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The Marea Residential Complex: A New Coastal Haven
Just outside the ancient city of Batroun, Lebanon, a remarkable transformation has taken place along the Mediterranean coastline. The Marea Residential Complex, designed by the innovative architecture firm WORKac, reimagines residential living in a landscape once marred by military occupation. Marea, completed in 2021, represents a paradigm shift towards communal living, enveloping 60 unique housing units within lush terraces that cascade towards the sea.
Architectural Innovation and Community Integration
The design of Marea is a direct response to the landscape and its history. The architects, Amale Andraos and Dan Wood, envisioned a project that harmonizes architectural form with the natural environment. The complex features a network of shared footpaths reminiscent of a hillside village, allowing residents to navigate their community with ease. Each residential unit is thoughtfully designed to incorporate private terraces that boast stunning views of the Mediterranean, fostering a sense of personal space amidst a collective living arrangement.
Transforming A Historic Site
This site, previously occupied by an army camp, witnessed years of inaccessibility. Now, it has blossomed into a vibrant residential area. The terraced landscape not only enhances the natural beauty of the coastline but also revitalizes the local community by integrating outdoor spaces and communal areas, allowing for social interaction and a reconnection with the beach. By achieving a delicate balance between density and privacy, Marea demonstrates that modern living can embrace sustainability without sacrificing individual comfort.
Emphasizing Sustainability and Landscape
WORKac’s approach to the Marea project reflects a broader trend in architecture—melding built environments with nature. Each dwelling is designed with green roofs that double as recreational spaces, creating an extensive layer of green that promotes biodiversity and reduces urban heat. This eco-conscious strategy not only benefits the residents but also those who visit the area, promising a refuge of vegetation topped with swimming pools and shaded patios.
The Future of Residential Living in Lebanon
The Marea project sets a new benchmark for residential design in Lebanon. It showcases how architecture can respond to both human needs and environmental challenges, forging a path toward future developments that prioritize sustainability and community engagement. By reimagining how we occupy and interact with our surroundings, projects like Marea offer hope for urban environments to flourish in harmony with nature.
In conclusion, as we move towards more integrated and sustainable designs, Marea stands out as an inspiring example. It illustrates that architecture can enhance not just our living spaces but our interactions and connections with one another and the beautiful environment that surrounds us.
For more updates on innovative architecture and inspiring designs, keep an eye on the latest trends in sustainable living and architecture.
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