DIGITAL ARCHIVE MUSEUM

Cairo University, Faculty of Engineering Architecture Department.

Project idea

The Museum of Digital Archive in Alexandria, aims to preserve, document, and present the city’s rich cultural heritage through the use of innovative digital technologies. Set within the dynamic context of El Max, the museum will serve as a focal point for Alexandria’s maritime and historical legacy, creating a connection between the past, present, and future. The primary goal is to offer an immersive, interactive experience that allows visitors to explore both above-ground and submerged heritage sites. By utilizing advanced technologies such as photogrammetry, 3D modeling, and holographic displays, the museum will provide a platform for real-time data collection, preservation, and engagement, ensuring that Alexandria’s cultural memory is preserved for generations to come. The project also prioritizes sustainability, incorporating solar energy systems to minimize its environmental impact, while fostering community involvement by encouraging local contributions to the digital archive. In doing so, the museum will not only protect Alexandria’s heritage but also offer a forward-thinking architectural space that reflects the ongoing dialogue between history and the future.

Project description

The scope of the Museum of Digital Archive project encompasses the creation of a cutting-edge facility designed to preserve and present Alexandria’s cultural heritage through digital technologies. This solution includes the development of immersive spaces for visitors to interact with both above-ground and submerged historical sites, using advanced methods like photogrammetry, 3D modeling, and holographic displays. The project focuses on digital archiving, ensuring the long-term preservation of historical data and allowing for real-time updates as new discoveries are made. The museum's structure is designed to be sustainable, integrating solar energy systems to power the digital installations, reducing the environmental footprint of the museum. Additionally, the project promotes community engagement by allowing local contributions to the digital archive, making it a participatory effort. The museum’s architecture will blend modern design with its historical context, ensuring a seamless integration with Alexandria’s urban landscape while addressing the need for a space that connects the city’s past with its future.

Technical information

The Museum of Digital Archive in Alexandria will be constructed using modern building techniques with a focus on sustainability and adaptability to the coastal environment. The foundation will utilize a raft system to distribute the load, while hydraulic columns below the waterline will provide dynamic structural support. The structure will be primarily built from steel and reinforced concrete, with exterior cladding made from glass and perforated metal panels for light diffusion and aesthetics. The façade will incorporate solar panels for renewable energy, and the prism structure will be crafted using lightweight steel frames and glass to maximize natural light. The interior will feature flexible modular walls, sustainable wood, and natural stone finishes, with interactive displays using holographic projectors and motion sensors. Energy-efficient systems, including LED lighting, HVAC, and solar energy, will minimize environmental impact, while rainwater harvesting will support non-potable needs. The museum will employ state-of-the-art digital archiving systems with cloud-based storage, augmented reality, and 3D printing for enhanced visitor engagement. Accessibility will be ensured through universal design principles, and safety features, including fire-resistant materials and clear evacuation routes, will be integrated. The building will also incorporate flood barriers and corrosion-resistant materials to address the challenges posed by Alexandria’s coastal location and rising sea levels.