Ismaïl Mohammed Street 20

Cairo, Egypt

This two-level high-rise building contains a number of stores on the ground floor and five storeys of apartments. The rectangular-shaped and symmetrical facade is extended by two vertical “avant-corps” which dominate the elevation. 

The two volumes are opened with rectangular windows and present fluted engaged pillars with a stylised vegetal pattern at the top. The central part of the facade includes a range of balconies with two typological features: balusters or wrought iron. The elevation is dominated by a cornice with an interlacing frieze. There is a marked contrast between the imposing aspect of “the avant-corps” amplified by the engaged columns, and the wealth of its ornamental repertoire such as stylised vegetal motifs. The architect remains unknown, but we found the same decorative design at 26 Yehia Ibrahim Street.