BOBO

by Michel Abboud

Mar Mikael is rife in the rare kind of qualities that could create a promising

neighbourhood. Situated on the outskirts of downtown and close to the highway

makes Mar Mikael easily accessible.

Several new projects sprouting up in the area have led to a gentrification of the

Mar Mikael district, but have also delivered a fresh plate for architects to create

a new architecture for Beirut. BOBO is a mixed-use building that reaches beyond

such a challenge.

The project itself was set to replace a row of disused shops at one end and a

1920s‘ two storey dwelling situated at the other.

The crystalline object instead of rising from the ground is in fact burgeoning

from one point and growing up in volume and bulk as it moves higher.

This crystalline formation diverges out of the ground and detaches itself

in a strong contrast from its surroundings while its reflective glass skin

simultaneously reflects the surrounding urban fabric.

Retail space has been given over to the ground floor , and the 1920s'

house which now has to stay is set to house high-end retail and an art

gallery. And it is around such that SOMA Architect’s BOBO is set to

evolve.