Lebanese Folklore Performing Art Center

Beirut Arab university, Faculty of Architecture, Tripoli

Project idea

"Lebanese Folklore Performing Arts Centre" is a cultural endeavor aimed to promoting Lebanon's rich heritage via the performing arts. It is located in the north of Lebanon and serves as a colorful combination of tradition and modernity, bringing the country's folklore to life. Lebanon, with its rich history and diverse culture, has always been a source of artistic expression.

The theme of the project is "Sustainability and Stewardship". The project emphasizes responsible resource management and ethical use, protecting natural, financial, and informational assets for present and future generations. This approach ensures the viability of natural habitats and the preservation of historical sites for cultural heritage. Practically, this theme is reflected in the sustainable maintenance of the natural environment, the ethical and efficient management of financial resources, and the preservation of cultural heritage for future generations.

The center will be located in Smar-Jbeil, north Lebanon, beside the citadel. The name Smar-Jbeil means "guardian of Jbeil," reflecting its historical role in guarding and observing Jbeil, especially its citadel. Built by the Phoenicians, the citadel was later transformed into a patriarchate and, during the Islamic period, into a mosque. Over time, the citadel became neglected, which is the primary issue this project seeks to address.

The cultural center aims to offer diverse experiences through performances, workshops, crafts shops, and exhibits. It seeks to revitalize the neglected citadel and surrounding area to enhance tourist appeal while promoting sustainability through environmentally conscious design. Additionally, it aims to stimulate economic growth and job creation and inspire future generations to preserve cultural heritage.

Inspired by Lebanon's enduring spirit and cultural richness, our vision is to create a seamless fusion of architectural brilliance and heritage. We pay homage to Lebanon's resilient history while embracing future potential. Lebanon's unmatched beauty and cultural significance deserve a grand celebration of its timeless legacy and boundless possibilities.

The Lighthouse naturally arose as an essential vertical counterpoint, marking the cultural territory of the site. It becomes a landmark, an urban and territorial signifier, and a meeting and gathering point. While the bell tower or minaret represents a call to prayer, the Lighthouse is a call to culture. It serves as a terrestrial counterpart to the coastal lighthouse of Smar-Jbeil.

Project description

A visionary cultural center in Smar-Jbeil, Lebanon, blending historical heritage with modern sustainability. This project revitalizes the area by celebrating Lebanese folklore through performances, workshops, crafts shops, and exhibits, while promoting environmental stewardship and community engagement.

The theatre, situated on the first level, will boast an innovative inclined roof that seamlessly transforms into an outdoor amphitheater, offering a unique viewing experience. As visitors ascend from the first level to the citadel, they will embark on an exhibition journey where the historical significance of the exhibits deepens with each step. Engaging workshops will be available, focusing on performances, culinary arts, and traditional crafts, alongside a captivating history-telling room. The shops will evoke the charm of an old souk, where visitors can purchase traditional clothing, accessories, crafts, and savor delicious Lebanese cuisine. This project will become a vibrant folkloric cultural gateway to the citadel, breathing new life into the historical site.

Technical information

The project incorporates various key structural systems to ensure stability, efficiency, and aesthetic appeal. For the minimalistic spaces, a flat slab structure system will be employed, transferring loads directly to supporting concrete columns. In contrast, large spaces will utilize a steel frame structure system, featuring vertical steel columns and horizontal I-beams arranged in a rectangular grid to support floors, roofs, and walls.