Karam Reserve Amphitheater
Designed: 2003 Built: 2003 Location: Kaftoun, Lebanon
The amphitheater, designed to fit 250 people, sits adjacent to an existing 19th Century stone structure - el mrah- used to house cattle and bovine animals back in the days. The existing structure was rehabilitated and turned into a multi-functional space, used for meetings and get-togethers for the Scouts of Lebanon. The circular amphitheater, designed to function with or without a sound system is flanked by stone cladded walls, outlining its position within the natural landscape and next to the exiting stone structure. a series of wide stairs glue the amphitheater to the multi-purpose volume, making these "waiting points" for performers to come out to the stage during a performance. The amphitheater is accessible from the bottom via a long concrete walkway situated along the stone structure. It is also accessible from the top through a series of stairs leading to an upper walkway where the sleeping quarters and public bathrooms are located.
The amphitheater's seating is lined by white limestone imbedded in the concrete finish highlighting the nine curves that are interrupted by two sets of steps. At the client's request, a fire pit sits in the middle of the stage, concealed by a removable lid, designed to be used for specific performances.