A few weeks ago, Archilovers' friend Sisi Jin had the opportunity to interview Carl Gerges, the multi-disciplinary architect based between Beirut, Dubai, and Paris.
Having graduated from the American University of Beirut with a degree in Architecture, Gerges likes to imagine a lifestyle centered around nature and mindful living through his designs. Paying equal attention to the interiors and landscaping, Gerges presents his projects as a whole, meticulously designed to transform their environments – and inspire a lifestyle unique to their locations.
The imprint of his earlier days in renowned rock band “Mashrou Leila’’ prompted an interest in the intersection between music, travel, and art. Having collaborated with artists like Mika, Yo Yo Ma, Niles Rodgers, Joe Goddard, and Brian Eno, his musical career holds many accolades. His days spent touring with the band immersed Gerges further in the world of architecture.
In this interview, an intriguing journey through architectural and musical reflections, Carl Gerges guides us along a path that intertwines memories and inspirations. His unique perspective manifests in the fusion of two art forms, architecture, and music, creating a captivating union that stimulates the senses.
I stayed at the Capo Boutique Hotel designed by you a few days ago. What impressed me most were the windows that stretched out from the room to the skyline, like a Monet painting. You made me feel like the act of looking through the window was more important than the window itself. You have a special interest in plants and garden design. How would you describe the influence of Lebanese culture on your architectural work?
Carl: Growing up in Beirut, it always struck me how the city turns its back to the sea. It’s a Mediterranean city, yet you don’t feel the proximity to the water until you reach the coast which I find extremely curious. This has prompted me to pay tribute to the sea for my latest project in Batroun called “Capo” where the architecture revolves around the glimmering sea - it was like a personal vendetta. This obsession with nature in my work also comes from childhood memories with my grandparents who lived outside Beirut and had plenty of wild nature around their house. We would prune trees, plant, and pick flowers and fruits together, and I became very aware of the different types of plants early on. Today, landscaping is one of the processes I look forward to the most – seeing how something alive can interact with static architecture, and eventually give it life, is nothing short of magical.
Capo Boutique Hotel, ©Carl Gerges Architects
After making a movie, some film directors will go to the cinema to eavesdrop on the audience's reaction to them. After you build a house, will you listen to the feedback of the users of the house?
Carl: Absolutely! Listening to the feedback of the users is an integral part of my process as an architect. My design philosophy/ethos is centered around experiences first; I always want to create spaces around rituals that provide a sense of well-being by engaging the senses. Therefore understanding how people interact with and experience the spaces I create allows me to continually refine and improve my approach to design.
Carl Gerges' studio, ©Carl Gerges Architects
I think you are very much like a whale, but you are a singerwale. You and the whale emit the same frequency of Hertz in the deep sea. Music or architecture are both frequencies emitted by your brain waves. Therefore, you have attracted many customers who trust you infinitely and have the same aesthetics and dreams as you. This is a very magical and lucky thing. In addition to being an architect, you are also a band drummer. What is the inspiration behind your approach to architecture and music? How do they affect each other?
Carl: Architecture has always inevitably shared the stage with my musical career. Being able to tour the world and being in the presence of incredible architecture was a source of endless inspiration. I would go back to my hotel room after a concert and sketch, it grounded me and gave me a sense of balance that countered the cacophony of hectic concerts and large crowds. This has influenced me to conceive spaces in a very theatrical way, like when I worked with Matthieu Blazy for Bottega Veneta on “The Square Dubaï” where visitors were invited to sit in the center of the space, lights pointing towards them. There is something unreal about how sound is experienced during a performance: it transports you, and the crowd’s presence is so powerful even if it isn’t tangible, so I wanted to recreate this moment using light beams and an immersive sound system. I want people to experience spaces in a fantastical manner.
Carl Gerges' studio, ©Sisi Jin
What was your first architectural work? Who is your favorite architect?
Carl: My first project was my home in Beirut. I love the Thermal Baths in Vals in Switzerland which were done by one of my favorite architects, Peter Zumthor. The locally sourced Quarzite slabs used to build the wellness center contrast sharply with the lush landscapes, which intensify their mystic qualities. I’ve been there several times and it’s hard to describe the feeling the space gives you. It’s an experience.
Architectural designers are a profession that requires both rationality and sensibility. Time makes this building more attractive. What do you think about the life of architecture? Have you ever done a project to renovate ruins? Do you think architecture is eternal? What do you think about the life of architecture?
Carl: The role of design has always been to better human life. Whether through buildings, objects, devices, or furniture, great design enables a better lifestyle. A well-designed space is intuitive, easy to navigate, and inspiring; it is here to suggest an optimal way of doing things either by going back to basics or by resorting to technology. Spaces have a direct impact on us, so it’s our responsibility as architects to create designs that make us feel good. Ultimately, the role of design is to evolve with our human needs and to challenge what those needs are. I wish for my work to be timeless – and only time can tell. I really hope that the projects I am working on can have a positive impact on the urban landscape, keeping nature as a central element. I hope the future will feature more nature / less buildings.
Cana Guesthouse, ©Carl Gerges Architects
Can you tell me about a construction project you are working on?
Carl: Currently, we have several exciting projects in the pipeline, spanning hospitality, nightlife, and private residences. One notable project is the design of the largest nightclub in the Middle East, located on Beirut's waterfront. Our aim is to redefine the nightlife experience and create a space that feels like an intergalactic destination.
In addition to that, we are working on designing residences in London and Paris, a restaurant in Dubai, and private offices in KSA, along with 2 big hospitality projects. I really enjoy creating hotels and being involved in the littlest details, it gives me a sense of control that soothes my perfectionism.
Villa Chams, ©Carl Gerges Architects
Has there ever been a person in your childhood who made you feel that that person is the person you want to become?
Carl: As far back as I can remember, my parents always encouraged me to develop my creative skills. My mother gave me my first drum kit when I was three years old. My father, who was a jewel maker at the time, shared his knowledge of sculpture and drawing with me. A bit later, while growing up in the 90s, I was lucky to travel extensively with my family. Architecture made its impression on me during early trips, particularly to Paris. I was totally blown away by the buildings that went up during the industrial revolution, notably the Eiffel Tower, and spent hours staring at all the details- a sort of metallic lace that I found wholly captivating so I began to build little models and to draw a lot.
How often do you travel, and what is your most memorable experience while traveling?
Carl: I'm constantly on the move, and traveling is a vital part of my lifestyle. It's where I find my inspiration. One of the most memorable experiences is without any doubt my time spent on tour with my band. The highs of performing, the connection with the audience, and the entire journey serve as a source of creative energy for me.
If you leave this world one day, how do you want people to remember you?
Carl: I want people to remember me as someone who brought together architecture and music in a way that left a lasting and positive impression.
Carl Gerges Portrait - © Sisi Jin
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