Morocco Rabat Mixed Use
Sensitive Layout with View Optimization and Passive Cooling Strategies Building Placement and View Preservation
Project Type Mixed Use
Location Rabat, Morocco
Year 2022
Project Service Concept Project
Project Status Concept Project
Total area (m²) 32318.00
Total Construction Area (m²) 77563.00
Employer Private

Located in the evolving commercial and cultural axis of Sulaymaniyah in northern Iraq, the Slemani Mixed-Use Development is envisioned as an integrated urban complex that blends residential, hospitality, retail, office, and cultural functions. Designed to support everyday life through fluid program transitions and activated public spaces, the project proposes a layered and walkable environment.

Spatial Organization and Programmatic Separation

The masterplan maximizes the permitted built up area via five residential blocks while preserving generous open spaces. Commercial and residential functions are clearly separated, with ground level retail distributed horizontally to create pedestrian friendly surfaces. Instead of stacking residences above the retail zones, housing units are placed adjacently to ensure calm and livable private domains.

Iconic Forms and Silhouette Contribution

A tall landmark tower has been introduced to strengthen the project’s visibility and to serve as an architectural focal point for the city. This vertical element not only offers a recognizable form but also accommodates office, hotel, and branded serviced residences under one programmatic roof.

Squares and Public Realm

At the heart of the project lies a central plaza that interconnects key functions residences, mall, hotel, offices, and performance venues. Framed by green corridors, this square becomes a social hub and unifier. The plaza also supports flexible event programming and daily pedestrian circulation.

Climate-Responsive and Acoustic Strategies

Responding to Sulaymaniyah’s hot and arid climate, massing strategies have been developed to mitigate wind effects through curvilinear forms. Wind comfort analysis confirms acceptable comfort levels in the retail courts. Water features surrounding the commercial spine improve microclimate and offer shaded, experiential spaces for users.

On the project’s northern edge, a green buffer zone protects internal functions from traffic noise generated by the adjacent main road. This zone is activated with sports facilities, shaded seating, and recreational areas to become a dynamic sound barrier.

Mobility and Access

Vehicular access has been minimized and clearly routed around the periphery. Two underpasses connect the north-south axis, enabling smooth access to various programs. Dedicated arrival points for hotel guests, service vehicles, taxis, and buses ensure seamless and safe circulation.

Flexible Programming and Functional Integration

The project merges home offices and commercial offices within the same tower using separate entries. The hotel and branded residences are similarly integrated. Permeable facades, terrace gardens, and publicly accessible plazas offer quality outdoor environments while supporting programmatic flexibility and long term urban vibrancy.