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18th Century Beirut Home In Danger Of Being Demolished
Across our offices in Hamra is a quaintly beautiful home with red shutters that may not be around for much longer.
The home, aptly nicknamed The Red House, is located on Abdul Aziz Street in Hamra and was partially constructed in the 18th century with the rest of it completed during the early 20th century by Abdo Rebeiz.
Generations of the Rebeiz family have lived in the home since its construction; the current tenant, architect Samir Rebeiz, was actually born and raised in the home and has consistently worked on preserving it and maintaining its architectural features.
Nearly 75% of the country’s historic homes have been demolished since the end of the civil war in 1990 to make room for apartment complexes and skyscraper buildings. Urban sprawl has been a defining factor in the loss of many homes, especially in areas of great expansion like central Beirut.
Unfortunately now, this house is no different. The Ministry of Culture has removed it’s heritage protection by issuing a decree, which means that it is soon going to be demolished.
With Beirut swiftly turning into a concrete jungle, we can’t but feel sentimental about spots like The Red House. They are an oasis of beauty and serenity in a desert of chaos.