DESA1002 'Continuous City' Lachlan Bennett

Abstract

The souq (market) is located in the city of Tunis, Tunisia. The souq is an important part of traditional Tunis and is appropriately found in the Medina, the traditional heart of the city. In order to combat the heat buildings are closely knit in order to prevent the direct sunlight overbearing the inhabitants, structures and streets of Tunis. This souq is no exception. From above this market is seemingly just as squeezed in as every other building. However, in my design I have endeavoured to create a space that meets both functional and thermal requirements but also provides the Medina area with some breathing space. The structure is made from rib-like elements. These are clad with closed and open (opaque and translucent) skins. The purpose of this has been to maximise any cross ventilation, allow heat to pass through the top of the structure and cut direct sunlight as much as possible. In amongst an area dense with buildings lie a covered market, a meeting place, and an oasis of space for any overwhelmed by the their surroundings.