Benchmark Development commissions Beijing National Stadium architects for project in Beirut

The project, which will be located in the prestigious Minet Al Hosn area within Beirut Central District, is expected to raise the bar in terms of quality architecture and community development, due to its remarkable design and features.

The architects were in fact chosen due to their global repute and sheer sophistication. In addition, their designs tend to draw inspiration from the countries and cultures in which they operate, making them sensitive to the surrounding areas. Amongst their portfolio is the Beijing National Stadium which hosted the 2008 Olympic Games, Tate Modern in London, the de Young Museum in San Francisco and the Allianz Arena Soccer Stadium in Munich.

Benchmark Development, a regional investment, management and real estate development firm, with its pioneering spirit and underlying corporate social responsibility program, is not new to innovative projects. At present, it controls an unleveraged regional portfolio of residential projects, valued at over $1.4bn, in various neighboring countries.

Dr. Bassim Halaby, Chairman and CEO of Benchmark Development, who has played an integral role in the growth of the firm since its founding in 2006, stated that:

"Benchmark's philosophy is a pioneering one, always searching for new ways to expand, develop and ensure that each project is distinct in its own right. By commissioning renowned architects such as Herzog & de Meuron to head the design of this project, we yet again reinforce our philosophy."

The distinctive design of Herzog & de Meuron offers a special architectural expression linking modern architecture with unique landscaping and greenery. This will serve as a model for future developers, benchmarking 'Beirut Terraces' as an environmentally-friendly project, which redefines architecture. It is fused with an energy conscious approach and seeks to decrease its carbon footprint, making it one of the first residential projects in the country to meet such an international standard requirement.

"At the core of Benchmark Development's operations is social responsibility, where we seek to improve the quality of life and be sensitive to the environment and surroundings," Halaby added.

Benchmark Development is behind other novel developments such as Wadi Hills in Beirut, a matchless project in the confines of the city, boasting over 60 luxury apartment and townhouses; as well as other community developments currently underway, offering high end residential dwellings in various countries.

The residential project by Benchmark Development, 'Beirut Terraces' with high-profile architects Herzog & de Meuron heading the design, is forecasted to flourish into a global landmark with a local address, raising the standard in quality architecture and paving the way for future projects of this caliber to be developed in Lebanon.