Al Jamea Campus was designed by Triad Architects, Nairobi, in collaboration with FXFowle Architects, New York. The Campus comprises a number of interconnected building spread over a site approximately 350m by 150m. The buildings are organized on an axis about a sacred core. The master plan demonstrates a respect for hierarchy on a public to private gradient with the more public areas, the sacred buildings, forming the inner core enveloped by the auditorium, the dining hall, the library and the Iwaan. The classrooms then form the intermediary spaces and a buffer space to the more private students’ residences.
Green open spaces are incorporated by providing courtyards to all the buildings. These courtyards are interconnected on grade by walkways that spray from the central core. A covered walkway connected to all the buildings is also provided on the first floor level in respect of the shoeless users. Its elevation and cover will ensure that a clean and dry walkway is available in all weather conditions.
Green building design strategies are incorporated. The buildings are predominantly rectangular, with a North-South orientation and natural lighting and ventilation is provided for throughout the campus. Provision is made for rain water harvesting, solar energy use and grey water treatment and use of locally available and appropriate materials.
Vehicular circulation is limited to the periphery of the site forming an access ring around the campus, with appropriate car parking provided.
Client: Dawat-e-Hadiyah (Kenya)
Project Location: Nairobi, Kenya
Gross Area:72,300 sq meters
Completion : 2013
Project Partner: James Gitoho
Project Architect: Cecilia Wahinya