Nestled in the quaint village of Mar Moussa, surrounded by a serene pine forest and a mere 30-minute drive from the bustling city of Beirut, lies a unique residence designed to accommodate a family of two brothers and their parents. This architectural endeavor is not just a home but a testament to thoughtful design harmonizing with its natural surroundings.

The residence is strategically positioned on a site that presents both a challenge and an opportunity due to its unusual shape and the rugged terrain that extends from the east, with a steep 40-degree slope following the main road. Despite a neighbor obscuring part of the northwestern view, the design ingeniously maximizes the scenic landscape and the wild beauty of the area

The architectural composition includes two duplex units placed atop a designated parking area, alongside a compact apartment tailor-made for the parents. Each unit is blessed with its own courtyard, providing a private outdoor oasis. The west-facing aspect of these homes is thoughtfully designed with expansive openings and gardens, ensuring that each family member can enjoy the breathtaking views.

A key feature of this residence is the careful integration of the buildings into the natural landscape. The units, constructed with fragmented stone, are connected through an external pathway comprising stairs and balconies. This path leads to a communal outdoor seating area on the roof, promoting a sense of community and connection among the family members. Vertical wooden columns punctuate the space, seamlessly blending the indoor environments with the natural world outside.

The architects have gone to great lengths to ensure the project melds with its environment. Openings and loggias are cleverly concealed behind synthetic trunks, creating the illusion of floating amidst the landscape. This design philosophy not only enhances the aesthetic appeal of the residence but also tells a poignant story of a home striving to preserve the essence of a site on the brink of urban encroachment.

This residence in Mar Moussa is more than just a place to live; it’s a narrative of architectural innovation, familial bonds, and the enduring beauty of nature, all woven into the fabric of a community threatened by disappearance.