A New Life

Led by Prof. Dr. Gamal El-Kholy in collaboration with the façade designer Eng. Ahmed El Maghraby of El Maghraby Design House, the Ain Shams University made a thoughtful decision to transform an abandoned lecture hall into a cultural landmark, rather than construct a new building. This approach not only saved resources, but also gave new life to an old space; serving as a masterclass in showing how architecture can adapt, evolve and inspire.

Fashioned like a theatre curtain, a transparent glass curtain wall allows light and reflections to connect the building to its surroundings, while a flowing layer of parametric aluminium louvers stretches across the front

At the core of the design is the theatre curtain. Just as a curtain rises to begin a performance, the building now opens itself to the public with a bold new façade. A transparent glass curtain wall allows light and reflections to connect the building to its surroundings, while a flowing layer of parametric aluminium louvers stretches across the front. These louvres move across the surface like the keys of a piano, or notes in a symphony – each one adding rhythm and depth. Depending on the viewer’s angle and the time of day, the façade shifts in appearance, creating a dynamic play of light, shadow and reflection.

This new visual language sets the theatre apart from the more traditional academic buildings nearby. At the same time, the glass façade reflects the surrounding architecture, tying the structure back into its context. 

Inside, the space is designed to serve both education and performance. A fully equipped theatre with 550 seats becomes the heart of the building, ready to host plays, concerts, lectures and community events. Alongside it, two large lecture halls with a combined capacity of 1,200 students continue the building’s original academic role. The mix of functions allows the building to serve as a place for both learning and cultural exchange. 

fully equipped theatre with 550 seats becomes the heart of the building

By choosing to reuse and redesign instead of demolishing and rebuilding, the project takes a sustainable and thoughtful approach to design. It respects what came before while boldly stepping towards a new purpose.

Photography: Fadi Koudsi