Lebanon

Project Status: Complete
Year of completion: 2019
Location: Lebanon

Fit out Cost: 150,000 USD
Area: 600m2

Project Description:
The design of this project focused on creating a book gallery spatial concept that manifests BAU’s long history of outstanding academia and exchange of knowledge. It focused on creating a tailored timeless design that manifests the time-honored value of the university. Through focusing on textures, layers and well-appointed materials, the atmosphere of the gallery reflected the design concept precisely.

Lebanon

Client: Beirut Arab University
Location: Lebanon
Total Area: 600 m²

Completion Year: 2019
Construction Cost: 150,000 USD

Challenge:
Creating a book gallery is no small feat, especially when it must encapsulate Beirut Arab University’s storied academic legacy while also being a space that inspires, engages, and maybe even convinces someone to pick up a book instead of scrolling through their phone. The challenge was to craft an environment that celebrates the exchange of knowledge while maintaining a sophisticated yet inviting atmosphere.

Approach:
Instead of merely designing a place to store books, the project focused on curating an experience. The interior was meticulously planned with layers of textures, carefully chosen materials, and an interplay of light and shadow that evokes the passage of time, like an ancient manuscript coming to life in modern form. Every detail was intended to speak to the university’s heritage, yet maintain an air of timeless elegance. The result? A book gallery so well-designed, even those who haven’t touched a book in years might feel compelled to meander through the aisles in awe (and possibly even read a page or two).

Impact:
The Beirut Arab University Book Gallery now stands as more than just a repository of books, it is a living, breathing tribute to the institution’s academic legacy. With its refined design and thought-provoking spatial arrangement, it invites visitors to engage with knowledge in a way that feels both grand and intimate. Ultimately, it serves as a quiet yet profound reminder that books are not just objects, but vessels of ideas, culture, and the occasional late-night cram session fueled by caffeine and existential dread.

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Lebanon

Client: Al Maabar International
Location: Amman – Jordan

Total Built-up Area: 107,600 m²
Construction Cost: N/A
Start Date: 2008
Completion Date: 2008

Challenge:
The Khalda Submittals Project was conceived with the goal of breaking away from the traditional, monotonous architectural styles prevalent in Amman and transforming the urban landscape. The challenge lay in creating a vibrant hub for shopping and entertainment that could resonate with both the local community and visitors, offering a distinctive and engaging experience while integrating seamlessly with the city’s fabric.

Approach:
The design of the Khalda Project drew inspiration from the natural wonder of Petra, specifically its narrow ‘Siq’ pathway that leads to the Treasury. Emulating this iconic feature, the project features an urban pathway that acts as the heart of the development, cutting through a six-floor high structure. This pathway is lined with interactive shops and facades, creating a dynamic public space. By designing a flowing, pedestrian-friendly space at the core, the project fosters a vibrant connection between the commercial offerings and the city beyond, offering a unique experience that bridges the past with the present.

Impact:
The Khalda Submittals Project has reshaped the urban landscape of Amman by introducing a bold and innovative design that challenges conventional architecture. Its creation of an engaging, pedestrian-centric space has transformed it into a lively destination that fosters social interaction and promotes a sense of community. Through its design, the project not only enhances the city’s architectural diversity but also creates a lasting landmark, positioning Khalda as a pivotal shopping and entertainment hub in Amman, elevating its regional and international appeal.

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Lebanon

Client: Solidere
Location: Beirut – Lebanon

Total Built-up Area: 30,000 m²
Construction Cost: US $22,000,000
Starting Date: 2003
Completion Date: 2006

Challenge:
Situated in the historic Wadi Abu Jmeel district in the heart of Beirut, the project required a delicate balance between modern luxury and deep-rooted architectural heritage. The challenge was to design a high-end residential complex that respects the historical and cultural significance of the area while offering a contemporary living experience. The project also needed to integrate multiple apartment blocks cohesively while maintaining a strong architectural identity that resonates with Beirut’s past and future.

Approach:
The design took inspiration from traditional Lebanese architecture, incorporating elements such as layered façades, natural stone cladding, and interwoven public plazas. The apartment blocks were carefully articulated to create a harmonious composition of levels, allowing for a fluid transition between private and communal spaces. A defining feature of the project is its outward-facing character, with a series of balconies positioned to frame distinct views of the built and natural surroundings of Beirut. The internal courtyards and interlinked plazas were designed to foster a sense of community, while the use of modern materials ensured durability, efficiency, and long-term sustainability.

Impact:
The Wadi Abu Jmeel Residence stands as a testament to the fusion of heritage and modernity, offering a refined living environment that preserves the spirit of Beirut’s historic urban fabric. By blending traditional Lebanese design elements with contemporary technology, the project strengthens the architectural identity of the district while enhancing the residential experience. With its carefully composed volumes and rich materiality, the development redefines urban luxury while maintaining a profound connection to the past, ensuring its relevance for generations to come.

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Sketches

Lebanon

Client: Mr. Saqr
Location: Bhamdoun, Lebanon

Total Built-up Area: 950 sq.m
Construction Cost: US $1,200,000
Starting Date: 2004
Completion Date: 2004

Challenge:
Set on a steeply sloped site in Bhamdoun, this villa required an architectural approach that harmonized with the natural topography while embracing Mediterranean influences. The challenge was to ensure fluid spatial organization within a complex terrain while preserving privacy and openness through carefully planned courtyard interactions. Additionally, integrating traditional Mediterranean architectural elements in a contemporary residential context required a balance between structural efficiency and aesthetic richness.

Approach:
The design by Dar Al Omran – Rasem Badran (DAO-Badran) was shaped around two primary courtyards, creating a structured yet organic spatial hierarchy. The closed courtyard acted as a private retreat, with the residence’s private spaces oriented toward it, while the open courtyard served as a transitional space connecting semi-private areas, enhancing the villa’s sense of openness. The villa’s massing was composed of regular geometric volumes, complemented by Mediterranean architectural features such as arches, pergolas, and pitched roofs, which softened the structure’s presence within the landscape. The integration of water features and greenery further reinforced a dialogue between built and natural elements, ensuring the villa remained visually and environmentally harmonious within its surroundings.

Impact:
The Saqr Residence successfully reinterprets Mediterranean architecture within the mountainous terrain of Bhamdoun, offering a timeless residential experience that embraces both privacy and openness. By seamlessly integrating traditional design elements with contemporary planning, the villa achieves a balance between cultural authenticity and modern functionality. Through its harmonious relationship with the landscape, architectural elegance, and refined spatial composition, the residence stands as a testament to the enduring appeal of Mediterranean-inspired living, enriched by thoughtful design and natural integration.

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Lebanon

Client: Civil Planning Directorate
Location: Sidon, Lebanon

Total Site Area: 4 km²
Construction Cost: US $300,000,000
Starting Date: 1997
Completion Date: 1999

Challenge
The Sidon Seafront Development Master Plan aimed to rejuvenate the city’s waterfront while preserving its historical character. The challenge was to create an urban model that integrated contemporary development with the old city’s fabric, maintaining cultural authenticity while enhancing public spaces and economic vitality.

Approach
Winning an international competition, the master plan proposed a balanced urban model that respected Sidon’s rich history and architectural evolution. It introduced multipurpose squares and pedestrian-friendly spaces while maintaining a cohesive architectural language that blended new structures with traditional elements. The waterfront was revitalized to serve as a cultural and commercial hub, enhancing public accessibility and fostering economic opportunities.

Impact
The project redefined Sidon’s waterfront as a dynamic, multi-use destination that preserves its heritage while embracing modern urban planning principles. By establishing a strong connection between the old city and the seafront, the master plan contributed to the city’s economic regeneration, cultural enrichment, and long-term urban sustainability.

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Sketches