Gilbert Ziadé: Daring concepts and eco-friendly materials for avant-garde projects
He puts his passion for beauty and his fascination for design, honed by a wealth of professional experience, at the service of his customers, to create original, sustainable spaces in tune with their aspirations. His name is Gilbert Ziadé, founder and managing director of BUS Architects. A talented architect who likes to sign avant-garde projects.
Gilbert Ziadé, passionate about beauty.
Could you tell us about your background in a few words?
I studied Interior Design and furthered my education with a Master’s in Set Design and another Master’s in Luxury Management I gained practical experience as a Junior Designer before venturing out on my own. This diverse educational and professional background has equipped me with a unique blend of skills in design and management, allowing me to create high-end, luxurious spaces.
Why did you choose to become an architect? And what does architecture mean to you?
My admiration for beautiful spaces and fascination with design and building heritage inspired me to pursue Interior design. To me, architecture means creating spaces that are not only aesthetically pleasing but also stand the test of time and age gracefully.
What is the role of the architect today?
The architect today is the similar to the maestro in an orchestra. They orchestrate the entire design process, leading multidisciplinary teams and harmonizing diverse elements to create spaces that resonate with functionality, and beauty.
How are architecture and ecology linked?
Material selection, space design, and planning are indeed the secrets to integrating ecology into architecture. By prioritizing eco-friendly materials, incorporating natural elements for improved indoor quality, and planning spaces to minimize environmental impact, architects ensure that built environments are sustainable and harmonious with nature.
An architectural marvel in Faqra, where luxury is at its peak and reaches all the perspectives of the natural setting.
What are the fundamental concepts behind your work?
My work is all about understanding my clients deeply. I research extensively to get to know their personality and vision, whether it’s for a public project or a private residence. This allows me to create custom-designed spaces that truly reflect who they are and what they dream of.
In general, how do you spend your working days?
My day is divided into several key tasks that are essential for progressing our projects smoothly. Meeting with clients, to get to know their ideas, preferences, and requirements. These meetings allow me to understand their vision and ensure that our designs align with their expectations. Throughout the day, I encounter various challenges and obstacles that require quick thinking and problem-solving skills. Whether it’s overcoming design constraints, addressing client concerns, or resolving logistical issues, I approach each problem with a solution-oriented mindset to keep the project on track. In summary, my day is a mix of client interactions, material sourcing, conceptual development, and problem-solving. By managing these tasks, I can deliver innovative and tailored designs that exceed our clients’ expectations. With the help of my team that I call them the backbone of this office. All of this can feel easy to do.
What difficulties do you face as an architect? How do you overcome them? How do you define the relationship between architect and client?
In today’s digital era, clients have access to a vast array of design inspirations through social media. This exposure can sometimes make them more discerning and harder to please. As Designers, we must build trust and understanding with our clients by listening attentively, communicating openly, and working closely together. By doing so, we can navigate through the abundance of design choices and find solutions that meet and exceed their expectations.
Serenity meets simplicity in this house built in South Lebanon.
What work would you have liked to create?
I would have cherished the opportunity to design a monument of cultural or historical narrative, evoking emotions and sparking reflection in all who encounter it. Creating a monument that honors the resilience of a community, my community, my Lebanese community. Such a project would allow me to contribute to the collective memory of society and leave a lasting legacy that resonates with generations to come.
What projects are you currently working on in Lebanon and abroad?
Our team is involved in a variety of residential and public projects. In Lebanon, we’ve developed a new bar concept in Gemmayzeh. In addition, we’re working on a beach resort in the beautiful north of Lebanon, a world-class gymnasium, some restaurants and residences. Abroad, our interest extends to several domiciles in Europe, including Romania, France; and Dubai, allowing us to explore various architectural styles and cultural influences. Not to mention the design of flagship stores for two Italian brands in Saudi Arabia.
Which one gives you the most satisfaction?
Every type of project is a source of pride. Completing a residential project and seeing the owner’s dream home become a reality is gratifying. As for public projects, they are particularly important because they bring communities together. Designing places where people can gather, connect and feel at home is incredibly satisfying.
Sophisticated craftsmanship in the realm of fine jewelry at Antoine Saliba in Dubai.
You have designed a lot of restaurants. Do you also work on residential projects? Which field attracts you the most?
While we have indeed designed numerous restaurants, residential projects make up the majority of our work, accounting for about 70% of our portfolio. However, we do have a significant presence in the F&B and retail sector, with projects spanning various locations. It’s difficult to choose as each offers its own unique appeal. Residential projects allow us to create spaces that deeply impact the lives of individuals and families, creating comfort, functionality, and personal expression. On the other hand, designing restaurants and F&B establishments offers the opportunity to craft immersive experiences and bring communities together through food and ambiance. Ultimately, both fields offer exciting challenges and opportunities for creativity, and we find fulfillment in the diversity of projects we undertake.
Are there any differences between the two sectors in terms of concept, work or difficulty?
Residential projects are all about personalization, tailored to the specific needs of individuals and families. They’re focused on creating comfortable and customized spaces for homeowners. On the other hand, commercial projects like restaurants or public spaces need to cater to a wider audience. They have to balance the founder’s vision with practical functionality, ensuring they’re welcoming to a diverse range of people and tastes. Commercial projects tend to be larger in scale and more complex, with factors like seating capacity and kitchen layout adding to the challenge. They also need to be versatile to adapt to changing trends and customer preferences over time.
According to what criteria do you choose your projects? What attracts you the most?
Feeling comfortable and connected to the client. It’s essential for us to establish a good rapport and feel at ease working together. This connection allows for better collaboration and ultimately leads to a successful outcome. What attracts us the most is the opportunity to create new and innovative concepts that are out of the box and different from anything we’ve done before, while still maintaining our unique style and touch. We thrive on the challenge of pushing boundaries and exploring fresh ideas in our designs
What is your working method (sketches, photos, 3D, etc.)?
It typically begins with the traditional approach of sketching on paper using pencil and colored pens. This process allows me to immerse myself in the project and visualize it as if it were right in front of me. Sketching helps me explore different concepts and layouts. This is where we move to 3d modeling and photorealistic renders.
The interior of downtown restaurant Leo La Terrasse transports guests into a world of their own… a la LEO.
Who or what has been the biggest influence on your work to date?
My travels around the world have greatly influenced my work. Seeing different cultures, landscapes, and architectural styles has expanded my perspective and sparked my creativity. Each place I’ve visited has taught me something new, from historic buildings to modern designs. These experiences have enriched my understanding and allowed me to bring diverse ideas into my projects. Traveling has fueled my passion and provided endless inspiration for my work.
What distinguishes your style?
My style is characterized by bold design choices and a fearless approach to color and unconventional elements. I’m not afraid to push boundaries and think outside the box, creating spaces that are unique, vibrant, and full of personality. Whether it’s through daring color palettes, unexpected textures, or innovative design concepts, I strive to infuse each project with creativity and originality, resulting in spaces that leave a lasting impression.
What was your most difficult project? What happened?
One of my most challenging projects involved designing a spacious family mansion. The difficulty? Each of the five family members had distinctly different visions for their dream home. It demanded careful navigation through conflicting preferences and creative problem-solving to harmonize their ideas into a unified design that catered to everyone’s needs and tastes.
Do you look up to any famous architects? Why?
Ludwig Mies van der Rohe, a pioneering architect of the 20th century, with his minimalist approach to design. Renowned for “less is more”, Mies van der Rohe’s designs are famous for their simplicity and clarity. He skillfully uses space, proportion, glass, and steel. His architecture, both simple and profound, still inspires designers around the world today.
Modernized traditions and heritage innovation at The Cabinet restaurant in downtown Beirut.
For whom would you like to design an architectural work?
I would love to design an architectural work for a famous fashion house. Combining architecture with fashion would be an exciting challenge, allowing me to create a space that reflects their brand identity and innovation. Imagine a flagship store or headquarters that not only showcases their collections but also tells their story through bold forms, cutting-edge materials, and innovative spatial arrangements.
In which city would you like to live? And which one fascinates you and inspires you in particular?
Beirut city, the city that never sleeps, never dies, and never kneels. With its rich history, vibrant culture, and resilience, is indeed a fascinating and inspiring city. Beirut has a remarkable ability to endure and rebuild despite challenges. Its blend of ancient heritage and modern life, along with its lively nightlife and diverse architecture, make it a unique and compelling place.
What is your favorite building and why?
The Barcelona Pavilion, designed by Ludwig Mies van der Rohe, as my favorite building. This iconic structure exemplifies Mies mastery of minimalist design and spatial composition. Its sleek lines, use of luxurious materials like marble and glass, and seamless integration of interior and exterior spaces create a sense of timeless elegance and tranquility. It’s a masterpiece that continues to inspire architects and designers around the world, and for me, it represents the definition of architectural excellence
Do you have a personal motto?
Fortune favors the bold.
What are you afraid of about the future?
The uncertainty of the future in our country is a source of fear and concern. The prospect of having to leave our homeland in search of peace is a scary thought, especially considering the challenges we’ve faced in the past, such as war and the Beirut port blast. Despite these hardships, we’ve remained resilient and determined to stay, clinging to the hope of a better future. It’s a fear that motivates us to work towards stability, peace, and prosperity in our country, so that we may continue to call it home and thrive within its borders.
What books do you have on your bedside table?
“Steal Like an Artist” creative and inspiring book that encourages to embrace their artistic influences and find inspiration in the world around them.