Lebanese architects have played a pivotal role in shaping not only Beirut's distinctive skyline but also establishing themselves as influential figures in international architecture. From modernist trailblazers of the mid-20th century to contemporary innovators pushing the boundaries of sustainable design, these eleven architects represent the diverse talent and creative vision that Lebanon has contributed to the global architectural landscape.
Beirut's urban fabric tells a story of architectural evolution through its striking contrasts. The city's skyline presents a fascinating juxtaposition where historic heritage buildings adorned with ornate triple arches and wrought iron balconies stand alongside gleaming skyscrapers and bold brutalist concrete structures. This architectural diversity reflects the work of visionary designers who have responded to Lebanon's complex cultural and political history while expanding their influence far beyond the country's borders.
Khalil Khoury (1929-2008) stands as one of Lebanon's most influential modernist pioneers and a leading figure in the brutalist movement. After completing his education at the American University of Beirut, Khoury co-founded an industrial design and architecture studio with his brother Georges, creating works that became defining landmarks of regional modernism. His portfolio includes the Mont-La-Salle College, Jounieh Stadium, and the internationally recognized Interdesign showroom, a brutalist masterpiece that continues to inspire architects today. As a professor at AUB and a member of the Order of Engineers, Khoury played a central role in shaping Lebanon's architectural discourse and urban policy development.
Bernard Khoury, son of Khalil Khoury, has carved out his own distinctive path in architecture after studying at the Rhode Island School of Design and Harvard University. Upon graduation, he founded DW5 and quickly established a reputation for creating provocative interventions in post-war Beirut. His notable projects include the underground B018 nightclub, Centrale restaurant, and the Boiler Room, all of which engage with themes of memory, politics, and urban transformation. In 2008, he co-founded the Arab Center for Architecture, demonstrating his commitment to both architectural practice and cultural thinking.
Born in Baalbek in 1965, Youssef Haidar represents excellence in heritage preservation and cultural architecture. After studying at the École Nationale Supérieure d'Architecture de Paris-La Villette, he returned to Beirut in 1994 to establish his practice. Haidar has overseen major restoration and cultural projects including the Soap Museum in Saida, the Omari Grand Mosque, and Beit Beirut, a memorial museum housed in a war-damaged landmark building. As a three-time finalist for the prestigious Aga Khan Award, he is internationally recognized for his dedication to heritage preservation and his ability to integrate collective memory into contemporary architecture.
Fouad Samara graduated with distinction from the University of Bath, where he received the Sir Basil Spence Prize for excellence in design. After gaining professional experience in Montreal and London, he founded Fouad Samara Architects in Beirut in 1997. His practice is rooted in contextual modernism, creating buildings that thoughtfully respond to Lebanon's rich cultural and physical environment. Notable works include the innovative Modulofts residential project in Beirut and the Sheikh Nahyan Centre for Arabic Studies and Intercultural Dialogue at the University of Balamand, which earned the Grand Prize at the Arab Architects Awards.
French-Lebanese architect Annabel Karim Kassar graduated from the prestigious École des Beaux-Arts in Paris and established AKK Architects in 1994. Operating from offices in Beirut, Milan, and Dubai, she has created an impressive portfolio of projects across the hospitality and commercial sectors. Her practice distinctively combines modernist architectural principles with local craftsmanship, developing spaces that successfully bridge tradition and innovation. Notable works include The Al Zorah Golf Club in Ajman, the Ella Funt bistro in New York, and The Lebanese House installation at the Victoria and Albert Museum in London.
Raëd Abillama brings international experience to Lebanese architecture, having been educated at the Rhode Island School of Design and Columbia University. He began his career with Rafael Viñoly Architects in New York before founding his own practice in Beirut in 1997. His portfolio includes the award-winning IXSIR Winery in Batroun and numerous commercial projects throughout Lebanon. Known for his precise detailing and sensitivity to local context, Abillama also co-founded Abillama Chaya Industrial Design, a company specializing in bespoke furniture production.
Lina Ghotmeh has emerged as one of the most innovative architects of her generation, establishing her Paris-based practice, Lina Ghotmeh - Architecture, after co-designing the acclaimed Estonian National Museum in Tartu. Educated at the American University of Beirut, her architectural philosophy of "Archaeology of the Future" thoughtfully integrates history, ecology, and traditional craftsmanship. She is internationally known for the Stone Garden tower in Beirut, the 22nd Serpentine Pavilion in London, and Ateliers Hermès in Normandy. Ghotmeh's designs consistently emphasize sustainability and cultural continuity, positioning her as a leading voice in contemporary global architecture.
Elie Abs, founder of Accent DG, studied at the Lebanese American University and the Architectural Association in London. After working with the renowned firm KPF in London, he established Accent DG in Beirut in 2007, later expanding operations to Dubai. His projects span Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE, successfully blending sustainability, cultural awareness, and technological innovation. With numerous international awards and Aga Khan nominations, his work includes progressive residential, commercial, and urban development projects. Abs has also taught at LAU, reinforcing his influence on Lebanon's emerging generation of architects.
Fadlallah Dagher and Fouad Hanna, both educated at ALBA in 1985, co-founded Dagher Hanna & Partners in Beirut, a studio particularly recognized for their cultural and restoration projects. Their recent work includes the significant Beihouse project in Gemmayzeh, where three damaged 19th-century Lebanese houses were carefully restored after suffering severe damage during the devastating 2020 port explosion. Today, this historically important site has been transformed into a contemporary social club that honors its architectural heritage while serving modern community needs.
Hashim Sarkis, Dean of MIT's School of Architecture and Planning since 2015, founded his architectural practice in 1998. Educated at the Rhode Island School of Design and Harvard University, Sarkis has designed a diverse range of affordable housing and civic buildings that address social needs. His Byblos Town Hall and Housing for the Fishermen of Tyre have earned him particular international recognition for their innovative approach to community-centered design. Appointed curator of the 2020 Venice Architecture Biennale, Sarkis continues to bridge academia and practice, actively shaping global discourse on how architecture can reimagine collective living.
Joseph Philippe Karam (1923-1976) was a defining voice of Lebanon's golden modernist era and remains an influential figure in Middle Eastern architecture. Educated at Université Saint-Joseph, he established his influential atelier in Beirut in the 1950s, producing some of the country's most emblematic and enduring structures. His iconic projects include the Beirut City Center, the famous Egg cinema, the Aquamarina resort in Jounieh, and significant expansions of the historic Phoenicia Hotel. Karam's expressive use of geometry, innovative concrete work, and daring architectural forms placed him at the absolute forefront of Middle Eastern modernism, with his buildings symbolizing Lebanon's mid-century optimism and cultural confidence.
