Thesis Proposal Mason in Morocco Casablanca – Free Word Template Download with AI

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Institution: Faculty of Architecture and Urban Planning, University of Hassan II, Casablanca, Morocco

Date: October 26, 2023

This Thesis Proposal outlines a research investigation into the potential for integrating traditional masonry techniques with contemporary sustainable construction practices within the urban context of Morocco Casablanca. The study specifically examines how heritage masonry methods—rooted in Moroccan architectural tradition—can address pressing challenges in Casablanca's rapid urbanization, including environmental sustainability, cultural preservation, and economic viability of local craftsmanship. Focusing on Morocco Casablanca as the primary case study, this research proposes that a revival and adaptation of traditional masonry knowledge offers a viable path toward more resilient and culturally resonant urban development. The Thesis Proposal aims to develop actionable frameworks for architects, planners, and policymakers in Morocco Casablanca to incorporate these techniques into new infrastructure projects while respecting the city's unique architectural identity.

Morocco Casablanca, as the economic engine and largest city of Morocco, faces intense pressure from urban growth, environmental strain, and the erosion of cultural heritage. Current construction trends often prioritize speed and cost over sustainability and cultural continuity, leading to monotonous architectural landscapes that disregard local material wisdom. The term "Mason" here is understood not as a person but as a reference to the craft of masonry—the art and science of building with stone, brick, or other materials—a practice deeply embedded in Morocco's architectural history. This Thesis Proposal contends that overlooking traditional Moroccan masonry techniques represents a significant missed opportunity for sustainable urban development in Casablanca. The problem is twofold: 1) the environmental cost of imported, energy-intensive modern materials; and 2) the loss of skilled local craftsmanship and culturally meaningful architecture within Morocco Casablanca. This Thesis Proposal directly addresses these challenges by proposing a research-driven integration of traditional masonry into Casablanca's future development trajectory.

This Thesis Proposal sets forth the following specific objectives for the research:

1. To comprehensively document and analyze traditional Moroccan masonry techniques historically used in Casablanca, particularly those evident in heritage structures like the Habous district, historic medina areas, and landmarks such as the Hassan II Mosque.
2. To assess the environmental impact (carbon footprint, embodied energy) and economic feasibility of traditional masonry materials (e.g., local clay bricks, stone from nearby quarries) compared to modern alternatives in Casablanca's climate and context.
3. To evaluate the technical potential for adapting these traditional techniques for use in contemporary sustainable construction within Morocco Casablanca, focusing on durability, thermal performance, and seismic resilience.
4. To develop a practical framework or set of guidelines for architects, builders, and municipal authorities in Morocco Casablanca to effectively incorporate documented traditional masonry methods into new urban projects.

Existing scholarship on sustainable architecture in North Africa often emphasizes energy efficiency of building envelopes but frequently neglects the deep knowledge embedded in local construction traditions. Research by scholars like Taha (2015) on Moroccan vernacular architecture highlights masonry's role in passive cooling, yet this knowledge has not been systematically applied to Casablanca's dense urban fabric. Similarly, studies on urban development in Morocco (e.g., Bouziane, 2020) focus heavily on policy and infrastructure but overlook the potential of traditional craftsmanship for sustainable growth. This Thesis Proposal fills a critical gap by specifically targeting Morocco Casablanca as the operational context and focusing squarely on masonry as the technical and cultural bridge. It moves beyond merely documenting heritage to actively proposing its practical, modern application within a city facing urgent sustainability challenges.

This Thesis Proposal employs a mixed-methods approach designed for direct relevance to Morocco Casablanca:

• Qualitative Field Study: Document traditional masonry techniques through on-site visits, interviews with master masons (Sagouin) in Casablanca and surrounding regions, and analysis of existing buildings. Focus will be placed on techniques used in Casablanca's specific historical contexts.
• Material Analysis: Conduct laboratory testing of traditional materials (clay bricks, mortars, stone types) sourced near Casablanca to assess thermal performance, strength, and environmental impact against modern equivalents.
• Case Study Analysis: Evaluate recent sustainable building projects in Casablanca (or nearby cities like Rabat with similar contexts) that have attempted to incorporate traditional elements, identifying successes and barriers.
• Stakeholder Workshops: Organize co-creation workshops in Casablanca with architects, municipal planners (e.g., Urban Planning Department of Casablanca), mason guilds (Syndicats des Maçons), and environmental NGOs to develop practical adaptation guidelines.

This Thesis Proposal holds significant potential for Morocco Casablanca. The research outcomes are expected to directly contribute to:

• Cultural Preservation: Providing a roadmap for preserving tangible heritage through active use of traditional masonry skills, strengthening Casablanca's unique architectural identity against globalized development patterns.
• Sustainability Impact: Demonstrating how locally sourced masonry can significantly reduce the carbon footprint of construction in Morocco Casablanca, aligning with national sustainability goals and international climate commitments.
• Economic Development: Revitalizing the local mason workforce by creating demand for skilled traditional craftsmanship within modern sustainable projects, fostering green jobs in Morocco Casablanca's urban economy.
• Policy Influence: Generating evidence-based recommendations for municipal policies that incentivize or mandate the use of context-appropriate traditional masonry techniques in public and private developments across Morocco Casablanca.

The proposed research is structured over 18 months:

• Months 1-4: Comprehensive literature review and preparation of fieldwork protocols; initial stakeholder mapping in Casablanca.
• Months 5-9: Field documentation, material sampling, interviews with masons and heritage experts across Morocco Casablanca.
• Months 10-14: Laboratory analysis of materials; case study evaluation; first draft of adaptation framework.
• Months 15-18: Stakeholder workshops in Casablanca for feedback and refinement; final thesis writing and dissemination plan.

This Thesis Proposal presents a timely, locally grounded investigation into the vital role of masonry (understood as the craft) within Morocco Casablanca's sustainable urban future. By centering the research on Morocco Casablanca's specific heritage, challenges, and opportunities, it moves beyond generic sustainability discourse to offer actionable solutions rooted in place. The study directly addresses the critical need for development models that harmonize environmental responsibility, cultural continuity, and economic opportunity in a city at a pivotal moment of growth. This Thesis Proposal is not merely an academic exercise; it is a necessary step towards ensuring that Morocco Casablanca develops not just as a modern metropolis, but as one that honors its past while building its sustainable future through the enduring wisdom of traditional masonry. The successful execution of this research promises significant contributions to architecture, urban planning, and cultural preservation practices within Morocco and beyond.

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