Design 21: Social Design Network

I studied architecture because I was and still is fascinated by spatial environments and cultural connotations of formal aesthetics. Nevertheless, my evolving critical inquiry and investigative nature broadened my scope to the dynamics of the larger development and urbanization contexts. I pursued graduate study in urban planning and design, focusing on pressing contextual concerns and exploring alternative cross-disciplinary approaches such as adopting a landscape alternative approach to institutional planning in Lebanon. Today, I am more determined to instigate change through establishing -with colleagues- a progressive platform and think tank, Collective [34], for and about spatial awareness. I believe that the social entrepreneurial nature of this project will serve as both a platform for spatial analysis and intervention and a think tank for space planners, designers, and enthusiasts who advance and adopt alternative space culture, research, policy, and intervention in the Middle East region. My beliefs are grounded in acknowledging the need for new frames of reference and perspectives on spatial planning in my country and region.