Through a methodical investigation of possible interventions, varying from a “clean slate” approach to a rigorous historical reconstitution, students will envision innovative ways of transforming the interior of Khan al kahyateen complex into a boutique hotel. The complex includes the khan, the hammam Ezzedine, and various peripheral building clusters extending along a West-East axis towards Nahr Abou Ali.
The design process starts by the reading of the space and unfolds to exploring creative means of representation, from sketches, schematics, diagrams, to conceptual models, that exemplifies the student’s intention. An emphasis on the interior volumetric configuration that dictates the vertical and the horizontal promenades and influences the sequence of movement of the inhabitants within and across functions were also taken into practice.
This studio adopts an extensive approach that immerses the user in a spatial experience through a well thought of process of making spaces. Considerations that affect the architectural experience, the emotional impact of a space, habitual routines were addressed. Spatial configuration, vertical and horizontal circulation, material selection, color palettes, furniture selection, fabric and textiles, solar exposure and lighting conditions are also parameters that drove the thinking process to transforming conceptual ideas into functional spaces.