portfolio. 2020 - 2025 samer jurdak. resume. ABOUT PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE Architectural Intern MZ Architects L.L.C. UAE, Abu Dhabi August 2024 EDUCATION AWARDS LANGUAGES Ambitious and detail-driven Architectural Student with a passion for innovative design. Eager to seek a role as Design Architect to channel my creativity, technical skills, and problem-solving abilities into crafting impactful, forward-thinking architectural solutions. Ready to contribute, learn, and grow in a dynamic professional environment. Architectural Intern ERGA Progress Engineering Consultants Directions UAE, Dubai July 2024 Architectural Intern Bernard Khoury / DW5 Lebanon, Beirut May 2023 - July 2023 Bachelor's of Architecture Lebanese American University DAID Exhibitions English (Fluent), Arabic (Native), French (Intermediate), German (Beginner - Learning) SKILLS Soft: Revit, AutoCAD, Twinmotion, Illustrator, Photoshop, Lumion, Enscape, Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Powerpoint) Time Management, Critical Thinking, Visualizing, Communication, Creativity, Onsite Experience, 3D Modeling Young Visionary Architecture Competition Participation Award https://daidexhibition.com Fall 2021 2022 2023 Spring 2022 2023 2024 2021 2nd Place in the Urban Wood Furniture Design by EGGER LB 2024 Lebanese American University GPA : 3.74 Graduated with Distinction Sept 2020 - June 2025 Freshman Year American University of Beirut Sept 2019 - June 2020 High School Diploma SABIS International School Sept 2005 - June 2019 works. pg. 21-28 03 pg. 43-48 06 pg. 15-20 02 pg. 49-54 07 05 THE URBAN LINK pg. 37-42 EDUCATIONAL + COMMUNAL FACILITY Final Project 2024 ASCENT pg. 29-36 04 RECREATIONAL BUILDING Final Project 2021 SEEK DISCOMFORT pg. 55-56 08 01 UNFOLDING ECHOES: WOVEN INTO THE URBAN FABRIC COMMUNAL BUILDING Final Year Project 2024 - 2025 pg. 5-14 Communal Building Final Year Project 2024-2025 UNFOLDING ECHOES: WOVEN INTO THE URBAN FABRIC This project began as a personal response to the silence and disconnection I experienced growing up in Beirut — a city shaped by war, abandonment, and political division . One building on the Green Line stood out: scarred by bullets, stripped of function, and caught between two very different neighborhoods — Bashoura and Ashrafieh. It became the starting point for this thesis. Beirut’s urban fabric is fractured by invisible boundaries —left by civil war and reinforced by sectarian planning and uneven development. Streets that once connected people now divide them. The result is a city where social and spatial disconnection is normalized, and history is often erased instead of addressed. This thesis proposes a different approach: preserve the scars, retain the structure, and activate the space with new public programs — education, co-working, culture, and marketplace functions — that bring people together across those divides. It is both a personal and architectural attempt to reconnect what has been broken. 01 Unfolding Echoes: Woven Into The Urban Fabric | Urban Scars | Final Year Project | Spring 2025 6 Compounding this is the presence of imposed boundaries —a direct result of socio-political injustice. Beirut is divided by physical barriers like highways and abandoned buffer zones, but also by invisible and social lines drawn through sectarianism, fear, and inequality. These boundaries restrict movement, limit interaction, and prevent organic urban growth. This thesis confronts those barriers by working within them—transforming a damaged site at the intersection of divided neighborhoods into a connective social platform rooted in memory, not erasure. Beirut’s urban landscape has suffered from the systematic discontinuation of heritage , where war-scarred structures are either erased or whitewashed in the name of development. This approach not only removes architectural value but also severs emotional ties to the city’s complex past. Buildings that once carried memory, meaning, and communal narratives are replaced with generic, commercialized blocks —creating a disjointed cityscape with no continuity between its layers of history. This rupture has a deep generational impact. For those of us who grew up in the aftermath, our relationship with the city is shaped more by what’s missing than what remains . The stories our parents and grandparents told us no longer align with the physical spaces we inhabit. As a result, we inherit a fragmented identity—detached from the experiences of previous generations and alienated from a city that no longer reflects their history. Unfolding Echoes: Woven Into The Urban Fabric | Layers of Urban Ruins | Final Year Project | Spring 2025 Unfolding Echoes: Woven Into The Urban Fabric | Imposed Boundaries | Final Year Project | Spring 2025 Underdeveloped Wealthy Areas Fragmented Areas Mostly Muslim Mostly Christian 7 8 The project preserves the building’s external envelope and its historical trauma as part of a layered urban narrative. Internally, new volumes are surgically inserted to support education, co-working, exhibition, and marketplace functions. This hybridization of use draws contrasting demographics and intentionally disrupts mono-functional zoning across Beirut's fractured urban core. Strategically positioned at a socio-spatial faultline, the project introduces an "Urban Social Corridor" that re-establishes pedestrian flow and social exchange between the two disconnected districts. This insertion isn’t just architectural — it’s political. It critiques decades of gentrification, privatization, and cultural amnesia. Unfolding Echoes: Woven Into The Urban Fabric | Plan | Final Year Project | Spring 2025 Existing Structure New Structure Unfolding Echoes: Woven Into The Urban Fabric | Detailed Wall Section | Final Year Project | Spring 2025 WORKSHOP LOBBY PUBLIC SPACE EXHIBITION MARKETPLACE MARKETPLACE +1.50 m +1.00 m A A B B C C D D G H G H PUBLIC GARDEN PUBLIC SPACE E E F F EXHIBITION ± 0.00 m -0.50 m EXHIBITION -0.50 m -0.50 m -0.50 m WC WC WC WC PLAN GF SCALE 1:100 DETAILED WALL SECTION 9 10 Unfolding Echoes: Woven Into The Urban Fabric | Axonometric | Final Year Project | Spring 2025 AXONOMETRIC VIEW Unfolding Echoes: Woven Into The Urban Fabric | Sections | Final Year Project | Spring 2025 11 12 Unfolding Echoes: Woven Into The Urban Fabric | Exploded Axonometric | Final Year Project | Spring 2025 Unfolding Echoes: Woven Into The Urban Fabric | 3D Views + Elevation | Final Year Project | Spring 2025 EXPLODED AXONOMETRIC SCALE 1:200 13 14 SKYLIGHT AUMINIUM ZINC ROOF WOMEN’S PRAYER HALL 30 mm HANDRAIL POLISHED CONCRETE 100 mm RIGID INSULATION EMERGENCY STAIRS MEN’S PRAYER HALL 200 mm REINFORCED CONCRETE 1300 x 1300 mm WAFFLE SLAB 970 mm GLASS RAILING GRAVEL 50 x 150 mm MULLION MEZZANINE STORAGE GLASS STOREFRONT SLIDING DOOR SHOP OFFICE UNDERGROUND PARKING EARTH 600 mm COLUMN 100 mm RIGID INSULATION 300 mm REINFORCED CONCRETE 4 mm WATERPROOF MEMBRANE PROTECTIVE BOARD Final Project 2023 INTROSPECTIVE OASIS Religious Building + Market A thought-provoking architectural design that aims to revive the urban fabric of the city by creating a new social hotspot. The design features a market that emerges from the voids of the city and is situated on the ground level to facilitate the flow of people and create a vibrant urban atmosphere. The project boasts several urban connections that seamlessly connect different parts of the city together, with the main attraction being a striking set of large stairs that creates an urban dynamic and serves as a gathering spot for locals and visitors alike. The design also incorporates a floating geometric form on top of the market, which is a stunning mosque that acts as a spiritual center for the community. 02 Introspective Oasis | West Elevation | Final Project | Spring 2023 16 The project represents a bold departure from traditional architectural designs, with its innovative approach to urban connections, social hotspots, and spiritual centers. The project is a testament to the power of architecture to transform and revitalize urban spaces and create a new sense of community and connection. Introspective Oasis | Exploded Axonometric | Final Project | Spring 2023 NE AXONOMETRIC EXTRUSION OF PLOT The extrusion of the plot to understand the limits of the project FLOATING SLAB Creating a horizontal connection with the city allowed the formation for a floating slab. An introverted and secluded response URBAN FABRIC The building follows the surrounding neighborhood buildings to create a sloped form SOLID/VOID The creation of vertical voids for an upward introverted connection for the courtyard. The curved roof of the mosque is to resonate the prayers inside and to create a different perception what can be seen outside. Introspective Oasis | Axonometric | Final Project | Spring 2023 Introspective Oasis | Axonometric | Final Project | Spring 2023 17 18 A A` B` B` B WOMEN’S PRAYER HALL MEN’S PRAYER HALL WOMEN’S COURTYARD MEN’S COURTYARD ABLUTION Introspective Oasis | Sections | Final Project | Spring 2023 Introspective Oasis | Plan | Final Project | Spring 2023 19 20 Final Project 2023 REVIVED BY LIGHT Office Building In the heart of this city lies an overlooked architectural paradigm, a forsaken building structure that time has left behind. The significance of breathing new life into such abandoned architectural paradigms cannot be underestimated. These forgotten remnants of design history hold within them the potential to reinvigorate not only the building itself but also the very essence of productivity in a workplace. The revitalization of architectural paradigms is a transformative process that knits the urban community together . It acts as a catalyst for urban renewal, drawing from the collective memory of the city's inhabitants and preserving a tangible link to its design past. As we embark on this architectural journey, we aim to go beyond mere renovation. The vision is to embrace a concept of architectural continuity, where the old design serves as the foundation for a continuous structure, much like an old tree sprouting new branches. 03 Revived By Light | SW Elevation | Final Project | Fall 2023 22 To foster a modern, adaptable work environment that encourages creativity and productivity, the space type menu offers an array of activity-based work settings. These meticulously designed workspaces cater to different tasks and preferences, ranging from collaborative hubs to private sanctuaries. These versatile settings are complemented by a comprehensive selection of shared local and building amenity spaces. Whether seeking a quiet corner for focused concentration or a vibrant area for team collaboration, employees have the freedom to choose their ideal work setting . This thoughtful approach not only enhances efficiency but also promotes a sense of well-being, ultimately contributing to a more innovative and harmonious workplace. EXTRUSION OF PLOT VOID FOR COURTYARDS/RAMPS ADDITION OF STRUCTURE PLAY OF VOLUMES Subtracting out incisions to allow the formation of courtyards to compliment the program Addition of the pre-existing columns and beams to understand the limitations set withhin the grid Protrusions inside the volume to allow maximum light to flood the spaces inside and create a homogeneous end product The extrusion of the plot to physicallay understand the pre-existing buildings perimeters Revived By Light | Space Type Menu | Final Project | Fall 2023 Revived By Light | Section Perspective + Concept | Final Project | Fall 2023 23 24 Server Room Area: 18 m 2 Outdoor Space Locker Room Area: 27 m 2 Auxiliary Eq. Room Area: 54 m 2 Single Desk Area: 9 m 2 Double Desk Area: 18 m 2 Triple Desk Area: 27 m 2 Private Workstation Area: 27 m 2 Medium Meeting Room Area: 18 m 2 3ULYDWH2ȨFH Area: 18 m 2 Large Meeting Room Area: 27 m 2 Conference Room Area: 54 m 2 Wellbeing Room Area: 27 m 2 Flexible Workstation Area: 27 m 2 Reception Area: 27 m 2 Kitchenette Area: 9 m 2 Tech Lab Area: 27 m 2 Medium Kitchenette Area: 18 m 2 Cafeteria Area: 108 m 2 Lounge Room Area: 81 m 2 Innovation Room Area: 27 m 2 Library Area: 54 m 2 Class Room Area: 18 m 2 SECTION C-C A B -5.00 m -5.00 m -5.00 m -5.00 m -5.00 m -5.00 m -5.00 m -5.00 m -5.00 m -4.17 m -3.33 m L= 10 m 83 / 1000 L= 10 m 83 / 1000 RESTAURANT BAR KITCHEN W.C. W.C. W.C. W.C. CONFERENCE ROOM WORKSPACE CONFERENCE ROOM LOCKER ROOM LOCKER ROOM ARCHIVE ROOM SERVICE ROOM AUX ROOM PRIVATE OFFICE PRIVATE OFFICE PRIVATE OFFICE SERVICE ROOM PLAN -1 SCALE 1:50 LOBBY LOBBY COURTYARD PRIVATE OFFICE -5.00 m FIRE EXIT A B -5.00 m L= 10 m 83 / 1000 L= 10 m 83 / 1000 -4.17 m -3.33 m GARDEN -5.00 m C C + 7.50 m + 3.33 m ± 0.00 m -5.00 m ± 0.00 m - 5.00 m + 3.33 m + 7.50 m SECTION C-C SCALE 1:50 Revived by Light | Plans + Section | Final Project | Fall 2023 Revived by Light | Sectional Axomometric Plans | Final Project | Fall 2023 25 26 Revived By Light | Exploded Axonometric | Final Project | Fall 2023 This continuous growth represents an innovative fusion of history and modernity, where the existing paradigm becomes both a rooted foundation and a partner to the new, forging a connection between eras and architectural languages, all bathed in the revitalizing embrace of natural light. The result is a dynamic, living entity that not only attracts users to the site but also breathes fresh energy into the surrounding community. This project is a testament to the power of architecture to rejuvenate and reinvent, standing as a symbol of the commitment to preserving the rich tapestry of the city's design heritage while forging a path towards a productive and interconnected future. Revived by Light | Sections | Final Project | Fall 2023 ± 0.00 m -5.00 m + 3.33 m + 7.50 m + 11.25 m ± 0.00 m -5.00 m + 3.33 m + 7.50 m + 11.25 m SECTION B-B SECTION A-A 27 28 Ascent | Exploded Axonometric | Final Project | Spring 2024 Final Project 2024 ASCENT Education + Communal Facility An innovative architectural project situated in Nabaa, a city yearning for educational and societal elevation . Serving as more than just a school, it stands as a beacon of progress , offering public facilities such as a library and auditorium, fostering community engagement and empowerment. Designed to seamlessly integrate with its environment, Ascent harmonizes with the flowing Beirut River, boasting dynamic forms that captivate the eye. Its architectural allure not only inspires learning but also provides a vibrant hub for social interaction , cultivating a sense of belonging and connectivity within the community. 04 SCALE 1:100 30 W.C. W.C. W.C. W.C. INDOOR SWIMMING POOL CLOAK ROOM AUDITORIUM LOBBY LIBRARY W.C. W.C. LAB LAB ART STUDIO STAFF ROOM MUSIC ROOM STORAGE SERVER ROOM RELAXING ROOM MEETING ROOM GARDEN MECHANICAL ROOM PATIO CHANGING ROOMS MECHANICAL ROOM STORAGE STORAGE CHANGING ROOMS STORAGE COMPUTER LAB PARKING 0.00+ m 0.00+ m 0.00+ m 0.00+ m 0.00+ m 0.00+ m 0.00+ m 0.00+ m 4.00- m OUTDOOR SPACE 0.00+ m OUTDOOR SPACE 0.00+ m OUTDOOR SPACE 0.00+ m OUTDOOR SPACE PRAYER ROOM PRAYER ROOM MEETING ROOM STUDENT LOUNGE LOBBY A A B C C B D E D E F F This thoughtful integration of public spaces within the educational facility reflects a commitment to not only elevating the city's educational standards but also enhancing the overall quality of life for its inhabitants. Ascent is more than just an architectural achievement; it is a catalyst for social change , designed to inspire a brighter future for Nabaa. Ascent | GF Detailed Plan | Final Project | Spring 2024 Ascent | Concept Diagrams | Final Project | Spring 2024 The project's design philosophy emphasizes accessibility and inclusivity , ensuring that every corner of Ascent is welcoming to all members of the community. The pedestrian passage that cuts through the building serves as both a literal and symbolic connection between different parts of the city, inviting residents to explore, interact, and learn. The long ramp leading to various sightseeing spots offers breathtaking views of Beirut, encouraging people to engage with their environment in new and meaningful ways. RAMP, BRIDGES, STAIRS Various ramps and bridges connect the project as a whole, creating spatial qualties such as site seeing paltforms and social interactive decks. SIGHTSEEING PLATFORMS Platforms where users may view the outskirts of Ashrafieh as well as overlooking the river of Beirut. REBIRTH OF RAILWAY Reigniting the path of the railway, as it crosses through the plots. Since seaside road is not visited frequently, it has been merged with the railway PUBLIC VS PRIVATE The project is divided into three sectors of privacy. The most public is near the river inviting the community into it. Privacy increases as the projects delves inwards 31 32 Parapet Reinforced Concrete Slab Rigid Insulation Metal Deck EPDM Membrane Fluted Concrete 1200 x 1200 Waffle Slab Polished Concrete 60 x 60 Concrete Column Playground Gypsum Board Adjustable Aluminum Rod Aluminum Tie Beam 400 x 1830mm Window Kindergaten Grass Sand Earth Fondation Curtain Walll Multi-Purpose Room Zinc Plated Wall 300 mm Mullion Ascent /GF Detailed Plan / Final Project / Spring 2024 Ascent | Detailed Wall Section | Final Project | Spring 2024 33 34 Ascent | Sections | Final Project | Spring 2024 Ascent | Structure Diagram + Elevation | Final Project | Spring 2024 35 36 Final Project 2022 THE URBAN LINK Community Center In this innovative paradigm of human interaction, a unique fusion emerges as a community center and culinary school coalesce, offering intriguing spaces for users. Reflecting the urban vernacular of neighboring structures, the project integrates seamlessly with its surroundings while also introducing a dynamic public passage that divides it into two distinct buildings. This passage serves as a vital link between disparate areas of varying elevations, fostering enhanced social connections and community engagement. 05 The Urban Link | Exploded Axonometric | Final Project | Fall 2022 7 38