Mohammed VI
Université Mohammed VI Polytechnique
Ben Guerir, Morocco
Ricardo Bofill, Diorama
2019
ARCHITECTURE
DESIGN
The Mohammed VI Polytechnic University project in Morocco blends traditional Moroccan architecture with modern design, emphasizing cultural motifs and advanced technologies to create a space that respects heritage while meeting contemporary needs.
The Mohammed VI Polytechnic University in Benguerir, Morocco, exemplifies the seamless integration of tradition with modernity. Set against the backdrop of Morocco’s rich cultural landscape, the project makes a conscious effort to blend the aesthetic sensibilities of traditional Moroccan architecture with the practicalities of contemporary design. This integration is not merely aesthetic but deeply functional, offering both a nod to the past and a blueprint for the future.
The architectural plan of the university is a testament to thoughtful design, incorporating elements like arcades and semi-covered streets that echo the medinas and souks of Morocco. These features are not only culturally resonant but also adapt to the local climate, providing shade and reducing heat. The use of modern materials such as steel and glass in construction does not overshadow the traditional elements but rather enhances them, allowing the structure to achieve a balance between durability and historical authenticity.
Landscaping plays a crucial role in tying the university’s spaces together, with a selection of flora that reflects the natural beauty of Morocco. Olive, cypress, and palm trees are strategically planted across the campus, creating green belts that serve as ecological and social hubs for students and faculty. This thoughtful selection of vegetation not only beautifies the campus but also contributes to the sustainability of the environment.
At the heart of the Mohammed VI Polytechnic University’s architectural philosophy is a commitment to innovation. The university’s layout is planned using sophisticated algorithms, allowing for an arrangement that maximizes the use of space while optimizing environmental conditions. This includes the innovative use of a pergola structure, designed through extensive mathematical calculations, that stands as a symbol of how tradition can meet technological advancement.
The university is designed to be more than just an educational institution; it is envisioned as a community center that fosters social interaction and academic collaboration. The central square and extensive pedestrian pathways promote connectivity and accessibility, making it easy for people to gather and exchange ideas. These communal spaces are essential for building a sense of community and belonging among the students and staff, embodying the social values that are at the core of Moroccan culture.