SOMA Architects is an architectural firm that was founded in 2004 by two Lebanese architects, Michel Abboud and Marc Semaan. They have offices in Beirut, New York, and London, and have completed projects all over the world. The firm has been involved in a wide range of design projects, including housing, cultural, commercial, and civic buildings.
The philosophy of SOMA Architects is based on the idea that architecture should be a response to the surrounding environment. The firm believes that every site has its own unique characteristics, and that the design of a building should reflect and respond to those characteristics. SOMA Architects also believes that architecture should be sustainable and environmentally responsible, and they strive to incorporate sustainable design principles into every project they undertake.
SOMA Architects has completed a number of high-profile projects, including the Beirut Marina Tower in Lebanon, the Pixel Tower in Abu Dhabi, and the Pearl River Tower in Guangzhou, China.
One of their notable projects is the Beirut Terraces, a residential tower that is composed of a series of overlapping gardens and terraces. The tower was designed to take advantage of the climate and the views of Beirut, while also creating a sense of community among the residents.
Another standout project is the Stratford Town Centre in London, a mixed-use development that includes residential, retail, and cultural spaces. The design of the project was inspired by the idea of creating a vibrant community that would be attractive to residents, visitors, and businesses.
One of the hallmarks of SOMA Architects is their commitment to innovation in design. The firm is known for pushing the boundaries of what is possible in architecture, and they are constantly experimenting with new materials, technologies, and design techniques.
For example, the Beirut Terraces project required the creation of a unique cladding system that could support the weight of the gardens and terraces while also providing insulation and protection from the elements. SOMA Architects worked with a team of engineers to develop a system that used precast concrete panels that could be lifted into place and secured with minimal on-site construction.
SOMA Architects is poised to continue their success in the coming years, with a number of high-profile projects in the works. They are currently working on the design of the Zaha Hadid Tower in Dubai, a mixed-use development that will include residential, commercial, and cultural spaces. They are also involved in the design of the V Tower in New York City, which will be one of the tallest residential buildings in the world when it is completed.
Q: Does SOMA Architects work on projects outside of the Middle East?
A: Yes, SOMA Architects has completed projects all over the world, including in Europe, Asia, and the United States.
Q: What is the design philosophy of SOMA Architects?
A: SOMA Architects believes that architecture should be a response to the surrounding environment, and that every site has its own unique characteristics that should be reflected in the design of the building.
Q: What kind of projects does SOMA Architects work on?
A: SOMA Architects has completed a variety of projects, including housing, cultural, commercial, and civic buildings.
Q: What is SOMA Architects' approach to sustainability?
A: SOMA Architects strives to incorporate sustainable design principles into every project they undertake, with a focus on energy efficiency, materials selection, and innovation.
Q: What are some of SOMA Architects' notable projects?
A: Some of SOMA Architects' notable projects include the Beirut Marina Tower, the Pixel Tower in Abu Dhabi, and the Pearl River Tower in Guangzhou, China. They are also known for their innovative design of the Beirut Terraces residential tower and the Stratford Town Centre mixed-use development in London.
