São Paulo – The residence of Brazil’s ambassador in Lebanon will offer guided tours to architecture, design and art professionals and students from June 13 to 16. The house was designed by Brazilian architect Olavo Redig de Campos and mixes Brazilian Modernism and Middle Eastern culture. An abstract sculpture by Brazil’s Bruno Giorgi in the garden is one of the relics of the place.
The Embassy of Brazil in Beirut issued a statement saying the visits aim to promote Brazilian architecture and foster intercultural dialogue. The initiative of the embassy is supported by the Guimarães Rosa Institute, a Brazilian governmental institute focused on cultural and educational diplomacy.
The visits will be guided by George Arbid, president of the Arab Center for Architecture. It’s the first time the residence receives such visits.
“The residence of Brazil’s ambassador in Lebanon reflects the deep connection between the two countries and their peoples,” the embassy said in the statement. The house is located on top of a hill in a neighborhood that’s called Brasília in tribute of Brazil’s capital, overlooking Beirut and the Mediterranean Sea (opening picture).
The cornerstone of the residence was launched in 1959. It was built under the guidance of Lebanese engineer and architect George Jurdak and had the contribution of local artisans and suppliers. It features exposed concrete, brise-soleil, and tile panels, in the style of Campos. The Middle Eastern influence is seen in the tile geometrical shames and the key role the inner courtyard plays in the design.
Architect Redig de Campos was head of the Heritage Conservation Service of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Brazil from 1946 to 1976. Besides the residence in Lebanon, he also designed the residence of Brazil’s ambassador in Dakar, Senegal, and the Embassies of Brazil in Buenos Aires, Argentina, Lima, Peru, and Washington, United States, as well as the votive Brazilian Monument in Pistoia, Italy, as well as other works.
For more information:
cultural.beirute@itamaraty.gov.br
Translated by Guilherme Miranda
