Amar Beirut: A Culinary Journey Amidst Historical Splendor

Marina Khalil Merges Museum Elegance with Lebanese Flavors

Warsaw's Norblin Factory, a site steeped in history, has been reimagined into a vibrant cultural hub, where Amar Beirut stands as a testament to innovative design. The restaurant's ambiance echoes a museum, with decorative ceilings and walls adorned with traditional Lebanese motifs, creating an immersive cultural dining experience. Khalil's design draws upon the factory's legacy, particularly its cutlery production, to inspire the restaurant's aesthetic, infusing it with a sense of heritage and artistry.

Employing a blend of materials and cutting-edge technologies, the design of Amar Beirut showcases the meticulous attention to detail. Ceramic tiles form elaborate patterns, while pixel light technology embedded in ceiling panels offers an ever-changing lighting ambiance. Wooden elements introduce warmth, and custom-made furniture harmonizes with the overall theme, all realized through advanced production techniques and precise 3D modeling.

Spanning 550 square meters, including a rooftop area, Amar Beirut is not just a feast for the palate but also for the eyes. The restaurant's design encourages natural interaction among guests as they engage with the fusion of art, culture, and gastronomy. This fluid and immersive experience is a hallmark of Khalil's design philosophy, which aims to create memorable atmospheres that marry the old with the new.

The project, which commenced in July 2022 and concluded in June 2023, was underpinned by extensive research. Surveys, interviews, and ethnographic studies revealed a strong public interest in combining museum experiences with gastronomy. This innovative approach not only enhances cultural appreciation but also has the potential to redefine museum and restaurant designs, contributing to cultural tourism and societal enrichment.

Integrating museum aesthetics with a dining environment posed significant challenges, creatively and technically. The design team navigated material availability, technological constraints, and regulatory compliance, all while aligning with diverse visitor expectations. Through an iterative design process and dedicated research, Amar Beirut was brought to life, harmonizing tradition with modernity and setting a new standard in restaurant design.

Marina Khalil's Amar Beirut has been recognized with the prestigious Golden A' Design Award in Interior Space, Retail and Exhibition Design for 2024. This accolade celebrates the restaurant's exceptional design, which not only reflects Khalil's ingenuity but also significantly contributes to the advancement of design and technology, leaving an indelible mark on the world.