Moroccan architect Omar Kobbité in a group with the Frenchman Erik Giudice have been chosen, following the international architecture competition, for the creation in Dakhla of an institution dedicated to the promotion of the history and the tangible and intangible heritage of the Kingdom's Southern provinces. Thus, this group will be in charge of the architectural design and the monitoring of the construction in Dakhla of this institution. According to the Southern Agency, it is not a question of duplicating existing models here but rather of inventing a new generation cultural venue, a hybrid place that takes into account the realities of the territory, while being forward-looking and inventive in its relationships with content and the public. A museum-hub that showcases collections and intangible heritage but, more globally, a hub with a cultural, tourist, societal, economic dimension... radiating across the territory. This concept also seeks to foster both a place of identity, a place of urban practice and a place of openness to the world. This project is based on structuring and fully articulated axes; an axis of dissemination and mediation, an axis of conservation and enrichment of collections and preservation allowing, in the long term, to make this establishment a reference centre on Bidane culture and nomadism in the Saharan Morocco, and an axis of research and sharing of knowledge and expertise. This project also corresponds to a cultural and identity challenge, through the recognition and promotion of the characteristics and specificities of the Bidane population of the Kingdom of Morocco. However, it will be a matter of approaching the identity dimension not as a factor of withdrawal but as a foundation and an element of openness, dialogue and exchange. The site for the future cultural hub is composed of a plot of approximately 4,500 m², located to the south of the city of Dakhla. The plot overlooks the corniche and Mohammed V Boulevard directly. The site is in direct contact with the urban dynamics of the city and will be a revitalising element and a hub of activity within the city. With a covered area of approximately 4,000 m², the project will integrate functions of reception, conviviality, presentation, temporary exhibitions, mediation spaces, educational workshops, research and work spaces, in addition to landscaping of the outdoor areas. Beyond the architectural and functional challenge, this project will integrate important dimensions of museum scenography and landscaping and must pay particular attention to environmental and sustainable development issues from its first design phases.
News 07 Mar 2014 3 min read
The Kobbité and Giudice group sign for the new museum

