House of Art and Culture

Originate designed this new multifunctional arts building in Beirut, Lebanon as part of a limited architectural competition. The building comprises two performance spaces, a cinema, art galleries and administration offices. We designed the building to be a simple semi-permeable box. The solid forms of the auditoria are clearly expressed and appear to float in the space. We designed the eastern elevation to be completely transparent, revealing a dramatic five-storey public space. At night, this becomes a giant stage upon which the activity of the building is played out.

We planned a grand staircase that rises through the space connecting the many levels and offering views out across the city. We positioned the art galleries at the top of the building, taking full advantage of the natural light. Addressing the building’s requirement to house both traditional and experimental arts events, we made the main auditorium into a flexible space.