Proposed Post-Pandemic Design Guidelines for Design Districts

Abstract

This paper delves into bridging the gap between theory and implementation in the context of post-pandemic workplace design. It examines challenges and solutions in translating theoretical principles into practical architectural applications. The global impact of COVID-19 has underscored the need to address workplace design to mitigate virus transmission risks and create safer environments. Workplaces, due to their high occupancy, can facilitate virus spread, prompting international health organizations to release pandemic-related standards. These standards have influenced the redesign of internal workspaces, necessitating adaptation to new safety measures. This study explores post-pandemic design principles for workplace layouts and their significance for architectural firms striving to provide safer workplaces while adhering to new guidelines. It offers an overview of workplace safety measures in the Design District, a unique creative hub in Egypt. This district showcases innovative design features aligned with the pandemic-induced changes, encompassing offices, showrooms, exhibits, entertainment spaces, serviced apartments, and various amenities. The study underscores the incorporation of key criteria like accessibility, transportation, safety, population density, surroundings, views, air quality, noise, and technology. Additionally, it emphasizes the expansion of space dimensions, circulation, indoor/outdoor connections, technology integration, and biophilic elements due to infection concerns. The objective is to create a healthy, safe, and adaptable environment. To achieve this, the research employs a mixed-methods approach involving a literature review, questionnaires, interviews with industry experts, case studies, and data analysis. This multifaceted approach aims to comprehensively understand modified design guidelines and their implications post-pandemic. The paper’s outcome will provide enhanced design solutions, offering a detailed comparative analysis between pre- and post-pandemic spaces. Such an analysis is crucial to elevating operational efficiency and development in projects like the Design District. The ultimate goal is to create spaces that are resilient and optimized for evolving challenges.