Snøhetta has won a competition to design the new Banque Libano Francaise (BLF) headquarters. Located in Beirut, the project marks Snøhetta’s first ever commission in Lebanon

The stunning concept for the new general headquarters points towards a new future both for the bank and the city. The design of the high-rise block will feature chequerboard-patterned facades, while the building will feature picturesque plant covered terraces carved into the roof and walls.

The design creates a new public space which will articulate a public and private domain. The terraces in the building will provide staff at the headquarters of the Lebanese bank with access to outdoor areas which the architects hope will become social hubs.

A public area forms the foundation of the new headquarters building containing the essential public functions and facilities. Connected to the street and surrounding urban context, a high degree of permeability will be maintained at street level, ensuring connectivity across the site and with the local people.

“We are delighted to enter into this creative partnership with the BLF. In a time of profound change and transformations, the BLF is an ideal partner for Snøhetta with our shared ideals of sustainability, community, and dialogue”, says Snøhetta founding partner Kjetil T. Thorsen

Images provided by Snøhetta