Sands of Time: 8 Conceptual Projects Rethinking Cultural Architecture in Egypt

Expanding beyond the iconic Giza pyramid complex and the Great Sphinx, the following collection looks at modern Egyptian cultural projects.

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Egyptian architecture spans millennia. Considered a cradle of civilization with one of the longest histories of any country, Egypt has shaped architecture and building traditions the world over. As a transcontinental country extending across the Sinai Peninsula, Egypt emerged as a natural economic and cultural crossroads. Blending cultural nuances and construction methods, the country heavily influenced design across Africa, the Mediterranean and the Middle East. Today, with historic monuments along the Nile and throughout Egyptian cities, the country’s contemporary architecture must respond to a rich past.

Expanding beyond the iconic Giza pyramid complex and the Great Sphinx, the following collection looks at modern Egyptian cultural projects. Building upon incredible designs like Snøhetta’s Bibliotheca Alexandrina, these conceptual proposals aim to rethink Egyptian design through a contemporary lens. Created with monumental forms and carefully constructed open spaces, the designs respect traditional techniques while reinterpreting them. Together, they explore how to honor the past while celebrating new experiences and modern life.

Maadi Innovation Hub by P.R.O. – Peterson Rich Office, Egypt

Formed as a new technology campus in Cairo, the Maadi Innovation Center would house start-ups and established tech companies alike. Mixing varied programs, the proposal takes the shape of multiple concrete volumes that surround a central courtyard above a public exchange space.

Memory Museum by MEMUZE, Egypt

The Memory Museum is a project that explores Nubian culture and the city of Luxor. As a place to share stories and build connections, the museum examines the five senses and visitor perception through a pharaonic legacy.

National Library Cairo by Buro A.D., Egypt

Buro A.D.’s proposal for Cairo’s National Library would be sited where multiple urban layers converge: tourist paths, the ancient route of the Nile and Cairo’s metro line. Connecting to Tahrir Square, the project would reveal Egyptian history while encouraging exchange between different user groups.

Silver Cloud by Coop Himmelb(l)au, Egypt

Silver Cloud was created by Coop Himmelb(l)au as a recognizable landmark in an area called New Cairo. The project would be made with three-dimensionally deformed steel frames covered with metal panels that form the building’s skin.

New Egyptian Parliament by Deraya Designs, Egypt

Designed as a new parliament building for Egypt, this conceptual project would build connection between people and politicians. Fostering a healthy democratic environment, the project features ample open space, expansive glazing and spaces to gather.

The Grand Egyptian Museumby S+ Studio, Egypt

Planned as the largest archaeological museum in the world, the Grand Egyptian Museum would be sited 1.2 miles from the Giza pyramids. Designed as a museum of artifacts, the structure was created as part of a new master plan for the plateau.

Al-Azhar Public Library by CUBE, Cairo, Egypt

CUBE’s design for this library in Cairo was created as an educational and public hub. As a structure that celebrates Azhar’s Islamic heritage while connecting to Salah Salem Road, the library would act as a public square that fosters inclusivity and sensitivity between the old and new.

Underwater Archaeological Museum by Jacques Rougerie Architectes Associés, Alexandria, Egypt

Designed to revive Alexandria’s tourism industry, this underwater museum allows visitors to see “sunken treasures.” Created on the shores of the Eastern Harbor of Abukir Bay, this submerged structure would feature fiberglass tunnels, four felucca shaped spires and spaces to access the sea floor’s underwater relics.

Author: Eric Baldwin

Based in New York City, Eric was trained in both architecture and communications. As Director of Communications at Sasaki, he has a background spanning media, academia, and practice. He's deeply committed to trying as many restaurants as possible in NYC.