Egyptian Bookstore Booth

Faculty of Fine Arts, Alexandria University in Alexandria

Project idea

A 3D booth design for a bookstore inspired by Post-Pharaonic architecture, envisioned for one of Egypt’s international airports.
The concept blends ancient Egyptian identity with a contemporary spatial language, translating symbolic geometries and monumental forms into a modern retail experience.
Designed to capture travelers’ attention, the booth acts as a cultural gateway—where history, knowledge, and movement intersect within a dynamic airport environment.
This project explores how heritage-driven design can be reinterpreted through clean lines, layered forms, and spatial storytelling, creating a memorable first impression for visitors arriving in Egypt.

Project description

The design introduces a sustainable, modern aesthetic while maintaining the functional requirements of a bookstore. The solution is broken down into several key areas:

1. Architectural Design & Layout
Plan & Perspective: The structure utilizes an organic, curved shell that houses bookshelves and a central service counter.

Geometric Sketches: Early-stage hand-drawn sketches show the exploration of triangular and trapezoidal forms to create a unique silhouette.

Shots (Renderings): 3D visualizations show an interior optimized for high-density book storage with integrated lighting and a warm, wooden aesthetic.

2. Sustainable & Environmental Features
The project emphasizes "less pollution" through green technology:

Solar Panels: Integrated into the roof to provide renewable energy for lighting and electronics.

Green Grass: Used on the exterior slopes (and potentially the roof) to provide natural insulation and improve air quality.

3. Materiality
The board displays a "Materials" palette consisting of various wood grains and earthy tones. These materials are selected to blend the modern structure with the historic, organic feel of the traditional book market.

Technical information

?️ Structural & Spatial Specifications
Form Factor: The structure features a modern, organic shell design with slanted exterior walls.

Interior Layout (Plan): The design utilizes a central circulation path with built-in, floor-to-ceiling wooden shelving units optimized for high-density book storage.

Service Area: Includes a centralized service counter (Main Perspective) to facilitate transactions and customer assistance.

Lighting: The interior specification includes integrated track lighting and recessed spotlights to illuminate the book displays.

? Sustainable Technology Specifications
Photovoltaic System (Solar Panels): The roof is equipped with solar panels to generate renewable energy, reducing reliance on the grid.

Thermal Insulation (Green Grass): The design incorporates "Green grass" layers on the exterior slopes to provide natural cooling and reduce the urban heat island effect.

Environmental Impact: Specifically labeled as "less pollution," the design focuses on minimizing the carbon footprint of the kiosk.

? Material Specifications
The project utilizes a curated palette of natural materials to balance durability with aesthetics:

Wood Finishes: Multiple wood grains are specified for the interior shelving and structural accents (labeled as ach, odk, oak, etc., in the Materials section).

Textured Panels: The exterior appears to use a combination of dark matte finishes and textured light-colored stone or concrete for the main shell.

Glass: Large glass openings are utilized at the front and side elevations to maximize natural daylighting.