Renowned Lebanese architect Lina Ghotmeh has gained international acclaim for her architectural designs spanning various countries, including the United Kingdom, Finland, Lebanon, and Japan. However, her latest endeavor takes her to an unprecedented location— the mesmerizing beauty of AlUla.
Ghotmeh's firm, Lina Ghotmeh - Architecture, was invited to submit a proposal for designing a contemporary art museum in AlUla. In May, they were awarded the contract, a major achievement for Ghotmeh and her team.
Ghotmeh expressed her attachment to AlUla and excitement for the museum, acknowledging its significance for the region. She had been spellbound by the golden light of AlUla, the ancient tombs, and the diverse textures of the countryside on her first visit.
Recalling AlUla as a place of suspended time and breathtaking desert horizons, Ghotmeh found great inspiration. She led workshops, observed the deep connection to the Arabic language, and learned about the place and its inhabitants.
Ghotmeh shared her surprise at the maturity she observed among the locals, particularly the children, during her visits to elementary schools. She appreciated how crucial it is for people in today's culture to be in close proximity to nature, and she was moved by how the kids interacted with their surroundings.
Ghotmeh shared preliminary details of the museum's design, envisioning pavilions nestled in AlUla's "Cultural Oasis." The structure will reflect the city's history on a smaller scale, blending harmoniously with nature. Light will play a vital role, evoking memories of the past and envisioning the future, creating an architecturally distinct and original space firmly rooted in its surroundings.
Ghotmeh emphasized the significance of paying attention to the environment, comprehending its resources and climate, and developing solutions that genuinely serve the neighborhood. She views design as a therapeutic approach, focusing on harmonious integration rather than mere self-expression.
Ghotmeh's upbringing in war-torn Beirut shaped her love for light and building. Seeking shelter in basements during bombings fueled her imagination. Initially studying archaeology, she shifted to architecture to embrace the future. Now, she undertakes projects in Lebanon, like a hotel and art collection, in order to promote peace.
Ghotmeh firmly believes that aesthetics is essential and strives to implement this philosophy in her architectural endeavors. She advocates for a more site-specific approach and deeper engagement with the inhabitants of these areas, emphasizing the importance of integration. Described as "humanist," her architectural practice serves as a gathering space that respects and brings people together, promoting a sense of ease and harmony.
