The architecture, interior design, engineering and urban planning firm SOM has revealed the conceptual masterplan for the new capital of Egypt. The proposal Capital Cairo aims to strengthen the country’s economy, currently in crisis, and disperse population density that is constantly growing. Population of Cairo is expected to double over the next three years, this would produce an unsustainable overcrowding. It will be possible to decongest the city with the new project.
The aim is to solve the growing demand for housing in the area, taking into account climatic and cultural conditions. The Capital Cairo is over 700 km within closed boundaries and is subdivided into several districts with different uses: from administrative and business to culture and innovation. Among them, 100 neighborhoods from medium to high density are distributed, with housing for the entire growing population. Weather conditions are taken into account because the homes use passive cooling systems through natural ventilation and also incorporate native vegetation.
A central public space is linked to each district. Shops, schools, religious buildings and other facilities are concentrated around these spaces. This arrangement not only centralizes the activity and improves accessibility, but also is inspired by the traditional urban design of the region. This is the way the relationship with the local culture appears.
SOM’s masterplan director commented: “The future city will strengthen and diversify the economic potential of Egypt by creating new and attractive places to live, work, and welcome to the world”.
Project: City Planning for New Egyptian Capital City
Studio: SOM
Photos:SOM
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