Tunis Garden City: A New Era of Urban Development
Strategic Location and Vision
Situated between the heart of Tunis and Tunis Carthage International Airport, Tunis Garden City marks the first phase of a transformative masterplan that will reshape the city. This groundbreaking project will emerge on three artificial islands in the lake of Tunis, following the principles of a smart city. The design promotes sustainability, focusing on energy conservation, the integration of public and pedestrian transport, and maximizing green, walkable spaces.
A City Within a City
Tunis Garden City is envisioned as a “city within the city,” providing a harmonious urban space for residents to live, work, and enjoy life. Central to the project are terraces, green spaces, and both indoor and outdoor squares, all designed to foster a vibrant, community-oriented lifestyle. The development includes:
- A shopping center with a strong emphasis on leisure and dining experiences
- A 10,000-square-meter “green boulevard”
- A business-leisure hotel
- Offices and serviced apartments in three separate blocks facing the park
- Residential buildings and more office spaces tailored to local businesses
Architectural Inspiration and Concept
The architectural design draws from Tunis’ rich cultural heritage, taking inspiration from the city’s lagoon, historic medina, and Parisian-style boulevards. The shopping center introduces an innovative concept, where the transition between interior and exterior spaces blurs into garden terraces dedicated to food and beverages. Inside, the mall’s design mimics urban plazas and boulevards, creating shaded spaces for relaxation amidst vibrant shopping, wellness, and leisure activities.
The Mall: A Fusion of Urban and Natural Spaces
The mall’s design emphasizes natural light and connection to the outdoors. A large-scale skylight with a glulam timber structure covers 90% of the public circulation area, creating an “urban pergola” effect that allows sunlight to filter through. The mall is open and interconnected, much like the new city of Tunis, featuring 150 retail outlets spread over two floors. Shops and restaurants line both the indoor galleria and the outdoor boulevard, encouraging a seamless flow between spaces.
The Food Village, located on the mall’s north side, offers a unique culinary experience, combining traditional Tunisian recipes with modern interpretations. This food journey extends to outdoor terraces overlooking the main streets and pedestrian pathways, inviting visitors to explore both indoor and outdoor experiences.
Inviting Design for Community Engagement
The design incorporates two large glass canopies and 20-meter full-height glazed facades on the east and west sides, providing multiple entry points. These entrances invite families and the community to engage with the space, creating a welcoming atmosphere for all.
Three buildings positioned opposite the green boulevard help scale down the impact of the mall’s volume, adding a dynamic, urban character to the development.
Biophilic and Sustainable Design
Tunis Garden City incorporates biophilic design principles, which integrate natural elements such as light, vegetation, and views into the modern built environment. Drawing on traditional local designs, the buildings feature courtyards and open terraces to promote natural ventilation and control solar gain, while maintaining privacy and shading through the use of modern mashrabiya screens.
Inspired by local materials and techniques, the external finishes are bright and warm, with bronzed aluminum screens, carved plaster walls, local limestone flooring, and an organic color palette. Artisanal elements are also integrated into the interior design, paying homage to Tunisian craftsmanship while maintaining a contemporary aesthetic.
Sustainability and ESG Principles
The development adheres to Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) principles, ensuring that the project is not only financially viable but also socially responsible. The design encourages the use of sustainable resources, biodiversity, and efficiency in energy, water, and waste management. Additionally, the project aims to integrate the local community by creating over 5,000 direct and indirect jobs, supporting the local market and employment.
A Post-COVID Renaissance for Tunis
Ultimately, Tunis Garden City will serve as a symbol of Tunisia’s post-COVID renaissance, representing a new era of urban living. This development will not only transform the landscape of Tunis but also set new standards for future urban projects across the region.