Omar Harb

advisor

Phoenicia University

Lebanon

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

Feedback: Gymnázium Jesenice
This project presents a well-conceived vision for a modern gymnasium that effectively integrates into the urban fabric of Jesenice, serving as both an educational institution and a community hub.

The project idea successfully positions the gymnasium as a dominant architectural landmark, anchoring a new urban square and creating vital connections with the city. The dual-purpose approach, combining modern educational facilities with publicly accessible spaces like a cafeteria and sports hall, is a smart strategy for fostering interaction and engagement beyond school hours. This ensures the building is a dynamic social and educational asset for students, residents, and visitors alike.

The project description clearly outlines the functional layout, with a four-story main building for education and a strategically placed ground floor that links the school, cafeteria, and underground sports hall. The consideration of both a main entrance facing the new square and a secondary entrance for parking demonstrates thoughtful urban integration and practical accessibility. The outdoor areas, including gathering zones and secure bicycle parking, further enhance the building's role as a public space.

From a technical information perspective, the choice of a reinforced concrete load-bearing column system provides a robust and durable structural framework. The incorporation of decorative wooden columns and wooden panels on the façade is a commendable design decision, adding warmth and visual interest that harmonizes with the environment while blending modernity with natural materials. This suggests a thoughtful aesthetic that avoids a purely utilitarian feel.

Feedback: Gymnázium Jesenice
This project presents a well-conceived vision for a modern gymnasium that effectively integrates into the urban fabric of Jesenice, serving as both an educational institution and a community hub.

The project idea successfully positions the gymnasium as a dominant architectural landmark, anchoring a new urban square and creating vital connections with the city. The dual-purpose approach, combining modern educational facilities with publicly accessible spaces like a cafeteria and sports hall, is a smart strategy for fostering interaction and engagement beyond school hours. This ensures the building is a dynamic social and educational asset for students, residents, and visitors alike.

The project description clearly outlines the functional layout, with a four-story main building for education and a strategically placed ground floor that links the school, cafeteria, and underground sports hall. The consideration of both a main entrance facing the new square and a secondary entrance for parking demonstrates thoughtful urban integration and practical accessibility. The outdoor areas, including gathering zones and secure bicycle parking, further enhance the building's role as a public space.

From a technical information perspective, the choice of a reinforced concrete load-bearing column system provides a robust and durable structural framework. The incorporation of decorative wooden columns and wooden panels on the façade is a commendable design decision, adding warmth and visual interest that harmonizes with the environment while blending modernity with natural materials. This suggests a thoughtful aesthetic that avoids a purely utilitarian feel.

Suggestions for Improvement
To further enhance this strong project, consider these aspects:

Sustainable Design Principles: While natural materials are mentioned, elaborating on other sustainable design elements (e.g., natural ventilation, daylighting strategies beyond just large windows, rainwater harvesting, energy efficiency of the façade) would strengthen the project's overall impact and relevance.
Public Space Activation: Beyond benches and summer seating, consider how the new urban square and outdoor areas are actively programmed or designed to encourage consistent public use and foster a vibrant community atmosphere throughout the day and evening.
Acoustic Treatment: Given the integration of a sports hall, cafeteria, and educational spaces, explicitly addressing acoustic design for noise mitigation between different zones would be beneficial to ensure comfort and functionality for all users.