Ecological Desert Landscape Project | French University of Egypt

French University of Egypt
Dry Garden in Egypt

The garden at the French University in Cairo greets students and professors as the first touchpoint of French hospitality, a symbol of connection between cultures. Inspired by the vast and ever-changing desert landscapes, this ecological garden design offers a refuge in an arid environment, showcasing how thoughtful landscape architecture can bring life to even the most inhospitable climates.

Oasis of Biodiversity in a Desert Landscape

Shaped by the ancient movements of the Nile, the desert has gradually evolved into a space that holds the memory of water. The French University of Egypt garden embraces this history, drawing inspiration from the oases that have appeared along the wadis, where water once flowed and allowed vegetation to thrive. The landscape has been sculpted to symbolize the flow of water, with paths and features mimicking the natural channels that sustain life.

This project aligns with the broader architectural vision for the university, designed by Jakob + MacFarlane. You can explore more about their work for the French University of Egypt here and in this detailed AMC Architecture article.

The oasis-garden concept celebrates the ability of water to transform a barren desert into a sanctuary of biodiversity. Drought-resistant plants and local species have been carefully selected to highlight the resilience and adaptability of desert ecosystems, ensuring that the garden thrives with minimal water usage.