This project falls within the context of a broader research endeavor by CLUSTER, exploring the network of Cairo’s Downtown passages. These passageways offer an alternative framework for the development and revitalization of Downtown.

Philips Passage is an L-shaped space connecting Sherif and Adly Streets. It offers an opportunity to engage diverse activities: with its mix of retail, food, entertainment and service uses. It also occupies a unique setting between privately owned and public access, pedestrian traffic amenities, and infrastructure. The Philips passage suffered from the chronic, but typical, encroachment into the public domain by shops and street vendors.

This passageway redevelopment project emerged from a design workshop held in April 2014, organized collaboratively by CLUSTER with DEDI and CKU, exploring art and design interventions in two passageways in Downtown Cairo: the Kodak and Phillips Passageways. The outcome of the design workshop selected by a juried review was the “Light Oasis” for the Philips Passage. CLUSTER oversaw the design development and implementation of this scheme, bringing marquee lighting and the possibility for film screenings to a previously dark and decaying space. CLUSTER’s redesign of the Philips Passageway promotes improved accessibility and safety.