Plot #4371

Designed by Bernard Khoury / DW5

Beirut, Lebanon

Photographed in 2017

Plot # 4371 is the first development of its kind in Lebanon. The project aims at providing non-typical working/ living lofts for the emerging creative scene in Beirut. The site consists of a 1.200m2 plateau in a district that is in the process of gentrification and urban renewal, attracting alternative programs and activities such as the “Beirut Art Center” which just opened its doors to the public as well as new developments that consist of rehabilitating old industrial structures into residential apartments.

The circular floor slabs are organized around a central circulation core which is defined by an octagonal void that runs throughout the building. A 30m2 rotating platform moves vertically within the void and acts as a freight elevator which serves all the studios individually providing direct vehicular access to every loft for moving large scale works of arts, musical instruments, collectors cars… When not in use, the moving platform rests at ground level giving way for a large central atrium that provides natural light and ventilation to the landings at all floors.