps: The following maps shows the results of the survey and data collected by the survey teams. The maps were made using the Giographic Information syastem (GIS):
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On the basis of this general morphological classification, a more detailed house-by-house analysis within the boundaries of the study area has been established, using the following typological criteria for the classification of individual buildings: The Traditional Bghdadi Houses
Fig. (70) Traditional Baghdadi houses
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Transformed Baghdadi Houses This category includes houses which have been altered by the introduction of new structural elements and by use of new types of openings such as balconies, large windows etc. It also includes one or two-storey row houses from the early twentieth century which are similar to their predecessors in scale and plot size and show related typological features. This category also includes the workingclass houses constructed from the 1950s on, which are of one floor, unfaced or plastered brick, and lay out around a courtyard.
fabric, which have three or four floors (buildings with a central stair case giving access to the various apartments, modern constructional systems, framework in reinforced concrete, modern architectural vocabulary, balconies, glazed openings etc.).
Fig. (72) Street Side Buildings Contemporary Block-Structures
Fig. (71) Transformed Arab Houses Street side Buildings from the Early 20th Century This category includes buildings with 2, 3 or 4 floors, stemming from the urban renewal operations on Rasheed Street, Kifah Street, etc., and heavily influenced by western mediterranean models. It also includes replacements within the traditional urban
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This category includes buildings which completely transform the morphological structures of the urban fabric in which they are placed, by occupying several plots or complete sectors of the old city, most of these buildings have more than four floors and show the form of isolated towers or brocks. They are generally found in the new urban redevelopment schemes ( Central Bank, Maidan Square etc.)
Suqs and Workshops This category includes those commercial and craftsmen's premises which open into the Street, have a concrete framework faced with tiles or slabs of stone, or are constructed with reject materials.
Fig. (73) Contemporary Block-Structures
Ruined Houses This category contains ruined or extremely damaged houses which are, however, still used for residential or other purposes, as well as shacks built with recycled rejected materials.
Fig. (75) Work shops
Traditional Establishments and Facilities of Monumental Character
Social
This category includes traditional establishments such as schools, Medersas, khans, and mosques. Each building of historic value has been identified separately.
Fig. (74) Ruined buildings
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It shoud be noted that the classification of buildings was done irrespective of their actual physical condition, unless the structure had collapsed or was no longer usable.
Fig. (76) Traditional establishments
Ruins and Vacant Areas Empty spaces or ruined buildings have been grouped indiscriminately in this category. The presence of interesting ruins has been systematically noted.
Fig. (77) Ruins and Vacant Areas
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Living conditions in the residential quarters. As previously outlined, the residential districts of study area were subject to profound physical and social transformation. Large parts of the traditional housing stock have been rented, with the corresponding social problems resulting from multiple occupations of single family houses. Other parts have been occupied by marketing and production activities. Due to these changes, the interest in maintenance and upkeep of the old structures has diminished, and speculative trends prevail. The lack of a consistent conservation policy has supported these negative trends.
Fig. (78) Lack of facilities & necessary services Densities in the residential quarters are high. An estimation drawing from Census data (2007), and
Fig. (79) Environmental hazards within the area BCTS information that in certain areas they reach over(380 persons/ha. )Accurate data about the floor area per capita of the residences of the study area are not available at the present time, but rough calculations indicate that the average area is barely 8.15 m2/person, which is 55% of the average floor area of 14.9 m2 /person in the central area’s already indicated in previous section of the buildings of the study area are in very poor and are in poor structural condition. In other words, approximately a half of the total building stock of the study area must be restored or renewed or replaced. There is little data on public utilities within residential areas, but results of field survey and interviews with the local population carried out in connection with the present study indicate that electricity, running water and sewer are available in bad condition in all residences. As for propane gas and kerosene however, there are few suppliers handling these commodities and the inhabitants of the study area are forced to walk long distances to purchase them.
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Social Facilities Precise information concerning the number of school children and students is not available. There are 1 secondary school there is an almost total lack of kindergartens and nurseries. The situation regarding medical care facilities is reasonably satisfactory but below standards. But community facilities serving the local population in their daily life are badly missing. Under these circumstances playgrounds are practically nonexistent except for the alley-ways, which are too narrow, or for ruined plots, which are dangerous. In view of the small area of the elementary secondary school sites and the insufficiency of sports facilities, it seems extremely vital to provide open space for a better environment.
Socio-Economic Attitudes
Survey
and
Residents'
In order to crosscheck the general statistical information and to collect more information at "grass root-level", a survey covering 120 houses in five different districts was undertaken in. The survey relied on interviews following a pre-established questionnaire and on direct observation and evaluation by the surveyors. From the survey it is clear that high amount of residents more than 60% have been living in the area for 10 for 20 years and can therefore be considered a stable population with firm roots in the area. The closeness of the CBD is, however, also to be considered a social asset, as the majority of residents work in nearby which they can easily reach the area by public transport and some of them lived in the area. In terms of income and social status, the majority of the surveyed population (60%) has to be considered as poor, with only 1 to 2 rooms at their disposal; yet they are provided with basic equipment and facilities, such as shared bathroom, cooling stove, refrigerator and Satellite. The corresponding heads of the family are mostly low-status government employees —still active or retired - with no specific professional skills or qualifications.
Fig. (80) Children has no education or playground facilities
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Around 30% of the households are to be considered as middle class, which means that they live at somewhat greater ease, having 1—3 rooms and being equipped with a freezer and Satellite. Heads of
Fig. (81)
Fig. (80) Children has no education or playground facilities families tend to work as employees in the private sector (trade and factories) or they may have managed to open a small business of their own, renting a shop or a workshop. Greater ease is sometimes achieved when several members of the family earn salaries. Only 8% of the surveyed families were considered to be part of the rich upper class. They were mostly owners of workshops or merchants, and lived in good quality premises without sharing the house with other families.. Considering the condition of residents it is not surprising to find that only 20% of the houses are
owned by their occupants, while 75% are rented from absentee owners or from governmental agencies such as the Mayoralty of Baghdad and Awqaf which own 9% of the houses. The remaining 5% are in shared private ownership, as a result of complicated inheritance and may be occupied by one of the heirs who have to pay corresponding compensation to the others. More than half the houses (50%) offer 4—6 rooms, while 26% contain less than 4 rooms and 18% have 6 to 9 rooms. This does not automatically mean that all these rooms offer appropriate living conditions, since the physical condition of the houses is generally rather poor, as explained below. Nevertheless, only 40% of the houses are occupied by one family alone, while 25% are inhabited by two
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and 35% by three and more households. This means that the average number of rooms available per household is very low and that maintaining the privacy of family life becomes a problem, especially in the case where households living together are not related to each other. This concerns 40% of houses, as compared to houses inhabited by nuclear families (39%) and by extended families (21%). The percentage of households with less than four persons was 37%, which reflects the high amount of single, while households with 4—9 persons accounted for 52% and those with 10—14 Persons for 11%. The rents for the old houses in the study area are relatively low, In spite of its social benefits, this situation also accounts for the progressive deterioration of the traditional urban fabric, as landlords have no incentive to carry out maintenance and repair work. The critical issue concerning the physical condition of the housing stock is the presence of termites and the state of the roofs, as entering water and humidity are the prime sources of deterioration. The results of the survey indicate that only 10% of houses were provided with totally waterproof roofs. 31% show Some occasional minor leakage, the roofs are in bad condition or have already collapsed. This corresponds well to the evaluation of the general structural condition of the surveyed houses, which indicates 32% for buildings in acceptable physical condition, 22%for buildings which need minor repairs, 24%for buildings which need substantial
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repair and 20% for semi-collapsed buildings which would practically need total reconstruction. In the recent past, the Mayoralty of Baghdad has made a major effort to introduce the necessary utilities in the old residential districts. However, there were technical implementation problems due to the ground level of the old houses, which is often much lower than the present Street level and that of the sewage system. As a result, half of the surveyed households are complaining about seepage, or about failures in the pipework. Some of the older houses in the area used to have the traditional cellar, which in most cases is no longer used because of the rising water table. Shortcomings of the residential districts such as the lack of playgrounds, the restricted accessibility for workshops, the lack of adequate social facilities and the general neglect of the urban fabric have lead to an increasingly negative attitude of the inhabitants. Questioned in general terms whether they wanted to stay or to leave, only 27% of the enquired persons stated that they would positively prefer to stay in the area. The question is, however, rather misleading, as the majority of the interviewed persons may have succumbed to a wishful ambition, while there is actually no real choice: Prices and rents of new houses outside the area are prohibitive, public transports, services such as markets and shops are lacking in the new districts, and the distance between housing and work-place would cause problems. Therefore, only 30% of the surveyed households declared themselves decided to leave at any rate, as soon as an opportunity would arise. Concerning the remaining 70% it seems that more
than one third have strong emotional ties with their present neighborhood. The others stay for more rational reasons, but could probably develop a more positive attachment, if the living conditions in the old city were improved. Commercial and Industrial Activities Commerce and Wholesale Despite all the recent commercial developments and the building of large-scale stores in the area, Shorja market has not lost its economic significance. It is still full of vitality being visited by shoppers from all over the city. From this we can assume that the trade has adapted itself to the consumers' requirements. The goods of today are not the same as the goods that were sold more than thirty years ago. This reflects the changes in the population and in their income level, their tastes and consumption habits. The proportion of customers from the countryside is decreasing, and the number of shops and specialized markets has, accordingly, diminished. The citizens, with their increased purchasing power and the development taking place in the city, are directed towards new branches and new products. The present conditions which stopped the arrival of tourism, who have the desire to purchase traditional and hand-made products has not stimulated traditional crafts, such as silver-ware, copper goods, carpets etc. These traders are to be found in the Al Safareen market and similar Suqs. In the future, development will provide substantial areas of modern commercial space. It is not to be
anticipated, however, that they will create too much competition with the traditional Suqs since they will feature another type of shop with large exhibition rooms, as well as cinemas, offices and luxury restaurants. These new shopping areas, besides appealing to another class of customer can complement the traditional markets since they provide other types of goods and services, which could not be handled within the given constraints of the old city.
Fig. (82) Saffarin Suq The basis of the Shorja market is the concentration of retail commerce with its different specialties and varieties on a relatively small space and within a totally pedestrian environment. Within the market there are clear subdivisions On Rasheed Street there are plastics, electrical materials, household goods, shoes, children's clothes, underclothes, oil and gas cooking equipment etc. Across Rasheed Street one enters the cloth market, where fabrics of traditional qualities and colors to the taste of the rural
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population are sold, as well as more modern types of cloth appealing to the new middle and upper class taste. Near Mustansiriyah School, there is a market for clothing and shoes for children and women of low income, while Al Nahr Street provides clothes, shoes and ladies' requirements for the higher income bracket or for people who wish to buy imported products. The cloth market includes a specialized section for carpets and men's clothes, as well as for wedding dresses.
along some of the main arteries. The khans were once used to accommodate travellers, but are now used by the traders as stores or offices. Shorja markets and especially the part between Khulafa and Rasheed Street now serve for the expansion of wholesale businesses and workshops. The retailer often has to rent a room in one of the nearby khans in order to store his goods. Porters have to carry the goods from the trader to the store and then to the shop for a certain fee. As car access is restricted and the supply is not very well organized, congestion is increased. The main branch of the market is a long Street with shops facing one another and separated by an ally 4 to 6 m wide. The Street is covered to protect the people from the summer sun and winter rainfall. The floor-space of single shops is 7 to 15m2, but the new shops that have been recently constructed in the market measure 15 to 25 m2. The structure of most of the markets is bad, and the roof covering is about to collapse due to lack of maintenance. The retailer works with the assistance of one of his sons or of an employee. Almost all of the Shorja traders used to live in different areas of Baghdad and drive to work, even though parking facilities are limited. s. As the location of Shorja market provides maximum sales profits are usually high and most merchants wish to find a place in this market.
Fig. (83) The traditional textile Suq According to this functional structure the Shorja market consists of a main spine from which small markets radiate providing particular specialties of their own. Some khans are located within its network
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In the vicinity of retail areas wholesale have established themselves by renting one or several Khans in a section of the market which specializes in a certain type of product. In addition to this office, a wholesale might take a house or another Khan for
storage of goods. These houses and Khans are usually in a bad structural condition. The most important problem encountered by the wholesaler is the difficulty in transporting goods to the stores and to retailers. (The initial transport of goods from the factory is undertaken by a transport company.) With the increase in transport costs these movements will significantly affect the price of the product. Porters for working day. Because of the central location of the area and the current security situation, Lorries were prevented from entering the area. The only possibility they have is to deliver at early in the morning, and this causes delays in work. The parking of Lorries near the Suqs is often chaotic, occupying every available empty place. In spite of the importance of costs, the area is crowded with unnecessary work movements. Another problem is the poor condition of the khans which are often owned by the Ministry of Awqaf. Some are of historic value, and they have been listed by the Department of Antiquities for conservation and restoration. The wholesale merchants have no clear idea about their future but two options have emerged. The first group wishes to repair the khans and to improve the servicing process. They feel that wholesale business is intrinsic to the area and should remain side by side with the retail trade. The second group thinks that to keep the wholesale business in the area would increase the transport problems and the costs. As they believe that the khans cannot be rebuilt to provide more suitable accommodation for the wholesaler they conclude that the wholesale
Fig. (84) Al Mustansir Street holds the main market for textile and clothing business should be moved to the outskirts, with each merchant having approximately 150 to 200 m2 of space. The supporters of this latter option believe that it would be successful, and they base their view on events in the sixties, when the fruit, vegetable and grain wholesale market was moved to Jamila. Any solution for problems of wholesaling must take into account the size and turnover of the retailers. The wholesaler cannot exactly assess his future growth, as he has to meet the demands of the retailer, who in turn has to adapt to the demand of the consumers. Since the wholesale and retail businesses have no central organization whereby they can direct or gauge future growth this could be done in cooperation with a government agency which should define the possible areas of expansion.
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Workshops, Factories and Industrial Production We have to distinguish the wide-spread productive activities in Al-Rasheed area occurring within the historic fabric . Traditional crafts, with their very simple mechanical equipment, their individualized production processes and their limited needs of space were relatively easy to integrate in the old buildings. A large number of relatively small semiindustrial enterprises (mainly textiles, woodwork, printing and metalwork) have sprung up in the area, occupying abandoned houses or single rooms and shops. They benefit from low rents and cheap manpower and sometimes from the lack of government control. Regulations, hygiene and social security for their employees, At the present of enterprise concerns smaller workshops which, because of their large numbers can produce cheap goods by exploiting the traditional building stock, by neglecting basic
hygienic and security standards, and by saving social objective of maximizing short-term profit, i.e. without any broader development perspectives. Their abuse of historic buildings is a threat to conservation and accounts for the chaotic conditions of the area, characterized by congestion of the pedestrian circuits, and by dumping of waste on the Riverbank. As with enterprises in the commercial sector, workshops and factories in the area are suffering from restricted accessibility and lack of opportunities for expansion. Again, the attitudes of owners differ with regard to the relocation problem: some feel that moving out would make production more expensive and therefore less profitable and they may fear the increasing governmental control involved: Others would be prepared to move to more suitable areas near the area, but under the condition that this would apply to their whole production branch, so as to avoid unfair competition by those remaining in the present location.
Fig. (85) Dumping of major garbage on the River front
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Road network transportation and traffic problems OVERVIEW OF PREVIOUS TRANSPORT STUDIES This study is in line with the following three major transport and planning studies previously conducted for the Baghdad area: • • •
BCTS (Baghdad Comprehensive Transport Study, 1980) JCP (Rusafa Planning Study by JCP, 1982) JICA (Baghdad Urban Transport Improvement Study, 1986)
Both BCTS and JICA studies were comprehensive studies for the Baghdad area while the JCP study was mainly focused on the Rusafa area. In the BCTS and JICA studies, the identified transportation problems for the Baghdad area, were summarized as follows:
lack of pedestrian friendly pathways, loose enforcements of traffic regulations, congestion on many roads, poor geometric design and road conditions in many locations, poor traffic control system (signalization), shortage on parking supply, poor public transport system, as well as, safety and environmental issues. And different alternative transport solutions were considered and were studied thoroughly. On the other hand, the JCP study adopted the proposed bus routes of the BCTS (including a major line running on Al-Rasheed Street), as well as providing additional parking facilities with parking management policies and public transport services. In addition, JCP study has proposed minor modifications to the traffic circulation scheme.
Fig. ( ) General location map of Al-Rasheed Street
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Existing Traffic Conditions Descriptions of the existing highway network and existing traffic condition are provided below. EXISTING ROAD NETWORK The existing Al-Rasheed Street is a two-way single carriageway with one lane per direction, currently, and for security reasons, sections of the Street are closed with barriers as indicated in figures 4 and 5:
Fig. (86) Existing Al-Rasheed Junctions
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Counts (MCC) for the AM & PM peak hours as well as roadside survey (Origin-Destination with trip purpose). Traffic survey locations are shown in Figure 4 while detailed traffic count data are provided in Appendix A. Existing Pedestrian Conditions Existing sidewalks along Al-Rasheed Street are mostly not available for pedestrian movements, due to absence of law enforcement, and the infringements of some retail shops or Street kiosk as well as car parking on the sidewalk, and the pedestrians are obliged to share Street lanes with vehicles.
Fig. (87)
TRAFFIC COUNTS
Existing Parking Conditions
Different types of traffic counts were conducted at selected locations within the Al-Rasheed Street during May 2009 to evaluate the existing conditions on the road network. These counts included Turning Movement Counts (TMC), and Manual Classified
On Street parking in the absence of traffic enforcement is a major congestion and safety concern on Al-Rasheed Street.
Fig. (88) Existing Junction Analyses Figure 5a shows the existing Level of Service for selected junctions within the study area. As shown in the table, congestion is already a problem at AlRasheed Junctions. This is most severe during the AM peak hour. Figure 5b illustrates LOS designations at intersections, ranging from A to F depending on the vehicular congestion to intersection capacity. Rank ‘A’ is considered very good (low traffic density), and rank ‘F’ is poor (total congestion with demand greater than capacity). EXISTING ROAD NETWORK The existing Al-Rasheed street is a two-way single carriageway with one lane per direction, currently, and for security reasons, sections of the street are closed with barriers as indicated in figure 4 below:
Fig. (89) Level of Service for Signalized Intersections (HCM S.R. 209, TRB 1985)
Fig. (90) Existing Al-Rasheed Street condition
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I D
Model
Delay LOS
1
89. 9 F Se c.
2
22. 5 C Se c.
3
74. 0 E Se c.
4
10. 9 B Se c.
5
24. 5 C Se c.
6
18. 1 B Se c.
7
8.4 Se A c.
Fig. (91)
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Junction Schematic
Fig. (92)
Inventory of monuments of cultural interest This inventory is a complete list of all major monuments of cultural interest in the Al Rasheed area. It includes all mosques, tombs, Suqs, madrasas, khans, Hammams, Takyas and gates. However, houses and commercial buildings on Rasheed Street have been included. Moreover, they are treated as single buildings. Each monument has a certain serial listing number, grade, its date of construction or approximate origin, ownership, grades of historic value and zone location.
Table () monuments in Al Rasheed area
ZONE no
Mosqu e
Takya
TombMosqu e
Tomb
Madra sa
Suq
Khan
Other
Total
14
14
29
31
3
70
81
15
9
30
1
75
81
1
19
25
20
216
262
A B
1
C
5
D
3
E
4
F
3
Total
16
1 1
1 2
1 1 1
1 1
1
1 4
2
2
Historical Buildings Heritage Buildings
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Fig. (
ZONE
) monuments in Al Rasheed area
Mosque
Takya
TombMosque
Tomb
Madras a
Suq
Khan
Other
Total
14
14
29
31
3
70
81
15
9
30
1
75
81
1
19
25
20
216
262
A B
1
C
5
D
3
E
4
F
3
Total
16
1 1
2
1 1 1
1 1
Historical Buildings Heritage Buildings
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1
1
1 4
2
2
Index of Whole Monuments in AL RASHEED:Code No. 1. 2.
Zone
A
3. 4. 5. 6.
B
7. 8. 9. 10. 11. 12. 13. 14. 15.
C
Name of monument
Original year of construction
Restoration year
Property ownership
Grade
Location zone no.
Jamal Basha House
1916
2009
Gov't
B
106
Khalil Basha House
1916
2009
Gov't
B
106
Roxy and Rexy Cinema
1940
—
Gov't
B
104
Zawra Cinema
1940
--
Private
B
104
Sayid Sultan Ali Tomb Mosque
1682
1994
Awqaf
A
106
Ibn Al Jawzi Tomb
1200
—
Awqaf
A
106
British Residency
1905
2009
Gov't
A
106
British Consulate General
1905
2009
Gov't
A
106
Watani Cinema
1940
—
Private
B
104
Mirjan Tomb Mosque
1356
--
Awqaf
A
108
Shorja Suq
Pre-1800
--
Private
C
108
Lynch Bros. House
1918
—
Private
B
110
Numan Pachachi Mosque
1815
—
Awqaf
A
110
Khasaki Mosque
1658
1892
Awqaf
A
110
Amin Al Pachachi Mosque
1787
--
Awqaf
A
110
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Code No.
1.
Zone
C
2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. 11. 12. 13. 14.
106 |P a g e
D
Name of monument
Original year of construction
Restoration year
Property ownership
Grade
Location zone no.
Adiliya Al Kabir Mosque
1755
1948
Awqaf
A
110
Khidhari Khan
1922
—
Private
B
110
Asifi Mosque
1825
1922
Awqaf
A
110
Mustansiriya Madrasa
1234
1945
Antiquities
A
110
Qaplani Mosque
1676
1790
Awqaf
A
110
Safarin Suq
1870
—
Private
B
110
Khafafin Mosque
1202
—
Awqaf
A
110
Tabatabai Khan
1870
—
Private
B
110
Assaf Khan
1890
—
Private
B
110
Zanjili Suq
1802
-
Awqaf
B
110
Ahmadi Tomb Mosque
1796
—
Awqaf
A
110
Ibrisam Suq
1802
-
Awqaf
B
110
Dala Khan
1904
-
Private
A
110
Zurur Khan
1534
—
Awqaf
A
110
Fig. (92) Khalil Basha House
Fig. (94) Sayid Sultan Ali Tomb Mosque
Fig. (93) Asifi Mosque
Fig. (95) Mustansiriya Madrasa
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Code No.
Zone
1. 2. 3. 4.
D
5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. 11. 12. 13. 14.
108 |P a g e
E
Name of monument
Original year of construction
Restoration year
Property ownership
Grade
Location zone no.
Znad Cafe
1920
—
Private
B
110
Wafaiya Mosque
1650
1885
Awqaf
A
110
Pasha Al Kabir Khan
1650
-
Awqaf
B
110
Tamgha Suq
1802
—
Private
B
110
Sarafin Suq
1802
—
Private
B
110
Mirjan Khan
1359
-
Antiquities
A
110
Shabandar Khan
1919
—
Private
B
110
Haidarkhana Mosque
1827
—
Awqaf
A
112
Serai Suq
Pre-1800
—
Private
B
114
Goldsmiths Suq
Pre-1800
—
Private
B
114
Hasan Ajmi Cafe
1920
-
Private
C
114
Courts Building
1869
—
Gov't
B
114
Baghdad Museum
1910
—
Gov t
B
114
Uthman Afardi Tomb Mosque
1833
1922
Awqaf
A
114
Fig. (96) Haidarkhana Mosque
Fig. (98) Mirjan Khan
Fig. (97) Serai Mosque Fig
Fig. (99) Qushla Building
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Name of monument
Original year of construction
Restoration year
Property ownership
Grade
Location zone no.
Qushla Building
1869
—
Gov't
A
114
Qushla Clock-Tower
1869
—
Gov't
A
114
Serai Gate
1869
--
Gov't
A
114
Wazir Mosque
1600
1949
Awqaf
A
114
Sarajin Suq
1802
1960
Awqaf
A
114
Serai Mosque
1704
Awqaf
A
114
7.
Uthman Askari Tomb Mosque
900
—
Awqaf
A
114
8.
Markaziya Secondary School
1929
—
Gov't
B
114
Muradi Mosque
1566
1970
Awqaf
A
112
Uzbaki Mosque
1681
1818/1960
Awqaf
A
114
Aliya Madrasa
1762
1869
MOC*
A
114
Ahmadiya Mosque
1796
—
Awqaf
A
114
Al Pasha Hammam
1704-1723
—
Private
B
114
Sulaimaniya
1792
1930
Awqaf
A
114
Najib Sahrawardi Tomb
1167
—
-
A
114
Abbasid Palace
1226
—
Antiquities
A
114
Code No.
Zone
1. 2. 3. 4.
E
5. 6.
9. 10. 11. 12. 13. 14. 15. 16.
110 |P a g e
F
Monuments in AL RASHEED :-
Kalil Basha House Area
Zone 106
Built:
1914
Last Restoration
2009
Classification
Grade A
Ownership
Ministry of Culture
Building Condition
Good
Heritage building built in 1914 during the reign of Governor Khalil Pasha, the Ottoman house consists of two floors. In front of the house garden right at the edge of it a walkway leading to the main entrance of the house, the front of the building consists of four windows, the entrance of the Rasheed Street View .On the first floor there are a number of shanashel (2) overlooked the garden. The entrance of the house consists of a wooden door topped by a semi-circular contains the decorations. The entrance lead to a vaulted cellar with halfcylindrical decorate, at the end of the corridor there is a semi-circle arch overlooking to the courtyard, the courtyard contains three suites in front of it roofed porches which carried on 18 wooden column crowned with Muqarns, the north wing Consists of 4 rooms open to the courtyard, Gooney wing consists of a rectangular hall, beside a walkway leading to the second courtyard overlooking to the River. The east side consists of two large rooms overlooking to the first courtyard the roofed ceiling in front of it based on 6 wooden columns. The first floor consists of a courtyard surrounded by the construction on the 3side,the corridors in front of carry the roof on wooden column. Western side contains the staircase leading to the roof of the house, and the north side consists of 4 large rooms overlooking the interface with shanasheland the east side consists of 3 rooms overlooking the courtyard.
Fig. (100 ) Khalil basha house
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Jamal Basha House Area
Zone 106
Built:
1916
Last Restoration
2009
Classification
Grade B
Ownership
Ministry of Culture
Building Condition
Good
Fig. (101) Jamal basha house
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Sayid Sultan Ali Tomb Mosque Area
Zone 106
Built:
1682
Last Restoration
1994
Classification
Grade A
Ownership
Awqaf
Building Condition
Good
The historical origins of this important Mosque are still debated by scholars. According to Azzawi, there are two possibilities: the first is that the Mosque is attributed to Shaikh Ali who declared himself Sultan of Baghdad but was killed by his brother in 1383, the second is based on a manuscript written in 1880 by an unknown author and titled 'Rawdhat al-Aayan fi Akhbar Mashahir al-Zaman'. It refers to a certain Ali b. Yihaya b. Thabit b. Hazim al-Rifali, who was born in 1066 in Basra and lived in Baghdad's Ras al-Qarya from 1125 until his death. Because he was favoured by Prince Malik, a memorial was built over his grave which then became a mosque .According to Jones, it was built by Ibrahim Pasha in 1681 but the Tomb existed before this date. It was restored in 1892 during the reign of Sultan Abd al-Hamid. It was partly demolished in 1934 when Rasheed Street was widened. Its superb minaret and large portal, which included inscriptions by the famous calligrapher Uthman Yawir, were unfortunately pulled down.
Fig. (102) Sayid Sultan Ali Tomb Mosque
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British Residency Area
Zone 106
Built:
1900
Last Restoration
2009
Classification
Grade A
Ownership
Ministry of Culture
Building Condition
Good
Fig. (103) British Residency
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The year 1766 marked the establishment of the first British Residency in Iraq. It was located in Rusafa's Ras al-Qarya and on the bank of the Tigris. Around the beginning of the twentieth century a new Residency and a Consulate were built in the Sinak mahalla of Baghdad and also on the bank of the River. These two buildings survive today and have both been converted by the Directorate of Antiquities and Tourism Administration into a 'Costumes and Ethnographic Museum'. Hubbard wrote in 1916 that the British Residency buildings had cost the British some twenty thousand pounds Sterling. This substantial figure indicates the importance and large size of the Residency.
British Consulate General Area
Zone 106
Built:
1900
Last Restoration
2009
Classification
Grade A
Ownership
Ministry of Culture
Building Condition
Good
Parfit wrote in 1920 that "the British Residency and Consulate-General was one of the finest buildings in Baghdad. The Germans persuaded a native protĂŠgĂŠ (unidentified) to build a small house by the side of the Residency. The British Consul-General compelled the Turks to make him build a high wall on the roof to prevent him spying on behalf of the Germans". Further research, perhaps with the help of the British Embassy in Baghdad, could reveal interesting facts about the building and its former development. Photographs taken early this century show that the Residency has now been changed especially its Riverfront. One gets the impression that the restorers were not bound by the former appearance of the Residency but adapted it to suit the requirements of the new museum.
Fig. (104) British Consulate General
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Mirjan Mosque Area
Zone 108
Built:
1356
Last Restoration
--
Classification
Grade A
Ownership
Awqaf
Building Condition
Fair
Fig. (105) Mirjan Tomb Mosque
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This outstanding building was designed as a madrasa and not as a mosque, but because it contained a proper musalla it also became known as a mosque. It was founded in 1356 by the Governor of Baghdad, Amin al-Din Mirjan al-Uljaiti.He ruled on behalf of Uwais Bahadir Khan the son of Hasan Khan the Jalairid. Mirjan was a mamluk (slave) to the mother of Hasan Khan but became a powerful ruler in his own right. He also built the existing Mirjan Khan and the famous Dar al-Shafa Hospital which was destroyed during this century. He was buried in this Mosque and his Tomb was surmounted by an impressive dome. The Madrasa continued to function until 1946 when it was mostly pulled down to widen Rasheed Street. Only its portal and minaret were spared. This utterly indefensible act of official vandalism remains as a tragic reminder of what can happen in a country without strong public support for conservation. In a vain attempt to recreate the original exterior of the Madrasa, the Awqaf and the Directorate of Antiquities made 'several' partial reconstructions. These included the building of a small musalla on the northeastern side with three domes, the middle one of which was a poor imitation of the old one which surmounted the Tomb. The overall appearance of what remains and what is added looks rather ridiculous.
Lynch Bros. House Area
Zone 110
Built:
1918
Last Restoration
--
Classification
Grade B
Ownership
Private
Building Condition
Fair
The Lynch Brothers, Thomas Kerr Lynch (d. 1891) and Captain H. Blosse Lynch, both served in the famous second Euphrates Survey Expedition which was organised by the British. According to Budge, Thomas Lynch set up his own business in Baghdad and offered the Ottoman Wali to bear all the expenses of replacing the East India Company's steamers on the Tigris with specially constructed merchant ones. The business was established in 1841 under a Turkish Firman and became so very successful that it soon began to irritate the Turks who, in order to undermine it, bought two steamers from England and set up their own company. The original offices of the Lynch's business, called the Mesopotamia Persia Corporation, were reported by the Turkish authorities to be structurally unsound and were therefore demolished. The present Lynch House was probably built around 1912. It is of architectural and local historical interest but has been considerably modified, especially its interior.
Fig. (106) Lynch bros. House
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According to Alusi, this interesting Mosque was first built by Muhammad Pasha al-Khasaki between 1656 and 1658. According to Coke, it was converted from an earlier church in 1682 but this is rejected by Jawad. However, it is probable that it was built on the side of an earlier mosque because of the existence today of the tomb of Shaikh Muhammad al-Azhari. According to Durubu, Bandanigi mentioned that Azhari's father was a companion of Abd al-Qadir al-Gailani (d. 1165). Ibrahim Pasha completed some of its features
Khasaki Mosque Area
Zone 110
Built:
1658
Last Restoration
1942
Classification
Grade A
Ownership
Awqaf
Building Condition
Fair
in 1666, and in 1682 Muhammad Beg provided it with several golden inscription bands. It was restored in 1891 and again, in 1924. This Mosque is famous for its former marble mihrab which Herzfeld and Creswell believed to be that of Mansur's Mosque in the Round City of Baghdad. The mihrab, now kept at the Iraqi Museum, is carved out of a single piece of white marble and has floral decorations with spiral fluted shafts. The last restoration of the Mosque took place in 1942.
Fig. (107) Khasaki Mosque
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Adiliya Mosque Area
Zone 110
Built:
1755
Last Restoration
1948
Classification
Grade A
Ownership
Awqaf
Building Condition
Good
According to Alusi, this Mosque was built in 1755 by Adila, the daughter of Ahmad Pasha and the wife of Sulaiman Pasha the Great. This date was inscribed on its original portal which was replaced by a later restoration. The Mosque was restored several times and its existing minaret shows a date of one restoration in 1814. It underwent another major restoration in 1948 but this time by a Christian who had made an agreement with the Awqaf that he would be given a plot behind the Mosque if he carried out the restoration.
Fig. (108) Adiliya Al Kabir Mosque
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Asifi Mosque Area
Zone 110
Built:
1825
Last Restoration
1922
Classification
Grade A
Ownership
Awqaf
Building Condition
Good
Fig.(109) Asifi Mosque
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Originally a building, called Dar al-Quran and belonging to the Mustansiriya Madrasa, was built on the site of this Mosque. Archaeological excavations revealed some of the foundations of this earlier building of which only a superbly decorated iwan survives today. According to Azzawi, the site was once occupied by a ribat (hospice) called Dar al-Rum built by the Caliph Mustansir (1226 - 1242). It then became a 'qulundarkhana' (takya) and contained a fine inscription dated 1590 by the famous Baghdadi calligrapher, Qawsi. Massignon, who visited Baghdad in 1907, reported seeing an inscription in Turkish dated 1607, probably the date of the major restoration by Muhammad al-Chalabi. It was then used as a takya for the 'Mawlawiya Tariqa' founded by Rumi the celebrated Turkish Sufi. However, the existing Mosque was built by Daud Pasha in 1825 probably following the general outline of the old building. It is known as Asifi after his title 'Asif alDawla'. The Mosque contains a tomb of a person whose identity is disputed by the historians. According to Alusi, the tomb is that of Caliph Mustansir but this is rejected by Jawad. Some say that it is that of Abu alHarith al-Muhasibi (d. 857), and others suggest that it is of Muhammad Ali al-Qulayni (d. 939). Asifi Mosque used to have two identical minarets but, when one of them collapsed during a storm in 1910, the other was demolished and replaced by a new minaret with two balconies in 1922 by the Awqaf. Recently, the Awqaf unfortunately covered the previously white plastered domes with blue ceramic tiles.
Mstansiriya Madrasa Area
Zone 110
Built:
1227
Last Restoration
1945
Classification
Grade A
Ownership
Ministry of Culture
Building Condition
Fair
This magnificent theological college derives its name from its founder, the thirty-seventh Abbasid Caliph Mustansir (1226 -1242). The foundations were begun in 1227 and the Madrasa was completed in 1234. Mustansiriya is one of the most important Islamic buildings in Iraq and represents a superb example of Abbasid architecture. It is said that it cost some 700,000 Dinars, a formidable figure at the time. In it were taught the Quran, theology, jurisprudence, literature, medicine and mathematics. Many historians regard it as one of the oldest universities and places of learning in the world. The four Sunni orthodox tariqas, Hanbali, Shafii, Maliki and Hanifi, were each allocated its own comer. The Madrasa seems to have survived the destruction of Baghdad by Hulago in and it is said that Hulago himself used it to assemble the notables of the city for a speech shortly after his capture of the city. During its long history, Mustansiriya suffered a great deal from neglect and misuse. It was once abandoned, used as a khan, a hospital, army barracks, and lastly as a customs office. However, it underwent a minor restoration during the reign of Sultan Abd al-Aziz in 1865 and its Riverfront facade was provided with a new brick inscription frieze. In 1945, the Directorate of Antiquities leased it from the Awqaf and began restoration work on the Madrasa. Recently, the Directorate demolished the surrounding shops and the adjacent Suq (built in 1673 and restored in 1802) in order to reveal its former boundaries.
Fig. (110) Mustansiriya Madrasa
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Qaplani Mosque Area
Zone 110
Built:
1676
Last Restoration
1790
Classification
Grade A
Ownership
Awqaf
Building Condition
Fair
Fig. (111) Qaplani Mosque.
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Although there is some controversy surrounding the historical origin of this Mosque, most accounts agree that it was probably founded because of the Tomb of a famous person. According to Alusi and others, the Tomb is that of the Hanifite theologian Ahmad al-Qadduri who died in 1036. This is rejected by Jawad and others who suggest that, according to certain historical accounts, the Tomb is that of Ali b. Ahmed al-Alawi al-Zaidi al-Shafii who died in 1180. In his celebrated historical biographical work of Baghdadi personalities, Ibn al-Dubaithi mentioned a small mosque built by Ali in Darb Dinar in the Tuesday Market and its founder was buried in it and the mosque became a place of pilgrimage. However, this reference is not conclusive because it lacks a more definite location and the identity of the buried must remain open to further research. The existing Mosque was rebuilt by Qaplan Mustafa Pasha in 1676and hence its name. Alusi reported seeing many inscriptions in 1903 but none of these exists now. It was restored by Sulaiman Pasha in 1790. Recently, the Awqaf unfortunately demolished its adjacent Suq and parts of the Mosque and rebuilt them both in a new style. This last 'restoration' resulted in almost totally obscuring the Mosque and the Tomb from view. The Tomb is now concealed behind the wall of one of the new shops while the Mosque has been rebuilt rather strangely, at first floor level. The minaret was fortunately left untouched.
Khafafin Mosque Area
Zone 110
Built:
1202
Last Restoration
1948
Classification
Grade A
Ownership
Awqaf
Building Condition
Fair
This interesting Mosque derives its present name from the fact that it is located in the Khafafin (Sandle-Makers) Suq near Mustansiriya Madrasa. However, it was also known by the names of alHadhair (Timber-Yards) and al-Sagha (Goldsmiths). Although its exact date is not recorded on its fabric, many historians believe that it was built by the mother of Caliph Nasir, Zumarrad Khatun in 1202. Its manaret, which is thought to be oldest in Baghdad, seems to be mostly original but the Mosque itself has undergone several major restorations throughout its history. It was restored during the reign of Sulaiman Pasha by Abu Bakir al-Pachachi in 1790 and this explains the resemblance of its elaborate entrance facade to that of Sulaimaniya Madrasa (No. 30). According to Azzawi, the cupola and balcony of this most historic minaret were replaced by the Awqaf in 1948. The Fethi has discovered that the decorative band just below the cupola (see middle plate in card) is now different to the one before as seen from old photographs. This is only one small but important detail which illustrates how the historic authenticity of buildings is lost by ill-advised restoration work.
Fig. (112) Khafafin Mosque.
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Ibrisam Suq
Sarafin Suq Area
Zone 110
Area
Zone 110
Built:
1802
Built:
1802
Last Restoration
--
Last Restoration
--
Classification
Grade B
Classification
Grade B
Ownership
Private
Ownership
Awqaf
Building Condition
Poor
Building Condition
Poor
Fig. (113) Sarafin Suq
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Fig. (114) Ibrisam Suq
Zanjili Suq Area
Zone 110
Built:
1802
Last Restoration
--
Classification
Grade B
Ownership
Awqaf
Building Condition
Poor
Fig. (115) Zanjili Suq
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Dala Khan Area
Zone 110
Built:
1904
Last Restoration
--
Classification
Grade A
Ownership
Private
Building Condition
Fair
Fig. (116) Dala Khan
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This building is one of the few that were originally built as khans and not converted from houses. According to Durubi, it was built by Abd Al Qadir Dala b. Ismael Dala in 1904. However, this date is probably that of a renovation and not of the building. Durubi mentions that its site was originally occupied by Khan Al Harir (Khan of Silk) built by Amin Afandi the Kahya (around the second decade of the eighteenth century). During the British occupation of the city it was used as a police garrison and prison. It is still one of the most important and distinguished khans in Rusafa and is worthy of special protection and full documentation.
Zurur Khan Area
Zone 110
Built:
1534
Last Restoration
--
Classification
Grade A
Ownership
Awqaf
Building Condition
V. Poor
This interesting Khan was founded by Sultan Salim in 1534 as shown in the partly-surviving original inscriptions on its northeastern portal. The complete text and layout of these inscriptions were fortunately copied by Herzfeld in 1911 (see card). Its name suggests that it was associated with the manufacture of buttons or with the minting of coins. This Khan is one of the few surviving town-khans in Baghdad and the only one of its type from this period. Therefore, it deserves to be carefully protected against misuse or destruction. However, its ground floor and its open courtyard are now completely taken over by shops and stores, and it is in such a bad physical condition that it may soon collapse. Immediate protective steps should be taken by the Directorate of Antiquities to save this very important building.
Fig. (117) Zurur Khan
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Mirjan Khan Area
Zone 110
Built:
1359
Last Restoration
2009
Classification
Grade A
Ownership
Ministry of Culture
Building Condition
Fair
Fig. (118) Mirjan Khan.
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This building is one of the few that were originally built as khans and not converted from houses. According to Durubi, it was built by Abd Al Qadir Dala b. Ismael Dala in 1904. However, this date is probably that of a renovation and not of the building. Durubi mentions that its site was originally occupied by Khan Al Harir (Khan of Silk) built by Amin Afandi the Kahya (around the second decade of the eighteenth century). During the British occupation of the city it was used as a police garrison and prison. It is still one of the most important and distinguished khans in Rusafa and is worthy of special protection and full documentation.
Haidarkhana Mosque Area
Zone 112
Built:
1827
Last Restoration
--
Classification
Grade A
Ownership
Awqaf
Building Condition
Fair
Fig. (119) Haidarkhana Mosque
The inscriptions on this outstanding and large Mosque state that it was founded by the last Mamluk Wali Daud Pasha in 1817 and completed in 1827. However, according to Jawad, it was rebuilt in place of an older one. Its name suggests that the original mosque was probably built by Haidar al-Chalabi alShabandar who is known to have built the partlysurviving Haidar Hammam in 1650 and was the contemporary of Khasaki (1656 — 1658).It is certain that Haidarkhapa Mosque is almost a replica of Ahmadiya Mosque in Baghdad (built in 1796). The Mosque was restored in 1849 and several times during the last two decades. It is probably the best specimen of Baghdadi mosques of the nineteenth century andf one of the main landmarks in Rasheed Street.
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Qaplani Mosque Area
Zone 114
Area
Zone 114
Built:
Pre 1800
Built:
1869
Last Restoration
1988
Last Restoration
2009
Classification
Grade B
Classification
Grade B
Ownership
Private
Ownership
Ministry of Culture
Building Condition
Fair
Building Condition
Fair
Fig. (120) Serai Suq Serai Suq
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Courts Building
Fig. (121) Courts Building
Baghdad Museum Area
Zone 114
Built:
1910
Last Restoration
2009
Classification
Grade B
Ownership
Mayoralty of Baghdad
Building Condition
Fair
It is not exactly known when and why this large public building was built, but its style and detailing suggest that a date of around the early decade of this century might be correct. It was probably built by the Turks to house some administrative office. It was personally chosen by Gertrude Bell in 1923 to house the new Iraqi Museum and it continued to do so until 1964. It is now used by Mayoralty al-Assima for its Baghdadi Museum, Library and Town Planning Offices.
Fig. (122) Baghdad Museum
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Qushla Building Area
Zone 114
Built:
1869
Last Restoration
1992
Classification
Grade A
Ownership
Ministry of Culture
Building Condition
Fair
The Serai Buildings, also called Qushla, were built by Midhat Pasha in 1869 but, according to Jawad, were planned and designed by his predecessor, Namiq Pasha (1861—67). However, the site itself has always been occupied by important buildings since the Abbasid period. During the eighteenth century, it was occupied by the Governor's Palace and several other related buildings. It is said that Midhat used some of the bricks from the walls of Baghdad which he demolished to build this Serai. It was used by the Ministry of Finance until recently when it was vacated because of its neglected state and termite attack.
Fig. (123) Qushla Building
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Serai Gate Area
Zone 114
Built:
1869
Last Restoration
--
Classification
Grade A
Ownership
Ministry of Culture
Building Condition
Poor
Fig. (124) Serai Gate
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Wazir Mosque Area
Zone 114
Built:
1600
Last Restoration
1957
Classification
Grade A
Ownership
Awqaf
Building Condition
Fair
Fig. (125) Wazir Mosque
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The origin of this Mosque is not certain. According to Azzawi and Durubi, it was first built by the Caliph Mustansir between 1226 and 1242. Jawad and Susa suggest that its site was occupied by a Hanafi Madrasa known as Tutushiya after the Seljuq Sultan Tutush. However, it is certain that it was rebuilt by Hassan Pasha in 1600. This date was inscribed on its original magnificent portal which, among other things, stated: "This Mosque was built during the reign of Sultan Muhammad Khan b. Sultan Murad Khan ... by the Wazir Hassan Pasha b. Muhammad Pasha in the year 1608". It was rebuilt in the late nineteenth century but with three small domes. It fell into disrepair and was demolished in 1949 by the Awqaf but rebuilt in 1957, this time with one small dome but with a similar minaret to the original one.
Sarajin Suq Area
Zone 114
Built:
1802
Last Restoration
1960
Classification
Grade A
Ownership
Awqaf
Building Condition
Fair
This is arguably the best preserved Suq in Baghdad today. It was built (or rebuilt) by Sulaiman Pasha in 1802 and allocated for saddle-makers and other handicrafts which are associated with leatherwork. The Awqaf, which owns it, has recently restored it to its former condition but with some modifications, especially its external facades and frontispiece.
Fig. (126) Sarajin Suq
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Serai Mosque Area
Zone 114
Built:
1704
Last Restoration Classification
Grade A
Ownership
Awqaf
Building Condition
Fair
This important Mosque owes its name to Hasan Pasha, the Wali who restored it in 1704. There is some controversy about its possible origin. According to Alusi, it was much older than this date and may go back to the late Abbasid period. According to Jawad and Jamil, it was rebuilt in place to Al Masjid Al Kabir built by Sulaiman the Magnificent in 1534 and the famous Ottoman traveller Evilia Celebi who visited Baghdad in 1656 called it Sulaimani Mosque. Several sources suggest that it contained the Tomb of Caliph Nassir but this is rejected by Jawad. Because of its proximity to the administratively important Serai Buildings, it became the favourite mosque of Pashas in Iraq. King Faisal I continued to use it throughout his reign. Recently, it underwent a major restoration by the Awqaf, resulting in the loss of some of its old fabric.
Fig. (127) Serai Mosque
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Muradi Mosque Area
Zone 112
Built:
1566
Last Restoration
1970
Classification
Grade A
Ownership
Awqaf
Building Condition
Fair
According to Felix Jones, this Mosque was built in 1465, but Alusi states that it was built in 1570. Jawad believed that it was built in 1566 and its site was occupied by the Abbasid Sharabiya Madrasa. It owes its present name to Murad Pasha, the Wali of Baghdad between 1561 and 1566. It was restored in 1901 - 1903 and in the early 1970's by the Awqaf. Since the early 1950's, the Mosque has been visually damaged and largely concealed by a three-storey building built ironically by the Awqaf.
Fig. (128) Muradi Mosque.
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Aliya Madrasa Area
Zone 114
Built:
1762
Last Restoration
2009
Classification
Grade A
Ownership
Ministry of Culture
Building Condition
Good
Fig. (129) Aliya Madrasa
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According to Azzawi and Durubi, this Madrasa was first built by the Wali, Ali Pasha, in 1762. Alusi wrote that it contained the graves of Ali Pasha and several other well-known personalities but ail of these have now disappeared. The Madrasa was extensively renovated and then converted into a workshop for orphans by Midhat Pasha in 1869. It became known as Al Sanai Madrasa and contained the printing press for the first newspaper in Iraq,
Ahmadiya Mosque Area
Zone 114
Built:
1796
Last Restoration Classification
Grade A
Ownership
Awqaf
Building Condition
Fair
This monumental Mosque, also known as Maidan Mosque, was built in 1796 by Ahmad Pasha but was completed after his death by his brother Abd Allah Beg. Since its erection it has been one of the most notable landmarks in Baghdad.
Fig. (130) Ahmadiya Mosque
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Abbasid Palace Area
Zone 114
Built:
1226
Last Restoration
--
Classification
Grade A
Ownership
Ministry of Culture
Building Condition
Fair
Fig. (131) Abbasid Palace
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This is one of the most important and outstanding historic monuments in Baghdad. Because of the lack of inscriptions on its existing fabric or specific contemporary references, its history remains somewhat uncertain. However, most Iraqi historians and scholars agree that its style and decoration show that it belongs to the late Abbasid period (1175-1230).
Al Rashid Street GIS Technical Report: Methodology: 1. Acquisition of imagery
High Resolution Satellite
High resolution satellite imagery was acquired for Al Rasheed Street Area. The resolution of the newly acquired imagery is 0.6. The imagery consists of 3 bands, 11 bit, and in geotiff format. The imagery was initially geometrically corrected, radiometrically calibrated, corrected for sensor and platforminduced distortions and mapped to the WGS84, UTM projection.
2. Collecting GPS ground control points An experienced team of surveyors using professional GPS equipment collected ground control points using differential techniques. A GPS base station was placed around the center of Al Rasheed Street on a landmark with very accurate x,y,z coordinates and was used to correct the readings of the rovers. The base station was kept turned on during GCP collection. The GCP collection process involved the following tasks: - Using parts of the satellite imagery, the surveyors were supplied with A4-sized printouts showing the area around each desired ground control point with the specific location where the GCP is to be collected. - On the average, the density of the GCP collection points was decided to be 1 GCP per 500m2. Furthermore, additional GCPs were collected using accurate cadastral maps (when available) to complement the GPS points. - Each GCP was collected using 30 minutes collection time to reduce its error and get a maximum of 1 to 5cm differential accuracy. Post processing techniques then used for differential correction of GPS points.
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photos helped the operator to properly locate the GCPs on the satellite image.
o o o o o o o o
Projection: Spheroid: Unit: Meridian of Origin: Lattitude of Origin: Scale Factor: False Easting: False Northing:
UTM WGS84 Meters 45° 0° 0.9996 500000 E 0N
- The position of the GPS and the surveyor while collecting each GCP was photographed using a digital camera from 2 angles to ascertain the location of the GCP. These
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- All GCPs were entered into a GIS point database and were hyperlinked to the corresponding photos captured while collecting the GCP. This database will serve as an accurate stand-alone GCP reference for future need.
3. Preparing a Digital elevation Model (DEM) A DEM file contains topographic elevations sampled on uniform grid spacing. Digitized contours represent
contour polylines at the elevation of the contour line. Digitized contours have many vertices along each contour, but no control points between the contours. This results in over-sampling along contours and under-sampling between contours. If the contour interval of the source map is small (scale 1:10,000), the surface model created from it is generally good. If the contour interval of the source map is large (scale > 1:50,000), the surface model created from it is generally of lower quality, especially along drainages, ridgelines, and in undulating or hummocky topography. In order to build the DEM for our area of study, the following tasks were adopted: a. Acquisition of all topographic maps for the area of study and surrounding. All available topographic maps for the area of study were collected to be used in the orthorectification process. b.
Scanning of all topographic maps In order to digitize the contour lines from all topographic maps, these maps were scanned. They were scanned using a color A0 scanner at a resolution of at least 400 dpi. This allowed the capturing of all lines and reduced all possible errors related to discerning details in contour lines and elevation points in the map.
c.
Registration of topographic maps
In order to use the head-up on-screen digitization method, the scanned topo maps were registered. Several techniques for registration of maps were used. These included the polynomial (with varying orders 3rd, 2nd, or 1st) or the Thin Plate Spline (TPS) Method. For maps with dense coordinate grids, the later method is better. Therefore a GCP was added at every intersection of the grid superimposed on top of the map. d. Digitization of all contour lines and elevation points Once the registration of the maps was done, the digitization process started. All contour lines, elevation points and ridgelines were digitized. To reduce the errors in digitization, the digitization operator had to zoom in to a scale of 1:1,000 on the 1:10,000 maps and to a scale of 1:3,000 on the 1:50,000 and capture all the details of the contour lines at these levels. e. Tagging of contour lines with elevation values Each contour line was tagged with the elevation height that corresponds to it. Similarly, all elevation points were assigned their corresponding height. As such, the contour lines were transformed into 3D data instead of 2D data.
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f. Integration of GPS-collected GCPs into point elevation Data To improve the accuracy of the DEM, the GCPs collected using differential GPS were added to the model and compared to the abutting contour lines. They served as the means for evaluating the accuracy of the topographic maps and to add additional elevation points to areas where contour lines are very sparse.
g.
Generation of TIN and GRID
In order to check the accuracy of the height tagging process, a triangulated irregular network TIN (or a grid) was generated to view the data in 3D in the GIS. Tagging errors results sometimes in spikes or other irregularities in the TIN. This helps in identifying tagging errors and in correcting them.
4. Orthorectification of the whole Imagery Digital orthophotos require several types of inputs to produce an orthogonally rectified image from the original perspective image captured by the satellite sensor. These inputs are the following: 1) The unrectified raster image acquired from the digital sensor of the satellite, 2) A digital elevation model with the same area of coverage as the digital orthophoto,
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3) The photo identifiable image and ground coordinates of ground control points, 4) Calibration information about the satellite sensor collector device and, 5) A user parameter file containing the details of the projection and coordinate system. These five inputs are used to register the image file to the satellite sensor platform, to determine the orientation and location of the satellite sensor platform with respect to the ground, and to remove the relief displacement from the image data. PCI Orthoengine software 10.1 was used for performing the orthorectification of the satellite imagery. The software has been tested with these types of imagery and has produced excellent orthorectification results. The steps used in the orthorectification process in orthoengine were as follows: a. Import Image with the sensor model (orbital data of the Satellite) The first step was to read-in the data, so that the imagery and orbit ephemeris data can be interpreted by the software. The parameters of the projection were also entered in order to produce orthoimages with required coordinate system
b.
the project data. Bundle Adjustment was done at the end of the process.
Importing of DEM into Orthoengine
Similarly, the DEM that was generated using the contour lines, the elevation points and the GPS-collected GCPs were entered into the software for correcting the errors related to the terrain.
e.
Once the model has been generated to the satisfaction of the operator, the ortho images were created. Several algorithms are available for the pixel resampling in the orthorectification process. The Cubic convolution method was used to extract and interpolate grey levels from original pixel locations to corrected locations.
c. Entering of GCP data (use only 75% of GCPs) The GPS-collected DGCPs were used to determine the geometrical correctness of the image. Two types of ground control points were used: Active GCPs and Check Points. The difference between these two types of points are Active GCPs are used to create the model, while Check Points are used to ascertain the accuracy and fit of the model once it is created. Out of the overall GCPs collected, 75% of the GCPs were used as Active ones while 25% were used as Check Points. In general, 4 GCPs are required for each image. However, 6 or 8 active GCPs were be used to improve the accuracy of the orthorectification process.
d.
Perform Bundle Adjustment
Bundle adjustment is a method that is used for performing the exterior orientation calculations, while considering all of the project photos. Computed this way, the photo exterior orientations are a global reflection of
Perform Orthorectification
f. Test Image against Remaining 25% Test Points The final orthoimages were tested against the remaining GCPs that were used as test points. All the errors were acceptable.:
5.
Registration of Cadastral Maps
All available cadastral maps for our area of study were acquired from the local authorities. The maps were acquired in paper format. In order to use the maps in our project, it was necessary to follow the process: • Scanning: all cadastral maps were scanned using an A0 black and white scanned at a resolution of 400 DPI • Registration: All cadastral maps were registered using the Thin Plate Technique
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and the cubic convolution sampling method in order to get the best accuracy.
area of study. The parcels were then assigned with their parcel number values to be later used as an index for the database joining.
Al Rashid Parcels overlaid over Satellite Imagery • Projecting: Since the coordinate system of the cadastral maps was different from the High resolution satellite imagery, all cadastral maps were reprojected into the proper coordinate system to match the rest of data. 6.
Extraction of Feature Data
Once the orthoimages have been generated and all cadastral maps were ready, the process of feature extraction started. The data digitized from the satellite imagery and available cadastral maps consisted mainly of the following data layers:
• Parcels: Parcels were digitized from the georeferenced cadastral maps available for the
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• Buildings: All buildings available on the cadastral maps were digitized and numbered. Since the cadastral maps are old, the orthorectified high resolution satellite imagery was used to update the buildings in our area of study. After all buildings have been digitized, the survey data tables were joined with the buildings feature class in order to be able to manipulate the data and retrieve required information for the project.
Land use Parcel Map along with Attribute table
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Buildings footprints overlaid on Satellite Imagery
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Buildings Overlaid on Satellite Imagery
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Parcels Maps with Numbering overlaid on Scanned Cadastral Maps
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Close-up Map of Parcels overlaid on Satellite Imagery in GIS Environment
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Parcel Data Overlaid on Existing Parcel Maps Provided By the Client
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Height of Buildings Close-up Map in GIS Environment
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• Roads: All roads within the project were digitized and classified using the recently acquired high resolution satellite imagery. The roads were populated with Street names where available.
• • Cleaning of all data using ARCGIS ARCINFO 9.3. • Importing of field survey data from excel format into GIS tables. • Indexing of tabular data • Joining of attribute data with buildings and parcels
Attribute Table of Roads in GIS Environment
7.
Building of GIS Database and System
After all data have been prepared, a GIS database was established to contain all the data available for the project in order to start analyzing the data and generating of the required maps for further decision making. All parcels, building, roads and attribute data digitized and collected from the field were converted into GIS format. This procedure involved the following:
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Database Tables and Relationships for Al-Rashid Street Data
Database Design for Al-Rashid Street Data
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AL RASHEED STREET The area vs. Street. Since 1916 Rasheed Street (formerly Khalil Pasha) has prospered as the business center of Baghdad. Even today famous mosques, khans and other traditional architectures remain as vestiges of ancient prosperity. Therefore, this Street can be regarded as a huge outdoor museum which displays the architectural forms of various historical periods. Furthermore, the Rasheed Area was the first part of the Rusafa area to be provided with modern Streets 1916 and thereafter it flourished as a leading commercial and business Street of Baghdad and this position remains unchanged even today. However, as a result of the recent demands to remodel the downtown area, redevelopment projects have been implemented in parts of this Street and many modern buildings have been constructed thus far. If this trend continues there is a risk of destroying the traditional atmosphere of this Street.
o o o o
Historical and Heritage building Architectural interest Arcade Column interest
• To photograph both sides of the Street building by building • To analyze the urban and physical structure of the Street and then propose ideas for its conservation and possible redevelopment and linkage with Mustansir Street, the Riverfront and important conservation areas behind the Street elevation
Existing Physical condition A comprehensive building by building field survey was carried in February 2009 the aims of the survey were: • To investigate the following: o Building use o Structural condition o Building heights o Ownership o Physical condition
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Fig. (132) Rasheed Street 1937 –and Today
The field survey revealed that as much as 75% of all buildings (total 348) are of mixed land use, while residential and mixed use 4% and not occupied 7%. It is quite clear that the general land use character of Rasheed Street is for the ground storey to be subdivided into several shops with a fairly narrow frontage, while the remaining land behind the shops is usually devoted to a large store or shop. The two upper storey are mostly occupied by offices, lawyers, and doctors. Plots are mostly irregularly shaped mean Street frontage of 17.5 m and a mean depth of about 22 m.
townscape with the arcades which are a scenic peculiarity of this Street.
Conservation Intervention In order to cope with the problems and special features of Rasheed Street which emerged as a result of the aforementioned survey, the following three administrative measures should be taken:
Fig. (133) Building facades on Rasheed Street
• Conservation guideline of historical fabrics To propose measures for restoration, repair and maintenance of the historical buildings along this Street, in accordance with their state of conservation. • Beautification guideline of Streetscape To propose architectural guidelines of various kinds in order to promote the beautification of the Streetscape of Rasheed Street.
Fig. (134) Junction of Rasheed Street -Thawra Street
• Urban design guideline of townscape To propose an urban design guideline for city planning in order to conserve and transmit to future generations the continuity of the
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1918-1980 modernizing. In the urban planning sense Rasheed Street can be considered as the first modern Street ever to be realized in Baghdad as well as in Iraq. But although there are several Streets older than Rasheed Street, for example Mustansir Street, it has nevertheless developed its own distinct style that makes it undoubtedly the most interesting in the whole country. It have been completed by Khalil Pasha in completed 1916, Rasheed Street, which runs along approximately a north-south axis that formerly terminated in the two old gates of the city walls, is now characterized by its typical colonnaded walkways and more or less uniform two-storey buildings. This has helped provide a strong sense of enclosure, human scale, and architectural unity as well as convenient shading for pedestrians. The buildings on both east and west sides exhibit, as it were, an almost continuous panorama which vividly tells the story of the evolution and variety of architectural styles in the city over the last sixty years. Thus one finds the vernacular Baghdadi style with its proportions and fine brickwork decoration and wood detailing typical of the early 1920's; the more ornamental stucco style of 'arabesque' or the curative motifs of 'art nouveau' typical of the late 1920's and early 1930's; the rectilinear and angular mannerisms of 'art decor' typical of the 1930's and early 1940's, manifested by superb brickwork, geometric iron guards and balustrades and other fine detailing and workmanship. In general,
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therefore, one can state that before the introduction of reinforced concrete on a mass scale in Baghdad the workmanship and 'traditional' materials have been quite remarkable assets to good design and detailing. In contrast, with the exception of a few recent buildings, most modern designs have alrgely ignored the unique character of the Street by the introduction of dozens of high-rise office blocks with insensitive and often eclectic or exaggerated patterns. This took place since the 1950's unfortunately because of the lack of effective urban designs and development controls. Up to the 1950's Rasheed Street dominated the commercial life of Baghdad — it was the modern economic spine of Rusafa.
Morphology description Taken from gate to gate, Rasheed Street is about 3,8 m long and about 12 m wide. This gives a surface area of about 80.1 ha. The arcaded buildings along both of its sides, which constitute about seventy percent of all buildings on the Street, provide a colonnaded walkway approximately 3.5 m wide and 5 m high. These round columns, which are approximately 45 cm, in diameter, give a sense of unity and continuity to the Street and consequently its distinctive character. The field survey revealed that the Street contains 354 plots of which only 6 plots remain vacant while the rest (348 buildings) vary quite considerably in age, style, number of storey and land use. It was
found that about (27%) of all buildings are in very poor or poor physical condition; while nearly (36%) are in a fair condition. Most of these buildings, however, need immediate attention, especially the cleaning, repair and restoration of their facades. The survey also revealed that just under half the total numbers of buildings are only two storey (35%), and slightly more than a quarter are three storey high. This fact indicates that the scale character of Rasheed Street is basically an arcaded ground floor with one or two upper storey, giving a height of 9 to 14 m. However, some (65) buildings (18%) have been allowed to have between four and eight storey.
Street into these segments. In addition, these segments or zones have been reinforced with time by established and traditional land uses and other major urban elements such as Suqs or mosques. These zones are: • • • • •
Maidan Zone Haidarkhana Zone Suqs Zone Muraba'a Zone Sinak Zone
450 m 500 m 1,000 m 600 m 550 m
Fig. (136) Al Rasheed Street - Suqs Zone Maidan Zone
Fig. (135) Building facade on Al Rasheed Street The survey also revealed that Rasheed Street is now physically and morphologically divided into five distinct main zones. These zones have resulted not from any conscious planning attempt but are largely due to the construction of bridges from 1939 to the present which resulted in physically cutting Rasheed
This zone starts with the old Bab Al Muadham Gate and ends the large bus terminal of Maidan. The character of this zone jS somewhat different to the others because of the non-existence of the arcades and the large open Streetscape offered by the Citadel grid Maidan. The most dominant feature here is the Maidan IVlosque. This zone needs a major urban design effort to retrieve j-ts original significance and re-establish a strong link with the
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Riverfront where the Abbasid Palace (A.D. 1226) and Aliya Madrasa (/\.D. 1762) are located. Revitalization of Muradi Mosque (A.D. 1 566) which has been almost visually obliterated by an insensitive multistorey building in the early 1960's is also needed. Haidarkhana Zone This is the oldest area in Rasheed Street. Most of its buildings go back to the early decades of this century. Dominated by the great mosque of Haidarkhana (A.D. 1826), this zone has more less kept its architectural character so far except that it is now threatened by large-scale modern development in Maidan. Rusafi Square node needs a major urban design reorganization especially around the western edge adjacent to the Baghdad Museum building. Suqs Zone This zone, which comprises the majority of traditional Suqs, is not only the longest of all zones on Rasheed Street but also con-tainss the best and richest fabric in terms of architectural interest. The most homogeneous section and probably the best preserved section
Meedan Zone
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Haiderkhana Zone
Suq Zone
on all Rasheed Street is the eastren facades between Hafith Al-Qahdi Square and Abdul Kareem Kasem Square. More than fifty-four buildings belonging to the 1930's period and of rich decoration are more or less in continuous line. The most prominent landmarks in this zone are Mirjan Mosque (A.D. 1359) and the Lynch Brothers Company building. The most important urban nodes are Shorja market, the modern Banks Area, the new Arab Market, and Abdul Kareem Kasem Square which is now used for parking. Because of the importance of this zone on Rasheed Street, some careful urban design treatment is necessary. If any pedestrian inaction proposals are to be proposed for Rasheed Street it is indeed this zone that is probably most appropriate largely because of its predominant Suq and shopping activities.
Fig below.( )Morphological zones of Rasheed Street
Mrabaa Zone
Sinak zone
Starting from the northern edge of this zone, there is a clear need to reorganize Rusafi Square taking the unfortunately located new multi-storey car park into consideration. The entry to the famous coppersmith’s Suq (Safarin Suq) needs to be redeveloped and enhanced. This also applies to the Shorja Market and its semicircular curve in its eastern entry. Here there is a vital need to enhance the link with the Tigris especially to the old Masbagha Sharia (Boats Quay). The Banks Area has now established itself but further highrise blocks should certainly be discouraged. Abdul Kareem Kasem Square, on the other hand, needs a major urban reorganisation with special emphasis to integrate it with the proposed C02 Metro Station. Moreover this redevelopment presents a good potential to create a very clear linkage with the Tigris. Recreating the lost pedestrian arcade here is another important factor. Muraba's Zone This zone is now physically defined by two bridges — Ahrar and Sinak. Although Rasheed Street here is no more than a hundred meters away from the Tigris, the River is not seen at all by pedestrians. This zone is now characterized by the existence of three old cinemas. Prominent landmarks here include Al-Qadhi Square which was developed in the early 1940's, Sayid Sultan Ali Mosque (A.D. 1682), 'Orosdi Pak' Department Store, (demolished by war 2003) Shaab Cinema (ex-Zawra) built around 1940, Aladdin Cinema built in 1920 as is shown on its wall, the new Communications Tower (eleven storeys) completed around 1975, the rather sordid multi-storey car park
and the ex-British Residency built about 1905. With the exception of the new Sinak Bridge approach, this zone is more or less quite well established and does not need any major reorganization. There is a need however to pedestrianism the Street opposite Sultan Ali Mosque which would then be converted into a very attractive pedestrian shopping spine running down all the way to the River. A better and a more direct link with the River is also needed to be created along Abdul Kareem Kasem Street, which could also be turned into a pedestrian Suq. Sinak Zone This is the youngest zone on Rasheed Street and it belongs mostly to the 1950's period. Sinak residential Mahalla itself, however, was developed during the late 1920's and consequently its houses are of the 'transitional' type. In general, this zone does not represent the typical character of Rasheed Street despite the existence of some eight buildings of architectural interest. There are specific landmarks here but one can consider the building now occupied by 'Iraq' newspaper One of the most interesting on Rasheed Street is the Cinema Complex of Rex and Roxy Cinema, developed in the 1940's, is of special potential for redevelopment and linkage with the Bab Al Sharqi. Because of its proximity to the Tigris (only about 50 m away), there exists a great possibility to open up certain sections of this zone to the proposed Riverfront. The multi-storey car park, now under construction, has physically 'terminated' the Street at
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this point, but it does not integrate well with the Street. Another possibility is the pedestrianisation of the now extremely crowded Khayam Cinema Street which could then be linked with the Bab Al Sharqi and Riverfront.
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Architectural interest.
The survey revealed that out of a total of 348 buildings, 114 buildings have been selected for protection and restoration. This nearly represents thirty five percent of the total. The overwhelming majority of these selected buildings belong to the 1930's period, which represents about thirty-four percent of all buildings on the Street.
Type C: Art Nouveau
Architectural and typological analysis shows that Rasheed Street contains five main building styles or types. These are:
Type D: Art DĂŠcor
Type A: Monuments These are major monuments (Grade A) such as mosques, which face out to Rasheed Street. As such they form identifiable 'breaks' in the continuity of Rasheed Street. Standing from the north they are: the Citadel, Uzbaki Mosque, Muradi Mosque, Ahmadiya Mosque, Haidarkhana Mosque, Mirjan Mosque, and Say id Sultan Ali Mosque.
Type B: Early Traditional
Late 1920's and early 1930's, mostly in brickwork but with steel structural joints, and with Arabic and European floriated designs and decorations.
1930's and early 1940's, mostly in brickwork and steel structural joists, but with generally streamlined and angular, rectilinear lines of decoration and iron balustrades.
Type E: Modern 1950's — 80's. Mostly in brick and reinforced concrete. Show disregard to established character of Rasheed Street, most with no arcade, and of highest number of storeys.
Up to 1920, mostly in brickwork with traditional detailing and decoration.
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Fig. (137) Monument
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Fig. (138) Traditional Architecture
Fig. (139) Art Nouveau
Architectural Typology Type A: Monuments Type B: Traditional Type C: Art Nouveau Type D: Art Deco Type E: Modern
Fig. (140) Art DĂŠco
Fig. ( 141) Modern Architecture
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Streetscape Control and Design Guideline In Connection with the Building Skyline The following controls, aimed at realizing a Streetscape composition in harmony with the development of focal areas and building interventions having the purposes of ressucitating the study area, will be considered in connection with the historic Streetscape that develops in the environs of the Rasheed Street. In production of regulations referring to such aspects as number of storey, architectural design, construction materials, etc., of the buildings to be constructed within the historical conservation areas. Introduction of particularly strict regulations at the environs of such historical monuments as mosques having minarets, etc., in order to protect the historical Streetscape. The following matters are proposed as concrete measures for conservation of the Streetscape.
Fig. (142) Building skyline
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As things now stand the buildings facing the Rasheed Street have uneven height, and present an irregular skyline. Therefore, it is necessary to compose an unified skyline with Streetscape focus within a pattern of harmony and continuity throughout the Rasheed Street. The height of the buildings at the vicinity of the historical monuments should be so controlled as to prevent them from becoming higher than the monuments, for the silhouette of these monuments to become prominent in contraposition to the harmony and continuity realized through the building height control.
In Connection with the Building Facade In considering the building in-filling aimed at improving the facade and the discontinuity of scale of buildings having appearance different than the
surrounding environment at the present state of things, design elements common to all buildings will be introduced in order to realize an overall harmonization and unification.
In Connection with the Public Function Space Strategically arranged public function spaces to be used as Tram stops will be provided in the renewal intervention areas and development areas. These public function spaces will smoothen the vehicular traffic in the Rasheed Street and will contribute to the realization of a dynamic Streetscape free of traffic congestion.
In Connection with the Streetscape Obstacles The air-conditioning equipment, sign and information board installed at random on the building facades are the elements obstructing the Streetscape. Appropriate measures will be introduced in order to prohibit or regulate the installation of these obstacles.
Fig. (143) Section - Public function space
Architectural design sympathetic to the historical buildings and facilities that are the objects of conservation, in order to realize integration with the historical environment
In Connection Control
with
the
Building
Height
Furthermore, measures will be considered in order to control and restrict expose wiring that spoils the Streetscape and the clothe line and drying visible from the Street. The heights for the new buildings are not to exceeded 3 stories, unless otherwise indicated on building height control map.The visual control plane is considered front facade line of the historical conservation buildings
The maximum height of building facing the Rasheed Street is limited to 3 storeys at the visual control plane. In other words, buildings up to 4 storeys can be constructed, but the 4th storey requires a setback. The 4th floor should not be visible to the pedestrians of the Rasheed Street.
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Streetscape Design Guideline The element that characterizes the Rasheed Street is the continuity of colonnaded arcades with a rich variety in their details. Each building facing the Street has columns with peculiar design. To conserve the Streetscape of the Rasheed Street means to maintain the continuity of this peculiarity, and therefore the term "column" is an important keyword of the urban design for improvement and conservation of the Streetscape. To introduce these two elements, i.e., colonnaded arcade and column into the development area means to compose the unity of the urban design into the appearances of the new and old townscape.
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Fig. (144) THE EXISTING STRUCTURAL CONDITION Monumental Historic Fabric to be Conserved Zone A & B
Fig. ( ) Existing condition: Zone A and B
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Fig. (145) THE EXISTING STRUCTURAL CONDITION Monumental Historic Fabric to be Conserved Zone C & D
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Fig. ( ) Existing condition: Zone C and D
Fig. (146) THE EXISTING STRUCTURAL CONDITION Monumental Historic Fabric to be Conserved Zone E & F
Fig. ( ) Existing condition: Zone E and F
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Fig. (147) Samples of Architectural Elements
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TIGRIS RIVER FRONT AND HISTORICAL SPINES INTEGRATION Historical background. The Tigris has been the most vital single natural element in the life of Baghdad. It has served not only as the most important focus of urban activities, but also as the source irrigating large agricultural areas around the city. It has been the recreation space and the channel for communications with other cities in Iraq. When Rusafa expanded into its familiar rectangular form during the late Abbasid period (1055-1258) the Tigris was spanned across by three bridges, all composed of boats linked by walkways. The most important of these bridges (Suq Al Thulatha) was located approximately where Shuhada Bridge is now. Its central location added to its importance and, in fact, for the last five centuries, until the construction of the new Shuhada bridge, it carried the only road across the River. Although there are no specific written references to the form of Riverfront in the Abbasid period, strong evidence — including some archaeological finds — suggests that Rusafa's Riverfront was walled like the rest of the city. The only opening to it was the central gateway facing the bridge. Even as recent as the early decades of the 20th century, the Citadel and parts of the wall near Bab Al Sharqi section retained walls buttressed by round towers.
According to historians, the Riverfront was public property and consequently people were not allowed to build directly on the Riverfront with the exception, perhaps, of Caliphs and other important or rich notables. It was only after the destruction of the Riverfront wall that houses began to appear directly on the Tigris, a trend that became persistent in the nineteenth century. Today, the Al-Rasheed area Riverfront retains a number of outstanding monuments, mosques, traditional Suqs, khans and private houses out-ofkey with their surroundings but it also suffers from the impact of modern buildings, from decay of historic structures and from total environmental neglect. It is, however, impossible to treat the Riverfront consistently, as it always was and, to some extent, still is subdivided into various sections of different functional and architectural character. Although the sectors are slightly overlapping, the following schematic division could be applied:
Fig. (148) Tigris Riverfront zone
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The Monumental Sector from the Citadel to Shuhada Bridge, dominated by the Sarai complex and its large terrace. By its governmental function, this section of the Riverfront was somewhat separated from the city centre, and its architectural scale is more monumental than most of the other sections. Its buildings and open areas, once evacuated, may offer a considerable potential for parks, recreational facilities and cultural activities. The City Centre Sector from Shuhada Bridge to Ahrar Bridge, dominated by the routes from the Suqs terminating on the Riverfront, near important landmarks such as the Mustansiriya. This sector shows a denser and more urban character than the others, but it is also the most disrupted sector of the Riverfront, suffering from highrise buildings implemented in the fifties and the sixties, mainly in the Banking district. It has the highest demand for cross-River traffic and corresponding landing points, combined with coffee houses, restaurants and River terraces. The Former Residential Sector from Ahrar Bridge to Jumhuriya Bridge. This sector has a more secluded character due to the appropriation of private Riverfront terraces by each individual building (mainly private residences and hotels) and to the quieter routes leading to the waterside. As in the case of the first sector, it may need a more landscaped and less urban treatment, in contrast to the much denser second sector. On the whole, the Riverfront offers a high potential for rehabilitation: with its historic buildings restored, with some of the poorer modern structures being
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improved or replaced, with monumental buildings such as the Sarai which could be opened to the public. Likewise the Citadel could be made available for public purposes and with the embankment converted into gardens and landscaped pedestrian spaces it could become an extremely attractive and culturally significant part of the central area of Baghdad. To allow for more detailed proposals for rehabilitation an elevation of the existing Riverfront has been produced, and between the Citadel and Ahrar Bridge a plot-by-plot survey on historical value, physical conditions and present activities has been carried out.
Defining the focal area An attempt has been made to highlight three focal points of the central and most 'urban' sector of the Riverfront, between Shuhada Bridge and Ahrar Bridge. The proposals exemplify one of many ways to treat these points and in fact show one extreme way which is to create public 'balconies' overlooking the River and containing coffee houses, protected shaded terraces, exhibition rooms, cultural centres, restaurants, and possibly a waterside hotel. Architectural integration has been sought by suggesting volumes which do not exceed the traditional Riverfront profile, and by use and free interpretation of traditional elements of Baghdad Houses, such as the high Tarma-balcony.
Two views illustrate a possible treatment of the present open square near the Mustansiriya Madrasa which is in need of a more formal articulation and a degree of enclosure to regain its attractiveness. The building on the Riverfront is partly 'transparent' and the public could gain access directly from the square to the arcaded spaces overlooking the River. It may be interesting to consider a special pedestrian bridge attached to Shuhada Bridge to provide a more attractive link between Rusafa and Karkh and encourage enjoyment of the River scene. Two other views illustrate the possible treatment of the other focal points further downstream. One is where the route from Marjan Square reaches the Riverfront. At present it is an extremely ugly dumping site dominated by tall building of the fifties. The other is on the site of the present marine fire station, which, under the comprehensive Riverfront concept, is to be removed to the sector south of Ahrar Bridge, where it is integrated more easily.
Fig. (149) Mustansiriya Focal area
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Survey of existing Riverside elevations Defining the historical spines The major urban alleyways which had once run across the Street network in old Rusafa have been historically recognised and these alleyways have begun to be regarded as one of the most effective measure for conservation and revitalisation of the historical environment within Al Rasheed area. Furthermore these major historical alleyways should be seen as much as possible through their historical manifestion, so that an ideal historical urban spine will be revived for Rasheed’s area urban life today. Our responsibility today is to maintain these traditional spines and hand them down to the future generations.
Fig. (150) Existing Riverside elevations
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Major historical spines Major historical spines in the Study area
Fig. (151) Map of Historical Spines within the area
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Fig. (152) Historical building on Historical Spine-5 near to Qushla
Fig. (154) Traditional houses on Historical Spine-5 near to River front
Fig. (153) Ibrisam Suq near historical spine-5
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Methods of Conservation and Enhancement of The Historical Spine o
o o
o o
o
o
o o
•To restore historical monuments and traditional houses along the proposed historical alleyways. •To make the old city more orderly and more understandable by the tourists and citizens. •To enhance these walkways with good environmental design and landscaping, restoration of buildings, and linking all of these to the River, thereby bringing the River back to the city. •To provide suitable and effective pedestrian paving through the city. •To emphasise the pedestrian scale of these walkways. A typical Baghdadi section in an alleyway is narrow and high, with projections on both sides providing almost continuous shade, with areas providing open space, especially at junctions. •To install information and guide boards at historical monuments and sites through the pedestrian walkway system. These walkways can be incorporated into the best guidebook of the city, showing all the major and important monuments, the Suqs, the best restaurants in the city, the handicraft centres, and so on. To provide rest houses and visitors' centre at strategic points through the alleyways. To project historical monuments and houses as landmarks or focuses through the visual sequence design method.
o o
•To enhance each alleyway by using different types of plants at strategic spots. To enhance the scenery of the monuments and facade along the alleyways by illumination and lights at evening and night time.
Fig. (155) Al Mustansiriya School, one of the most important monuments in the area
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Utilization of Historical Spines • To use as educational places for the teaching of effective living history to citizens of all ages. •To utilise the place for tourism as well as for recreational activities. To show the distinctive local townscape to pedestrians. To utilise as the spine for all other pedestrian walkway networks.
Starting point
Bab Al Wastani
Passing point
This walkway was quite an old alleyway from Bab Al Wastani to the Citadel and Abbasid Palace at the Riverfront (Al Rasheed area). From Qala'a to the Riverfront, there remains many significant old buildings such as the Abbasid Palace, Aliya Madrasa Citadel, Markadiya Madrasa, Ahmadiya Mosque and so on. This area was the old centre of the Abbasid world of scholars.
Terminal point
Sheikh Omar Sahrawardi Mosque
Bab Al Wastani - Qala'awalkway
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Historical Spine-1: Bab Al Wastani-Qala'a
Aliya Madrasa Abbasid Palace
\
Fig. (156) Abbasid palace
Historical Spine-2: Bab Al Wastani-Suqs This walkway is also an old alleyway with Suqs leading from Bab Al Wastani to the Tigris Riverfront, and it used to run through the Wardiya cemetery.. It is also connected to an alleyway of Suqs. The Mirjan Tomb Mosque and the crescent-shaped Plaza have been impressive scenic features that dominate the Rasheed Street landscape. Masbagha Sharia district has been the most famous old commercial centre where Khan Mirjan, Dala Khan, Pasha Al Kabir Khan, traditional Suqs complexes, etc. are still functioning today. The waterfront area was busy loading and unloading international goods for world trade.
Starting point
Fig. (157) Mirjan Mosque
Passing point
Bab Al - Wastani
Sheikh Omar Cemetery
Rasheed Street
Khan Mirjan Dala khan Pasha Al kabir Khan Awqaf Building Shariat Al Masbagha
Terminal point Masbagha Shariat
Bab Al Wastani – Suqs walkway
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Historical Spine-3: Bab Al Talism —Sinak This walkway has been linked mainly with the area between Bab Al Wastani and Gailani Tomb Mosque and toward the Gailani house at the Riverfront. Tomb Mosque as a transition point through Saraj Al Din Tomb Mosque to Sayid Sultan AM Tomb Mosque at the Riverfront). The Talism - Sinak walkway has been the alleyway for pilgrimage to the Gailani Tomb Mosque, which has been the most significant one in Baghdad throughout many years. Therefore, along the vicinity of the walkway, there are traditional groups of houses, and significant buildings and mosques which remain in balance with the modern Civic Centre today.
Starting point Bab Al - Wastani
Rasheed Street
Gailani Tomb Mosque
Bab Al Talism – Sinak walkway Sayid Sultan Ali walkway
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Passing point Ibn Al Jawzi Tomb Ex. British Residency Ex. British Consular General
Fig. (158) Nakib House
Terminal point Masbagha Shariat
Khan Mirjan Dala khan Pasha Al kabir Khan Awqaf Building Shariat Al Masbagha Al Alfi Tomb Saraj Al Din Mosque Sidriya Suq Civic centre
Sayid Sultan Ali Tomb Mosque
Fig. (159) Sayid Sultan Ali Mosque
Historical Spine-4: Gailani-Maidan This walkway is the longest one that crosses through the old city area and connects the other historical spines to the another at many strategic points, therefore, it has been the spine of the all other historical spines. This alleyway is composed of traditional local Suqs. Especially the Suq and mosque complexes have created much activity in old times and they still are generating urban activities now. The old Maidan has been destroyed but it still is the main entrance gateway and Plaza with wide open space surrounded by the Citadel and magnificant mosques of Muradi, Ahmadiya and Uzbaki. These historical monuments give a taste of the Abbasid age to all the visitors and tourists coming to this area.
Fig. (160) Ahmadyia Mosque
Starting point
Rasheed Street
Passing point Ahmadiya Mosque Muradi Mosque Qalaa Mosque Uzbaki Mosque
Terminal point Old Maidan Bab al Muadham Citadel
Gailani – Maidan walkway
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Historical Spine-5: Maidan—Mustansi This walkway has been the spine of old Rusafa which generated urbanism and the prosperity of the Abbasid period in accordance with the achievements of the Riverfront area. The most important spine through the study area integrate to the Riverfront Large old prominent buildings such as the Palace, Madrasas, Mosques, Serais, Suqs, Khans, residences, cafes and other public buildings have survived through the centuries, and they still take part in the important urban activities which are appreciated by many citizens. Design forms, volume, facades and silhouettes of each of these historical buildings add a highly distinguished character to the town-scape of the study area and are clearly identified within this urban space.
Starting point
Passing point
Terminal point
Bab Al Muadham
Uzbaki Mosque
Numan Al Pashach
Old Maidan
New Maidan
Fig. (161) Mustansuriys Madrasa
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Muradi Mosque Qalaa Mosque Ahmadiya Mosque Abbasid Palace Aliya Madrasa Markadiya Secondary school Numaniya Mosque Sulamaniya Madrasa Serai Mosque Serai Gate Qushla building Courts Building Uthman Asakri Tomb Mosque Wazir Mosque Baghdad Museum Sarajin Suq Asifi Mosque Mustansiriya Madrasa Khafafin Mosque Goldsmith Suq Wafaiya Mosque Pasha Al Kabir Khan Adiliya Al kabir Mosque Khidhairi Khan Ishaii Mosque Amin Al Pachachi Mosque Haidar Hamman Lynch Bors . House
Maidan – Mustansir walkway
o
TRADITIONAL SUQ Historical background In the Islam cities of the Near East, Markets or Bazaars are called Suqs and play important parts in the respective cities. They are not only important urban functions closely related with the daily life of the people, but also multi-faceted manifestations of social dynamics. As a general rule there are two distinct types of Suqs, i.e., city centre-type Suqs and local Suqs located in traditional Mahallas. The local Suqs have the function of serving the populations of traditional communities or Mahallas. They are establishments supporting the daily life of the said population. On the other hand, Suqs located in the downtown area are very peculiar entities from the standpoints of quality, scale, etc., in view of their commercial morphology, structure and architectural form. The City centre-type Suqs are specialized in types of mutually related businesses and trades, and provide many kinds of conveniences in connection with the urban life. These Suqs are the city centre of retail commerce divided in accordance with each field of specialities. Furthermore, they are the city centre of wholesale commerce and are interconnected with the retail business throughout the totality of the Iraqi territory. On the other hand, they comprise also the manufacturing sector that supplies a wide variety of commodities to the local markets. In addition,
they are located in the historical city centre and in totality they have the character of urban city centre. From the historical standpoint the Suqs are regarded as the oldest urban features, and it is presumed that they exist since old times. From the standpoint of the evolution of architectural standpoint however, it is presumed that the existing Suqs suffered the influence of the form of olf Roman and Byzantine markets. These Suqs have developed within peculiar socio-economic restraints, in conformity with the traditional Arabic-Islamic urbanization principles. Rasheed area Suqs is presumed to be one of the largest and oldest Suq complexes of Iraq, and in reality one of them can be seen at the present time.
Fig. (162) Qaplaniy a Suq
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It is clear that even at the present the Suqs of Al Rasheed area have peculiar specialties in terms of classification of commerce, commodities and crafts. Each one of the Suqs and Suq groups are arranged at their peculiar positions, with mutual connection between them and through functions of commercial relationship. The Khans are basically important parts of the Suq buildings, and consist of open courtyard, storage rooms and lodgings for traces, and many facilities of this kind used to be located within the Suq complex. At the present time they are used as storage facilities and offices of wholesalers, but in reality there are very few cases of medieval Khans in their original form. As for the architectural forms of the Suqs, they are classified in covered Suq, open Suq and open market square or Maidan. In particular, the covered Suq is valuable from the architectural standpoint in view of the peculiarities of its roof structure. As a general rule this roof is made of brick and mortar, composing a succession
with the multifarious and increasing demand of the present time and the congestion of transportation and traffic are bringing about marked confusion in the limited Street capacity. Furthermore, small-scale industries and workshops, required as a result of qualitative and quantitative expansion of the demand of the existing population and the increasing needs related to the information and fashion fields, are infiltrating gradually in the houses of the residential zone. The expansion of the commerce requires nearby rooms and spaces to be used as storage capacity. As a consequence, the increase of transportation and traffic are exerting influence not only on the limited space available at the environs of the Suqs but also on the residential zones, bringing about as a consequence the corruption of the environment. Furthermore, it must be borne in mind that the traditional houses composing the historical fabrics are being altered as a consequence of the said process.
of pointed arches with vaults. They compose narrow and long alleys, with small shops arranged at both sides. Permanent maintenance and control have been neglected in these traditional covered Suqs, and they are collapsing as a result of many years of use. The Streets in the interior of the Suqs are narrow, with most of them having widths of the order of 2— 3m and 3—6m, having furthermore meandering lineament. The commercial activities required coping
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Fig. (163) Mustansiriya Suq
Inventory of the Suqs The major Suq complexes existing presently in Rasheed area. In particular, most of the old and large-scale Suq complexes regarded as valuable from the historical standpoint are located in the area surrounded by the Rasheed Street—Mustansir Street (eastern to western side), Amin Street— Sumawal Street (northern to southern side). Eighteen Suq complexes of various sizes and peculiarities are interconnected with each other, forming as a result a large-scale Suq complex. Khans regarded as historical monuments and historical Suqs occupy important positions in this area, which is know as Bab Al-Agha Suq area. On the other hand, the Mustansir Suq (Street),and
Shorja Suq (historical monument), are Suq complexes characterized by large length. Also these Suqs have a old historical background are have supported the life of the Baghdadi for many centuries. These Suqs have length exceeding 300m, and the succession of adjacent Suq complexes exceed 1km, crossing the area in every direction. The part of the study area where this succession of Suq alleys is located corresponds to the Caravan Route of Orient at the time when Baghdad was enjoying prosperity as a trade entrepot. The names and location of the main Suq complexes as well as their relative positions with regard to the historical monuments and Khans are shown in the following figures
Fig. (164) Location of major Suqs
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Fig. (165) Detailed location of central Suqs
Fig. (166) Arial view of Major Suq Area
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Fig. (167) Waqf Suq
Fig. (168) Mustansiriya Suq
Fig. (169) Tamgha Suq
Types of Suqs The Suq complexes have structural types that reflect the peculiarities of each one of the trade categories they are specialized. As a general rule the traditional forms of Suqs are classified in the following 3 types from the architectural standpoint. o The covered Suq o The open Suq o The open market square, or Maidan In particular, most of the so-called traditional Suqs are the covered type ones that have a peculiar form made of brick and mortar. They last up to the present as Suqs of high historical value from the architectural standpoint, and they are distinguished from other Suqs as historical monuments. The most important peculiarity of this covered type of lies in its roof structure. It consists basically of a long succession of pointed arches at about 2 meters centers with vaults or domes between them. On the other hand, at the crossings of 2 or more Suqs the surmounting domes compose large-scale tall roof that cuts a conspicuous figure above the other roof structures, in the form of particularly prominent arches. Such being the case, the alleys in the interior of the Suqs look like ribs in a long and dark tunnel. As a general rule the vaults open like small and round projecting and the skylights coming into through these vaults form a succession of suggestive
beams of light. The ceilings frequently consist of parquet patterns of brickwork. In this type of Suq the passageway is basically narrow, with small shops arranged in row at both sides. As things now stand these traditional Suqs are in risk of collapse as a consequence of various centuries of use and negligence of periodic maintenance. On the other hand, in many of the covered Suqs the collapsed traditional roof structure has been substituted by poor quality roof structures consisting of corrugated iron sheets fixed with timber and iron girders.
Fig. (170) Suq with metal sheet roof Most of the open Suqs consist of metal working establishments such as goldsmiths, coppersmiths, etc., concentration of shops specialized in handcraft as well as shops handling perishable foodstuffs, dry provisions and daily necessities.
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It is presumed that the location of these kinds of establishments in the open Suqs is a result of historical considerations from the standpoint of urban hygiene and living environment, taking into consideration the effects of noise, bad smell, smoke and other problems brought about by the commercial activities and production activities. As for the open market squares, it is presumed that they were places of periodic fairs and for temporary use for trading and exhibition of goods. Furthermore, at some places they were indispensable squares for the nearby Suq complexes, being used as a base for carrying in and out the trading goods. At the present time in the Sidriya Suq there is a flourishing open market consisting of simplified Street stalls handling principally perishable foodstuffs.
As a general rule the shops are located approximately 0.5m above the ground level. Under the circumstances the shopkeeper can wait on customers sitting down in the shop and is furthermore located at an excellent spot for observation. The shops do not have rear door because their space is small and furthermore they are crowded with as much commodities as possible. On the other hand, the storage function of these shops depends on the nearby Khans possessed by the wholesalers. Such being the case, the transportation and movement of commodities are the most important causes of crowding.
Street Conditions within Suqs As a general rule Streets within Suqs are narrow and long, with small shops arranged in row at both sides. Particularly in the traditional Suq complexes the passageways have barely 2—3m width. However, the Streets are several hundred meters long and in some cases they run up to more than 1km. These Streets are extremely crowded by the traffic of pedestrians, goods of each shop put on show on the Street and commodities being carried in and out.
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Fig. (171) Suqs in the area
The Streets located within most of the Suqs as well as their shops have been submitted to successive repairs and remodelings along their historical evolution. As a consequence the Streets have many bandings and uneven nesses, and the state of drainage of the Street surface is extremely bad, with ponding occurring everywhere in the rain season. Most of the Streets located within Suqs of Rasheed area have less than 6m width. They have meandering lineament and variable width, reflecting the peculiar Islam urban form, evidencing the historical character of these Streets that were used exclusively by pedestrians.
The Suqs with Shop Categories The Suq complex is a concentration of Suqs specialized in commerce of the same type as well as goods and crafts of the same type and at the same time it is also a multiple interconnection of Suqs with commercial relationship structure and administrative service functions. Therefore, it has an arrangement making possible the commercial activity required to cope with the demand of the consumers and customers. The site survey carried out in the Rasheed area evidenced the following classification of conspicuous trade categories. These categories classify the multifarious trade contents in accordance with their types. 1. 2. 3. 4. 5.
Fig.(172) Mustansir Suq - Apparel goods
Fig. (173)
6. 7.
Suqs handling principally spices, dry foodstuffs, grains and cereals. Suqs handling principally daily necessities, sundry goods, hardware, etc. Suqs handling principally perishable foodstuff (e.g. vegetables, fruits, meat, fishes, etc.). Suqs handling principally garments, clothes, dresses, accessories, etc. Suqs consisting of traditional metal working establishments such as goldsmith, coppersmith, etc., and traditional handcraft establishments such as carpets, candles, etc. Suqs processing and handling leather goods such as shoes, bags, belts, small goods, etc. Suqs handling principally books, stationary, office supplies, etc.
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The relatively predominant shop categories are divided in accordance with the aforementioned classification. In addition to these shop categories there are also Suqs specialized in furnitures, tools, bicycles, parts of automotive vehicles, household electrical appliances, etc. As things now stand the number of specialized Suqs handling a wide variety of commodities required to cope with the demand brought about by the life of the people is increasing gradually, replacing the Suqs handling traditional handcraft goods and commodities.
Fig.(174) Safarin Suq - Craft shops
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Existing conditions of the Suqs area Physical Conditions of Existing Suqs All the existing buildings including the historical monuments and historical fabrics which located at the environs of the Suqs are identified on the results of the indivisual survey for physical condition of the buildings, and furthermore the state of things of all the existing buildings are evaluated in connection with the possibilities of the implementation of a redevelopment scheme consisting of the rehabilitation of the historical environment for the Suqs area. And the following six criteria are set and identified with the purpose of carrying out the said evaluation. o Buildings in good physical condition
Fig. (185) Safarin Suq
o o o o o
Buildings Buildings Buildings Buildings Buildings
in in in in in
fair physical condition poor physical condition very poor physical condition physically collapsed condition under construction
The following conclusions are drawn for each existing buildings in the light of the aforestated evaluation criteria. 1. 2.
3.
The historical monuments are relatively fair to poor condition. The Suqs located in the Bab Al Agha area and Shorja Suq area are in extremely poor state from the standpoint of physical building condition, even there are many historical monuments and historical fabrics distributed here adjacent to the Suqs. Most of the covered Suqs are showing the state of poor to very poor condition through the Suq spines.
Fig. (186) Areedh Suq
Fig. (187) Ibrisam Suq
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Existing Land Use of the Suq Suqs are the centers of the traditional islamic commercial activity and furthermore they contain also such manufacturing and processing establishments as small-scale industries and workshops. Mixed use is a conspicuous characteristic at the vicinity of Suqs, reflecting the traditional form of land use in these areas. Commercial and business mixed use is the most conspicuous form of land use in the zone extending from the Suq areas of Bab Al Agha to the Shorja Suq area. In other words, this is the largest commercial center of Baghdad. On the other hand, in the Abbass Affendi Suq, Hanun Al Kabir Suq and Dahana Suq the residential and commercial mixed use accounts for the largest proportion, followed by the commercial and business mixed use. Spots of pure residential use are scattered here and there, and generally speaking these areas. have the appearance of local Suqs. In the fringe zones along the Suqs spine there are veins of mixed use land consisting of commercial and industrial uses infiltrating in the residential use zone concurrently with the expansion of the commercial activity of the Suqs. The historical fabrics are located in this residential use zone and are relatively well conserved. Therefore, should the influence of the commercial activity pervade autogeneously into the residential area, problems
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are expected to occur from the standpoint of conservation. Worsening of the functions of the existing roads, as a consequence of the increases in the volumes of transportation and traffic, as well as confusion in the view and environment, as a consequence of the remodeling and reconstruction of buildings, are expected to take place concurrently with the aforesaid pervasion process. Therefore, it is indispensable to implement concrete administrative guidance consisting of controls and regulations in conformity with a basic land use policy in order to prevent the said problem.
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CHAPTER 5. GOALS, SCENARIOS AND SOLUTIONS - Area integration - Revitalization - Infrastructure - Traffic
The historical importance of Baghdad City and particularly, its city center which represents the old city in addition to 21st century environmental requirements and Green policies. Our vision for Al Rasheed 2035 shall concentrate on modernizing the study area while emphasizing on its historical characters and heritage aspects. Our vision is a Sustainable city that is unique functionally and esthetically, an urban space that provides culture, pride and comfort.
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GOALS, SCENARIOS AND SOLUTIONS
Overall Goals. The analysis of the urban development of Baghdad, of its recent transformations and of the existing conditions in the study area have led to the establishment of a certain overall goals which should direct the planning approach in its various technical aspects. These goals are: o To create a city centre worthy of the historic capitol of Iraq, with a sound mix between complementary functions such as commercial, governmental, residential, cultural and recreational activities, and with a good balance between the heritage of the past and the facilities of the modern age. This implies that the image of the city should reflect its traditional values and the specific character of the site, while also expressing the potential and the aspirations of modern Iraq. Therefore the task is to establish a link between the monuments of the past and the structures of the future, and to provide a high quality urban environment to act as source of cultural identity. o To reintegrate the broken urban structure, so as to strengthen the ties between the different components of the urban fabric of Rasheed area and to reestablish some of its lost coherence. This implies that great attention must be given to the interaction between the
various elements of the urban system, that the concern for the whole overrides the interests of the parts, and that sensitive areas and functions should be protected from the impact of more aggressive ones. To achieve this, special attention will have to be paid to the reorganization of vehicular traffic in the study area, as traffic problems have been the most significant factor in the disintegration of the old city. o To conserve and to revitalize the traditional urban fabric by coordinated conservation and adapted redevelopment measures applied in consistent and continuous manner. Conservation can only be successful if coupled with an overall development concept related to the urban system as a whole. However, urban conservation is not a matter of erratic large-scale intervention, but of a progressive step-by-step implementation. It can therefore only be successful if the corresponding legal, administrative and financial tools are provided together with a consistent planning framework. o To steer and monitor development in the modern areas according to coherent urban design concepts. This implies that in the future architectural projects, especially on sensitive locations or places of strategically importance, should follow comprehensive design guidelines which ensure that they contribute to the gradual development of a consistent urban form, rather than remaining isolated.
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The translation of these overall goals and policies into more operational planning and design criteria will be further developed in comprehensive planning strategies and in selected urban design schemes.
The implication of established sustainable Al Rasheed goals.
green
&
What is a green and sustainable zone? A green and sustainable zone is a community of residents, neighbors, workers, and visitors who strive together to balance ecological, economic, and social needs to ensure a clean, healthy and safe environment for all members of society and for generations to come. Why become a green and sustainable zone? to ensure a viable future, the zone must take a leadership role and address the impacts placed on the environment by urbanization and a growing populace. These impacts include air and water pollution, climate change, and habitat loss. How will Al Rasheed become a green zone? the zone has to take a number of significant actions to become a green zone. Recent examples include: o o
o o
Adoption of an environmental charter Endorsement of the united nations green cities declaration and urban environmental accords Adoption of a green zone action plan Adoption of a green building program
The zone of Al Rasheed elects to be an environmental advocate and a leader in environmental compliance and protection. The zone shall cultivate superior environmental standards that will provide for sustainable municipal development. The zone recognizes that growth and opportunity cannot be conducted at the expense of environmental protection and enhancement, and that growth and environmental stewardship are intimately related. The zone believes that the implementation of an environmental ethic need not interfere with economic development, and that practicing such environmental ethic can ultimately be expected to enhance economic affairs and provide for responsible, farsighted development. The zone believes that the protection of the urban and natural environments is a social responsibility and a fundamental obligation of a democratic government, and that an ecologically impoverished and polluted environment adversely impacts human health. The zone is striving to become a model for environmental excellence and a prevailing force in environmental protection. To accomplish these goals, the zone shall establish policies that will incorporate environmental responsibility into its daily management of urban and industrial growth, education, energy and water use, air quality, transportation, waste reduction, economic development, and open space and natural habitats. 2006 united nations green cities declaration and urban environmental accords
Environmental charter
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The united nations green cities declaration is a
collaborative platform and a call to action for cities across the globe to take in recognition that a majority of the world’s population now reside in cities, and that cities consume 75% of the world’s natural resources creating environmental challenges. The urban environmental accords contain 21 action items that lay the groundwork for addressing universal urban environmental issues on energy, waste reduction, urban design, urban nature, transportation, environmental health, water issues.
the study area will eventually depend on feasibility factors related to implementation and to available financial resources,. Nevertheless, this very approach implies a certain number of principles which may adopt the character of development constraints. These should be clarified from the beginning. In fact, considering conservation as a substantial component of the study means:
More information on the united nations green cities declaration and urban environmental accords can be found on the world environment day website at http://www.wed2005.org/3.1.php
o That significant portions of residential areas are kept in the city centre because the fabric to be conserved and rehabilitated contains mainly traditional housing; o That the traditional mixed land use is maintained in the historic areas, allowing residents to work near their homes; o That semi-industrial activities in the area are reorganized, so as to become compatible with the historic fabric; o That modern CBD extensions are limited to the recently cut road alignments without further destroying coherent portions of the historic fabric; o That specific traffic policies (with regard to road network, traffic management, public transport and car parking facilities) are developed to minimize the negative impact of vehicular traffic on the historic fabric, while allowing for adequate servicing of the area; o That an effective control of land use and building activities is established by Mayoralty of Baghdad in order to prevent speculative redevelopment projects in historical areas. o •That considerable investment is made in the public sector to improve the environmental
Green zone action plan Environmental advisory commission The environmental advisory commission consists of nine Al Rasheed residents who advise the zone council and make policy recommendations in support of the goals and objectives of the zone’s environmental charter and monitor and guide the green zone action plan. This commission holds monthly open meetings to the public and serves as a forum for the discussion of environmental issues with local, regional, and global impacts. The implication of established conservation goals. Conservation in a broad sense — including adapted redevelopment of certain areas — will be a major tool for achieving the goals of this project. The realistic extent of conservation to be applied within
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quality, the amenities, the infrastructure and eventually the "prestige" of the old quarters, in cooperation with other agencies. It must be borne in mind that these general constraints may act as factors limiting future development in the study area, particularly densities, traffic volume, commercial and office space. Therefore, it will be important to assess the remaining carrying capacity of the historic area, and to consider its possible effects upon the rest of the CBD and the urban system as a whole. It should be remembered that Rasheed area is only a part, and in fact the most developed part of the total CBD, and that other areas may still offer a large and unexploited potential for intensive land use. aspects such as environmental qualities of the central area, conservation constraints and socioeconomic factors related to the resident population. Therefore, it may be needed to consider a shift in major axes and modes of traffic, as well as traffic restrictions for certain areas of Rasheed. All these aspects will be considered in greater detail when establishing the basic options and development strategies for Rasheed. However, it is to be remembered that the corresponding problems cannot be solved in isolation by concentrating on Rasheed area alone, but that it will be a matter of the current master plan project to establish an appropriate general framework within which Rasheed can regain its balance.
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Opportunities for rehabilitation and redevelopment
corresponding incentives for modern development, which take into account their function as part of the CBD of the modern metropolis.
A close analysis of all the survey material and documents presented in the previous chapter reveals that development pressures in the Bab Al Sharqi area are intense. The strip between Rasheed Street and the Riverfront has already been heavily affected by unsuitable modern development. In view of its historic importance, of its wealth of monuments, and of its significance in terms of townscape (Riverfront) it should not be abandoned to indiscriminate modern development. It could remain a focal area of Baghdad, combining architectural heritage, attractive pedestrian spaces and an interesting mix of commercial and cultural activities, while remaining under careful control. If the above-mentioned parts of Rasheed area can be conserved and rehabilitated, it will be possible to restore some major elements of the traditional urban system, — particularly the Suqs and some of the traditional spines linking the Riverfront with the northeastern sectors of the city and the gates. Special priority for conservation could be attached to these spines in order to start more comprehensive rehabilitation projects which would eventually cover large parts of the study areas. Meanwhile, the restrictions implied in conservation areas must be balanced
the by
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Fig. (188) Goal Image of al Rasheed Area Protection of Historic Urban structure
Fig. (189) Urban Development Control Zones
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Area integration The ongoing economic development of Baghdad city center brought about new territorial dynamics in the Midan and Tahrir area. The extension of the city centre and the physical and functional autonomy of Rasheed altered the relationship Midan and Tahrir to its urban context. The area was now conceived as the capital's historic core, and the idea was to anchor the Baghdad city center in its recent past, while at the same time turning it into a modern business and financial centre. The plan should address two concerns vis-Ă -vis Midan and Tahrir area; on one hand, it ensured the area's horizontal integration to the city center as a whole; on the other hand, it stressed and capitalized on its vertical integration to the subterranean urban past. A review of the strategies adopted in that regard, at both district and sector levels, will help to offer insights into those modalities of integration and show Midan and Tahrir and the city center mutually shaped each other's spatial structure. Horizontal Integration Midan and Tahrir and the nearby areas are forming a cohesive whole, distinct urban character as governmental and religious nucleus city centre.
old city centre they exhibited a the financial, of the Baghdad
Together with the Rasheed, they were designated as the conservation Area. They also constituted the anchor around which were articulated the remaining sectors of the city center and its network of Streets and open spaces. The new urban structure devised by the Plan, and originating from the Conservation Area, revolved around the creation of a visual, physical and functional permeability between the historic core, the city centre and the River. This was achieved through complementary design strategies. Promoting functional complementarity
Midan and Tahrir played an important role in shaping the physical and spatial structure of the Baghdad city center in reverse, the planned land distribution in the area was shaped by that of the central district as a whole, and by the new Riverfront configuration. The Midan and Tahrir area was assigned an alternative function designed to complement the range of land uses in surrounding sectors and to address current market trends. The high prevalence of key government and religious buildings in the Baghdad city center established a strong communal and national identity. The public domain, utilities and buildings had to be renovated to accommodate state – of – art office and retail requirements.
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Vertical Integration The Midan and Tahrir area included the most important landmark buildings and distinctive Streetscapes in the city centre. Its rich historical strata and unearthed finds gave it added dimension as a historical site of prime significance. Within the culturally and historically rich urban setting, the task of reconstituting and rehabilitating the public domain was evidently complex; one had to be at once responsive to the exigencies and pressures of contemporary life and faithful to the district's historic character and unique sense of place. The dialectical relationship between heritage and the features of a modern townscape raised two major challenging design concerns: o How to integrate historic and traditional areas into the emerging functional and symbolic structure of the city. o How to respond to parking requirements without compromising the urban fabric of the historic core. The concept of historical sites as a public space feature is an innovation in Baghdad. Whereas monumental finds are usually displayed in prime city locations and neighbourhood parks outside their original context, the practice adopted in Midan and Tahrir favoured for more contextual approach, while providing at the same time a new form of recreational cultural space.
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Among other main concerns addressed by the plan in the Conservation Area was the provision of an adequate infrastructure and parking space with a minimal disruption to the historic fabric or damage to the historical riches. In the absence of multilevel basements beneath retained buildings, the parking requirements of the Conservation Area were mainly accommodated on its immediate periphery. Recapturing a Lost Centrality The strategies of integration suggested in the Baghdad city centre plan highlight the complementary natures of Midan and Tahrir as an interface zone between River and city and as a link between past and future. As such, they reflect Baghdad attempt at integrating its new Riverfront and recovering its historic core in its thrust to energize its city centre. At the heart of this quest is Baghdad concern for recapturing a lost centrality. Also in a parallel to other cities around the world which were not marked by the exceptional circumstances of a rapid urbanization Baghdad witnessed business migration towards other areas because of more competitive land prices and easier accessibility. A strategy often adopted in similar cases for reversing this trend, has to promote the 'cultural' role of their central districts, by creating an environment conducive to cultural, tourist, recreational and shopping activities targeting the
metropolitan elite and middle class. Renewal projects have emphasized the quality of the public domain, with the aim of creating an enhanced 'urban experience' for old historic sites and inner district Streets, squares and frontages. Such projects have taken a special interest in upgrading the cultural identity of a place in an attempt to bring forward the unique character of the city. This strategy was central to the Rasheed Street approach for the conservation and revitalization of Midan and Tahrir. The urban renewal movement, "culturalized urbanism" is a free- market approach driven primarily by business concerns. The success of Midan and Tahrir in revitalizing Baghdad is proof of the efficiency of the market – oriented approach to inner – city renewal. While it has been feared by some to favour exclusive businesses and clientele by promoting the corporate image of Baghdad city centre, this approach has in fact restored people's confidence and sense of pride about their city centre. At the same time, the renewal of Midan and Tahrir has set an example of quality conservation and rehabilitation at regional scale. It has preserved and displayed the finds within the recovered fabric and has thereby enriched the city centre's cultural environment. The Rasheed Street plan and its phasing will transform Midan and Tahrir into a catalyst of the city's development and a symbol of its historic identity.
Fig. (189) Al Zawraa Cinema
Revitalization The public domain
Fig. (190) A valuable heritage in Rasheed Street
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Fig. (191)
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Infrastructure Modernizing It is clear that the existing infrastructure services and lines are old, obsolete and inadequate and needs a total renewal and upgrading. The renewal shall be based on the following main assumptions and planning policies:
BUILDING AL RASHEED FOR THE FUTURE GREEN ENVIRONMENT The main idea is to separate the study area from Baghdad networks to start a GREEN DISTRICT that is sustainable and environmentally friendly. That will set an example to be followed in Baghdad on the long run to achieve the goals of a green healthy city.
Fig. (192) Samples of Solar energy use in buildings
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This prospect contains Introduction
Main goal for the future
first ideas for the infrastructural equipment for the Al Rasheed Street in Bagdad. For every main infrastructural system there are described first concepts. The appropriate plans are only some examples and show the general ideas. For every concept there are examples for their implementation. Every idea has to be specified locally by special companies. In the prospect are also lists of companies which are capable to plan and implement the individual projects
Concerning infrastructural measures, the major goal should follow the policies set in the major plan; toward green environment. Such solutions for the future development of the Al Rasheed Street dictates the independence of the city supply and disposal. To realize this independence it must be developed the supply and disposal assigned to the planned zones.. Supply and disposal means, electricity, water, sewage, gas and waste disposal. Al projects have to be realized under economical and ecological aspects with high quality standards.
Basic and main goals The Rasheed Street is one of the main centers in Bagdad. The street is renowned for its cafes and restaurants, shops, private and government service buildings pharmacies, laboratories and so on. In the adjoining urban quarters are masses of people of different ages and gender. The street is frequented by many peoples ti satisfy their demands for the daily live. The quarters are connected to the supply networks of Bagdad. These networks include electricity, water, sewage and waste disposal.
Fig. (193) Existing cabling & Wires condition
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Basic data
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Basic Data
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Parameters The Rasheed Street area is part of the center of Bagdad along the Tigris River. The quarters along the Rahseed street are the most popular in Bagdad. Because of the important downtown area, there are some essential parameters which has to be mentioned as follows:Sewer
The facilities must be closed. The location of the facilities must be well thought of! - The security situation in Bagdad is very inconstant The facilities have also be built considering aspects for safety!
- The supply and disposal systems in Bagdad are inconstant The quantity and quality of the facilities must be guarantee an independence from the citywide systems - The environmental pollution is high and the systems unprofitable The systems should be economical and ecological - Lack of space because of the high urban density, high costs of the plots. The facilities has to be built as compact and space saving as possible (compact units)!
Fig. (194) Sewer and rain water in Al Rasheed alleys and Suq Areas
- Competition with other urban usages for open spaces The location of the facilities has to be well thought of! - Possible noise pollution and odor nuisance of new supply and disposal facilities
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SEWERAGE SYSTEM Sewage is water carried wastes in either solution or suspension. Depending on the origin, wastewater can be classed as sanitary, commercial, industrial and surface runoff. It is not possible to create a big sewage plant to guarantee the independence.
Fig. (195) Proposed Locations for the Sewer stations
SEWER PLANT -
independent from the current system
-
biological and chemical treatment
-
compact and closed units
-
economical and ocological optimization
-
space saving units
-
preparation for drink water quality and
-
minimum 4 units (each with a capacity
• recirculation into the system
• of 100.000l per hour) ideally 6. -
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independent from the current system
-
networking of the units to compensate failures
GOALS -
No untreated water into the river Tigris
-
Surface water and waste water should be cleaned either
-
Using the sludge to operate with biogas facilities (electricity and gas production
-
Recycled water can be used back to drinking water system
CAPACITIES & TECHNICAL BASIS -
Closed system
-
Size and equipment flexible
-
Dimension: 15m x 20m
-
Capacity about 1.500.000 liters per day
-
6 facilities to serve the demand
Fig (196) Sequence plan for sewage plant From the street to the house
1. 2. 3. 4.
Fine rake Fluid seperator Biofilter Sludge drainage
Fig (197) Inside Sewage plant
Fig (198) Compact Sewage plant
From the street to the house
From the street to the house
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CONCEPT SEWER SYSTEM -
Separate sewer system (rain water and domestic/ trade, gastronomy)
-
Main collector pipes below Rasheed Street and main side roads
-
Rainwater outflow to collecting tanks (using for irrigation and fire water tanks). This water must be cleaned separately (with filters)
CAPACITIES & TECHNICAL BASIS
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-
Main collecting channel , 800mm diameter (concrete or stoneware
-
Building service line min 200-300mm diameter (concrete or stoneware)
-
Rain water pipes above waste water lines reserves by backblocks
FRESH WATER SYSTEM (DRINKABLE WATER) Drinking water or potable water is water of sufficiently high quality that it can be consumed of used within risk of immediate or long term harm. Theoretically, the facilities are able to produce drinking water, but this produce is very complex
.
Fig. (199) Proposed Locations for the Water treatment plants
CONCEPT: WATER TREATMENT -
Main goal of purification to fresh water to use for activities in households, gastronomy and trade
-
Storage of water in the buildings to reduce costs and to prevent gaps of supply
-
Economical and ecological optimization
-
Decentralized system
-
-
Additional treatment systems for major buildings
Preparation for drinking water quality and recirculation into the system
-
Networking of the units to compensate failures
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GOALS -
Water withdrawel from Tigris River
-
No untreated water into the water network
-
Treatment of water using in households (no drinkable water quality)
-
Rough pretreatment during the water withdrawal (river) yet
CAPACITIES & TECHNICAL BASIS -
About 8.000 mÂł daily treatment
-
Additional treatment for major buildings
-
Underground plants to reduce land consumption
-
Main facility with a minimum size about 300 m²
Fig (200) Sequence plan for a water treatment
the street to the house
Fig (201) Example for function of treatments
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CONCEPT:WATER NET -
Modern water network
-
High quality standard
-
Adequate fresh water network in the whole area
-
Connection to every building
-
Fireplugs in the streets (if possible in connection to fire ponds, rain water collecting tanks)
Fig (202) Water reservoir
CAPACITIES & TECHNICAL BASIS -
Independent from the citywide systems
-
About 8.000 mÂł daily delivery for the whole system
-
200-300 mm pipes for the main water pipes
-
Using PVE synthetic pipes for the main water pipes
-
Housing connection with synthetic pipes, copper or steel
-
Water tanks in major buildings for individual water supply (peak times)
Fig (203) Water treatment plant
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ELECTRICITY Electricity is the base for the most infrastructural facilities. It supplies public buildings, households as well as sewage plants, treatment plants, public lighting and so on.
Fig (204) Proposed Locations for the Power stations
CONCEPT: GENERATION UNITS
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-
Independent from the current system
-
Compact units in combination with biogas plant (sewage gas), in connection with sewage plant
-
Compact units in combination with diesel
-
Main units in connection to sewage plants
-
Individual units in major locations (major buildings
CAPACITIES & TECHNICAL BASIS -
Operates with gas (digester gas) and oil (diesel)
-
Individual adaptable capicities
-
Capacity till 4.000 Kw and more
-
Individual size
-
Small units for houses
Fig (205) Generator units
CONCEPT: SOLAR PANELS -
Individual usage
-
Economical and ecological useful
-
Usable on the roof of the buildings for additional electricity and warm water production
-
Possible usage of street roofages
-
Additional usage for equipment in the streets (lights, street lamp, automates)
Fig (206) Samples of Solar panel possibilities
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GAS Gas is a main energy source for cooking and the production of warm water. It is also usable for producing electricity and for street lights. In Rasheed Street there is no connection to piped gas systems. The supply with gas is only per gas bottles.
Fig. (207) Proposed Locations for the Gas Units
CONCEPT: GAS SUPPLY
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-
Gas for using in households, trade and gastronomy
-
Connection of all buildings (households) with underground gas pipelines
-
Reservoirs (tanks) of gas at central distributor points
-
Reservoirs connected to biogas plants or served by gas tanks (natural gas)
-
High product quality (safety standards)
CAPACITIES & TECHNICAL BASIS -
Capacities extensible individually
-
Current demand of 11.000 cmÂłper day
-
The pipes consists of special plastic and steel
-
Diameter till 500 mm
-
Storage tanks (steel) with capacities minimum for 7 days
Fig (208) From the street to the house
Fig (209) Gas connections and storage
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GARBAGE Domestic garbage, garbage from trade and gastronomy is one part of the daily garbage production. Garbage from industry is the other part. The garbage from Rasheed Street is mostly produced by domestic, trade and gastronomy.
Fig. (210) Proposed Locations for the Garbage Collection Unit
CONCEPT: WASTE DISPOSAL
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-
No open garbage combustion
-
Using organic waste to supply biogas plants
-
Prevention of garbage on streets (public garbage cans)
-
Split collection of domestic waste, trade and gastronomy
-
Periodical garbage collection (every week)
-
-
Collection points for every household
Implementation of garbage collection points (location at main infrastructural points)
-
If possible basics of waste separation
-
Program to reduce garbage
Fig (211) Garbage collection outlets buildings
Fig (212) Underground garbage can
Fig (213) Garbage cans for industry, household and gastronomy, trade
Fig (214) Integrated garbage collection system
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SERVICE TUNNEL Service tunnels are necessary when there are clusters of main supply lines like gas, electricity, sewage, water, ect. They are useful and widely used in the modern cities world wide for easy maintenance, accessibility and flexibility. .
Fig (215) Proposed Maintenance access Locations
Maintenance point
CONCEPT: SERVICE TUNNEL
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-
Service tunnel under Rasheed Street shall solve maintenance and technical disorders.
-
Sewage water integrated with separated entrance
-
Minimum a hight about 2,5 m and width about 3m
-
Circular profile
-
Minimum 2m under the streets
-
Diameter about 5m
-
Service tunnel along the whole Rasheed Street till the big infrastructural centres
-
Maintenance entrance every 300 m
Fig (216) Service tunnel with complete system (water, electricity, IT)
0.5 to 2 m
5 to 7 m
Fig (217) Profile of a service tunnel, adapted for Rasheed Street.
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INEGRATED SYSTEM Intergrated systems are compact solutions for the described previous infrastructural systems. They consolidate sewage, electricity, water treatment and garbage collection at one point and bundle them. For example, location near the river. Water treatment plant under garbage collection points. Beside there is the sewage facility and the biogas plant
Fig (218) Example of Integrated system proposed
CONCEPT: INTEGRATED SYSTEM -
Compact locations in connection to other infrastructural units
-
Combination of sewage, water treatment electricity, and garbage to reduce costs
-
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Maintenance entrance every 300 m
-
Sewage gas in combination with biogas (electricity and gas)
-
Cleared sewage in combination with water treatment
-
Garbage in combination with biogas (electricity)
Traffic
STUDY PURPOSE AND BACKGROUND The existing land area of the project site is the neighborhood
of
Al-Rasheed
Street
and
the
surrounding plots in the Rusafa area consisting of residential, retail, hotel, offices, public institutions, archeological, and logistics/warehousing land uses. The new master plan objective is to create a local mixed
use
sustainable
community
with
a
modernization scheme for Al-Rasheed Street as a local attraction for commerce and tourism. Another objective of the master plan is to minimize private car use and maximizing high quality public transport modes, with walking and cycling being a main component. This traffic impact assessment (TIS) was required to assist the master plan team and to establish a satisfactory level of service in the proposed road network for the horizon year of 2030, and has followed the procedure that is recommended by Mayoralty
of
Baghdad
in
their
Comprehensive Transportation Study.
Baghdad
Fig (219) kayos in Rasheed street
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Fig (220) Traffic kayos in Rusafi plaza
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TRAFFIC STUDY ANALYSIS METHODOLOGY OVERVIEW The traffic model developed in this study takes into account the specifics of the Al-Rasheed Master Plan including trip generation, internal road network, and connections with the external area wide road network. The modeling framework and software used are as follows: • Emme/2 regional transportation model linked with ArcGIS • Synchro7 for signalized intersection traffic analysis • Sidra 2.1 for Roundabout analysis The analysis was performed for the full development peak period and for the year 2030 peak period for three alternative scenarios: Scenario
Description
Implications
1
Do Nothing: Keeping Al-Rasheed Street open for vehicular movements
Congestion along Al-Rasheed, and a Fail level of service at intersections with high through traffic on Al-Rasheed
Converting Al-Rasheed into a dedicated Tramway line
2
With 3 Grade separation between AlRasheed Tram Line and the lateral roads connecting Al-Khulafa Str with the Bridges
Preferred Scenario, complementing Baghdad public transport plan and providing excellent service to various development along Al-Rasheed
And with feeding local streets to parking facilities
3
Same as Scenario 2 Constructing a Tunnel along the riverside parallel to Al-Rasheed
Provide a better access to/from and between parking facilities than scenario 2. However, the construction cost and difficulties are VERY HIGH
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Scenario 2 is the preferred solution between all 3 scenarios, being cost effective, and is efficient in terms of providing access to parking facilities using the existing minor roads within the study area (may need some widening in certain locations). Moreover, although scenario 3 provides direct links between different parking facilities within the development, this would encourage the use of the car for trips inside the projects (origin/destination inside Al-Rasheed development) which is not the objective of the tram system serving the project. The car parking facilities are intended for external trips, and are connected to external road system in scenario 2 (see figure 11), and such a configuration would encourage the use of the tram for internal trips within Al-Rasheed development. .
Fig (221) Proposed Scenario 2 layout
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ROAD NETWORK MODELING A road network model for the Baghdad area was developed and represents primary, secondary and local roads. The road network model reflects the various road cross-sections proposed within the scot Wilson master plan.
Fig (222) Baghdad Road Network Model
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The overall modeled road network is shown in Figure 13 and consisted of: • 43 TAZ centroids (32 for Al-Rasheed, 11 for Baghdad and External Zones) • 319 regular nodes, and • 914 links.
Fig (223) Area Wide Road Network Model
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TRAFFIC ANALYSIS ZONES AND TRIP GENERATION For assessment purposes related to the highway network, Baghdad was divided into 43 Traffic Analysis Zones (TAZ) as shown in Figure 13.. TRAFFIC ANALYSIS RESULTS OVERVIEW The Origin-Destination matrix for the peak period, developed based on trip generation from internal and external TAZ’s, was subsequently assigned to the modeled road network assuming Full Development at the horizon year 2030. Traffic analysis was done on the following critical locations: 1- Road sections around project 2- Bridge crossings 3- Access/Egress to parking 4- Selected major intersections
Fig (224) Area Wide Traffic Flows (Full Development
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)
Fig (225) Scenario 1 Al-Rasheed Traffic Flows (Full Development)
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TRAFFIC CONDITIONS Roadway Segment Analysis The procedures described in the Highway Capacity Manual 2000 (Chapter 21) were used to estimate the existing roadway levels of services (LOS) for roads and junctions within the study area. Roadways LOS are calculated based on the densities on each segment. The roadway densities are estimated using the flow rate and the design speed on each individual segment. The term Level-of-Service (LOS) is used to describe how these roadways perform under the peak hour period flows. Figure 16 illustrates LOS designations at roadway sections depending on vehicular flow to road capacity ratio, ranging from A (virtually free flow conditions) to E (traffic at road capacity), and F (capacity forced flow conditions).
Fig (226)Level of Service for roadway sections (HCM 2000, exhibit 21-3)
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OVERALL CONCLUSIONS The main thrust of this development is unique in terms of its promotion of sustainable city living and as such the work carried out in this report reflects
infrastructure
promoted
is
suitable
and
does
encourage the shift from the private car to public transport and walking and cycling.
this approach and this is why it provides chapters
The
over and above what would normally be required by
development
occupancy
the authorities for such a report.
developments
were
It is expected that the public transport (tram based)
peak
hour
modelled
assumes
and
included
in
100%
also
adjacent
the
modelling
exercise.
would account for most of the Al-Rasheed trips.
Walkways
Tram lanes and high quality air conditioned shelters
development which will be climate controlled thus
are proposed in order to attract users to this mode
providing a friendly environment which will in turn
of transport thus reducing the reliance on the private
encourage more such activities to take place thus
car.
reducing short car journeys.
Public parking strategically located around the project will attract and capture car users before they enter the development thus helping achieve a sustainable environment. Water transport will also play a role in the proposed transport and will include water taxis as appropriate. The road network proposed provides a good balance for car users and for public transport to be encouraged and adopted as a credible form of transport. The modelling work carried out shows that in general the highway links and junctions promoted are able to accommodate the predicted
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traffic. As such it is felt that the level of
will
be
provided
throughout
the
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CHAPTER 6 TO WARD COMPREHENSION STRUCTURAL PLAN - Structure plan - Comprehensive structure plan - Interventions
Under the targets of having an environmentally and economically green and sustainable district, our planning options have taken into consideration all aspects that interact and affect the study area; traffic, population, transportation and economy as well as its physical shape and appearance. Making up of the cityscape that affects the Street and its visual impact is part of the planning options.
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TO WORD COMPREHENSION STRUCTURAL PLAN
part of the modern CBD district has already been realised by previous and current development, special attention has now to be given to improving and enhancing the traditional centre.
Comprehensive structure plan Proposed urban structure concept.
•
Strategic Principles The main tasks of the structure plan for Rasheed area can be summarized as follows: •
To establish compatibility between the activities of the Central Business District and the physical environment of the historic urban fabric
This calls for a general classification and reorganization of land uses in order to make them comply with the character, and the restricted capacity of the various types of architectural components or "containers" of the urban fabric. Implicitly, this also means a subdivision of the CBD into two differently structured zones: on the one hand a more "traditional" and mainly pedestrian city centre, attuned to cultural activities, recreation and small-scale retail in the old Suqs, related to the surviving traditional centre; on the other hand, a more "modern" city centre containing offices, administration, large-scale shops and modern facilities and amenities, related to the new redevelopment areas. Both types of centre should be seen as complementary to each other. As a large
• To control pressures of vehicular traffic to levels which can be accommodated in the city centre without wholesale redevelopment of the historic fabric
This will call for some change of emphasis in the use of the existing road network, giving high priority to efficient public transport systems, and applying traffic restraint policies, combined with the construction of car-parks on the fringe of the study area. •
• To rehabilitate the old residential quarters within the study area, and to improve their physical structures, their environ mental qualities and their services
This will involve careful improvement of accessibility, protection from transit traffic, relocation of semiindustrial activities as well as the introduction or improvement of necessary social facilities, playgrounds and community services. The conservation of residential areas within a busy central business district will need to be defined by clear boundaries implying special protective measures and appropriate criteria intervention.
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•
• To improve and enhance the pedestrian connections throughout the Al Rasheed area, as a tool for linking the historic and the modern sectors of Rasheed and for reestablishing a sense of urban continuity
This will involve the rehabilitation of the major historic spines, the reestablishment of pedestrian links between the River and the gates, the environmental improvement of the Riverfront, and traffic restrictions on Rasheed Street as the main axis through the historic CBD, so as to reestablish as much as possible the continuity of the pedestrian system and to create optimal environmental conditions at significant nodes and focal areas, where social activities can develop.
The Proposed Urban System Rasheed Street could be reserved for Tram system and service access. Public accessibility could be inproved by a tram system operationg on the whole legth of the Street and connected to the bus terminal in Meidan Square. The Suqs would remain fully pedestrian and would benefit from rehabilitation and from an enhanced Riverfront development, which would restore the historic significance and the environmental potential of the site. In treating this area it is, however, suggested a new approach is adopted based on a low traffic volumes with large protected pedestrian Plazas and service access from the periphery.
Fig. (228) Strategic principles
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Fig. (229) Photos showing Al Rasheed Street today
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Proposed traffic strategies. Development Content The project site covers approximately 80.1 hectares and contains approximately 1,389 buildings with mixed landuse, with a total built-up area of 1.5 million square meters. The specifics of the proposed new master plan are presented in Table 1 below:
Specifics of Al-Rasheed Street Development
Zone A
Zone B
Zone C
Zone D
Zone E
Zone F
TOTAL
Area (ha)
8.2
9
7.5
14.4
21.8
19.2
80.1
Households
820
900
750
1,440
2,180
549
6,639
Residents
2,870
3,150
2,625
5,040
7,630
1,920
23,235
Visitors
1,435
1,575
3,150
6,048
9,156
1,920
23,284
Employees
164
180
300
576
872
439
2,531
Total Population
4,469 4,905 6,075 11,664 17,658 4,279 49,050
Below, illustrates the zone definition of the study area of Al-Rasheed development.
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Fig (230) Zone Definition of Al-Rasheed Development
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Parking Strategy Introduction For the Al-Rasheed development to meet its sustainability objectives, it will be crucial to provide excellent public transport facilities which, in turn will encourage less use of the private car. This concept is fundamental to the success of the environment which the developers are promoting. As such, as the planning of the development goes forward, it is important that parking is included as a fundamental element that will influence public transport usage and wider sustainability objectives. This note sets out the elements of a robust and sustainable car parking strategy for the Al-Rasheed development. The parking strategy will: • • • • •
Discuss the implications of various parking supply policies; Set out parking standards and geometric requirements; Evaluate expected demand for parking; Define planning and zoning requirements for parking; and Advise about parking controls and parking management technology.
PARKING SUPPLY AND SUSTAINABILITY Every car based trip begins and ends with a parking event and consequently the control of parking supply and demand is a key tool for discouraging vehicle trips and promoting a sustainable development. In a
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car dependent society, with high levels of free and available parking stock and limited investment in alternative transport options, car usage levels are high with resulting problems of congestion and pollution. Alternatively, where parking supply and demand are constrained, and there are attractive alternatives, car use levels are lower and sustainability objectives are addressed. The strategy option matrix in Table 2 illustrates the component parts that could form the two extremes of a parking strategy. To the left hand side are the elements that would be present in a car dominated transport network. To the right hand side the options are much more focussed on constraining parking supply and providing attractive alternatives to ensure a more sustainable scenario. Scenario 1 is the highest car dependent approach with unrestrained parking supply and a limited level of alternative transportation options whereas Scenario 8 represents the lowest car dependent approach and a comprehensive, high quality public transport. Scenario 8 would naturally require Baghdad official support. The parking strategy for Al-Rasheed should aspire to the sustainable transport approach, subject to the practical constraints of a master plan that is already under development.
The sustainable transport strategy approach should comprise the following key features: • • • • •
Controlled parking supply; Parking demand features; An active parking management system; An excellent public transport service; Excellent integration between modes;
Table showing The relationship of parking and public transport with sustainable development
Topic
Tools
Car Sustainable Dependent Transport 1 2 3 4 5
Provide unrestrained private parking Parking Provision
6
✓ ✓ ✓
Provide communal public parking
✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓
Provide less parking than Baghdad Guidance
On-Street controlled Employment controlled Parking Controls
Employment and residential controlled Employment, residential and retail controlled
✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓
Employment, residential, retail and community
✓
Shared spaces everywhere
✓ ✓
Planned and integrated Walkable Zones Accessibility Public transport provision (with change of mode) Full public transport network with links to wider catchment
8
✓ ✓
Provide parking in line with Baghdad Guidance
No controls on parking except:
7
✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓
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PARKING STANDARDS Previous transport studies for Baghdad have produced parking guidelines which should be used for initial estimations of parking supply by plot or sector designers. Parking Provision Residential 1 parking place / 1 villa 1 parking place / 1 apartment up to 150m2 2 parking places / 1 apartment between 150m2 and 250m2 3 parking places / 1 apartment above 250m2 Parking Garages entrances must be at least 10m from the curb Hotels 1 parking place / 5 hotel rooms 1 parking place / 2 hotel suites 1 parking place / service space up to 150m2 2 parking places / service space above 150m2 Offices 1 parking place / 70m2 of N.U.A. Retail 1 parking place / 70m2 of G.L.A. Or 1 parking place / 45m2 of N.U.A. Additional 30% of parking spaces for Shopping Centres above 950m2 Medical 1 parking place / 70m2 of gross area Restaurants 1 parking place / 40m2 of gross area Banks 1 parking place / 50m2 of G.L.A.
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Cinemas 1 parking place / 20m2 of gross area Or 1 parking place / 4 cinema seats Billiards and Gym 1 parking place / 40m2 of gross area Parks 1 parking place / 90m2 of park area Further details are provided in the Baghdad Guidance for other land uses that include Mosques, schools, hospitals etc. Shared Spaces The initial development content information should be used to provide a first forecast of the number of parking spaces that might be required. At this stage no reductions will have been applied to reflect possible management of demand. In order to facilitate more public transport usage it may be possible to explore a reduction at certain locations within the development. However, agreement needs to be sought with the relevant local authorities as to date there is no indication that this has been done. As an example of such a measure in the region the following reductions in parking space provision are based on those being proposed for similar projects in the region. • Residential • Office • Retail
0% 5% 25%
• Hotel • Convention Centre • Performing Arts • Arts and Cultural • Food and beverage • Convenience Retail
5% 25% 25% 25% 50% 100%
However, at this stage it is safer to use the Standards set out in Section 2.3.1 as any reductions will have to be negotiated and agreed with the local authorities. Efficiency Ratios To obtain net BUA from gross BUA to date the following reductions have been applied. • Retail • Office • Residential • Hotel
60% 80% 75% 75%
Space Requirements We normally apply 25m2/parking space for surface parking, and 38m2/parking space for structure parking facilities which includes an allowance for circulatory aisles, ramps, ticket equipment, columns and so on. The recommended stall size (car parking space) is 2.5m/2.7m x 5.5m. Parking Garage Entrance opening minimum width = 2m 1 entrance / 500 parking spaces 1 exit / 250 parking spaces
Cut edges for entrances and exits to allow 1.8m view corridor Internal ramps maximum slope = 10% Clear floor to floor height = 2.5m* Parking place = 2.5m x 5.5m 2.3.5 Clearances Within structures the minimum clearance for head height is in the range of 2.3 to 2.4metres, however the Al-Rasheed guidance seeks 2.5m as above. OPPORTUNITIES A commitment to provide high quality public transport services can bring about a significant reduction in parking demand when combined with demand reduction parking control measures such as parking charges, time controls and enhanced enforcement regimes. In addition, there are opportunities to reduce the number of spaces required without any compromise of operational performance through shared use of spaces associated with different land uses with nonconcurrent peak periods, and through the recognition that there is a duplication of expected supply associated with internal trips. Key opportunities are likely to be as follows: • Reduce parking demand by encouraging a modal shift towards public transport. This is particularly apparent for commuter trips along Al-Rasheed Street but can also have some benefit in other journey purposes;
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• Reduce parking demand due to linked trips only requiring single parking spaces at mixed use sites. In general, ground floor retail in residential plots is intended to serve the surrounding residential communities (within a walking catchment) and hence may not need parking space allocated to it in the same quantities as envisaged in the Parking Standards; • Reduce total parking supply by improving management of parking spaces to allow shared use of spaces associated with different demand ‘time of day’ peaks for different land uses; • Consider logically connected groups of plots in an integrated manner such that the overall benefits of mixed uses and peak demand variations can be maximised; • Identify a mechanism such that savings that accrue to third party developers can be shared by the master developer to offset the cost of their investment in public transport systems; • In areas of low public transport accessibility, use public parking facilities to supplement the developer supplied parking stock; and • Use public parking facilities during early stages of development to provide for the surplus demand (in advance of full implementation of public transport systems) but then subsequently reduce/remove the public facility as the public transport system becomes available to serve the residual demand. The key conclusion is that a reduction in parking supply will benefit both the third-party plot developers and the master developer so long as the accessibility expectations of the target markets can be met, regardless of travel mode. It is essential
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that stakeholders acknowledge that the Al-Rasheed Development of the future should not be shaped into a car dependent place just because other Gulf cities are car dependent today. PARKING STRATEGY COMPONENTS This section sets out the component parts of the parking strategy within three strategy categories as follows: • Parking Provision • Parking Management and Control • Accessibility and Planning Parking Provision The parking provision related components of the parking strategy are summarised as follows: • Identify opportunities to encourage shared use of off Street parking spaces such that the benefits of investment in parking infrastructure is maximised; • Explore the opportunity to shift parking demand to remote locations with lower land values served by high quality, integrated and reliable Park & Ride facilities; • Acknowledge that developer plot parking rates set out in the Parking Standards are likely to be based on single-use plots and hence reductions to parking for secondary uses on plots should be considered in the parking calculations; • Seek to reduce total ‘on plot’ parking provision such that a maximum level (to be agreed) of parking is permitted at any individual plot, and supplementary parking is provided in off Street communal parking facilities; and
• Identify opportunities to apply latest technology to maximise the efficiency of operation and control of parking facilities, and to optimise revenue generating potential whilst maintaining adequate levels of service. Parking Management and Control
Accessibility and Planning Objectives The components of the parking strategy that should be considered in relation to accessibility planning are summarised as follows: •
The components that should be considered for parking control are summarised as follows: • Define on Street ‘controlled parking zones’ and implement pricing and/or time controls to define ‘short stay only’ areas in support of kerbside retail activity where appropriate; • Regulate long stay parking supply/demand through control of long stay communal spaces, either through direct ownership and operation or through licensing of shared usage concessions with plot developers; • Identify the most appropriate mechanisms for controlling parking for different user groups and land use types, including exemptions as deemed appropriate; • Apply a market based pricing approach to parking facilities in the context of the integrated transport system, including all public transport services and alternative remote parking associated with any Park & Ride services; • Establish a clear and consistent enforcement regime to ensure that parking regulations are respected and observed, and that non compliance is suitably discouraged; and • Differentiate between familiar users and unfamiliar users in terms of geometric requirements, allocation and access control techniques.
•
• • • •
Ensure that all plots are well served by public transport and define accessibility criteria that relate to the degree of parking reduction acceptable in the context of the quality and convenience of public transport access available; Provide a mechanism for cost savings to be shared between the master developer and plot developers who provide less parking than previously expected, such that a proportion of their cost savings are paid to the master developers as a developer contribution towards the cost of providing a high quality public transport network; Encourage mixed-use community facility plots to maximise the shared use opportunity of parking provided; Ensure that developer sales strategies are consistent with spaces provided in their plots; Provide excellent walk and cycle networks and encourage transit focussed behaviour and lifestyle; and Encourage car pooling for employment trips by allocating priority employer spaces to car pools to increase average car occupancy of car borne commuters.
Various parking facilities exist in the vicinity of the project, and is mostly within a 200 meters walking distance to most of the plots as shown in figure 3a below, additional parking areas is needed where distance is 300 meters or more (violet & brown color). Upgrade of parking facilities with multi-storey
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structures is recommended to meet additional demand of new master plan. It is recommended to provide most parking facilities in the area between Rashid Street and Al-Khulafa Street to reduce car access to the area between Al-Rasheed Street and the River front.
Fig (231) Distance to nearest parking around AlRasheed Street The recently published 2003 car ownership data indicates a total 423,415 registered vehicles for Baghdad with a population of 6,386,067 persons, resulting in a car ownership rate of 66.3 cars/1000person compared to 27.6 cars/1000 person for year 1980 (BCTS/Jica). Hence, the forecasted car ownership rate for 2030 is expected to be 98.8 cars/1000 persons. For Al-Rasheed development with a population of 23,235 residents would result into 2,300 cars ownership, however, the parking demand would then be based on the number of
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households, that is 6,693 household, requiring a 6,693 parking space. The parking demand specifics of the new master plan are presented in Table 3, whereas the total parking demand is 15,665 parking spaces (residential, commercial, and offices). However, shared spaces reduction factors defined in section 2.3.2 of this report for landuses of different peak hour demand established the following factors: 0% for residential, 5% for office, 25% for retail, and 50% for food & beverage. Therefore, the total shared parking demand would then be 12,885. As indicated in the 1995 Jica study forecast, the parking supply within Al-Rasheed Street surrounding area, is approximately 8,000 parking spaces. Hence, the deficiency is around 5000 parking spaces. A demand of approximately 13,000 parking spaces, would require an area equivalent to 33 hectares of surface parking (13,000 x 25 = 325,000 m2) that is more than 1/3 of the project area. Hence, a suggested parking supply of 13,000 parking spaces is presented in Figure 3b where a multi-level parking facility is required whenever possible to provide sufficient parking supply as in the indicated zone locations.
Parking demand for Al-Rasheed new master plan CONCLUSION The availability of parking is a major influence on car use. This note has set out the scenarios related to parking that might be followed in order to contribute to sustainable transport across the Al Rasheed development. However, it will be necessary to obtain the permission and support of Baghdad local authorities in order to implement this strategy. Furthermore, it should be noted that whilst Scenario 8 represents the most beneficial option, any scenario other than Scenario 1 will contribute something towards sustainable objectives.
Zone A
Zone B
Zone C
Zone D
Zone E
Zone F
TOTAL
Parking Residents
820
900
750
1,440
2,180
549
6,639
Parking Visitors
478
525
1,050
2,016
3,052
640
7,761
Parking Employees
82
90
150
288
436
219
1,265
Parking TOTAL
1,380
1,515
1,950
3,744
5,668
1,408
15,665
Shared Parking Demand
1,209
1,327
1,575
3,024
4,578
1,173
12,885
Parking Facilities
11
15
12
3
7
6
54
Parking Supply
1,646
5,525
1,667
1,169
1,102
2,710
13,819
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PUBLIC TRANSPORT Introduction The work in previous transport studies (JCP, Jica, Scot Wilson) concluded that large-scale trip generation from future Baghdad population cannot solely be met by the private car and therefore a first-rate public transport network will be needed. Indeed, this is the approach the developer wanted as their aim was to provide a sustainable living and working environment with less reliance on the private car. Excellent public transport facilities are therefore a fundamental requirement if the Al Rasheed development is to provide high quality alternatives to private vehicles, discourage car use, and meet its sustainability objectives for all users.
Fig (232) Space required to transport the same number of passengers by car, bus, and bicycle Public transport facilities, including taxi stands as well as internal/external bus routes, are expected to serve 20% of the trips; it is the intention of the Amanat Baghdad to attract car travelers to use the bus by creating an attractive bus network system for the Baghdad area. For illustrative purposes, Figure 7 above shows the space required to transport the same number of passengers (approx. 55 passengers) by car, bus, and bicycle. The figure demonstrates the potential contribution of buses in reducing traffic congestion.
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PEDESTRIAN FACILITIES Al-Rasheed area is a high density mixed use development, and therefore, walking trips are expected to be at least 20% of the trips within the project, whereas, parts of the development are planned to incorporate climate controlled access thus encouraging pedestrian movements between various parts of the project as shown in figure 8 for the Al-Rasheed spine area and shopping arcades.
Fig (233) Examples of pedestrian shading and climate control arcades for Al-Rasheed Steet.
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TRAMWAY LINE The Al Rasheed development will require a high level of public transport provision if the forecast levels of most internal trips by public transport are to be achieved with consequent reductions in travel by private vehicle. The tram line will consist of a key route along Al-Rasheed that will provide frequent, high quality, tram services on the main spine through the development. On the spine route, the tram will utilise priority measures such as dedicated tram lanes which will not be available to general traffic and technology to provide tram with priority over general traffic at signal controlled junctions. Tram will be segregated from other traffic on the spine routes through provision of dedicated tram lanes to be located on Al-Rasheed right of way. Where possible a high level of segregation should be provided, particularly at complex junctions, in order to ensure buses achieve greater journey time savings and avoid general traffic congestion. The Al Rasheed tram lanes may offer shared access with heavy goods vehicles, taxis and/or cyclists or may be combined with a parallel cycle lane. These can be used by any vehicles with two or more occupants but can be difficult to enforce. The sharing of bus lanes will need to be discussed and agreed with the Baghdad local authorities.
Fig (234) Concept of shared tram and pedestrian space
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Enforcemen It is important that an enforcement mechanism is set up to ensure that tram lanes do not become blocked with parked vehicles and are not used by authorized vehicles during peak hours.
Fig (235) Concept of traffic segregation and enforcement between pedestrian, vehicles and tramway Use of the tram lanes by other vehicles could be enforced with cameras placed at the roadside or within buses. The cameras enable the offending vehicles to be recorded so that evidence can be presented to support action against the vehicle owner. WATER TRANSPORT The following considerations apply to the planned use of water taxis and other water transport. At the interchange facilities should include a floating pontoon and berthing structure, with an access ramp to ground level. Provision will be needed for a waiting area and ticketing facilities. The key issues to be considered when planning water transport in detail include:
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•
The type, size and turnaround time of vessels;
•
Consideration of timetabling and destinations;
•
Ease and safety of navigation;
•
Water depths required;
•
Space for movement of pedestrians in normal and peak flows;
•
Provision of comfortable waiting areas; and
•
Consideration of emergency escape (eg. in case of a fire in the vessel) and security.
Fig (236) above: Water Transport across the Tigris River Opposite: Boat terminal at Karkh side
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Proposed land use scheme
General Land Use Distribution According to the proposed urban structure presented at the beginning of this chapter, the area is roughly subdivided into major sectors. Each of these will have a distinct function and character of its own: •
Riverfront Zone
Large-scale urban park (Citadel), cultural and recreational facilities, landscaped Riverwalk and boat stations running south to Al Tahrir Plaza and Abu Nawas street. •
Rasheed Zone (Traditional CBD)
Traditional central business district, with old Suqs, largely pedestrian zone, with a few small traditional residential quarters included. Low-rise buildings and small-scale commercial activities will prevail, mixed with cultural and recreational facilities. Plazas and shopping, cultural centers are developed in the major nodes of the street.
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Commercial and Industrial Activities If large warehousing is relocated out off the area, a considerable space reserve will become available in the old Suqs, which should be used for the extension of retail and/or for providing retailers with an increased stocking capacity to reduce the movements of merchandise in the Suq districts a possibly of small stocks of goods which are produced could keept within the study area. Transport of merchandise should be organized so as to minimize disturbance. Basically it is suggested that no production activity other than small workshops should continue in the strip south of Rasheed Street, so as to reserve this area for retail commerce and to allow for rehabilitation of some historic houses now occupied by textile factories and mechanical workshops. Most of those factories (including printing presses) should be relocated in the Sheikh Omar area. Printers could retain a liaison office in Mutanabbi Street, so as to keep their business opportunities in the heart of city. In the quarters north of Rasheed Street smaller workshops can be allowed as long as they are of a type which will remain compatible with the fabric and integrate into the daily life of the quarter, activities should be reorganized according to their specific needs in terms of accessibility and storage capacity.
Proposed guidelines for intervention in the conservation area As previously discussed, the functional rehabilitation of the old city will imply the introduction of new social facilities, the replacement of collapsed residential clusters and the reorganization of commercial and industrial activities. Operations of this kind involve surgical interventions in the tissue of the old city and must therefore be precise and strict guidelines, if the specific character of the historic fabric is to be maintained. In the following paragraphs we shall first discuss the methodological approach used to cope with this problem and then present the actual interventions envisaged within the historic area.
Methodology in General Two basic types and scales of intervention can be distinguished: •
Interventions on the urban level, made in order to restore, repair or reestablish the characteristic morphology of the historic fabric. They apply mainly to sectors of the historic area which have been badly damaged by modern redevelopment projects or which include a large amount of irretrievably collapsed buildings, such interventions would mainly occur in the context of comprehensive urban renewal projects promoted by Mayoralty of Bagdad
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•
•
Interventions on the architectural level, made in order to restore, repair or replace individual buildings of the historic fabric. They occur either during a house-by-house renovation process initiated by various owners in different places and at different moments, or as part of a more comprehensive intervention at urban level. Both types of interventions must rely on the typological map presented. In the first case, the typological map indicates the areas where morphological repair of the urban fabric is most needed, or where interventions required for urbanistic reasons are the least harmful. In the second case it helps define the suitable treatment of the various classes of buildings, in conjunction with a series of typical interventions tailored to meet all circumstances.
Typological Development Control (Architectural Scale) As a rule, the typological control covers every single building in the historic areas of Al-Rasheed area. This is possible due to the previous classification of the complete historic building stock of Rasheed area into a number of typological groups. Related to these categories and their architectural values are a number of typical types of intervention, applicable whenever a building has reached a critical point in its life span, or is to be replaced. These range from integral restoration or restoration of characteristic features to substitution by new
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structures of sympathetic design, to ordinary maintenance. The various types have been marked on a map, from which clusters of buildings of the same category emerge, thus providing a first indication of the desirable intervention pattern. In addition to the map, Criteria of Intervention are specified, ranging between minor and major repair or total replacement, in correlation with the typological values and the structural conditions of a given building. Finally a set of specific Conservation Guidelines and Design Guidelines is listed, taking into account the distinctive features of various typological categories.
Interventions Comprehensive criteria. Criteria for Intervention in Conservation Areas Identification of the various types of building in the historic centre of Rasheed area makes it possible to evaluate and direct the conservation objectives and to prepare an overall description of the tools, the timetable and the methods necessary to achieve urban conservation. It should be noted that the typological analysis only helps in the identification of intervention criteria in the historic city: we could say that it makes it possible to evaluate the "supply" embodied in the physical buildings of the city.
building were classified as recognizably part of the historic building stock, and it is on the basis of these buildings that the specific conservation criteria will be defined and directed. For various reasons, the remaining 64% of the building stock is not subject to conservation regulations and may be transformed in one of the ways envisaged by the intervention procedures described in the plan. The intervention criteria for all the buildings in the Conservation area are listed and described in the Conservation and Development Map. The buildings to be conserved (36% of the total), by means of more or less rigorous restoration measures, are:
In the historic centre in general, the "supply", the consistency of the existing stock of buildings, is a rigid element which hardly varies: if the objective overall is the conservation of the building fabric, then this obviously becomes a non-variable element. In the case of Baghdad the problem arises in a quite different way given the quantity of buildings which are hopelessly dilapidated and beyond recall.
• Buildings belonging to the Arab-Islamic city, both monumental-type buildings (mosques, madrasas,) and residential buildings, when they are typologically recognizable • Buildings belonging to the transitional period, Which offer a record of Arab architectural culture around the end of the nineteenth and early twentieth centuries of European influence (portico buildings used for representative or commercial purposes; residences) • The buildings and physical structures belonging to the traditional Suq system: coverings over the commercial through-fares (in brick, wood, iron); specialized buildings (fonduks, cafes, fountains, etc.); productive complexes (shops, craftsmen's workshops, storerooms).
The part of the typological survey which concerned the area within the perimeter of Al-Rasheed focused on all the buildings in the Old Town area. The total
Buildings to be transformed or replaced, using building projects which respect the historical context of the site, are those which were originally
The other component to be analyzed is the "demand", the sum of the socio-economic inputs expressed by the needs of the inhabitants past and present and future. This component is analyzed through surveys of the socio-economic structure, the manufacturing structure, the demographic dynamics and the general planning of the city of Baghdad.
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The buildings belonging to modern typologies which are not compatible with layout of the historic city (highrise buildings, terrace buildings, civic centre etc.) and are of recent construction and in conflict with the objectives of the conservation of the historic city are not subject to special rules in the short term because they have not yet amortized their economic value. Such buildings are subject to normal maintenance procedures.
commercial or productive, must be designed in such a way as to take account of the physical context of the site: if the free areas are sited in a context jointly with free areas as Areas for Redevelopment. New interventions are possible in these areas, oriented by the socio-economic necessities expressed by the plan. These interventions, whethercharacterized by traditional Arab-Islamic architecture, any projects for their redevelopment must keep this in mind. In the same way, it will be possible to adopt building typologies and heights of different kinds so long as the free area is close to zones where transformation has been recent.
Buildings which utterly lack historic or typological character, which were constructed as temporary homes in free areas or as partial repairs to preexisting, semi-derelict buildings, have been treated of a residential nature or of public facilities or
In the case of public facilities, an overall picture of the needs for Al-Rasheed in terms of the projected number of inhabitants has been constructed and sites decided upon for the different residential blocks.
constructed in terms of the Arab-Islamic city but which have been altered or replaced at some time in the past.
Fig. (239) Building typology
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It is important that this planning decision should also be accompanied by the orientation of the physical planning in the historical context: the map, "Modern Infill in Conservation Districts", is the reference model for urban planning in historic areas, and supplies installation schemes compatible with the historical context for residences and public services. This map supplies the overall operative model for the "Manual for the historic centre of Al-Rasheed area", at least to the extent that it concerns urban repair operations to the morphological fabric. The Manual offers guid-lines for all intervention operations at a morphological or typological level.
request of Mayoralty of Baghdad to be deposited in local authority storerooms. • Buildings chosen for restoration or rehabilitation work must be connected to the major utilities networks — water, drains, electricity. • Design objective: to restore the traditional relationship between Suq and family habitation, as well as the traditional form of such housing, and to add to the housing supply in the neighbourhood. • The maximum height of such buildings shall be 8 m and there shall be no more than 2 storeys.
Design restrictions and guidelines Monuments and Traditional Arab-Islamic Buildings • Traditional techniques and materials and specialized labour are all to be used as much as possible in the restoration of monumental buildings. • Traditional designs and materials are to be used as widely as possible in all typological restoration and rehabilitation work. • Before the beginning of any restoration or rehabilitation work, the owners should be able to reach agreement with Mayoralty of Baghdad as to how the work should be done and how the rules are to be applied. • Where buildings containing stone, metal or wood elements of architectural importance are to be demolished, such elements are, at the
Transitional Buildings
• In arcaded buildings, the ground floor arcade must be kept and public right of way allowed. • The maximum height of such buildings shall be 12 m and there shall be no more than 4 storeys. • Arcaded buildings in Rasheed Street which were constructed before 1960 manifest an integral link between facade and interiors only. Any raising of the overall height of the buildings must be set back at least three metres from the Street front. • All buildings with facades on Rasheed Street shall have an arcade which shall be 5 — 6 m high and 3 — 4 m deep, and which conforms in design to the existing arcades on the Street
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Transformed Arab-Islamic Houses and Replacement • New and reconstructed buildings shall conform as much as possible to historical patterns of ownership; every residential building shall contain a courtyard or atrium, enclosed or not. • Materials to be used shall be those appropriate to modern techniques: it is suggested however that bricks and other traditional materials should also be used, especially in external fillin work and finishings. • Average height allowed is of 2 storeys. Suq System Buildings • Design objective: to improve and preserve the existing Suq system. • The maximum height of Suq buildings shall be 6 - 8 m and there shall be no more than 2 storeys. • In order to provide physical and visual integrity, the existing cover over some Suq Streets can be repaired and improved.
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CHAPTER 7 SHAPING THE AL RSHEED FRONTAGE - Al Rasheed frontage - River frontage - District character - Revitalizing public, private and cultural domain
The design proposals provided in this part represents a translation of the PLAN which was made based on the VISION. The design proposals are made following the project statement “BUILDING AL RASHEED FOR THE FUTURE� and within the Green policies requirements. It is important to bring Baghdad center back to life using 21st century state of the art concepts, solutions and materials that Baghdad deserves.
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DESIGN: THE SHAPING FRONTAGES Shaping The Al Rsheed Frontage
Al Rsheed frontage As mentioned earlier, the 1920's and 1940's witnessed the progressive passage from brick – bearing to concrete structures, redefining in the process a new vocabulary and syntax for building enclosure. This passage generated a range of intermediate frontage types revolving around the simultaneous use of brick and concrete that reveals the transformation of building envelopes into simple enclosures and forecasts the curtain walling of the modern period. It also clarifies the transition from the eclecticism of the 1920's to the early modernism of the 1930's with the resulting change in building materials, techniques and overall composition of building facades.
The replacement of brick – bearing walls by a concrete skeleton structure resulted in a new type of building envelope: the brick – jacket from outside, it conveys the impression of being a traditional bearing wall. However, it is structurally autonomous and is able to support protruding elements, such as corbelled balconies and bay windows. At the same time, it forms a highly sculptured surface, especially with its elaborate stone portals that confer a unique identity to each building.
Fig (241) Typical Al RAsheed lost frontage Horizontal and Vertical Ordering Systems
Fig (240) Aged Heritage lost
From Brick – Jacketing to Brick – Cladding
The analysis of frontage forms reveals a dual of façade organization: a horizontal system that regulates the relationship between the building center and edge; and a vertical one that is expressed in the articulation of the building base, body and crown. The general order of the façade is determined by the predominance of either one of the two systems, or by a balance between the two.
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The majority of early office buildings follow a horizontal hierarchical system that puts the accent on the central bay. The latter is emphasized by its protruding mass, which forms a bay window supported by ornamented corbels above Street level. It has wider openings and an elaborate stylistic vocabulary that sets the tone of the whole elevation. Central bays, conveying an impression of formality and monumentality, reinforce the visual distinctiveness of the building and usually appear on the Street elevation. The non – hierarchical ordering system, on the other hand, consists of a flat Street elevation with repetitive openings, in tune with the modular organization of modern office space. The building base is clearly differentiated from the rest of the façade by wide openings for storefronts, a massive treatment of stone coursing and rich detailing on portals. The base extends vertically up to the mezzanine floor which, in some cases, accommodates an additional floor. The transition between base and body referred to as the transitional band, constitutes one of the richest and most complex sections of the Street elevation in terms of ornaments, details and structural elements. Clearly visible at Street level, the transitional band receives an elaborate ornamental treatment and incorporates a large concentration of architectural features, from corbels and cornices to bases of bay windows extend over the full length of the elevation, setting a clear edge between the building body and base. The transition between body and crown is less complex. It consists mainly of a cornice with an
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ornamental parapet, handrail or pediment and, in most cases, an attic floor which is set back. The cornice may vary from a simple projecting ornamental molding to a cantilevered slab supported on brackets. Likewise, the parapet and handrail section varies from the simple to the highly elaborate. A picturesque treatment of the roof consists of ornamental cresting. The emergence of the early modern façade, the tripartite subdivision of elevations into base, body and roof was largely simplified. Balconies and bay windows, being essentially features of domestic architecture, were gradually abandoned, to be replaced by flat facades with repetitive bay system. This reinforced the distinctiveness of office buildings as a specialized building type. With the disappearance of the central hall plan, non – symmetrical elevations became predominant. This development led to a third generation of office buildings, characterized by a complete disappearance of balconies and the adoption of the curtain wall.
River frontage
Overall River front profiles. The Tigris is the most important natural feature in Baghdad, and throughout history it has been the main source for irrigation, recreation and transport. Al Rasheed morphology was directly influenced by the Tigris to the extent that nearly all important functions such as the citadel, Suqs, public buildings and palaces were located on its bank or very close to it. Indeed, most of the major pedestrian alleyways started from its 'sharia' or quays and then radiated toward the four main gates of Rusafa. Even fringe residential areas were always within a walking distance of the River. Regrettably, however, the Riverfront is almost totally neglected today and often used as a dumping place by workshops. Moreover, much of its former charm and character has been disturbed by numerous tall buildings which have been built very near to some of the most outstanding Riverfront monuments such as the Mustansiriya Madrasa.
The scheme recreates the Riverfront as a continuous, though not uniform, pedestrian walkway on two different levels. The upper level, which is the main one, is carefully designed to create strong linkages and entries with certain important nodes within the Rasheed zone, and provides ample recreational, cultural, and tourist facilities such as cafes and restaurants. The lower level reached by numerous steps and terraces provides closer contact with the River for people wishing to fish or use boats etc. The retaining wall is designed to provide projected terraces, the projections give functional as well as visual emphasis to former locations of 'sharias', and may be enhanced by pavilion-type structures in certain focal areas. The realization of this scheme will make an immediate impact and a most dramatic improvement to the image of Al Rasheed Area.
The Riverfront scheme treats the three kilometers long walkway as one of the six main pedestrian spines of Rusafa. It attempts to reintegrate the River back to the city. Its three distinct sections; the monumental section of the citadel and Serai Buildings, the central section of the Suqs and Mustansir Street; and the former residential section of Sayid Sultan and Sinak, were studied in detail in order to discover their former historic associations and their present problems.
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The shaping of River front
Suggestions for focal areas. 1. Service access for northern part of Suq Spine and Jadid Hassan Pasha quarter. 2. Serai Building: Conversion of courtyard into generous open space for public use: Large groups of trees, playgrounds, low rise structures on the Riverfront with pavillions and coffee house, amphitheatre descending to the waterfront. The existing building could be reused as cafĂŠ outlets, bookshops and craftschool with exhibitions and selling stalls under the arcades. 3. Lower terrace (-3m) passing under Shuhada bridge and providing continuity for pedestrians. 4. Shuhada-bridge area: They mark the entry into the old city, provide interesting views on the Riverfront and act as suspension points for large pedestrian bridges connecting Karkh and Rusafa.. 5. Mustansiriya-School: Properly restored and rehabilitated it could become an academy for traditional Iraqi Music. Concerts could be held in the courtyard, in the Iwans and in the large rooms in the southeastern wing of the building, which could also resume their functions as lecture halls and exhibition rooms, with a secondary access from the Riverfront.
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6. Arrival courtyard of coppersmith-Suq, with small amphitheatre against the wall of Mustansirya-School. 7. Public Riverfront terrace with Restaurant and Coffee house in its central section. 8. Khan to be restored and provided with second gate towards Riverfront, allowing for transit of the publics 9. Existing Coffee house to be restored.(Zinad cafĂŠ) 10. "Tigris-Plaza": Meeting point with restaurant, cafe, hotel rooms, party suites, public Riverfront terraces, garden courtyard and small exhibition or concert hall. 11. Traditional house to be rehabilitated for public or semipublic use. 12. Existing Suqs to be improved and opened to the Riverfront terrace. 13. Old storehouse, possibly to be used as experimental theatre hall. 14. Possible location for new marine, Sharias, using Guffa, as a water transport. 15. Opening of new access to Riverfront. 16. Old houses to be restored and re-used as conservation agency for the old city, with offices, reception rooms and exhibition rooms. 17. Suq compounds to be restructured. 18. Artist's centre: Exhibition rooms, public Riverfront terrace and coffee house. 19. Large workshops to be converted in public hall with shops, club rooms and garden terrace, allowing for transit from Mustansir Street to the Riverfront.
20. Traditional house with garden terrace, to be restored and completed as small hotel with Riverfront cafe. 21. Enclosed space around Abdul Kareem Kasim Square, to reestablish linear character of Rasheed Street and to create "gate" into Riverfront district. 22. Sequence of interconnected commercial courtyards linking Rasheed and Mustansir Street (and the corresponding exists of the future metro station).
23. Upper floor link between new arab Suq and the commercial compound of 23, to bridge traffic on Rasheed Street and to improve commercial use on 24. upper levels through continuity of pedestrian flows. 25. Creating an opening through the buildings by opening the ground level area. Streetscape Urban Design Concept The urban functions required throughout the chronological process ranging from the present to the future, based on the historical evidence of the form of embankment of the Tigris River during the late Abbasid Period when Al Rasheed attained the apex of prosperity as a center of Baghdad, is taken into consideration in the urban design of the Riverfront. The concept of the urban design aimed at realizing the modem rehabilitation of the Riverfront through the historical conservation is composed of such design keywords as look of the town, architecture, substance of the view of the structure, urban life of the old Baghdadi, etc., obtained through historical facts available at the present time in the form of bibliography, old maps, drawings prepared at old times and other relevant information. Particularly the historical urban form, monuments, vanished monuments and structures, River access, River frontage urban life, amenities in old days, River
Fig (246) View on the Tigris from the River front area
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transportation, etc., are important factors to be taken into consideration in the urban design. Furthermore, there is also the design vocabulary related to factors that contribute to upgrade the quality of the urban design and to improve and strengthen the environment and functions of the city. This design vocabulary consists of the waterfront level changes and varieties or water access, Cornish promenade and continuous walkway, paving and pattern graphics, installation of Street furniture, planting, lighting and illumination, etc. The basic methodology for representation of the scene of the Riverfront consists of realizing the Riverfront-scape of the Tigris in the form of a continuity of scape focuses, by amplifying the characteristics peculiar to Rasheed Areae. In this connection there are the standpoints of vista line, visual corridor, observation points, visual openings, visual demarcation, silhouette, visual continuity, etc.
The following drawing provides and explains the URBAN DESIGN CONCEPT.
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District character
Other Furniture
Adapting Streetscape to District Character
The main street furniture choice and design is based on the following criteria:
The 'area based' revitalization approach adopted for Rasheed Street attaches special importance to the provision of high quality public space. In Midan and Tahrir, the public domain was deemed more than a spatial background, as it is mainly from a pedestrian perspective that the area is approached and perceived. Accordingly, it was enhanced by a judicious choice of trees and plants, paving materials and landscape designs, as well as by the harmonious design of signage, Street lighting and all other Street furniture. While Street paving and decorative lighting were adapted to the character of the historic core, Street furniture and signage design conformed to a unified contemporary style that would establish visual continuity throughout the Rasheed Street. Landscape Relatively hgh emphasis has been placed on landscaping in Rasheed Street, Plazas and river front. This is one of the major objectives to increase the green area, enhance the environment and living conditions, on one hand and increasing the esthetics and beauty of the city center in addition to providing shade for pedestrians. The choice of trees and plants aimed mostly at differentiating between the two sub areas by enhancing the character of each. The uses of Palm trees have been most extensive due to its symbolic character to the Baghdadi environment and character.
• • • •
Heavey duty and quality products Durability and low maintenance To follow Local design lines Sustainability for tough weather conditions
Stainless steel, cast aluminum and Granite marble are the main selected materials for the following reasons: Granite: is a sustainable hard material, maintenance free, cool against sun heat in addition to the fact that it is not easy to loot or break. This material is used for street urniture like bencjhes, flower boxes, fountains etc. Stainless steel: and cast aluminum are sustainable clean and durable materials which have design flexibility and are maintenance free. Those materials are used in Lighting poles and fixtures etc. Besides lighting, Street furniture in the Rasheed Street consists of bollards, trash bins, culvert ventilation towers, newsstands; bus shelters kiosks, traffic barriers, telephone booths, flagpoles, benches, planters and shielded trash containers. Some of these elements are designed for dual purpose: culvert ventilation towers allow for the display of advertisements, general information or artwork; newsstands also serve as tourist information points. Landscaping and Street furniture elements are clustered together and/or aligned in
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order to facilitate pedestrian movement and create a barrier free environment for the disabled. The signage system in two languages, Arabic and English, involves, in addition to traffic signs, a comprehensive pedestrian and vehicular wayfinding system composed of directional signs and Street names and also provides guidelines for private signage. All Rasheed Street signs, manufactured in line with international conventions and standards, sought to improve on prevailing esthetics without compromising legibility. The adopted design succeeded in resolving the main visual problems associated with installing traffic signs citywide. Because the shape of standard traffic signs – square, rectangle, hexagon, triangle and circle – do not correspond when positioned back to back, a simple but visually effective solution was devised, which consisted in laying out all signs on similar rectangular or square shaped plates of petroleum blue in background color. The installation of directional signs was governed by two innovative requirements: 1. The introduction of orientation maps for pedestrian use. 2. The allowance of clear passage around pedestrian signs for the convenience of wheelchairs users. This requirement mandated fixing vehicular directional signs on a single pole instead of two, to reduce clutter on sidewalks and liberate a minimum 90-cm clear passage for the disabled.
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Directional Signs The design of directional signs is based on a modular system, sustained by two vertical poles that are conically shaped and which can also accommodate cantilevered car signs. Pedestrian orientation panels are 50 x 70 cm (the standard size of a poster) and their reverse side can be used as billboard. In Midan and Tahrir as in the rest of the Conservation Area, Street names are engraved on rectangular granite plates with bronze fixation clamps. In other parts of the Rasheed Street, blue – glazed porcelain is expected to be used, as in the rest of the city. Street and sector names and numbers are grouped on the same plate to limit cluttering of walls.
Revitalizing, domain
public,
private
and
cultural
Conservation strategies The Conservation Area ranking highest on the priority list in Phase One of the Master Plan, a Streetscape and architectural survey of Rasheed Area was one of the first studies conducted, along with pho-togrammetric recording of retained buildings. In the assessment of each building additions, attention was given to maintaining visual continuity between the buildings and Street fronts. The study, critical in formulating a comprehensive restoration strategy.
Rebuilding As stated in the conservation guidelines: "A limited number of the buildings retained for conservation have been subjected to such severe damage, or even partial or total destruction, as to require reconstitution, according to the elevations specified in their respective restoration brief. These are to be based, as nearly as possible, on archival material or record drawings of the buildings." Such buildings were preserved either for their historic, architectural or townscape value or for "other reasons". In the former case, they had to be rebuilt to their original condition; in the latter, any modification had to remain within the confines of the building's original style.
Some structures had not been completed to their intended heights. By remaining significantly lower than the adjoining structures, they created a gap in the Street frontage. These buildings usually consisted of a retail ground floor and one or two additional stories. In one case, the building was originally intended as a two-story structure, with an entablat ure clearly marking its crowning. Some structures had been extended vertically during the 1950s and 1960s, usually to reach the maximum height allowed under zoning and building regulations. In a few cases, a whole modern body was superimposed on the ground floor, sharply contrasting with the original style of the building and its immediate context.
Fig (249) FigDamaged (249) buildings
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Completion as per original design Conservation guidelines do not develop a specific approach to address the restoration of buildings which were never completed. However, they do recognize the possibility of intervening in the restoration of "existing exterior facades of retained buildings as nearly as possible to their known original state"; concurrently, they encourage adaptation to "the building's surrounding context, or similar buildings in the area."
Some of the buildings along Rasheed axis had not originally been completed to their intended height, as construction had been interrupted after the first, second or third floor. Such buildings, , have been extended vertically to restore Street wall visual continuity The RRasheed Street frontage was also interrupted by two incomplete structures. using the original architectural language deduced from existing building sections. In the state thus acquired, they constitute striking examples of fully integrated elevations, in which it is difficult to differentiate between the original sections and the vertical additions.
Remodeling While rebuilding and completion required strict adherence to the original building appearance, leaving limited room for interpretation on the part of the architect, remodeling was geared to providing "new facades or building enclosures to an existing structure." This gave the architect the opportunity to investigate both existing site evidence and the predominant character and range of architectural styles in the area in order to come up with a contextual answer. The task of selecting a particular style that conformed to the existing context therefore demanded a complex and highly subjective decision.. Such decisions are also subject to economic considerations, since remodeling offered a variety of solutions, ranging from simple rendering to elaborate brick carving.
Fig (251) Completion with minor changes
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Al Rasheed, remodeling could mainly applied to structures whose upper floors are completed in the
International style of the 1950s and 1960s, the architect extrapolated the syntax of the whole elevation based on the building base. As the building facade reads as an integrated whole, and it is difficult to distinguish between the old base and the remodeled upper section. A similar approach could applied, where a vertical addition dating back to the 1960s is wrapped in an elaborate limestone facade matching the original 1920s base both in material and detailing The roof section of buildings, though less visible from the Street level, entailed a more delicate remodeling process). In cases where the attic floor was recessed from the main elevation, a structural frame was used to link the two planes together. The elaborate treatment of this frame, with the addition of handrails and parapet, constituted a successful strategy to crown the building and provide a visual transition between the main and the recessed facades A more straightforward treatment consisted of adding a pediment to further emphasize and demarcate the main elevation from the recessed plane .
Contextual Infill
Fig (252) Remodeling example
Empty lots in Al Rasheed are rare and randomly distributed. Because they are located in a historic context, their space utilization is severely constrained by existing Street alignments, building envelopes, Street-wall controls and the area's predominant architectural character. The main question that confronts any infill development on such sites is: to what extent should it reveal its
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contemporary identity and to what extent should it blend in with the existing historical context. The infill building strategically, the elevation and arcaded profile of the ground floor are in keeping with the treatment of the Rasheed arcade, while the walls and openings use a simplified ornamental language this approach may be described as 'serial contextualize', since each elevation mirrors the adjoining Street character. It is also an attempt to conform to the ordering principles of the historical facades of the area, while providing a modern interpretation of the facades by the use of new materials and architectural details. . Historical elements, like arched windows, are randomly distributed on the elevation, alluding to the surrounding architectural language building does not invite a detailed reading of its elevations. The whole envelope reads as a single entity, the emphasis being more on massing than on architectural detailing.
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Fig (252)
Guidelines for intervention in conservation areas Within Al Rasheed conservation area there are two levels of intervention: Intervention in totally or partially built-up areas where decay has resulted in the loss of all historical connotations and which, along with free areas, may be re-inserted into the context of the ancient city by means of comprehensive redevelopment projects. The areas to be treated on the basis of comprehensive intervention emerge from an interpretation of the typological map. The identification of building typologies has made it possible to select certain types of historical buildings which require restoration, as well as modern buildings which may be replaced. There remain important areas which were once part of the ancient urban fabric but which are now either empty or occupied by temporary buildings or sheds The most important areas of Al Rasheed, from the point of view of their function in the ancient city, have been extracted and subjected to specific surveys and detailed projects (the Tigris River front, the Suq complex and Rasheed Street), aimed at establishing land use control and intervention criteria for the recovery of these crucial areas. Indirect control criteria have been adopted for the other, mainly residential and commercial areas. These criteria are based on Morphological Control Regulations for projects on an urban scale, and on Typological Control Regulations for projects relating to individual buildings.
Morphological Control Morphological control is exercised in the conservation area both in parts where there is a dominating presence of historic building {Historic Fabric Control) and in parts where the situation is mixed or where there is a dominating presence of recently replaced buildings (Transition Area Control). Historic Fabric Control Historical fabric control is conceived as a morphological (or urban) restoration operation which aims to reconstruct the continuity of the traditional fabric by inserting buildings or groups of buildings whose function, dimensions, formal organization and construction materials cohere with the historical context. Type of Intervention (1) Integral Restoration Restoration work involves the conservation of building units of important formal value by means of a whole complex of interventions including: • • • •
Restoration of facades, structure, interiors Restoration of architectural elements Reconstruction of parts which have collapsed or are irreparable Elimination of elements which are not an original part of the building complex
It should be standard practice in any case that all architectural and decorative items of historical or artistic interest be preserved, whether or not they are of uncertain provenance and irrespective of
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whether they are directly connected with the history of the building.
New construction work will generally concern areas or buildings: • in irreversibly poor condition • without significant typological quality • empty areas which can be built upon because they previously contained buildings or because the appearance of a new building there would be compatible with the morphological organization of the area.
Fig (253) Conservation steps (2)Typological Restoration The term typological restoration is used here to mean a program of building operations which aims to ensure that a given building functions in accordance with its fundamental typological and formal character. In the case of courtyard houses, such transformation work as will ensure that the building may meet modern qualitative standards (bathrooms, kitchens etc.) is permitted, so long as the typological organization of the building is respected. (3) Substitution with Buildings of Traditional Design These interventions will involve the transformation of building units whose typological plan is not recognizable and/or significant, even though the building may be organic and compatible with the morphological organization of the urban fabric. New Construction
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Ordinary Maintenance The buildings most likely to require minor repairs are those of recent or very recent construction or very recently restored, in reasonable or good structural condition, and which need only occasional maintenance work done on them (public institutions, banks, Suq market etc.).
Intervention Criteria Minor Repair •
Minor repair on buildings with distinctive typological features: In buildings with distinctive typological features minor repair work will concern the non-structural parts of the buildings (fitments, plaster rendering, roofing, furnishings) and also the possible provision of services and linking into exsisting service networks. All such work must respect traditional building materials and constructional techniques.
•
Minor repair on building without distinctive typological features: Minor repair work will conserve the replacement of nonstructural elements and the possible provision of services and linking into existing service networks. Major Repair
Major repair on buildings with distinctive typological features: In buildings, with distinctive typological feature major repair work must include: the conservation of the original architectural elements; • the consolidation of the physical structure of the building, replacing whatever cannot be repaired; • the maintenance of the traditional organization of the plot (relationship between covered parts and internal courtyards, and the perimeter of the building) and the existing volumes. •
facade. New alignments must not be contemplated and volumes may be increased by not more than 15% of their present values. Replacement Replacement work may involve: demolition and reconstruction of the building, different in whole or in part from the original. All interventions in this category must respect the character of the Street when reconstructing the facade. New alignments must not be contemplated and volumes must not be increased by more than 15% of their present values.
Major repair on buildings without distinctive typological features: The major repair work will concern the maintenance of the subdivision of the plot (relationship between coveres and open areas) and the existing volumes. Total Repair Total repair work may involve: conservation of the external volume of the building with an internal modification of the static and distributional system, and use. All interventions in this category must respect the qualities of the Street when reconstructing the
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Th
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The Public domain Developing the strategic nodes (Plazas)
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eAl-Tahrir Plaza •
•
•
•
•
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Al-Tahrir square is one of the most congested areas in Baghdad; it acts as the main node that distributes the traffic between Al-Rasheed Street, Tahrir Square and Al-Jumhuriah Bridge. The new strategy of design has been taken according to its importance as a gate to the Al-Rasheed Street area, as well as adjacent important areas. It will connects, links the encourage movement from and to the following important sub nodes: o Al-Tahrir square and byound (Al Umma Park) o Al-Rasheed Street o Al Khayam Street and Cinema Plaza o New River front area which is connected with Abu Nawas Street and its entertainment facilities The Plaze with its width and its façade viewa represents a modern Plaza and place for festivals and cafes. A new urban design scheme which combine between history of AlRasheed Street and the modern city of Baghdad. A sculpture to memorize the East gate which was demolished in 1938, represents the gate for the area From the architectural point of view the design has attempted to use the same historical elements such as columns and arches by combining it with modern materials to keep
history spirit of this area with appreciation to modernism.
Fig (254)
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Al-Sinak Plaza •
•
•
• •
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Al-sinak Plaza has its importance as a transitional area between the commercial and recreational zones of Al Rasheed Street as well from the Sinak Bridge which runs over it. The continuity of Al-Rasheed Street which is disturbed by this bridge makes a good reason to create this Plaza. The new strategy of design has been taken from the importance of this node to Al-Rasheed Street development project. The disturbance which the bridge in its existing condition breaks Al Rasheed into two Streets, in addition to the multi story parking which is represents an urban and architectural problem to the esthetic features of this area. This parking needs to be relocated and replaced by a shopping malls and entertainment centers. The horizontal line which represented by the bridge has been re treated by vertical elements from the center of the Plaza, which make the effect of the bridge disappeared. As architectural point of view the design has attempt to use the same historical elements such as columns and arches (colonnade) by combining it with modern materials to keep history spirit of this area with appreciation to modernism. This Plaza has a direct link and view to the River Front and its activities. The Plaza links Al Rasheed Street with the River front in addition to the roots to the heritage area and the art center
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Al-Rusafi Plaza •
• •
•
•
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Al-Rusafi Plaza has its importance from the monument of the renowned poet Al-Rusafi although it is one of the most congested areas in Al-Rasheed Street The Plaza represents a link between most of the Suq and commercial areas As a new design scheme the circular shape of this Plaza will help the area to re arrange traffic circulation through a tunnel passing through and to create shaded area and green area to enhance the environment and reduce the congestion From the architectural point of view the design has attempt to complete the shape of the original square that make the Al Rusafi monument as the center of a circle using the same historical elements such as columns and arches (colonnade) by combining it with modern materials to keep history spirit of this area The area between the Plaza and the bridge is a main link to major Suqs and activities; such as: o Al Sarai Suq o Al Mustansiriya Madrasa o Al Mutannabi Street o Al Qishla o Other Suqs area o Multi Story parking o The Street itself accommodates The Baghdad Musium o In addition to other mosques
The Street has been opened to the pedestrian and is adequate for Suq Al Thulatha’a or other market festivals and activities
Fig (256)
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Hafuth Al-Qathi Plaza •
•
•
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Haful Qathi area is the main area for modern shopping other than the Suq. The end of al Mustansir Street is within the area The two rows of buildings represents a good structure for a modern shopping mall and market which is well served through traffic and parking Alos it represents the main station for the tram exchange which links east al Rasheed with its west end
Fig (257)
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Dijla Plaza • • • •
•
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This Plaza is a strip of River front which runs along Al Rasheed Street It has been used as an environmental enhancement for the project through its open spaces and landscape. The maximum efforts has been taken to open the area as much as possible to the River The area also accommodates means of water transportation. Saria’a, which is a deck for the water bus and other boats is located in many parts that is linked with Plazas and main nodes. It is the main entertainment activities within the area.
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Midan Plaza • • •
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Midan Plaza is the main gate to the historical area in the west end of Al Rasheed Street It accommodates tram station that holds the end and start of the tram line It is the main link between the major historical monuments in the area and outside the area
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Mustansiriya Plaza •
•
•
•
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AlMustansiriya is one of the major architectural monuments in Baghdad. However it di not took the right attention in planning and urban design. The area in front of Al Mustansiriya on the River front have been opened directly to the River which leads to a Shariaa for waer transport and west ward to Al Qishla and east ward to the Suqs area The area surrounding the Madrasa was also opened to the routs linking Al Mustansiriya with Al sarai Suq and Rusafi Plaza and the linking market in between as well as to the Suq area A Tomb for one of the ambassadors of Al Al Imam Al Mahdi to be constructed and be a part of the Plaza
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Al Qishla Plaza • • •
• •
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Al Qishala is a symbolic architectural monument that have many potentials Its courtyard can accommodate major festivals, exhibitions and concerts It is located on the River side, linked to Al Mutannabi Street, Al Sarai, Suq, Abbasid Palace and other major monuments It is suggested to accommodate one of the most attractive tourist destinations and gathering places Its clock tower adds to its unique character
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Mirjan Plaza • • •
• •
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Mirjan mosque is a land mark which has not taken the attention it deserves The area of the mosque and the Shorja Suq is quite congested The area to be opened and a Plaza has taken the place to enhance the visual, architectural and urban effects in addition to the environmental aspects The mosque which was partially demolished in 1937 is rebuilt to its original shape The Plaza connects Shorja Suq with Arabian market, Samawa;al Street and Bunook Street
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Cultural domain Historical control General Description Historical fabric control is conceived as a morphological (or urban) restoration operation which aims to reconstruct the continuity of the traditional fabric by inserting buildings or groups of buildings whose function, dimensions, formal organization and construction materials cohere with the historical context. This type of intervention may concern residential buildings, public facilities, Suq systems etc. The aim is to reconstitute the coherence of the Arab-Islamic city but at the same time ensure that it contains those functions typical of contemporary civilization. The two factors may give rise at times to conflicting elements, but these must in some way be resolved without excessive force. It is extremely important that there should be agreement about re-establishing many functions (public buildings) within the possibilities offered by the larger buildings of the ancient urban structure. Criteria of intervention In big empty areas it is necessary to reorganize the urban fabric assuming a critical position towards the forming system of the traditional urban fabric. In empty areas not more than 35 meters wide surrounded by traditional buildings, it is possible to organize system based on pedestrian alleys, with about 3 m wide Streets and blind alleys for the accessibility to individual houses.
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In great empty areas the new constructions can be organized on the basis of a unit system with a medium width corresponding to exiting plote area The outer lots of the new settlement have to be coherent with the layout of the existing Streets. Mixed-use operations for residential and public facilities can be done. The new block's form can be modified in single cases but must not change the general organization system. The detailed project scale has to indicate all facilities and amenities, with fountains, pavements, areas for garbage collection, etc. Transition area control (1)
General Description
Transition area control is conceived as involving the reorganization of the historical urban fabric in those profoundly altered parts which lie at the edges of the more compact historic zones like screens between the latter and recent urban renovation interventions. These interventions, which should be effected in a spirit of respect for the structural elements of the Arab-Islamic city, must function as a filter between the historic fabric and the new: on the one hand they must respect the building heights which are proper to an Islamic city and on the other they must enable modern functions not now available within the traditional fabric to be established there. The uses of buildings too (commercial, administrative, residential) refer to architectural types and models which must be carefully studied from the point of view of their role as filters between the two antithetical conceptions of urban space.
(2)
Criteria of Intervention
In the fringe areas of the historical fabric disrupted by Rasheed Street, where the proposed kind of intervention is substitution, it is possible to replace the buildings in the existing lots, respecting the Streets line and the arcades (where those still exist) and filling up empty areas. In case of greater empty areas it is possible to reorganize the fabric by creating a new facility .In those interventions it is necessary to propose an appropriate treatment of the inner edges by introducing new frontlines, trees, pedestrian alleys. (3)
Example of Buildings in Fringe Areas
Floor uses of multi-storied buildings with courtyard (hosh and hall types), with mixed-use traditional typology are as follows: Ground floor: commercial use on Street-front (also with arcade), and mixed use in the inner courtyards (workshop and residential) Upper floor: residential and office use.
criteria of intervention have been chosen and specified. Structural Condition Good: Reflects the state of a building with no structural problems and needing no attention at a structural level., but work on elements of the superstructure might however be expected Fair: Coresponds to the presence of partial decay of the load-bearing structures or roofing; this category implies the need for partial or total repair of the building Poor: Corresponds to the presence of decayed structures, principally at the level of load-bearing walls or roofing; the category also implies the need for the partial or total reconstruction of the building.
Typological control General Description This is exercised, building by building, over every building unit extant in the historical area of Rasheed area. The building units have been grouped in typologies which include buildings showing common characteristics in formal and functional organization. For each of these "Typological Families" specific
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CHAPTER 8 INSTITUTIONAL AND OPERATIONAL FRAMEWORK
One of the most important issues in a strategic and vital project such as Al Rasheed Development project is its sustainability that guarantees smooth implementation of the project securing legal, contractual, and financial requirements. Maintaining the revival and managing the area through its stages from the planning, development, construction, maintenance and management including events management should be administered by a joint development entity that is capable for such management.
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IMPLEMENTATION FROM DESIGN VISION TO REALITY
Institutional And Operational Framework To reflect a more comprehensive and contextual approach, which revolved around historic identity, mixed – used development and responsiveness to market forces. Some of its basic concepts were also revised to reach a better integration with the surviving urban fabric of the Baghdad Center: • The strong impact of the grade – separated infrastructure on the urban fabric was reduced by downgrading through traffic – arteries into urban boulevards and resizing underground parking. • The notion of conservation was reinforced by expanding the selection of preserved buildings and giving consideration to archeological finds.
Master plans formative ideas • Maintaining existing scale and enclosure Special design guidelines were devised for new and infill development to ensure harmony between the historic core and surrounding sectors. In order to create a sense of enclosure while respecting human scale, techniques such as build – to – line and Street wall controls were introduced. • Defining density areas according to sector character Low densities are reserved for residential neighborhoods, while medium
densities characterize the historic core and adjoining transitional areas. The highest densities are distributed among the newly developed sectors to create a bold contemporary urban scale and mark key access points. • Accommodation of broad mixture of uses The overall planning strategy is articulated around a flexible and market – responsive use of land and parceling framework, supported by a robust infrastructure able to accommodate change in development type and intensity. Special provisions for the Conservation Area To guide restoration and contextual development, devised additional regulatory provisions, to be observed in conjunction with the plan and the sectors plans. 'Design Guidelines' were prepared for each sector by independent consultants, which led to the establishment of a set of Development and Restoration Briefs for each building. • Development Briefs specify the physical and regulatory controls imposed on parcels, including permitted, prohibited and recommended land uses. Design recommendations are illustrated through massing schemes, to be further elaborated by developers in the detailed project design. • The Restoration Briefs detail the types of repair required for façade restoration, and the specifications relating to permissible additional built up areas. They include schematic plans and elevations that clarify urban design
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intentions, and stand as the main reference for all restoration and conservation work. • Other planning and design provisions relate to seismic design dispositions, site regulations, safety rules and fire safety codes, as well as to disabled access, signage and landscape guidelines. The planning provisions regarding retained buildings in the Conservation Area are quite specific. The General Planning Regulations distinguished between two main categories. The first comprises "buildings retained due to their historic or architectural value, or because they belong to a group of buildings having a specific townscape quality". The second category consists of buildings "retained for reasons other than those listed above". In the former case, the regulations stipulate strict compliance with the original character and materials; in the latter, modifications in the decorative elements are allowed, provided they comply with the building's original architectural style. Facades with "no architectural value" may be altered and renewed, provided they abide by the detailed plan. Al Rasheed Real Estate Development Company The reconstruction of the Rasheed District is the product of a grand design vision , its realization was conditional on the setting up of an adequate legal and institutional framework . At the basic of the enacted legislation is Law, which regulates the creation of private real estate companies for the purpose of redeveloping Al Rasheed areas according
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to an officially approved master plan. It is in accordance with this law that a company should establish and entrusted by the state with the implementation of the ratified Master plan, in coordination with the public authorities and the private sector. The master plan constitute the legal and institutional back bone of the Rasheed area reconstruction ,the mechanisms of implementation that have been put in place to guarantee suitable development in terms of speed, quality and cost, along with emphasis on the special provisions devised for the conservation area. The intention is to spotlight the originality of this planning and operational framework., it it should issued by the Council of Ministers defined the area boundaries and its constituting lots and ratified the initial master plan, that should prepare is governed by a set of formative ideas aimed at the functional and formal integer This initial plan should modified later to reflect a more comprehensive and contextual approach, which revolved around historic identity, mixed-used development and responsiveness to market forces. Some of its basic concepts were also revised to reach a better integration ration of the planning sectors, as well as the phasing of their development. Master Plan formative ideas • Maintaining existing scale and enclosure • Defining density areas according to sector character • Accommodation of a broad mixture of uses • Special provisions for the Conservation Area
Fig (268) Development of Beirut Central District is a unique example for Urban renewal and conservation
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To guide restoration and contextual development additional regulatory provisions should be done to be observed in conjunction with the Master Plan and the sector plans. 'Design Guidelines' were prepared for each sector, which led to the establishment of a set of Development and Restoration Briefs for each building. The Development Briefs specify the physical and regulatory controls imposed on parcels, including permitted, prohibited and recommended land uses. Design recommendations are illustrated through massing schemes, to be further elaborated by developers in the detailed project design. Based on Restoration Guidelines the Briefs detail represents the types of repair required for facade restoration, and the specifications relating to permissible additional built-up areas. They include schematic plans and elevations that clarify urban design intentions, and stand as the main reference for all restoration and conservation work. Other planning and design provisions relate to seismic design dispositions, site regulations, safety rules and fire safety codes, as well as to disabled access, signage and landscape guidelines. The planning provisions regarding retained buildings in the Conservation Area are quite specific. Based on the building survey that preceded the Master Plan, the General Planning Regulations of Al Rasheed area District and its Sectors distinguished between two main categories ,The first comprises "buildings retained due to their historic or architectural value, or because they belong to a group of buildings having a specific townscape quality." The second category consists of buildings "retained for reasons
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other than ,those listed above." In the former case, the regulations stipulate strict compliance with the original character and materials, modifications in the decorative elements are allowed, provided they comply with the building's original architectural style. Facades with "no architectural value" may be altered and renewed, provided they abide by the detailed Master Plan.
The stakeholders and their Respective Roles Key stakeholders in the Al Rasheed project, together with their mutual responsibilities and rights, constitute the institutional framework underlying the reconstruction process. As the vehicle established for implementing the project he Investment Company is the most important stakeholder in the reconstruction. Other key stakeholders are, on the one hand, the relevant public authorities, mainly the Baghdad Municipality; and, on the other hand, the buying or recuperating parties, i.e. new property developers and former property right holders who have recuperated their built lots.
The Investment Company Is a private joint-stock company of property right holders and investors. Its share capital is made up of two types of common stock: A shares, issued to property right holders against their real estate property contributions in kind; and B shares, issued to investors against their cash subscriptions., the shares are publicly traded.
The company granted title of all development land and all retained buildings in the traditional Al Rasheed area, except for government-owned land and and religious buildings classified as exempt from the Master Plan. In consideration of Al Rasheed infrastructure and management costs incurred as part of its agreement with the State, the company was granted development rights in the New Riverfront area The company is entrusted with land and real estate development throughout the Rasheed area. It has the tasks of developing vacant land and nonrecuperated built lots; selling part of the final developments; keeping and managing the rest as part of its property portfolio; and supervising restoration and real estate development by third parties. Its responsibilities consist of: • Master enforcement
Plan
development
and
This includes complementing the Al Rasheed area Master Plan through the preparation of detailed sector and sub-sector studies, updating and amending the Master Plan when needed, and ensuring the compliance of all development with the Master Plan. •
Infrastructure development
The company is responsible for financing and executing on behalf of the State all infrastructural works in the traditional area and its extension on reclaimed land. This includes road networks, pavement, open public space, Street furniture, power transformer units and public parking areas,
The formation of Real estate development Company The company is a 'lead developer' responsible for the rehabilitation and restoration of all buildings retained for conservation, except for those that are recuperated by their original owners and/or tenants or sold to a third party. The company undertakes real estate development projects and sells the development rights on remaining parcels to other developers, in accordance with the Master Plan and market demand. • Property and services management and operation The company’s responsibilities include leasing, maintaining and operating its property portfolio. The company may offer such services to other property owners and is also equipped to provide management and operation services for area infrastructure, public utilities, car parks and open areas.
Public authorities and developers Public authorities retain the right to control and intervene on behalf of the State. The Baghdad Municipality holds the power to approve and, if need be, amend area regulations. Authorized to review and approve the architectural design of special and large projects in the area. For existing buildings, the Baghdad Municipality has the discretionary power to stop restoration works on any building in the event of inadequate or improper execution. The Baghdad Municipality, acting as the executive agency that controls adherence to building regulations in
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accordance with codes and issues construction, restoration and occupancy permits. In any case of discrepancy between restoration practice and building codes, resolution of the issue or any consequent regulation amendment has to be endorsed by a decree issued by the Council of Ministers. The recuperating or buying party is bound to both the company and the public authorities with regard to permit issuance and execution. Whether for restoration or new construction, the company enforces its control through a binding contract with the owner-developer, which gives the company the legal right to enforce the design guidelines and reviews and to ensure quality control. It also allows the company to impose tight schedules and financial guarantees, thus ensuring that only serious developers with a clearly defined project, timetable and end-users in mind operate in the area.
Operational Framework A set of processes for design review, permit issuance and fieldwork monitoring provides an operational framework for the implementation of the Rasheed area Master Plan and its regulations and ensures quality construction and restoration Design review and permitting To ensure harmonious and contextual development, the company should devised a set of design control procedures. The design review deals with qualitative issues related to esthetic, environmental and functional considerations. Given that these concerns
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cannot be rigidly framed within a mechanical checking procedure, the essence of the design review process lies in the interactive process of negotiation between the company technical and professional staff, the appointed architect and the developer. Design review focuses on the project's adherence to the Rasheed area Master Plan and its general planning regulations, contextual development and technical issues related to fire safety and accessibility for the disabled. For key sites and large projects, a mass plan is required, together with the preliminary design file. Following review by the company the massing study is forwarded to the Baghdad Municipality for final approval. The design has to be developed in close coordination between the appointed architects, the company, the Baghdad Municipality In the case of retained buildings, consists of preparing a measured drawing of the building, assessing its structural and architectural condition, and verifying its compliance with planning regulations. A restoration report is also required, specifying materials, repair works, restoration methods and guidelines for the rehabilitation of facades. The report forms the basis of a preliminary design proposal that is submitted to the company for approval. The proposal includes the architectural design, a description of the building and engineering systems, and a preliminary cost estimate. Which leads to the contracting of restoration works, consists of preparing a detailed design and working drawings. The company bequests that it review and approve the details of selected external design
features, such as columns, windows, shutters, balustrades, decorative elements, canopies, sun breakers, shop windows, rolling shutters, awnings, signage design, roof parapet, mechanical plant treatment, landscape treatment, etc. The technical file to be submitted to company for clearance, and then to the Municipality for the issuing of a restoration or building permit.. Its professional team reviews the file in order to ascertain that it contains no technical discrepancies that might delay the permit. In an effort to resolve problems at an early stage, the company may consult the relevant public authorities in a joint meeting with the architect in charge of the project.
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Fieldwork monitoring The company ensures proper implementation through a close quality control and monitoring process. Whether for new or retained buildings, it requests that all developers appoint technical monitors to verify and certify compliance with fire safety codes, guidelines for disabled accessibility and seismic standards. The contractor is requested to submit for the company approval samples of facade materials, color scheme, signage, shop rolling shutter, window framing and glazing and other elements as may be necessary for each building. For the retained buildings sampling and testing is of particular relevance to guarantee appropriate matching before the start of repair work. Upon completion of construction or restoration work, the technical monitor has to approve the 'as-built' drawings as well as the building maintenance manual prepared by the contractor, before submitting them to the company for the issuance of a final clearance form for the building. The cleared file is then submitted to the Baghdad Municipality and the Civil Defense Fire Department for review and approval, after which the occupancy permit and fire safety certificate are granted. Compliance with the built-up or floor area as specified in the construction permit is a main condition for the Municipality to issue an occupancy permit. Specifications for adequate and timely maintenance of the building, its facade and external works are detailed in the maintenance manual and are subject to the approval of the Municipality. Periodic renewal
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of the fire certificate is determined Municipality and the Civil Defense
by
the
Implementation aspects. Overall tasks and Implementation methods. The realization of individual conservation and development projects will depend on a number of comprehensive operations to be conducted by Mayoralty of Baghdad, especially with regard to the following planning issues: • Progressive implementation of the comprehensive traffic scheme for Rasheed area and enforcement of traffic management measures, keeping pace with the successive urban development. • Transfer of all heavy industrial activities and some light industries from the area to the outskirts of the city, in order to allow for shifting of harmful activities from the area. • Progressive improvement of community facilities and utilities in the residential quarters, to enhance the status of the old city and to induce private investment. • •Continuous coordination of on-going projects, in order to establish a balance between the various conservation and development components in the fields of services, accommodation, investment, health, school, welfare, living and working facilities, especially in view of large-scale projects such as the Metro. • Effective development control in order to achieve consistency of all private and public
projects with the guidelines of the structure plan, and to ensure that the ultimate goal set out in this report shall be realized, either through government intervention or private initiative or both.
The entire success of the Rasheed Plan depends upon the legal framework which is to support Conservation. Conservation legislation comes as part of the Building Regulations shortly to be implemented for the City. r Effective implementation of these clauses is a task which will demand the availability of a substantial staff. A basic cadre of good development control officials will be essential in ensuring that worthwhile buildings are kept and appropriate new structures are permitted. To administer the Building Regulations effectively in the Historic Area of Rasheed, we estimate that some technical officers will be required and even this number will be insufficient if a major programmed of grant-aid is called into effect with all its attendant inspections. The Mayoralty of Baghdad must undertake a range of administrative tasks of a continuing nature if it is to implement the proposals of this report. These tasks include the combination of fiscal planning and sustained purpose which every great city requires in a period of major evolution. This report can do no more than draw attention to the need for a continually maintained budgetary policy which will enable effective progress to be made. Failure to provide a sufficient minimum of funds may even result in continued decline rather than progress,
because without sufficient input the processes of wear, wastage, erosion and decay will overtake renewal. The Mayoralty of Baghdad will have available to it a number of methods by which the objectives set out in this report can be achieved. These include methods by which funding can be adjusted to meet budgets without involving the public sector. While expenditure on staffing will remain relatively constant, a fluctuating aspect of the problem relates to the funding of projects. There is much to be said for encouraging some of the work to be self-funding. As a part of the scheme is developed, so the land becomes more valuable and more efficient in use. This land can be sold off at an enhanced value and the money redeployed in the next stage of investment. Improvement work can also attract its own funds, by enhancing the environmental quality of an area. Grant aid can be structured as a percentage of the total expenditure and so can call forth from the private sector larger funds than may be contributed by the public sector. The total invested is therefore far greater than the public sector investment alone. Other forms of inducement of private capital can include remission of dues and charges and selective permissions to carry out financially favorable work subject to other requirements being met. Provision of Conservation training of Conservation
the right facilities is also important. can be stimulated and promoted by the craftsmen and the setting up of Workshops. It is recommended to build
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up a cadre of trained and well motivated craftsmen whose skills are related to Restoration. It is important also to set an example, particularly in Conservation. A successful improvement or restoration scheme can persuade other owners of the merits of treating their properties similarly. Pilot schemes therefore can be effective in improving values, improving standards, setting an example and training craftsmen in the necessary skills. They can also provide a market for these same skills in the early stages of Restoration Programmers. The principle of implementation must therefore comprise the right combination of selective control, example, inducement and the provision of facilities for technical assistance.
Phasing and Priorities The initial action outside the requirements of staffing must be to establish the Conservation District and determine the policies which will bring into effect the restraints and allocations of land use set out in this report. Therefore, the Conservation Programmed should be initiated in the following steps: • Passing the necessary legislations • Establishing the development company • Declare the Conservation Districts as protected, by using the Building Regulations • •Set up a programmed of development studies for selected schemes in the phased sequence outlined below
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• •Set up a project office within the Mayoralty of Baghdad and appoint sufficient trained staff under a responsible planner whose duty is solely to administer the Conservation and Development Plan for Al-Rasheed area. The implementation of conservation and development programmers can then be divided into three phases, each of which involves an element of further design work which must precede work on the ground. Phase-1 should include, in addition to the fundamental work of deficiency, protecting and improving Conservation Districts: • A pilot scheme involving historic building conservation in one of the worst blighted and relatively self-contained residential districts • Rehabilitation of a public and pedestrian commercial area such as the Riverside and the Tahrir Plaza • Adapted redevelopment of a "focal" area on Rasheed Street, such as Rusafi Plaza This should include projects outside the area to accommodate the whole sale business which is going to be relocated in the second stage Phase-2 should include the follow-up, revision and extension of the above pilot projects into larger areas: • Continuation of the rehabilitation project along the Suq spine • Extension of the Development Scheme, and implementation of interchange nodes • Upgrading of historical spines
• Improvement of further focal areas on the River front and on Rasheed Street • Relocation of whole sale trade outside the area in the new whole sale centers Phase-3 should embrace the remainder of the work, and particularly: • Completion of the Upgrading of historical spines • Completion of the redevelopment schemes Completion of the Riverfront improvement, and especially the rehabilitation of the Serai and landscaped treatment of the Citadel area
• • To control development within historic areas in accordance with the guidelines established in of this report. • •To supervise restoration and compliance with permissions and permits • • To check applications for redevelopment within historic areas • •To start documenting monuments and houses listed by with the aim of setting up a complete inventory and archival system. For this important task, international agencies such as UNESCO and ICCROM can give assistance in setting up the system.
This phasing is to indicate a certain range of priorities and interconnections with other ongoing projects; it may also serve as a basis for investment predictions. In a following step of the project, it will be possible to develop more detailed programmers and to establish approximate deadlines for each operation. Meanwhile, it should be stressed that projects figuring at the end of the time-sequence are not necessarily less important than others. In order to be able to implement them in the later stages, a strict development control on the respective sites and a corresponding land acquisition policy is needed. In operational terms, the most urgent immediate task for the Mayoralty of Baghdad is to enlarged the Conservation Department which deal with the historic areas of Rasheed area Its main function should be:
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The Architectural and Cultural Heritage which this part of Baghdad holds represents one of the important and precious samples of the Iraqi and Baghdadi history. Unfortunately, these samples are diminishing day by day due to negligence and lack of maintenance. Almost two thirds of the listed buildings have already collapsed and the rest are on the way. An urgent action is required by the authorities to stoop its decay and start a real process to conserve what have remain
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