French University of Egypt

El Shorouk, Cairo, Egypt
Jakob+MacFarlane - Architecture - French University of Egypt. El Shorouk, Cairo, Egypt Jakob+MacFarlane - Architecture - French University of Egypt. El Shorouk, Cairo, Egypt
Jakob+MacFarlane - Architecture - French University of Egypt. El Shorouk, Cairo, Egypt Jakob+MacFarlane - Architecture - French University of Egypt. El Shorouk, Cairo, Egypt
Jakob+MacFarlane - Architecture - French University of Egypt. El Shorouk, Cairo, Egypt Jakob+MacFarlane - Architecture - French University of Egypt. El Shorouk, Cairo, Egypt
Jakob+MacFarlane - Architecture - French University of Egypt. El Shorouk, Cairo, Egypt Jakob+MacFarlane - Architecture - French University of Egypt. El Shorouk, Cairo, Egypt
Jakob+MacFarlane - Architecture - French University of Egypt. El Shorouk, Cairo, Egypt Jakob+MacFarlane - Architecture - French University of Egypt. El Shorouk, Cairo, Egypt
Jakob+MacFarlane - Architecture - French University of Egypt. El Shorouk, Cairo, Egypt Jakob+MacFarlane - Architecture - French University of Egypt. El Shorouk, Cairo, Egypt
Jakob+MacFarlane - Architecture - French University of Egypt. El Shorouk, Cairo, Egypt Jakob+MacFarlane - Architecture - French University of Egypt. El Shorouk, Cairo, Egypt

In progress

Client
MOHESR / Université Française d’Egypte

Brief
Innovation demonstrator campus, capacity 3,000 to 7,000 students, entrance with exhibition space, diffusion center, management center, educational center (8 departments with its research laboratories), learning center, auditoriums, accommodation, restaurant, sports facilities, green spaces and parking lots; 

The new campus of the French University of Egypt (UFE) is taking shape in El Shorouk, east of Cairo. Designed as an oasis, it offers an environment conducive to learning and knowledge sharing. Its bioclimatic design, tailored for both indoor and outdoor spaces, ensures an environment that is both welcoming and sustainable, adapted to the challenges of a hot, arid climate.

A vast shade canopy and partially underground landscaping featuring xerophytic plants create optimal microclimatic conditions. On an urban scale, the canopy provides cooling shade for buildings, pedestrian areas, and green spaces, while incorporating solar and thermal panels to meet the site’s energy needs. Vertical openings placed at strategic points function as passive thermal chimneys.

The campus is dotted with patio gardens where water features and xerophytic plants create a landscape inspired by wadis and dunes. Other gardens are designed in the form of amphitheaters. To limit water consumption, some green spaces are irrigated using a graywater treatment system.

Light-colored materials, selected for their ability to reflect heat, along with green spaces and water features, help mitigate the urban heat island effect. The use of local resources, such as rammed earth for the walls and Hashma stone for the facades, helps reduce the project’s environmental footprint.

--

Team
RMC (Associated Architect), Artelia, Engineering Solutions, Sempervirens