REAPPROPRIATE BEIRUT - the port for everyone
INSPITELLI 2022 - Architecture competition
PROBLEM AND PROPOSAL Only 0.5 percent of Beirut's neighborhoods include formally designated public space, making it a scarce resource inaccessible to the majority. Following this logic, my proposal encompasses new spatial networks, which could increase connectivity and accessibility within the city. This concept of the urban network will reconnect Beirut with the help of micro interventions aimed at sewing public space into the urban fabric through essential infrastructure services. By activating informal interspaces and spreading, the formation of a formal public space that can help as a catalyst for culture and education in the city.
GOAL The goal is to return the port space to the residents, by holding public and educational events that will promote social gatherings and facilitate their accessibility. Beirut would become a place of learning, which is not just an idea for the recovery of the port, but an open call for continued engagement and learning of the population.
CONCEPT DESCRIPTION The proposal seeks to create a situation in which individuals can retain autonomy and find refuge within the urban fabric of the port. The proposal forms an island / enclave in the heart of the city, cutting out territory from the existing terrain to achieve a special, isolated zone, relocated from the surrounding area to the coast. Programmatically, the island seeks to re-enable people to access the coast by forming a series of public spaces designed exclusively for the population - encouraging civic interaction. The project aims as creating housing typologies that can quickly house residents affected by the blast, the units are very adaptable and suitable for a large number of residents with different apartment configurations. Every floor includes a cafeteria and laundry and storage rooms, as well as diverse common spaces and working spaces for residents. The new passenger pavilion building is designed as a modern passenger space that will meet the current needs of passengers. It includes new docks for access to cruisers and smaller vessels. As such, it should be inviting, engaging and accessible from the park or water’s edge. The main form of is transparent, providing a gateway to the water and ease of use to those traveling by cruise or boats. Its entry aligns with the park’s main promenade and without impedance, brings the visitors to the water’s edge adjacent to the main ticketing, retail and waiting facilities of the terminal.
