Architect and anthropologist Salima Naji works with traditional construction processes, adapting them for contemporary needs. he varied vernacular traditions of Morocco-clay, stone, wood, palm fronds and other fibers-can be re-purposed in a contemporary mode of construction that is sustainable, preserves local knowledge, and elevates the role of the traditional artisan.
She received her Ph.D. in anthropology from the École des Hautes Études en Sciences Sociales, Paris, and her degree in Architecture from l’École d’architecture de Paris-La-Villette.
In the most recent cycle (2013) her project for the Preservation of Collective Oases and Sacred Sites in southern Morocco was shortlisted for the Aga Khan Award for Architecture, and in 2011 she was part of the design team for the Teaching and Training Center in Chwiter, a Marrakech suburb, that won the Bronze Holcim Award for sustainable construction.
Salima Naji has also authored several books on vernacular architecture and the rescue of built heritage in southern Morocco, most recently most recently, Ksar d'Assa. Suvegarde d'un port du Maroc saharien (2013), documenting efforts to preserve and restore the Qsar in southern Morocco. Other works include Art et architectures berbères (2001), and Greniers collectifs de l’Atlas (2006).
SOURCES:
"Biographie." Salima Naji. Accessed March 05, 2015. http://www.salimanaji.org/about.html.
"Salima Naji." Centre Jacques-Berque. Accessed March 05, 2015. http://www.cjb.ma/32-recherche/34-associes/328-salima-naji.html.
