AL QASIM FOUNDATION

The Samih al-Qasim Museum & Cultural Centre is a profound architectural tribute to the renowned Palestinian poet, nestled within the ecological heart of a sloped landscape. Operating under the premise that architecture should follow the land, the design integrates ancient hypogean chambers with contemporary overground volumes, creating a symbolic journey that transitions from darkness to light.

Our methodology utilized advanced drone mapping and LiDAR data to harmonize the structure with the terrain’s topography and solar radiation through data-driven "Landscape Tensions," ensuring a fluid transition between the built environment and the natural geology. The planting scheme, inspired by the "Sirbiyya" (flock) poetry genre, features a rhythmic distribution of Mediterranean flora, including damascus roses, lemon trees, and lavender, meticulously optimized for the site’s water-demand patterns. As a vibrant cultural hub, the museum bridges the gap between human experience and the environment, standing as a landmark in innovative, biodiversity-focused architecture that honors the poet’s legacy through a sophisticated fusion of cutting-edge technology and site-specific narratives.