Gouna Festival Plaza

The Festival Plaza is a cultural achievement that reflects innovative design, benefitting the community El Gouna and its users. From its inception to its current multifaceted use, the project showcases the transformative potential of thoughtful infrastructure and design. Architecturally, the Festival Plaza reimagines monumentalism through a contemporary lens, blending historical references with modern sensibilities. The colonnades, with their staggered placement and intricate tracery, evoke a sense of awe while maintaining a light and airy quality. Inspired by Moorish and Ancient Egyptian architecture, the design reinterprets traditional arches into dynamic forms that resonate with the region’s cultural heritage. The juxtaposition of minimalist exteriors with the detailed interiors creates a sensory journey, engaging visitors with shifting light, shadows, and reflective lagoon views. This harmony between form and function positions the plaza as an iconic landmark and a gathering point for El Gouna. Passive cooling strategies, including shading from the colonnades and the cooling effects of the lagoon, address the challenges of El Gouna’s arid, subtropical climate. The use of locally relevant materials and a design that integrates seamlessly with natural water systems ensures this public space has year-round use and comfort. Its open design, wide pedestrian bridges, and spacious colonnades ensure accessibility for all visitors, fostering a welcoming environment for diverse activities. By serving as a space for public gatherings, cultural events, sports, and quiet reflection, the plaza caters to varied needs and promotes social cohesion. Collaboration with local initiatives, such as community squash training programs, underscores the commitment to inclusivity and community engagement. The Festival Plaza’s impact extends beyond its architectural achievements. Its role as a venue for the El Gouna Film Festival, international squash tournaments, and other cultural and civic events has positioned it as a cultural and social hub. These activities foster cross-cultural dialogue, support local talent, and contribute to the economic and social vitality of the region. 

Judges’ Comments:

“The Plaza’s versatility, from hosting global events to providing a tranquil daily retreat for residents, embodies its civic significance. It is a space that inspires, connects, and endures.”