This is the final phase of a project to preserve and regenerate the historic commercial and residential Murad Khani neighbourhood of Kabul. It includes a dormitory for students of the Turquoise Mountain Institute for Afghan Arts and Architecture; restores homes and bazaar shops; and adds a design centre, ‘skybridge’ and a new karkhana (woodworking shop). The design centre uses a hands-on approach to make Afghan craft traditions economically viable and marketable. The traditionally styled karkhana ¬occupies the last remaining empty plot - helping prevent illegal appropriation - its construction site additionally being used for training in traditional building methods. The skybridge links two historic complexes: the Great Serai, at the heart of the institute, and the Double Column Serai where the design centre is located. Using traditional materials to repair historic structures and create innovative infill buildings, as well as providing training in time-honoured skills, it provides inspiration for other historic areas.

Source: Aga Khan Trust for Culture