Location: Libya
Client: Organisation for Development of Administrative Centres
Sector: Education
Size: 110,000 sqm
Scope: Lead Consultancy, Architecture
Awards: Dubai Cityscape Awards, Special Award – Islamic Architecture Category, 2009
The 7th of October University at Bani Walid is one of 27 new campuses commissioned by the Libyan government. Located about three hours south of the capital of Tripoli, the new school will accommodate 3,250 students from surrounding communities and provide academic programs in language, business, education and medical technology. The 50-hectare campus is sited in the desert and will contain 110,000 m² of buildings. In addition to academic facilities, the campus will include a student centre, library, mosque, athletic facilities and housing for faculty.
Inspiration for the design came from the desert rose, a naturally occurring silica crystal that captured the design and client teams’ imaginations. The planning theme was also informed by the town of Ghadames, where sunken courtyards cool the town center and irrigate the perimeter oasis. The compact design of the campus is driven by issues of sustainability.
