Ohireme Uanzekin
student
Heriot Watt University Dubai
Nigeria
Architecture
Open Circuits is a revolving community centre designed to facilitate shared experiences and collaborative learning. The centre features dynamic and adaptable… more
Tamer ElSerafi
advisor
Cairo University, Faculty of Engineering Architecture Department.
Egypt
Dr. Tamer ElSerafi is the Head of the Architecture Department and Director of the Master of Science… more
This project presents a dynamic and adaptable community center designed to facilitate shared experiences and collaborative learning. The design incorporates rotating walls and flexible spaces that can be reconfigured to accommodate various activities, such as exhibitions, workshops, and community events. This flexibility encourages exploration and experimentation, fostering a vibrant and interactive environment.
A notable feature is the alignment of rotating walls to face the qibla direction, providing additional space for adjacent prayer grounds during Friday congregations. The ground floor focuses on collaborative learning, while the first floor houses computer labs and classrooms, promoting focused engagement away from the more active ground level.
Structurally, the building utilizes a robust steel frame, allowing for large open areas with fewer visible columns. The rotating walls are anchored to central structural columns with industrial steel bearings, enabling controlled and smooth movement driven by motors below the floor.
Overall, "Open Circuits" offers an innovative approach to community-centered design, balancing flexibility with cultural sensitivity. With further development in detailing and material articulation, the project has the potential to serve as a model for adaptable and inclusive community spaces.