This study presents a thorough historical analysis of El Hegaz Street to develop an understanding of the impact of political, economic and regulatory factors on Egyptian modernist architecture. The study explores the history of Heliopolis to establish the context followed by a more focused historical record of El Hegaz Street. Additionally, the prevailing architectural ideologies are introduced accompanied by an investigation into the appreciation of these modernist buildings. The architecture as an outcome is later explored through analysis of iconic landmarks and regular residential buildings to provide insight into the distinctive features and factors that shaped this style of architecture.