(5) Sustainable Preservation of Nation's Heritage in Downtown Beirut

Some of the Architectural Characteristics Used in the Project

When it comes to the architectural design or better, the Concept of the project, I tried to take into account its particular location among existing buildings in its surroundings and the unique archaeological and architectural value they represent.

These edifices were cited in a previous post from my blog here, but I will just list them here by name:

• St. George’s Maronite Cathedral to the south,
• Prince Assaf Mosque to the north,
• and St. George’s Orthodox Church to the west
• in addition to the archaeological excavations, as I define it as a focal point for the rest of the project's sections;

The central circle around which these sections revolved, and the center of the circle was the starting point for linear beams that had two mostly goals; (see Img. below)

View of the mass plan indicating clearly the concept described here, in this post.

- The first is structural - it was relied upon to load all the architectural elements (walkways, roofs, etc...) However, distorting discovered antiquities by embedding them with concrete columns won't work and is undesirable.

- The second goal is architectural, as I made these linear beams or carrying bridge rays originating from the heart of the past and the ancient heritage of the city of Beirut, and here it is a metaphorical expression to embody the idea. These rays are heading toward a bright and prosperous future. We all learnt from the renowned quote:

"There is no bright future for a community if it ignores, hides, or forgets its past and history and do not preserve them."

As for the facade or the elevation located directly on the Martyrs' Square, it is effectively in harmony with the history of that place, and the surrounding buildings, which symbolize historical and heritage meanings for all segments of Lebanese society. (See Img. below)

Proposal for the front elevation of the project.

My concept was referring clearly to the contemporary and modern architectural character; The outer wall, which was directly connected to the external environment, had a traditional character and was treated with white natural stone.

My concept consisted of creating that skin wall to make a feeling of connection between the past and the future. Behind it, came the actual wall that concealed and encased the glass and metal that symbolized modernity and the future.

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The abundant use of light-reflecting glass in the elevations has its reason; it is due to the presence of the traditional and ancient edifices-landmarks that surround the site, which are numerous in this area. So then, the image of these constructions will reflect on the glass of the facades. The result is, from what we do not know or know, a wonderful blend of the old-restored, and the modern building.

Model view of the final proposal. Note the archaeological park with its circular-shaped coverings that include pathways over the finds for the visitors to have plenty of views over them. However, the actual project prohibits this feature.

Components of the Proposed Project and Its Objectives

So then, the proposed project encloses various activities and components aimed at achieving the overarching goal of preserving Beirut's heritage within its natural environment. Starting with those basics, I developed a series of objectives and targets to be adopted:

1. Conservation and Restoration: Implementing meticulous conservation and restoration techniques to safeguard archaeological sites and artifacts from environmental degradation and human intervention, was the main target of such a huge project.
2. Public Awareness and Education: Launching educational initiatives and outreach programs to raise awareness among the public about the significance of Beirut in the preservation of the nation's heritage in general, and the importance of its protection for future generations.
3. Sustainable Development: Promoting sustainable urban development practices that prioritize heritage conservation while accommodating the needs of a modern society.
4. Community Engagement: Fostering active involvement and participation of local communities in the preservation efforts, ensuring their ownership and commitment to safeguarding their cultural heritage.
5. Policy Advocacy: Supporting the formulation and implementation of policies and regulations that prioritize heritage conservation and integrate it into urban planning frameworks.

As for the other standard facilities that can be included within the project, it will not be difficult to choose between entertainment and cultural knowledge; And the examples are so numerous and various as we cannot list it all here.

Today, different views of the open site after completing the management of the open spaces are reserved for displaying the archaeological area and its discoveries. Image Source: Solidere.com

Importance of Sustainable Preservation

Preserving Beirut's heritage within its natural environment is not merely a matter of preserving relics of the past, but safeguarding the identity and soul of a city. By embracing a holistic approach that balances conservation with development, we can ensure that future generations inherit a Beirut that is rich in history, culture, and environmental sustainability.

As we embark on this endeavor, let us remember that the true essence of preservation lies not in isolation but in integration, weaving the threads of the past into the fabric of the present, and creating a legacy that endures for generations to come.

With a commitment to sustainability and reverence for our shared heritage, we can pave the way for a brighter future—one where the echoes of Beirut's glorious past resonate harmoniously within its bustling streets and verdant landscapes.

In the end, by prioritizing the preservation of Beirut's heritage within its natural environment, we honor the legacy of those who came before us and lay the foundation for a more resilient and culturally vibrant city. Together, let us embark on this journey of preservation and renewal, ensuring that Beirut's heritage remains a source of inspiration and pride for generations to come.