Public Library Proposal – Badaro, Beirut
Located in the heart of Badaro, one of Beirut’s most vibrant and densely populated neighborhoods, this public library is conceived as a civic anchor and cultural refuge within the urban fabric. Surrounded by residential buildings, cafés, schools, and daily street life, the project responds to the need for accessible public space dedicated to knowledge, learning, and community engagement in a city where such spaces are increasingly rare.
The architectural concept is defined by layered volumes of concrete, glass, and warm timber, creating a dialogue between solidity and transparency. Generous glazed façades open the library to the city, allowing reading rooms and study spaces to visually connect with the surrounding streets and gardens. The stepped massing reduces the perceived scale of the building, ensuring a respectful integration within the neighborhood while creating shaded terraces and public forecourts that extend the life of the library beyond its walls.
More than a repository of books, the library is envisioned as a social and intellectual catalyst. In a dense urban context like Badaro, it offers inclusive spaces for quiet study, digital access, cultural events, and informal encounters. By providing a safe, open, and democratic environment for all generations, the project reinforces the role of public architecture in strengthening social cohesion, nurturing education, and reaffirming the importance of shared civic institutions in Beirut’s future.