Arc501, Option Studio, 5th year Undergraduate

Topic: Beirut: Under Construction

Students:  Sara AlMahmoud, Maryam AlQassim

​Course Outcomes:

1. Apply independent research toward an architectural and/or urban design problem.

2. Demonstrate an understanding of the contextual relevance of an architectural/urban project.

3. Effectively read, write, and speak about the architectural design process.

4. Develop methodologies and techniques to address architectural solutions at a particular scale.

5. Develop a design research methodology and skills for critical thinking.

6. Interpret abstract ideas and apply them toward the design process.

 

The project involves four investigation options: (1) Martyrs’ Square, (2) the Grand Axis, (3) connective pedestrian infrastructure linking the city to its ruins, and (4) the Beirut Port explosion site. Students conduct research on Beirut’s history and politics using relevant readings. They also study the Beirut Civic Masterplan, particularly "Sector H, Martyrs’ Square Axis," aimed at reconnecting the city and improving its relationship with the waterfront.  Beirut represents resilience, shaped by its history and socio-political complexity. The studio focuses on pedestrian-centric architectural proposals for rebuilding Beirut, engaging with the city’s urban fabric, scarred by war and recent damage. Students critically examine culture, materiality, politics, and identity while exploring ways to reimagine Beirut beyond 2023.  The project sites have seen protests, celebrations, and war, marking political divisions during the Lebanese Civil War (1975–1990), especially the Green Line, which was a demarcation line during the Lebanese Civil War (1975–1990) that separated predominantly Muslim factions in West Beirut from predominantly Christian factions in East Beirut, the latter being controlled by the Lebanese Front. Recent destruction from the 2020 Beirut Port explosion adds to the challenges. The interventions address the scars of conflict, urban renewal, and the aspirations for a peaceful, economically stable future.