Andrea Vattovani Architecture has released the final design of their “glocal” dedicated mixed-use building in Beirut, following winning the competition for a mixed-use development in the centre of the city.

The project, Retro67, is inspired by the old town of Beirut. The architects reinterpreted elements of the new building’s surrounding environment, aiming to communicate its strong relation to the city. Urban aspects were important to accentuate the perspectives from the street, to respect the appearance of the city and improve it.

The curved façade and ethereal curtains are a nod to the architecture of Beirut's established buildings. Image credit iddqd and Andrea Vattovani Architecture.

One of the key elements is the round corner; the architects noted that this seems to be a characteristic of Beirut's architecture. The curved façade of Retro67 reflects this element but is also a solution to the awkward shape of the plot. The strong design concept is simple and coherent with the studio’s style while reflecting the aspects of Beirut that impressed the architects most. “Every project we design starts with a thorough research of the place we are working at, because every place has a unique story to tell,” says Andrea Vattovani.

Due to Beirut’s high number of sunshine hours, it was vital for the architects to protect the building from direct light and heat. Drawing from the local context and sticking to tradition, they selected the ethereal curtains to prevent overheating throughout the day and offer the residents privacy at night.

The greenery incorporated into the design of Retro67 is featured on every terrace integrating flowers and foliage and offering the possibility of growing a vertical garden, which gives the open façade a vivacious look.

The architects designed this project for Masharii und Archstone Capital. Andrea Vattovani Architecture is an architectural studio based in Austria. Since its founding in 2008, AVA has worked on a variety of projects, each with the responsibility to improve a city’s quality by creating real solutions through architecture.

For more information including additional photos and architect’s diagrams, visit the Andrea Vattovani Architecture website.

See also:

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