Beirut Residential Architectures_ At the source of modernity 1840-1940_ 16.07.22 / 16.08.22
In collaboration with Beirut Heritage Initiative and the French Ministry of Culture
Gouraud Street_ Beirut_ Lebanon
The exhibition traces the beginnings of the westernization of Beirut’s domestic architecture between the end of the 19th century and the end of the Second World War, which saw the emergence of the suburban family house, known as the ‘Beiruti house’, and its evolution into an urban apartment building. This period of transition between tradition and modernity, combines local know-how and imported materials, while integrating stylistic pluralism and technical innovations.
The focus is on the pericentral neighborhoods where there is the highest aggregation of late Ottoman and French Mandate buildings, severely affected by the port explosion of August 4, 2020. The exhibition aims at raising awareness of the reality of a heritage site in danger, instilling a social, cultural and economic dynamic with the aim of revitalizing neighborhood life; and beyond, at encouraging the consolidation, repair and conservation of affected heritage buildings.
In memory of Assem Salam_ President of the Order of Engineers and Architects_ Beirut (1924-2012)
In memory of Dr. Robert Saliba who passed away shortly after the opening of this exhibition_ Beirut (1950-2022)
Collaborators _BEIRUT HERITAGE INITIATIVE
Curator _Dr. Robert Saliba
Scenography _Ghaith Abou Ghanem, Jad Melki (GHAITH&JAD)
Collaborator _Arin Aprahamian
Graphic Designer _Richard Kahwaji
BHI Director _Fadlo Dagher
BHI Coordinator _Yasmine Dagher
Photography _Joe Khoury
Sponsors _French Ministry of Culture
_French Ministry of Ecological Transition
Support _OEA Order of Engineers and Architects Beirut
_Beirut Urban Lab