Elmer and Mamdouha Bobst Chemistry Building

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American University of Beirut

�ċ�ċThis study is part of a comprehensive Conservation Management Plan (CMP) for the Chemistry Building at AUB. It seeks to highlight the building's architectural and historical significance, trace its evolution over time, and plan for potential future developments that safeguard its value.

Designed and constructed between 1963 and 1968, the Chemistry Building, located on the northern edge of the campus near the Corniche, stands as a remarkable example of Lebanon's commitment to modernism, specifically during a period of modernization at ̩��Ʊaimed at optimizing the allocation of facilities for teaching and for students. The building was designed by Engineer Raymond Ghosn (1921–1976) and Architect George Contavelis (1930–2020), whose collaboration drew lessons from the broader adaptation of Modernist principles in Lebanon. At the same time, they introduced significant innovations in the spatial organization of interior practice areas, tailoring these principles to the specific needs of the building and its context.

As part of this broader transformation, the Chemistry Building was conceived to accommodate the growing demands of academic studies, which had previously been housed in what is now the Architecture Building. Its innovative spatial organization, carefully selected materials, and thoughtfully designed façades constitute its architectural significance, while its seamless integration with the surrounding natural landscape reflects a thoughtful approach to overall campus planning.

Still operational today, the building shows signs of wear and requires repairs, along with a proactive managerial approach to safeguard its original value and prevent further deterioration. Indeed, conserving its key features on a larger scale is necessary to ensure the preservation of this Modern legacy, while also improving the conditions of its use.

Before undertaking any physical repairs, restoration, or development initiatives, this study was conceived as an essential step to establish a general conservation policy based on a thorough understanding of the building's cultural significance. This includes its spatial design, treatment of interior and exterior surfaces, doors and windows, laboratories, classrooms, and offices.

Presented in 11parts under the category of “Components," these chapters aim to highlight the cultural significance of each element of the building and the diverse values it embodies. A list of policies to be understood as practical guidelines for future development is provided at the end of each section as well. These chapters cover key spaces in the building, ranging from the entrance porch, auditorium, various façades, restrooms, rooftop, laboratories, and offices, as well as more general aspects like wall and floor treatments or the design of handrails. Through field research, visual analysis, archival photographic documentation, and a review of the original design drawings (1963–1964) along with records of post-civil war interventions, this study seeks to shed light on the defining characteristics of each component and determine the aspects that require specific attention.

Through these analyses, we have developed a comprehensive statement of significance, which we hope will serve as the foundation for any future interventions on the building.

Research and Analysis by Dr. Mazen Haidar, Conservation Architect and Researcher
With support from Frederic Balaa, Web Developer, and Sara Abou Zeid, Research Assistant.

I- Statement of Significance

The Chemistry Building exemplifies mid-20th-century architectural innovation and functionality in university buildings, both on the ̩��Ʊcampus and throughout Lebanon. Its significance lies in the seamless integration of design and utility, fulfilling educational and architectural purposes.

The building's harmonious adaptation to its site and the climate-sensitive expression of its façades further underscore its importance, particularly through the thoughtful distribution of workspaces and the integration of natural light as a key element of the project. Using innovative materials and construction techniques, the project showcases rigorous design, with meticulous attention to surface treatments, volumetric composition, openings, and metal elements such as windows and railings. Despite some alterations, this careful approach remains evident both within its spaces and on its façades.

Key moments in the building, such as the entrance esplanade and the sun-breakers on the south facade, highlight its architectural value and enhance the user experience by creating a dynamic and welcoming environment.

South (3).jpg The entrance esplanade seamlessly converges diverse streams of people, fostering intimacy with its low-height canopy and eastern stone retaining wall. This design not only facilitates movement but also emphasizes the building’s lightness and autonomy through the detached canopy that allows natural light to permeate the facade. Inside, the meticulous integration of natural light continues through longitudinal openings atop office spaces, enhancing both functionality and aesthetic coherence. Moreover, the rooftop terrace complements these features with slender arches and an interplay of solid and airy elements, echoingthe principles of Modern Movement architecture that inform the building's design. These architectural elements on the rooftop, like the sun-breakers, serve as emblematic features that contribute to the distinctive character of the Chemistry Building. Despite modifications, this careful approach remains evident both within its interior spaces and on its façades, preserving the cohesive architectural vision that defines the building's significance.

The interior spaces of the Chemistry Building further enhance its architectural significance. The laboratories on the south side are strategically designed with filtered light and a functional layout, promoting a sense of porosity between interior and exterior spaces, as well as between laboratories and service areas or offices. These spaces feature meticulous organization with modular spans and dedicated workbenches, demonstrating a clear logic of design and purpose. Similarly, the tiered seating auditorium exemplifies thoughtful design to optimize acoustic performance and audience visibility.

The use of materials and finishing techniques, ranging from Carrara marble to Terrazzo flooring, from Tyrolean plaster to bush-hammered or scratched walls, reflects a clear and sophisticated logic that gives specific meaning to each space within the building. Despite modifications over the past 30 years, these areas maintain their architectural significance, preserving the cohesive identity originally envisioned for the building.

II- Components

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