Louna Aissi’s work is not only an effort to design a cultural centre that provides for the existing local Moroccan community of North Kensington, London but also to invite curious visitors with a warm welcome. Golborne Road – known as “Little Morocco” due to its local population and businesses – stretches from Kensal Green to the heavily tourist-visited Portobello Road. From Casablanca’s European art deco touch, to water-permeable vernacular Berber structures to the distinct geometric of Islamic architecture, Aissi examined varying facets of Morocco’s architectural landscape, seeking to reference the country’s various influences. Subverting the traditional inversion of Moroccan buildings (which are inward-facing and lack decorative façade) and opening the ground level with archways and glass façade, Aissi ensured that the centre was inviting and appealing. Dividing the building into levels for different purposes, Aissi set out to provide spaces that could be enriching and educational as well as recreational. The centre holds a café, screening room, exhibition space showcasing Moroccan creatives and a dedicated level for workshops and a study area. The rooftop is evocative of the Moroccan terrace with its wall edge detailing referencing Berber symbols, while a traditional star-shaped fountain and atrium cuts through the structure of the building.
BA (Hons) Interior and Spatial Design
Louna Aissi
