Article Title

OPEN SPACES AS VIBRANT PLACES TO REDUCE SOCIAL AND PHYSICAL FRAGMENTATION. CASE OF BEIRUT CORNISH, LEBANON

Authors

Nehmat K. Karim, PhD Candidate, Faculty of Architecture - Design & Built Environment, Beirut Arab University, LebanonFollow
Ayman Afify, Professor, Faculty of Architecture - Design & Built Environment, Beirut Arab University, LebanonFollow

Keywords

Physical Social Fragmentation, Vibrant Places, Beirut Public Spaces, Resilience, Urban Governance.

Disciplines

Architecture | Urban, Community and Regional Planning

Abstract

According to UN Habitat, as had been mentioned in The Journal of Public Spaces 2018 Under title “Lebanon Cities’ Public Spaces”, and based on the World Health Organization (WHO) recommendations regarding the minimum required area of Public spaces in the cities, the following had been noticed: Beirut city has few public spaces that are always rapist from the local government without having the ability to face. At the present time, the capital suffers from distinct lack of public spaces where the various population groups can meet and come along. Despite the fact that an open public space in Beirut would decrease air pollution and improve public well being, there are no political initiatives to create them. Moreover, with the failure of the municipality in protecting these spaces and the citizen’s right to it, it is preventing the most vulnerable and poor people and families from the little remaining that they don’t have any alternative for it. Currently, the promenade is considered among the last few remaining breathing spaces for inhabitants and it is characterized by the uniqueness as a space in Beirut. As a consequence of the current situation and the closure imposed by the municipality because of the pandemic without providing a workable solution are depriving people of the little that remains. Accordingly, the civil society, local activist groups and the municipality will have to play a major role to create awareness and sense of urgency. Thus, to push toward quick actions for proper respond and suitable solutions and interventions. The purpose of this study is to develop guidelines that would ensure a better social inclusion and respond to user’s needs by prioritizing physical, mental health and well being in the use of Beirut seafront promenade.

Recommended Citation

Karim, Nehmat K. and Afify, Ayman (2021) "OPEN SPACES AS VIBRANT PLACES TO REDUCE SOCIAL AND PHYSICAL FRAGMENTATION. CASE OF BEIRUT CORNISH, LEBANON," BAU Journal - Creative Sustainable Development: Vol. 2: Iss. 2, Article 11.
DOI: https://doi.org/10.54729/2789-8334.1050

ISSN

2789-8334