Rehabilitation of Ain Shams Campus Main Theatre, Cairo, Egypt

In Cairo, Ain Shams University chose to renovate an abandoned lecture hall by transforming it, rather than replacing it. Guided by Prof. Dr. Gamal El-Kholy and façade designer Eng. Ahmed El-Maghraby, the project turned an old building into a cultural landmark that honors its past while serving a new purpose.

The concept draws from the idea of a theatre curtain – an opening gesture that welcomes the public. A glass curtain wall reflects the campus and brings in natural light, while a layer of flowing, parametric aluminium louvers adds rhythm and movement, shifting with the viewer’s angle and daylight. This dynamic façade sets the building apart, yet still connects it to its surroundings. Inside, a 550-seat theatre supports performances, lectures, and community events, while two large lecture halls for 1.200 students preserve the building’s academic role.

By renovating rather than rebuilding, the project embraces sustainability and shows how architecture can evolve with its community.