oualalou choi restoration caravanserails fez medina designboom
architecture firm OUALALOU + CHOI was given the honor in rehabilitating four of the caravansérails of the medina of fez, morocco. listed as a UNESCO world heritage site since 1981, the historically and culturally rich town has become a focal point for conservation. the project is broad, spanning multiple disciplines including urban design, architectural restoration, and landscaping.

oualalou choi restoration caravanserails fez medina designboom
all images courtesy of OUALALOU + CHOI

 

 

OUALALOU + CHOI chose to focus specifically on the city’s longstanding copper work industry, and tackles the associated morphology, physical displacement, and environmental impact of the artisanal activity. structures included in the effort date from the 14th – 17th centuries, and also the creation of a new building. the project was piloted by the restructuring of the place lalla ydouna — principle entry to fez medina — a 25,000m2 plaza slated to welcome a range of cultural and touristic activities. 

oualalou choi restoration caravanserails fez medina designboom
within the fez medina  

OUALALOU + CHOI completes restoration of four caravansérails of fez medina
buildings included in the restoration range from the 14th to 17th centuries 

oualalou choi restoration caravanserails fez medina designboom
detail 

OUALALOU + CHOI completes restoration of four caravansérails of fez medina
central courtyard

oualalou choi restoration caravanserails fez medina designboom
inner open air atrium 

oualalou choi restoration caravanserails fez medina designboom
detailing 

OUALALOU + CHOI completes restoration of four caravansérails of fez medina
façade detail 

OUALALOU + CHOI completes restoration of four caravansérails of fez medina
upward view in atrium 

oualalou choi restoration caravanserails fez medina designboom
entrance

 

 

project info:

 

BET: team maroc
environnement/social: memoris et SCE
architects: OUALALOU + CHOI(formerly KILO Architectures)
associates: tarik oualalou, linna choi
project architect: abderrahim kassou

 

 

designboom has received this project from our DIY submissions  feature, where we welcome our readers to submit their own work for publication. see more project submissions from our readers here.

 

edited by: nick brink | designboom

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