Dbayeh Fishing Port Rehabilitation | By Peroulla Chidiac
Aug
Peroulla Chidiac
Landscape Architect
I am Peroulla CHIDIAC, a dedicated landscape architect currently pursuing my Master’s degree in Urbanism at the prestigious “École d’Urbanisme de Paris” (EUP) in France. My educational journey started with a Bachelor’s degree in Landscape Architecture, which I successfully earned from the esteemed “Académie Libanaise des Beaux-Arts” (ALBA) in 2022.
Throughout my academic pursuit, my fascination with landscapes and urban environments deepened, propelling me to delve into the intricate dynamics that mold them. I find immense satisfaction in observing and dissecting the various phenomena that shape our cities and the spaces within them. This curiosity led me to engage in numerous projects and workshops that have significantly enriched my understanding of urban structures and public realms.
My journey has extended beyond the classroom walls. Collaborating with diverse professionals and stakeholders has been both enlightening and rewarding. This collaboration has involved engagement with political leaders, impassioned activists, individuals from public and private sectors, architects, and the residents themselves. This dynamic interaction has illuminated the multifaceted nature of urban landscapes, underlining the intricate balance between human needs, architectural innovation, and environmental harmony.
My aspirations stretch beyond theoretical knowledge; they encompass the fusion of academic prowess with real-world engagement. My passion drives me to leverage my graphic and artistic skills in harmony with my comprehensive understanding of urban dynamics. This amalgamation of talents fuels my determination to bridge the gap between theoretical excellence and practical impact.
My commitment lies not only in academic advancement but also in translating my social and environmental dynamism into tangible results. As an individual fueled by motivation and organizational prowess, I am resolute in honing my educational foundation while simultaneously carving pathways for my professional journey. My mission is to champion urban spaces that encapsulate sustainability, aesthetic excellence, and an innate understanding of human interaction.
In a world where urban landscapes are both a canvas and a shared experience, my journey is driven by the desire to create spaces that harmonize life, art, and functionality. With each endeavor, I am poised to bring my vision to life, shaping cities that resonate with both innovation and a profound respect for the communities they embrace.
Rehabilitation of Dbayeh Fishing Port
ABOUT THE PROJECT In the culmination of my academic journey, I embarked on a transformative venture titled “Reviving Connection: Dbayeh Fishing Port Rehabilitation.” Rooted in my passion for revitalizing neglected spaces and fostering community engagement, this project emerged as a profound exploration of the potential inherent in urban revival.
Context and Motivation
The focal point of my endeavor was the Dbayeh Fishing Port—an enclave often overlooked by the public’s eye. Nestled within the folds of the Metn region, this port held a quiet significance, known to only a handful. Recognizing its untapped potential, I saw an opportunity to not only enhance the physical landscape but also to mend the threads of social connection that had frayed over time.
Project Vision
At its core, this endeavor sought to breathe life back into the Dbayeh Fishing Port. Envisioning a bustling hub that resonated with vibrancy, I aspired to create a dynamic environment conducive to social interactions. A place where the community could converge, share stories, and forge connections—a space that transcends the merely functional and blossoms into a cultural nucleus.
Challenges and Opportunities
The Lebanese coastal expanse boasts 44 ports, each with its unique role in the economic and recreational fabric. However, not all of these ports extend their embrace to the public. The Dbayeh Fishing Port, unfortunately, had suffered from a myriad of limitations, rendering it obscure and inaccessible. These challenges included an absence of visibility due to lack of advertising, geographical unfamiliarity, neglect, and the proximity to a military area.
Project Goals
My aspirations for this project were multifaceted. Foremost was the commitment to enhance the lives of Mediterranean artisanal fishers—guardians of a rich coastal tradition. I aimed to strike a harmonious balance between environmental preservation and human activities, advocating for the responsible use of aquatic resources. Furthermore, the project aimed to reintegrate the port into the urban tapestry, bridging the chasm between the city and the sea.
Impact and Aspiration
By envisioning a rejuvenated Dbayeh Fishing Port, my project aimed to address socio-economic inequalities and foster a renewed sense of connection. As the landscape transforms, so too does the narrative of the community, woven together by shared spaces and shared experiences.
Closing Remarks
As I stand on the precipice of sharing this project, I am reminded of the rewarding journey it has been—a journey that culminates in the hope of revitalizing not just a physical space but the spirit of a community. I extend my gratitude for the opportunity to present this labor of passion and knowledge, and I hope that this endeavor sparks an appreciation for the transformative power of design and urban renaissance.
