Omar Harb

advisor

Phoenicia University

Lebanon

As an architect and founder of Omar Harb Architects & Associates, my work centers on creating… more

Feedback: Astronomical Observation Center Ñawi
This project, "Astronomical Observation Center Ñawi," presents a thoughtful and comprehensive vision for enhancing tourism and regional development in Tucumán Province. Your team has identified a clear need and proposed a multi-faceted solution that leverages an existing asset to create a significant new landmark.

The project idea is exceptionally strong in its focus on regional development and enhancing the Valle Calchaquíes tourist circuit. The ambition to transform an existing institution with limited reach into a prominent regional landmark demonstrates a keen understanding of strategic intervention and the potential for architecture to drive visibility and growth.

The project description outlines a holistic complex that wisely expands beyond a traditional observatory. The inclusion of diverse functions—a gastronomic area, exhibition halls, museum, educational spaces, accommodation, and a spa—is a well-considered strategy to encourage extended stays and cater to a broader range of visitors, addressing the issue of short visits. This integrated approach creates a true tourist destination.

From a technical information perspective, the choice of rammed earth walls as the main construction technique is highly commendable. This not only champions the use of local materials but also crucially enables the involvement of local labor, promoting community benefits and a sustainable construction method with minimal industrial components. The selective incorporation of exposed reinforced concrete where structural requirements dictate, while maintaining an "honest construction and architectural simplicity," is a pragmatic and aesthetically consistent approach. The commitment for both materials to dialogue with the natural surroundings through a shared color palette ensures harmony and seamless integration with the landscape, which is essential for an observation center.

To further enhance this already compelling project, consider these aspects:

Optimizing Astronomical Functionality: While the general concept is clear, elaborate on specific design features that enhance the actual astronomical observation experience. For example, how does the architecture mitigate light pollution from other parts of the complex (e.g., accommodation, dining)? Are there specific design elements that optimize viewing angles or provide sheltered, dark-sky zones for observers?
Sustainability Beyond Materials: You've made excellent choices with rammed earth and local labor. Expand on other passive and active sustainable strategies for the complex. How is energy managed (e.g., solar power, geothermal)? How is water handled (e.g., rainwater harvesting, greywater recycling), especially given the potentially arid nature of the region? This would solidify its environmental credentials.
Cultural Integration and Narrative: "Ñawi" means "eye" in Quechua. Beyond the shared color palette, how does the design explicitly weave Andean cultural motifs, traditional knowledge, or local narratives into the architectural expression or the visitor experience? This could be through symbolic forms, integrated art, or the sequencing of spaces, making the center a deeper reflection of the region's heritage.

Dear Omar Harb
Thank you very much! We really appreciate you taking the time to review our project. We find this exchange extremely enriching. Below, we respond to your questions about the project:

Light Pollution: Regarding this issue, it’s important to highlight that it was one of the main constraints we considered during the design process. That’s why the project features introverted volumes that are illuminated and ventilated through internal courtyards with strategically placed openings, designed not to hinder astronomical observations. Additionally, the observatory sector is located away from the rest of the complex and protected by its semi-buried form and a specialized metallic dome, which prevents light entry. As a final measure, the entire site uses the same light wavelength, enabling the use of optical filters to eliminate any potential light pollution. It’s also worth mentioning that the project’s remote location means there are no external light sources affecting it.

Sustainability:
Regarding energy supply, the project connects to the local grid. The goal is to promote “energy efficiency,” designing an architecture that minimizes energy resource consumption.
For example, in terms of thermal comfort, we use rammed earth walls with excellent insulation properties that maintain stable interior temperatures. The roofs are all green roofs, which greatly contribute to thermal comfort in both winter and summer. Courtyards and openings are designed to maximize solar gain during winter and ensure proper ventilation in summer. These measures significantly reduce the overall energy consumption, making the building environmentally friendly within its setting.

As for water management, water is supplied by eternal glaciers on the mountain peaks, providing a constant source of pure water to the complex.

Local Culture:
The influence of local culture is reflected not only in the use of local labor but also in the interior treatment of each space. We designed a textile filter for the project that references and evokes local techniques, reproducing patterns and colors characteristic of the Calchaqui culture.

Once again, we thank you for your time in reviewing our project. We hope this exchange can be as enriching for you as it has been for us. We remain at your disposal.

Our team.