End-of-Study Master's Project - Individual | 2022
Beirut, Lebanon
The "Electricité Du Liban" building and the Mar Mikhael district are currently undergoing significant transformation, spurred by the devastation wrought by the 2020 explosion. With both, the tower and the surrounding neighborhood razed, a blank canvas has emerged, offering the opportunity to shape a new future. Positioned on a 16,000m2 plot at the convergence of key arteries within the district, EDL stands as a symbol of potential regeneration in the heart of the burgeoning city. Beyond its physical presence, the EDL building holds the promise of becoming a focal point for communal engagement, cultural exchange, and artistic expression. Envisaged as a dynamic space, it could host a myriad of activities, from social gatherings and creative endeavors to performances and exhibitions. Moreover, this landmark has the potential to transcend its symbolic significance, catalyzing innovative urban design and collaborative efforts aimed at reimagining public spaces and fostering a sense of community cohesion amidst the transformation.
MASS PLAN
GROUND FLOOR PLAN
TYPICAL FLOOR PLANS
The Mar Mikhael district inspired us to implement an appealing educational program complemented by a variety of public activities. A School of Fine Arts will be established in this building to democratize art and make it accessible to everyone.
Urban transparency will be achieved by conceptualizing the ground level horizontally and employing stairs to create new experiential urban platforms. These platforms will provide a broad stage for creativity and theatricality, enhancing quality of life, and promoting civility.
circulation and program diagram
South Elevation & CROSS SECTION
The arrangement of the stairs and bleachers in the esplanade is situated adjacent to and perpendicular to a principal axis, which extends from a crucial architectural feature of the "Electricité du Liban" building: the vertical circulation. This axis, integrated into the project, will serve both the public and the entire community that has revitalized the urban landscape of the district around the concept of the Agora. The public space formed in the North will be the hub of all interactions, facilitating a series of spatial sequences.
