This paper discusses the problem of deteriorated visual character of urban contexts surrounding historic sites in Egypt. Although radical intervention policies, such as clearance of such areas or their comprehensive development, could be effective, they are not always feasible due to economic, social and political obstacles. Therefore, the study aims at formulating a framework to upgrade the character of these contexts by modifying and improving the visual features of collective façades without demolitions. The proposed framework was applied to the urban background of the Avenue of Sphinxes connecting Karnak and Luxor temples, which was uncovered after the removal of the buildings that were standing above it. As a result, a huge linear space has appeared, flanked by rows of inhomogeneous buildings. This research demonstrates the experience of applying the suggested framework to upgrade the visual character of these buildings and evaluate the efficiency of the proposed solutions after their implementation. |
