The Issam Fares Institute – a Crossroad of Interaction

The Issam Fares Institute for Public Policy and International Affairs (IFI), radical in composition but respectful of its traditional context, “floats” above an exterior courtyard. In 2006 The American University of Beirut (AUB) held an invited competition for the design of a structure to accommodate a modern-day think tank on its lush middle campus, one that was in harmony with the rest of the university, especially mindful of the surrounding greenery, and to preserve, as far as possible, existing sightlines to the Mediterranean. The competition was won by Zaha Hadid Architects.

The Issam Fares Institute building continues the on-going implementation of the 2002 AUB Campus Master Plan by Sasaki Associates in collaboration with Machado Silvetti, MGT of America, and Dar Al-Handasah (Shair and Partners) to advance the university’s academic mission in the 21st Century with facilities of the highest international standards. 

Developed with the support of a generous donation by former Deputy Prime Minister Issam Fares, the 3,000-square-meter building represents AUB’s ambitions into the 21st century. The IFI was established as a neutral, dynamic, civil, and open space where people representing all viewpoints in society can gather and discuss significant issues, anchored in a long-standing commitment to mutual understanding and high-quality research. 

 Materials provided by Zaha Hadid Architects
Photos: © Aga Khan Trust for Culture / Cemal Emden

Полную версию статьи Вы можете прочитать в нашем печатном издании или подписавшись на электронную версию нашего журнала.