Karantina 2.0

Palestine polytechnic university

Project idea

Today, Karantina is a diverse and bustling neighborhood, home to a mix of residential, commercial, and industrial activities. It is known for its vibrant street art scene, its historic architecture, and its lively markets and shops.

However, like many parts of Beirut, Karantina continues to face a number of challenges, including poverty, unemployment, and urban decay. The area has also been affected by recent political and economic crises in Lebanon, which have led to increased social unrest and instability.

The redesign of the area streets and renovation of the buildings can be accompanied by a comprehensive urban design plan that incorporates various elements to make the area more vital in the city. One potential design could include a mix of a market, a memorial park, a linear park, a sports area, a theater, and a multifunctional building.

Project description

by improving pedestrian safety and accessibility. This could include measures such as sidewalk widening, and adding crosswalks or bike lanes.

as well as Renovate the existing buildings in the area to improve their aesthetic appeal, functionality, and energy efficiency. This could involve updating facades, adding green spaces, and retrofitting for sustainability.

also, Transform the area into a vibrant and desirable location within the city, focusing on attracting new businesses, residents, and visitors.

finally, Segregate the area from the port to reduce noise, pollution, and other negative impacts. This could involve physical barriers such as walls or fences, or changes to traffic patterns or truck routes.

Technical information

The objective of the urban rehabilitation project in the Karantina district of Beirut is to revitalize the area and improve its livability, infrastructure, and socio-economic conditions. The project aims to restore and enhance the urban fabric while promoting sustainable development and preserving the district's historical and cultural heritage.

our project includes the following components:

Infrastructure Upgrades:
a. Road and transportation network improvement, including widening of roads, construction of pedestrian-friendly walkways, and dedicated cycling lanes.
b. Upgrading and expanding the existing sewage and drainage systems to ensure efficient water management and prevent flooding.
c. Rehabilitation of the water supply network, including the replacement or repair of aging pipes and the installation of water meters for efficient consumption monitoring.
d. Installation of an efficient and sustainable public lighting system to enhance safety and security.

Public Spaces:
a. Restoration and redevelopment of public squares, parks, and green spaces to provide recreational areas for residents and visitors.
b. Integration of urban furniture, such as benches, waste bins, and bike racks, to improve the functionality and aesthetics of public spaces.
c. Planting of trees and landscaping to enhance the environmental quality and create a more visually appealing district.

Building Rehabilitation:
a. Identification and assessment of historical and culturally significant buildings for restoration, in compliance with preservation guidelines and regulations.
b. Renovation of dilapidated or damaged buildings to ensure structural integrity, while preserving their architectural heritage.
c. Retrofitting of buildings to improve energy efficiency, including insulation, installation of solar panels, and use of sustainable materials.
d. Provision of necessary amenities and services, such as elevators, ramps for accessibility, and communal spaces for social interaction.

Socio-Economic Development:
a. Support for local businesses and entrepreneurship through the establishment of business incubators, co-working spaces, and training programs.
b. Promotion of cultural and creative industries to stimulate economic growth and attract tourism.
c. Provision of community facilities, such as community centers, healthcare clinics, and educational institutions, to enhance the quality of life for residents.

Stakeholder Engagement and Participation:
a. Conducting community consultations and involving local residents, businesses, and other stakeholders in the decision-making process.
b. Raising awareness about the project's objectives, progress, and benefits through regular communication and outreach programs.

Sustainability:
a. Integration of sustainable urban design principles, such as rainwater harvesting, green building practices, and waste management systems.
b. Promotion of public transportation and non-motorized modes of transport to reduce reliance on private vehicles and minimize carbon emissions.
c. Encouragement of recycling and waste reduction practices through the provision of recycling bins and awareness campaigns.

It is essential to note that the technical specifications for each component should be developed in collaboration with relevant experts, engineers, and architects, considering the local context, regulations, and best practices in urban rehabilitation. The specifications should also adhere to safety standards and environmental regulations.