Beirut apartment transformed by architect's vision

Elie Riachi, a Lebanese architect based in Beirut and London, has breathed new life into a long-term residence for a businessman in the oil industry.

Layered luxury in the heart of beirut

Riachi's design approach focuses on the interplay of light, texture, and art, carefully balancing contrasting elements throughout the four-bedroom apartment.

The space, located in the Clemenceau district, retains its original tiled limestone floors while introducing modern elements like custom travertine fireplaces, walnut paneling, and alabaster wall sconces.

The entrance hall has been transformed with dark, enclosed spaces and a lower ceiling, which Riachi has countered with panelling and perforated screens in American walnut, creating a dynamic interplay of light and shadow.

The living room showcases similar contrasts, featuring a custom travertine fireplace, walnut surround, and linear alabaster wall sconces, punctuated by a brass-and-zinc coffee table by French-Serbian artist Marko.

Riachi's vision for the space is layered, reflecting the homeowner's eclectic art collection and love of travel. Many of the rare, midcentury furniture pieces were sourced from Paris and London flea markets and galleries.

The apartment's bedrooms and bathrooms introduce subtle color variations, with bespoke curved headboards inspired by the foliage on the balconies and wardrobe doors covered in French linen to soften the rooms.

Through his meticulous research and analytical eye, Riachi has created a harmonious blend of old and new, ensuring the space feels both comfortable and sophisticated.