Mirages of Sou Fujimoto

Japanese architect Sou Fujimoto has recently released images of a conceptual masterplan for an anonymous Middle Eastern city comprising tapering towers of stacked arches cooled by waterfalls. Fujimoto’s two proposals include a complex at the end of a large avenue in the city made up of multiple towers with waterfalls flowing from top to bottom, and a low-level retail zone interspersed with towers that would be built along the shore. At an urban scale, the shapes of the buildings are inspired by the harmonious silhouette of traditional Bedouin tents, anchoring the whole site in this city’s cultural heritage. From afar, the volumes are perceived as a gateway connecting the Corniche Sea with the mainland while having an overall mirage-like appearance.

Souk Mirage/Particles of Light
The proposal, titled Souk Mirage / Particles of Light, would comprise structural arches stacked on top of each other to create an undulating topology incorporating retail, residential and office spaces, exhibition areas, a community centre, and a series of public courtyards and atriums surrounded by a green plaza. This project for the new retail zone seeks to participate fully within the larger master plan of a City. Located between Education City and Financial Center, the site plays a critical role in the future development of this city.

Reinterpreting the vibrant atmosphere and lively qualities of the traditional market, as well as the inherent beauty of vernacular Islamic architecture, the project is composed of a modular structural system of arches. Different sizes of arch modules (2.5, 5 and 10 meters) are stacked one on top of another depending on the program needs and the kind of space required. This simple system organizes the entire site, providing unity and coherence, as well as a unique and timeless architectural expression.

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Materials provided by Sou Fujimoto Architects