In the context of searching for the fastest and least expensive ways to build, a new style is emerging in the engineering and architectural landscape from Lebanon to the Arab region to Africa and the world.
This style consists of the use of iron or steel as a primary and sometimes basic structural material in engineering and architectural implementation.
This method of building is done with durable, strong and flexible material that can be designed into a variety of shapes, making it an ideal choice for construction.
Steel-made buildings are famous for their high resistance to fire and earthquakes, such as the earthquake that occurred in Turkey and Syria, and its repercussions reached Lebanon, as steel is more flexible than concrete, which makes it more resistant than any other building material.
In addition, steel construction is resistant to harsh weather conditions, which makes it a popular choice for commercial, industrial, and residential buildings.
The use of steel in construction often leads to faster implementation and lower costs in an environmentally friendly manner. However, it also requires specialized knowledge and skills, as well as the use of the appropriate tools and equipment, to ensure the safety and stability of the structure.
In this regard, architect Simon Barakat of the A20 Partners Company for Studies and Designs considers that this type of construction is not limited to industrial buildings only, but rather some of the most beautiful and finest buildings in the world built of iron, including skyscrapers and luxurious personal homes, provided that they are used in a good.
In his turn, the architect Antoine Abdo from AA Project Management and Implementation Company considered that this architectural style has positive effects on the environment and does not require a large cost in building materials, transportation or labor, nor does it incur large environmental losses such as the need to gnaw mountains and crushers, for example.
Some examples of buildings and projects that were designed and implemented by the architects Barakat & Abdo are:
– The Landmark project in Lebanon, which is a commercial project built entirely of iron in addition to glass. The project has met with great success in terms of innovative design and quality of implementation. It is considered one of the most attractive projects in Lebanon today.
– A project for the State of Sierra Leone in the Port Loco area. It is a BOT project dedicated to the Traffic and Vehicles Authority, a center for issuing and printing driving licenses, vast halls to receive customers, in addition to restaurants and cafes, and a mechanical inspection center. It was entirely manufactured in Lebanon and was shipped and installed in the aforementioned country in record time, which amazed those in charge of it. In terms of quality, speed of implementation and cost.
Today, Lebanon is proud of its capabilities and energies, and what is required is the belief that it is able to rise, despite the great crisis, with the ability and energies of its people.