BLF Headquarters, Beirut

In August 2016, architectural practice Snøhetta won the competition to design the new Banque Libano Francaise (BLF) headquarters in Beirut. The project is Snøhetta’s first commission in Lebanon.

The design for the new high-rise block is characterised by its chequerboard-patterned facades. It will also feature plant-covered terraces carved into the roof and walls.

The working environment focuses on exterior spaces carved from the built volume. Terraces provide staff with access to outdoor spaces, becoming ‘social hubs around which the working environment is organised.’

The public domain forms the foundation of the new headquarters building, connected to the street and surrounding urban context, and containing public functions and facilities.

Interiors feature stepped seating areas, lounges set on platforms and private meeting spaces contained within glass boxes.

Snøhetta founding partner Kjetil T. Thorsen said: “We are delighted to enter into this creative partnership with the BLF. In a time of profound change and transformation, the BLF is an ideal partner for Snøhetta with our shared ideals of sustainability, community, and dialogue.”

Content and images courtesy of Snøhetta.

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