RÉSIDENCE DES PINS
BEIRUT, LEBANON
Programme
Restoration and Renovation of the Residence of the French Ambassadors to Lebanon
Client
MINISTERE DES AFFAIRES ETRANGERES
Area
3,000 m²
Cost
8.38 M€
Scope
Full Service
Schedule
Competition winner 1994 Completed in 1998
Environment
Renovation of the existing building Use of natural materials Landscaping Rainwater harvesting
Team
Client : Ministère des Affaires Etrangères Architect : SUD architectes Quantity surveyor : Cubic Building services (MEP) engineer : Sincoba Structural engineer : Pierre Martin Photographer : Fraudreau
In Beirut, the Résidence des Pins is undergoing a major restoration and renovation project after suffering extensive damage during years of war. This heritage project aims to restore this iconic building to its former glory, balancing historical accuracy with adaptation to contemporary uses.
The work involves a meticulous restoration of the facades, with a partial stone-by-stone dismantling, followed by reassembly using the original elements. The most deteriorated stones are replaced with materials sourced from local quarries, ensuring aesthetic and structural continuity.
Inside, the ground-floor spaces are being restored to their original state. The moldings, woodwork, joinery, and decorative elements are being reconstructed following a detailed analysis of the existing components, in order to recapture the spirit and refinement of the original building.
The upper floors, dedicated to private spaces, are being entirely reconfigured. The spaces are redistributed according to a contemporary logic, offering functional areas while respecting the overall identity of the site.
The project strikes a balance between heritage preservation and transformation, highlighting traditional craftsmanship while incorporating amenities adapted to modern requirements.
The Résidence des Pins thus regains its status as an iconic landmark, where its architectural history is preserved and enhanced through a subtle and respectful renovation.
