Al Wahah, Libya

Mixed Use | Residential | Intergenerational | student accommodation | senior living | office | conference | retail | shopping centre

Debbie Flevotomou architects project office block

Al Wahah is a project which combines the living spaces of young people and senior citizens; a prime example of intergenerational living based on our THINK NATURE principles.  

The aim of the project is to encourage cooperation between residents of all ages, providing them with individual bedrooms, but with shared common facilities. These facilities include spaces such as the library, the dining room, the pool, and the sitting areas. There is no difference in the design of the rooms of the older and younger residents; both are identical and boutique.  

Collaboration is a key concept behind this design; students help senior citizens with their everyday technological needs, and in return senior citizens cook for the students. At the end of the day, they all enjoy a sit-down meal together. 

Debbie Flevotomou architects project office block interior
 

The residential section is only half of the building. Flexible office space is to occupy the other half. The office space incorporates open areas for events and conferences, giving flexibility to change the floor plan from rows of desks to an open-plan space with no restrictions. The ground floor is occupied by a shopping centre and a garden which are open to everyone.

In the past, the structure where this project is to take place had been a much-loved local landmark but was tragically burnt to the ground a few years before work could begin. 

The brief stated that the shape of the building and main structure had to remain unchanged, whilst a new design concept had to be introduced representing future optimism. 

The THINK NATURE idea reflected the area’s landscape and its long history, captured in Palm leaf shapes. Forming both the plans and the façades, the Palm leaf design resonates with the locals and alludes to past and future victories. 

The building is a pioneering mixed-use design. 

Environmental friendly techniques used in the design:

DFA profile picture Al WahAh.jpg

Brise Soleil

Passive solar

Greywater treatment

PV Panels

Rainwater harvesting

Eco-friendly lighting and fittings

Natural cross ventilation

Night cooling

Maximization of daylight

Recycled materials

Super insulated structure

Structural and cladding 3D Printing

District heating

Displacement ventilation

IoT system for the residents

Garden on the ground floor

As every project is authentic and singular, call us now to discuss the individual requirements of your project.

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