http://i950.photobucket.com/albums/ad345/Nadini1/10.jpg

Beirut Central District (BCD) - Beirut, Lebanon


www.damacproperties.com


http://i209.photobucket.com/albums/bb2/Htlebmn/thumb_biglogo1.jpg


Location
http://img474.imageshack.us/img474/1048/damacloc9ba.jpg
Located at the prime intersection of Omar Daouk and Fakhreddine Streets

OLD DESIGN:
http://img477.imageshack.us/img477/734/damacrender3ey.jpg

DAMAC Properties launches $120 million real estate venture in the BCD

6/21/2006
The Lebanon Brief by Bank Audi


Dubai-based DAMAC Properties announced the launch of real estate venture in the Beirut Central District.

The residential project, along with the piece of land on which it will be built, are worth $120 million. The tower will be located at the intersection of Fakhreddin and Omar Daouk streets and will provide stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea. It will encompass luxurious apartments with state of the art marble and ceramic finishing, liberal parking spaces, a swimming pool, a gymnasium, and 24 hours maintenance and security.

The project would be completed by 2009.

DAMAC is one of the UAE’s leading providers of luxury waterfront projects. It has a paid-up capital of $82 million (AED300 million), and more than $2.72 billion (AED10 billion) worth of projects. DAMAC’s most remarkable projects are Dubai Marina, Palm Island Jumeirah, Palm Island Jebel Ali, Jumeirah Lakes Towers, Dubai Land and Dubai international Financial Centre (DIFC).

Here is a the official press release from 6 Dec 2005 (I know its old but I figured I would post it for some background):



DAMAC Properties launches its latest real estate venture in world acclaimed Beirut City Centre


Company announces its first project outside the UAE

Luxury lifestyle provider, DAMAC properties, announces today the launch of its first real estate venture outside the UAE in Lebanon’s world acclaimed Beirut City Centre. DAMAC recently purchased a piece of land from Solidere, the company entrusted with the city centre’s post-war rejuvenation. The project, including the price of the land is valued at $120 Million.


The property company has initiated an international architectural competition by architects from North America, Europe and the Far East and looks forward to presenting its iconic conceptual design to Solidere in the near future.


The company’s real estate residential endeavor will be located at the prime intersection of Fakhreddin and Omar Daouk Streets at the heart of Lebanon’s capital and encompasses 27 stories, including 70 two and three bedroom apartments with state of the art marble and ceramic finishing, ample parking space, a swimming pool, gym, valet parking, as well as 24 hours maintenance and security. Apartments on every level will provide stunning views on the Mediterranean Sea.


“We are delighted to invest in a real estate endeavor within Lebanon’s stunning Beirut City Center, and area that is renowned for its fabulous architecture, its 5000 years of history, and its prime location within the Lebanese capital”, said Hussain Sajwani, DAMAC Holding Chairman.


He added: “DAMAC’s new project will undoubtedly live up to the company’s reputation of delivering truly spectacular residential towers. The exquisite development will, without a doubt, stand out within the Beirut City Center skyline.”


The company was recently honored with three prestigious Bentley International Awards 2005 in the categories of Best UAE Development for Marina Terrace, Best Architecture for Ocean Heights and Best Developer Website (www.damacproperties.com) at a ceremony in London on 4 November 2005.


DAMAC Properties was the first to introduce residential projects on every master planned development introduced by the Dubai Government, including the Palm Islands in Jumeirah and Jebel Ali, Dubai Marina, Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC), Jumeirah Lake Towers, Discovery Gardens, and the International Media Production Zone.


The total value of DAMAC Properties’ projects is over AED 10 Billion. It is a subsidiary of DAMAC Holding, an accredited ISO 9002 company that has grown into a global conglomerate with more than 5000 employees in 16 countries. Being the first private developer to make a commitment to Dubai’s real estate market, DAMAC properties has become a market leader with a strong sales record to its credit.

I was there today. Nothing is still on the ground. The land is still a parking lot.

can anyone google-earth the location for us ?

http://img355.imageshack.us/img355/3241/damacloc0eh.jpg

wow that is some seriously PRIME property

is there going to be any more Car Parks in Beirut with all those Devlpments

^^ That's the issue all of us will suffer.

Although underground parking areas will be built, but I don't expect the latter meet the demand.

I thought the rendering will be unvieled later this month.

Its nice to see this project moving forward... the design is actually impressive and the name is nice as well. I am excited about this tower...but I cant wait until 2009!

Does anyone know when construction is set to begin?

construction set to begin at the end of this year.
Just watched the news on future tv.they mentioned that.

Thanx nareg. :)

DAMAC Properties unveils ‘la Residence’ in Beirut City Centre

Symbol of elegance and glamour Ivana Trump endorses and contributes to the design of DAMAC's dazzling Beirut project


http://www.dailystar.com.lb/admin/storage/articles/20066262133320.7-damac.jpg http://img.iskon.hr/kl/2004/09/07/0002021s.jpg


Monday, June 26, 2006
(official press release)

Luxury lifestyle provider, DAMAC Properties, announces its stunning US $150 Million real estate venture “la Residence by Ivana Trump” in the world-renowned Beirut City Center. Located at the prime intersection of Omar Daouk and Fakhreddine streets, the project is due to stand out as one of the most glamorous and luxurious real estate undertakings within the Lebanese capital’s skyline.

International celebrity, Ivana Trump, endorsed and contributed substantially to the project’s iconic design due the synergy between DAMAC Properties as a luxury lifestyle provider and the star’s image as a symbol of opulence and glamour.

Ivana Trump is an award winning, international entrepreneur and an icon who has driven success in her every endeavor from the hotel and casino business to fashion and as a writer. Her keen business savvy, attention to detail and passion for live have inspired legions of admirers around the world who see her as the embodiment of the contemporary luxury lifestyle.

“We are honored to be endorsed by Ivana Trump, a world-renowned celebrity that is considered a symbol of style, glamour and class. Ivana Trump contributed significantly to the design of the tower that is due to illustrate optimum luxury with its stunning architecture, its state of the art amenities, as well as its location at the heart of the dazzling Beirut City Center”, said Peter Riddoch, CEO at DAMAC Properties.

“DAMAC’s launch in downtown Beirut stems from our belief in the prominence of this area as a leading destination for business and tourism from citizens the world over along with its 5000 years of history and considerably rich culture. We have a long-term plan for Lebanon and will introduce a number of highly exciting projects in the near future”, added Riddoch.

La Residence by Ivana Trump is 27-storey, elegantly designed tower that exudes grace and style, including a plethora of one, two, and three bedroom apartments, along with duplexes and penthouses. Apartments on every level will provide stunning views on the Mediterranean Sea.

The property’s luxury amenities encompass marble and wooden flooring, ample parking space, a children’s play area, smart home technology, a temperature controlled swimming pool, an exotic sauna and Jacuzzi, state of the art gym, fine dining restaurants, designer boutiques, cafes, as well as 24 hours concierge service, maintenance, security and helpdesk facilities.

Internationally, in the beginning of June, DAMAC launched a $3.5 Billion exquisite mixed-use project within Trumpet Bay region located in the Tanggu District, Tianjin, People’s Republic of china, as well as a $400 Million 14-building spectacular real estate venture within Lusail’s Fox Hills community in Doha. The property company is due to divulge its exquisite property in the new Abdali master plan in Amman, Jordan, at a press conference in July.

The property company was recently honored with three prestigious Bentley International Awards 2005 in the categories of Best UAE Development for Marina Terrace, Best Architecture for Ocean Heights and Best Developer Website (www.damacproperties.com) at a ceremony in London on 4 November 2005.

The Bentley International Property Awards, now entering their 11th year, have been described as the ‘Oscars’ of the property industry. The aim of the awards is to distinguish the highest levels of achievement in a range of property-related fields. Categories cover a wide range of property and real estate related activities and services, including Development, Interior Design, Architecture, Property, Advertising, Marketing, and Estate Agency Services.

The total value of DAMAC Properties’ projects is over US 4 Billion. It is a subsidiary of the DAMAC Holding established in 1982. An accredited ISO 9002 company, DAMAC Holding has now grown into a global conglomerate with more than 5000 employees in 16 countries. Being the first private sector Company to make a commitment to Dubai’s real estate market, DAMAC properties has become the market leader with a strong sales record to its credit.

Cool.hope the other DAMAC projects in lebanon,will be outside Beirut.

Can't really say if I like it or not, it looks like a nice tower I just need to see more renders, Tnxs Naregkar :)

I really like how Ivana Trump endorsed this... it adds a lot of prestige to the project.

^^ it does but don't u guys think that it does not go well with the rest of the residential towers being built in that area?

^^ I agree, but maybe thats what makes it special... in that its unique.
Also, I think a lot of the towers in the BCD will look different and clash with each other (but maybe that could be a good thing?) - dont forget about the Phoenician Village towers and the Landmark...

^^ maybe ur right, but the phoenician village is not surrounded by other towers that will make it look weird. It is just there unique in it's position (the phoenician village is gonna be nice looking, I went down to the office not to long ago and they had more then one rendering. I think it will turn out better then what u guys are expecting). Anyways we'll see till it will be built, can't tell until it is completed

Welcome :)


Here is more about this venture.

DAMAC unveils plans for 'Ivana Trump' apartments

By Lysandra Ohrstrom
Daily Star staff
Tuesday, June 27, 2006

BEIRUT: Though the Dubai real-estate giant DAMAC announced plans for a $150 million residential apartment complex in Lebanon earlier this month, the complex was not formally inaugurated as "La Residence by Ivana Trump" until Monday - the day after Ivana Trump's famous ex-husband announced that he would develop the tallest building in Israel, the Trump Tower.

DAMAC joins a stampede of Gulf investors who are funneling oil revenues into high-end residential and commercial construction projects in Beirut Central District. Ivana Trump is the latest globally recognized luxury brand - including the Four Seasons, the Hyatt, the Hilton, and Phillipe Starck - to partner with GCC nationals for a franchise deal.

The CEO of DAMAC said La Residence, the company's first investment outside the UAE, demonstrates his company's confidence in Lebanon's investment climate and would be only the first of many real-estate projects.

"We have a long-term plan for Lebanon, and will announce new projects in the near future," Peter Riddoch told reporters at a press conference Monday. "DAMAC's launch in Downtown Beirut stems from our belief in the prominence of this area as a leading destination for international businessmen and tourists."

Though the building's namesake was not in attendance, Ivana Trump addressed attendees in a pre-taped video in which she emphasized her role in the building's design. The appearance was followed by a simulated tour of the 27-story apartment complex.

DAMAC opened a Beirut office branch last month so it could focus on expanding its real-estate and tourism investments across the region.

The company will meet stiff competition from other GCC investors who are attempting to diversify away from volatile securities markets and inflated gulf real-estate sectors by funneling oil-liquidity into property development.

In Lebanon, construction permits rose 82 percent in the first four months of 2006 compared to the same period of 2005, to 3.6 million square meters of built-up area according to the order of engineers.

It's interesting. I was expecting something a bit more conventional looking, but still, it's interesting.

Dont get excited about Damac.... sure the tower will look great on completion... after maybe 5 years of delay and at the cost of cheap and ordinary interiors that dont go with the shiny facade.

Just my 2 cents from what we have seen from Damac in Dubai over the past 3 years.

^^
Krazy, do you think that Ivana Trump's contribution may make this project different in anyway from other DAMAC projects. For instance, will it improve the quality of the interior?

“We are honored to be endorsed by Ivana Trump, a world-renowned celebrity that is considered a symbol of style, glamour and class. Ivana Trump contributed significantly to the design of the tower that is due to illustrate optimum luxury with its stunning architecture, its state of the art amenities, as well as its location at the heart of the dazzling Beirut City Center”, said Peter Riddoch, CEO at DAMAC Properties.

http://www.almustaqbal.com/issues/images/2307/C5N4.jpg
http://www.assafir.com/iso/today/finance/L_2859a.JPEG

lol its funny Donald Trump is building something in Israle and Ivana Trump is doing something in Lebanon

http://www.baidas.net/public/images/damac.jpg

Nice project would have liked it more if it was a bit taller :)

ha!!
donald trump 'trump tower' ramat gan v.s ivana tramp 'la residence' beirut
michael jackson (bahrain mosques) v.s. madonna-esther (kaballah centers)

this is fun, any predictions whats next?
:)

Damac teams up with Ivana Trump in luxury Beirut tower

By Robert Ditcham, Staff Reporter
GulfNews

Dubai: Real estate developer Damac Properties has teamed up with the ex-wife of billionaire businessman Donald Trump in a luxury residential tower project planned for Lebanon's capital Beirut.

The $150 million La Residence tower will be built at the intersection of Omar Daouk and Fakhreddine streets in Beirut's downtown area with a three year construction period set to start in 2007.

Interior design work on the 27-storey tower's one to three bedroom apartments, duplexes and penthouses will be influenced by Ivana Trump, the former vice-president of interior design for the Trump Organisation, whose marriage to the host of TV's The Apprentice ended in divorce in 1992.

"We are honoured to be endorsed by Ivana Trump, a world-renowned celebrity who is considered a symbol of style, glamour and class," said Peter Riddoch, CEO of Damac.

Damac officials admitted apartments in the La Residence tower will not be cheap, due to Beirut's surging land prices, and are targeted at mid- and high-income end users. Apartment prices are being released by the company today. "Land in Beirut is very limited and the prices have been going up and up," said Sofyan Khatib, executive director at Damac Holding.

The project represents Damac Properties' first venture on Lebanese soil and follows the launch of its recent $3.5 billion mixed-use project in China and a $400 million 14-building real estate venture within Lusail's Fox Hills community in Doha.

The company's real estate portfolio now stands at more than Dh15 billion, excluding its China project, and features 20 projects containing a total of 52 buildings, the vast majority of which are in the UAE.

Khatib said the company is aiming to diversify its portfolio, admitting "if your market gets stuck, you are stuck".

Excellent tower. Colorful and not so boring like most office towers.

Only one thing bothers me. Like in most such areas BCD seems to be dead on the street level. I fear that most of the towers will be closed for ppl from the street (no cafes, restaurants, shops on lower floors), so the whole BCD will be just the area to pass by on the way to the seashore :(

http://img70.imageshack.us/img70/7281/locationmap7ed.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

http://img453.imageshack.us/img453/8756/beirutprojectperspective9nz.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

http://img70.imageshack.us/img70/7281/locationmap7ed.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

http://img453.imageshack.us/img453/8756/beirutprojectperspective9nz.jpg (http://imageshack.us)


guys in solidere new quartely report on the last site there is a view about all the new towers and there is one tower that called ---Town Tower--- has someone of you more information about that project

sales anyone? official site? Is it free or leasehold? Can someone make some images of the plot and post them here?

^^ Check the first page, there are Google Earth images of the plot.

Obviously there is no official website yet, as this project was just announced.

maybe is on the DAMAC website

"داماك" تحتفل بإطلاق مشروع "لاريزيدانس" بحضور سركيس
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
شارك وزير السياحة جو سركيس في حفل اطلاق شركة "داماك" لمشروع استثماري "لاريزيدانس" في وسط بيروت، في فندق غراند اوتيل الحبتور، في حضور وزير السياحة جو سركيس، سفير الامارات العربية محمد سلطان سيف سويدي، رئيس مجلس ادارة الشركة حسين سجواني وعدد كبير من رجال المال والاعلام.
والقى سركيس كلمة قال فيها: "تلتقون الليلة في هذه المناسبة لتحتفلوا معا باطلاق مشروع استثماري جديد، يضاف الى المشاريع الاستثمارية التي تقوم بها شركة "داماك" في انحاء العالم كافة واليوم في عاصمة لبنان بيروت".
اضاف: "يسرني ان ارعى هذا الاحتفال في هذا المكان، لاؤكد اننا كحكومة وكوزارة سياحة اخذنا على عاتقنا دعم المشاريع الاستثمارية في لبنان وتسهيل عمل المستثمرين في الحقول كافة، لاسيما في المجال السياحي والانمائي".
وشدد على "ان ما قاله السيد حسين سجواني امس بأن اطلاق مشروعه في وسط بيروت ينبثق من إيمانه بأهمية هذه المنطقة كوجهة ريادية للعمل والسياحة ما يزيدنا تصميما على عودة لبنان الى المركز السياحي الاول اقليميا ودوليا الى جانب كونه مركزا ثقافيا، اعلاميا واقتصاديا، كما انه ينبثق من روح المبادرة الخيرية والانماء الواعد التي زرعها في اشقائنا الاماراتيين، المغفور له الراحل الشيخ زايد بن سلطان آل نهيان رحمات الله عليه".

Here is an advertisement placed in BCD about this project.

http://img247.imageshack.us/img247/9919/dscn09900ie.jpg

INCREDIBLE DESIGN, now these are the projects to turn heads, go libnan. Exceptionally architectured.

P.

I guess they have to move the balloon again, hehe since its to close to the highrises

Nice nareg.
but i don't understand why the need to start construction at the end of this year.can't they start from next month?????????

^^ I was at the site two days ago.
I didn't notice any sign of work.

Nadini, the balloon is not close to the high rises. It is near the entrance of BIEL.
The advertisement is not at the site where La Residence will rise.

http://i3.tinypic.com/16gakur.jpg

here's another article related to the project.

Press Release Source: JMJ Holdings


JMJ Holdings Pairs Ivana Trump and DAMAC Properties for Branded Ultra-Luxury Residences
Tuesday June 27, 3:15 pm ET
JMJ Hospitality to Act as Global Brand Manager


DALLAS, June 27 /PRNewswire/ -- Dallas based JMJ Holdings announced today that it had finalized an agreement between international icon Ivana Trump and Dubai based DAMAC Properties to launch a branded lifestyle line of luxury condominium residences. JMJ Holdings subsidiary, JMJ Hospitality, will act as global brand manager on behalf of Ivana Trump overseeing each development to ensure her exacting standards.

The first of many Ivana Trump projects by luxury lifestyle provider DAMAC Properties (http://www.damacproperties.com), the US$150 million "la Residence by Ivana Trump" will be located in the exciting city of Beirut, Lebanon with other locations to be announced. Speaking to an adoring crowd today in Beirut, Ivana Trump commented, "La residence is extraordinary, in architecture, location and luxury. The design is outstanding, the style very sophisticated and will easily be the limelight of Solidere and the landmark of Downtown Beirut."

Timothy L. Barton, President and Chief Executive Officer of JMJ Holdings (http://www.jmjholdings.com) has longstanding relationships with both Ivana Trump and DAMAC properties and was confident they would be great partners. "Our idea to bring together Ivana Trump who exemplifies the luxury lifestyle of grace and style with the world's premier luxury lifestyle developer was for us, a perfect match with unequaled opportunity." He went on to say that he selected DAMAC Properties, because " ... they are the largest developer in the Middle East with an entrepreneurial spirit equal to that of Ivana Trump."

Ivana Trump is an award-winning, international entrepreneur and icon who has driven success in her every endeavor from the hotel and casino business to fashion and as a writer. Her keen business savvy, attention to detail and passion for life have inspired legions of admirers around the world who see her as the embodiment of the contemporary luxury lifestyle.

In just over two decades, DAMAC has grown from a local catering company to a global conglomerate with operations in over 16 countries and 4 billion in real estate property. Today, the DAMAC Group ranks among the largest business groups in the United Arab Emirates: a name to reckon with in real estate, hospitality, industrial projects, investments, logistics and commercial trading. An ISO 9002 registered company, DAMAC is the name behind some of the most distinguished residential and commercial projects in Dubai.

As the exclusive global brand manager for all Ivana Trump luxury residence projects with DAMAC Properties, JMJ Hospitality (http://www.jmjhospitality.com) will oversee each development on her behalf to ensure that each project is developed according to her standards and that the essence of her remarkable style and grace is fully integrated into every aspect of the residential experience. "We are delighted to have been selected by Ivana Trump to be the global brand manager for the DAMAC Properties relationship. We look forward to working with her to translate her vision for ultra-luxury residential living to Beirut and many other exciting cities," commented Christopher R.J. Knable, President and Managing Director of JMJ Hospitality. He went on to say, "On a personal note, I am delighted to be working with Ivana again having benefited from her entrepreneurial savvy when she was President and Chief Executive Officer of The Plaza in New York."

JMJ Hospitality will also be focused on seeking further opportunities for Ivana Trump to partner with luxury lifestyle developers in exciting destinations around the world.

Check out the video for this project:


La Residence promotional video (mms://speedstream.netro.ca/council/damac/laresidence/laresidence-hi.wmv)



http://www.damacproperties.com/new/main/images/la-residence01.jpg

ooooo that was a nice video... Beirut is so Sopicacated

^^ haha Jaime, yes Beirut is highly sophisticated but none of the scenes in the video are of Beirut!!! I was so disappointed that they would use fake pictures and scenes shot in the Gulf and say they are Lebanon (mountains and corniche, etc)... are they too lazy to actually go to Beirut and film the REAL solidere area???

omg.... i knew the rooms went real but the outside shots awww that lame trying to make it like beirut, But what they were saying about Beirut souned really good pple whaching will say beirut is Sopicacated if u know what i mean

lol i just whached the video again, i notied all the gulf pple in it, and dose downtown have any major parks yet ?

^^ are snow capped mountains are not as rocky and rough as it seems in the video, it is more soft and smooth looking

DAMAC Properties to proceed with US$ 120 million “La Residence by Ivana Trump” project

8/18/2006
The Lebanon Weekly Monitor

Dubai-based DAMAC Properties announced its plans to proceed with its US$ 120 million project in the Beirut Central District, “La Residence by Ivana Trump”, despite the Lebanon-Israel conflict.

The company’s CEO mentioned that 40% of the project has been sold and 30% reserved, and that the company didn’t receive any request for cancellation since the onset of instability in Lebanon.

“La Residence”, DAMAC’s first real estate venture outside the UAE, will be located at the intersection of Fakhreddin and Omar Daouk streets and will provide stunning views on the Mediterranean Sea. It will encompass luxurious apartments with state of the art marble and ceramic finishing, liberal parking spaces, a swimming pool, a gymnasium, and 24 hours maintenance and security. The project is expected to be completed by 2009.

DAMAC is one of the UAE’s leading providers of luxury waterfront projects. DAMAC’s most remarkable projects are Dubai Marina, Palm Island Jumeirah, Palm Island Jebel Ali, Jumeirah Lakes Towers, Dubai Land and Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC).

good news! I heard elsewhere Ivana pulled out of the project and was looking at other juristrictions like PAris and London. Good to see they are going ahead with this one though!

GO Lebanon GO!

good news ?!?! she is not invloved with it anymore !?!?!

no. good news that construction is going ahead, despite rumours she pulled out.

Ivana bets on Beirut

New York Daily News
www.nydailynews.com

Saturday, August 26th, 2006

Leo Standora



Ivana Trump is betting on peace in the Middle East - at least in Beirut.

The Donald's ex has teamed up with Damac, a Dubai-based property giant, to build La Residence, a 35-story luxury residential skyscraper in the heart of the Lebanese capital.

The $150 million project is to get underway early next year and be completed in 2010. The developers see it as part of the rebuilding of Lebanon following the conflict between Israel and Hezbollah.

Trump, who's said to have invested a chunk of her own money in the tower, has signed on to design the public area interiors and four-bedroom penthouses, the developers said.

The property's luxury amenities will include marble flooring, a temperature-controlled swimming pool, a state-of-the-art gym and fine restaurants - all with a spectacular view of the Mediterranean.

Developers expect most of the apartments to sell to rich Gulf Arabs.

But in case you're interested, one-bedrooms start at $665,000.

^^ In this article, it says the tower will now be 35F... could plans have changed?

--------------

Ivana Trump to Design $150 Million Beirut Luxury Skyscraper

By Matthew Benjamin and Mahmoud Kassem

Aug. 25 (Bloomberg) -- As Israeli ground troops entered Lebanon on July 19, Dubai, United Arab Emirates-based Damac Properties, the biggest privately owned developer in the Persian Gulf region, said it was proceeding with plans to build a $150 million tower in Beirut. The 27-story luxury residence, which Ivana Trump is helping to design, will include a swimming pool, restaurants and views of the Mediterranean Sea.

The flow of money into Lebanon from oil-rich gulf states has boosted economic growth this year and may speed the nation's recovery from the war, says John Lomax, an emerging-market strategist at HSBC Securities in London. Israel, which suffered much less destruction from the conflict, will likely rebound faster. Its robust exports and consumer spending will limit the damage from factory closings and displaced workers, says Serhan Cevik, a London-based economist at Morgan Stanley.

Lebanon's economy was thriving before the outbreak of hostilities between Israel and Hezbollah on July 12. The Finance Ministry had forecast that the economy would grow about 6 percent in 2006 compared with 1 percent in 2005. With oil prices soaring above $75 a barrel, real estate investors and tourists from Saudi Arabia and other gulf nations were streaming into Lebanon before the war, driving its growth. The government had predicted that direct foreign investment would jump 20 percent in 2006 after rising to $1.7 billion in 2005.

``There's a lot of money coming into Lebanon from the gulf because of high oil prices -- everything from properties to factories,'' says Tareck Farah, head of financial markets at Financial Funds Advisors International SAL, a Beirut-based brokerage and fund management company. ``I expect this to continue. They invest here because they vacation here and like it.''

http://quote.bloomberg.com/apps/news?pid=20601109&sid=a8.y6H4KSiiI

Here are some pics from the Damac event in Beirut held a few months ago to unveil this project:

http://www.beirutnightlife.com/modules/4nAlbum/album/2006/Events/damac/damac_04.jpg

http://www.beirutnightlife.com/modules/4nAlbum/album/2006/Events/damac/damac_45.jpg

http://www.beirutnightlife.com/modules/4nAlbum/album/2006/Events/damac/damac_05.jpg

http://www.beirutnightlife.com/modules/4nAlbum/album/2006/Events/damac/damac_02.jpg

http://www.beirutnightlife.com/modules/4nAlbum/album/2006/Events/damac/damac_13.jpg

http://www.beirutnightlife.com/modules/4nAlbum/album/2006/Events/damac/damac_24.jpg

http://www.beirutnightlife.com/modules/4nAlbum/album/2006/Events/damac/damac_36.jpg

is this freehold or leasehold? Also: I want to reserve my apartment, where do I click?

^^ Check the Damac website, Im not sure about the details.

^^In lebanon, unlike the Gulf and other states in the Middle East, foreigners are allowed to freely own real estate (within limitations- I think something like 5% of the total size of Beirut, so you shouldn't worry)

Ivana Trump should have come to the event... has she even ever been to Lebanon?

lol she is investing in Lebanon but she has never been !

Any news on this?? Did they dig the foundations or not yet?

http://img231.imageshack.us/img231/3850/sdre7.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

http://img140.imageshack.us/img140/500/ghwg0.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

http://img140.imageshack.us/img140/3353/ghghq5.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

No, Nadini. Still, it is a parking lot.

http://www.homesonsale.co.uk/files/36997_1.gif

I wonder what the sales figures are currently for this project.

guys its a big project..delays belong to every business today..the important thing is that they going to built it......

UAE's DAMAC plans to increase Lebanon investments
Saturday, 13 January, 2007 @ 1:13 AM


Beirut- Dubai-based Damac Properties is planning to make further investments in Lebanon's property market by mid-2007, company Chairman Hussain Sajwani said.



"Lebanon is a prime market and we want to continue investing there. The war has affected our operations, but things are back on track." Sajwani said Damac has already invested $150 million (Dh550.9m) in Beirut's La Residence project - due to be completed in 2009. The 27-storey residential tower in Lebanon's Beirut City Centre development will have 70 apartments with two and three bedrooms and views of the Mediterranean Sea.

"We will look to launch a new tower as soon as the La Residence sale is over in Beirut," he said, without specifying the size of intended investment.

Damac Chief Executive Peter Riddoch said the negotiations for the project are at a "fairly advanced stage".

"Currently, infrastructure is being developed in the area and we will have site access within the next 12 to 18 months to start construction," he said.

^^ So 27 floors or 35?

^^ So 27 floors or 35?

I guess 27, it doesnt look 35, but construction should start 12 to 18 month from now, so whoever is excited for this one must wait lol

To be completed in 2009,,and the construction will start within 12 to 18 months from now????I DON'T THINK SO.

Sadly, according to reports this project is now ON HOLD.

They probably weren't able to secure enough tenants.

I'm certainly not surprised...

Is this Ever Gonna be built?????? :S

http://img90.imageshack.us/img90/7495/laresidencegf0.jpg

Hello! Can someone in Beruit take a picture of the construction site / parking lot? This way we know what's going on.


http://www.damacproperties.com/new/main/v-3/request-1.html is the official link to request more information according to the Damac site and... It's broken (404)

Someone, please take a picture. Is there not a single forumer here in Beirut city with a cellphone camera? :)

minime it's the one where there's a white tent

http://img92.imageshack.us/img92/9937/beirut120bki7.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

^^ Thanks Lirtain.

Actually, they have demolished that tent. Let's see what will be the next approach.

High-rises and rising unemployment

By Zvi Bar'el

The sales representative for the exclusive La Residence complex, slated for construction in central Beirut, was very courteous and interested: "Send me an e-mail and I'll forward all the details to you: the number of square meters, the price per unit and the terms of the payments." After a few minutes of talking with the representative of the Damac company, the project's developer with offices in Dubai, a few more interesting details came to light.

This project, designed by Ivana Trump, features especially large apartments. A two-bedroom apartment spans 180 square meters and the cost is sky-high: "$4,000 dollars per square meter, but if you buy an entire floor you get a 15 percent discount," the sales representative promises. The apartment specifications on the Web site are very tempting: marble and wood lobby, heated swimming pool, perfect air conditioning, "bank-level security," a fitness room as well as many parking spaces as there are rooms in the apartment.

"You're only interested in investing in Beirut? We have properties in Dubai as well that will be ready in another year," said the representative.

But Dubai's a lot more expensive, I argued.

"We can give you a lower price than in Beirut. They haven't even started building in Beirut, because of, you know, the circumstances, so the project won't be completed as planned in 2009. It may be postponed until 2010."

The "circumstances" the sales representative was referring to started last summer with the war and continue with the demonstrations in downtown Beirut and Hezbollah's campaign to bring down Prime Minister Fouad Siniora's government. However, apartments in these exclusive projects continue to be sold, "and they're not even willing to lower the price," as the sales representative made clear. "But perhaps if things continue this way, the prices will also drop."

Behind the luxury towers, which attract foreign investors, Lebanon's economy is based on war money. But worse than this - it has not been able to lift itself up because of the political crisis imposed on the state by Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah.

...

http://www.haaretz.com/hasen/spages/849685.html

I think that sales lady was contradictory..I keep read that sales have been good..if the units are sold why delay the entire project..Altho one year is not bad..at least its still on track and not cancelled....I met in dubai with Damac..there sales center was a giant air conditioned tent..all the tower models are shown and sold...altho when i went they had just announced this project and didnt have one :(

From the new Damac e-brochure:


http://i35.photobucket.com/albums/d184/rhmud/untitled2.jpg

http://i35.photobucket.com/albums/d184/rhmud/untitled3.jpg

http://i35.photobucket.com/albums/d184/rhmud/untitled-1.jpg

^^If it's just 10 floors taller "sigh" No news on that Tower in the e-brochure ?? like whn they think they'll start Construction???Any thing on the Ground for those who r in Beirut??

^^ There is no new news in the e-brochure (available on the Damac website).

As for the official height, I think Solidere has stated it at 27F but there are some articles out there with other heights (like 35F). Maybe if Damac receives enough sales they will increase the height?

The Pamphlet you just posted stated 27 floors..of which 4 are underground and 5 a podium..

^^ Yes, but this is Beiut... everything is subject to change.

Maybe they dont include the underground floor in the "27" in which case it is 31 stories lol

^^ I was refering to this article (post-war):

Ivana bets on Beirut

New York Daily News
www.nydailynews.com (http://www.nydailynews.com)

Saturday, August 26th, 2006
Leo Standora


Ivana Trump is betting on peace in the Middle East - at least in Beirut.

The Donald's ex has teamed up with Damac, a Dubai-based property giant, to build La Residence, a 35-story luxury residential skyscraper in the heart of the Lebanese capital.

The $150 million project is to get underway early next year and be completed in 2010. The developers see it as part of the rebuilding of Lebanon following the conflict between Israel and Hezbollah.

Trump, who's said to have invested a chunk of her own money in the tower, has signed on to design the public area interiors and four-bedroom penthouses, the developers said.

The property's luxury amenities will include marble flooring, a temperature-controlled swimming pool, a state-of-the-art gym and fine restaurants - all with a spectacular view of the Mediterranean.

Developers expect most of the apartments to sell to rich Gulf Arabs.

But in case you're interested, one-bedrooms start at $665,000.



Where would they get that number from? Also it is one of the most recent news articles about this project...

http://i209.photobucket.com/albums/bb2/Htlebmn/ScreenHunter_06Jul220943.gif

^^ Is this the final version of the rendering? It is without a doubt 10 times better than the original!

Is this project proceeding? They surrounded the plot, but is there any news on it?

I emailed them and no reply back

i love this tower it'll make a spectacular addition to the skyline can't wait until they start building

http://i209.photobucket.com/albums/bb2/Htlebmn/ScreenHunter_06Jul220943.gif

wow, this building looks really good :cheers:

I love this project ... hope it's proceeding .. but i heard it was permanently canceled

Its still listed on there website so i guess thats good news

may be it's not canceled but for the time being this project will not progress:ohno:

cant believe a tower like this will rise in beirut, and especially next to the intercon phoenicia and the tunnel...inchallah ya rab!

The own the land and have to build sometime :LOL I emailed again

^^ok,cut it short guys,we r going waaaaaaay off-topic.

Just recieved a call from DAMAC Properties. La residence is on hold for, what he thinks, another year. They are waiting on the politics to settle. He said Lebanon is not an easy country to get into for that reason. They are being cautious.

What was interesting was he told me they own 4 plots and will be announcing several new projects soon (within a year). They have a man in beirut now and the man told them that the air is electric. He seemed impressed what was happening and the projects that are resuming. GREAT NEWS!!!!!!!!

^^ Gr8 news :) Can't wait for thr Announcement of the other projects :) Thanx :)

any news about this fantastic tower?

Just recieved a call from DAMAC Properties. La residence is on hold for, what he thinks, another year. They are waiting on the politics to settle. He said Lebanon is not an easy country to get into for that reason. They are being cautious.

What was interesting was he told me they own 4 plots and will be announcing several new projects soon (within a year). They have a man in beirut now and the man told them that the air is electric. He seemed impressed what was happening and the projects that are resuming. GREAT NEWS!!!!!!!!

i hope that this project actually comes true! Its just so beautiful, and would look amazing in the skyline next to the Platnium Tower

these 2 mega projects this one and the phonecian gate r so huge and also useful but ther's nothing so special about the design.
consider for instance la residence or the landmark or la passage hoyek more interesting!

these 2 mega projects this one and the phonecian gate r so huge and also useful but ther's nothing so special about the design.
consider for instance la residence or the landmark or la passage hoyek more interesting!

the designs will make lebanon look more modern with still history too.

AND it's a always a good sign when the trumps are interested in a particular city

^haha very true!

27 floors. that will look so astonishing on the coast!

^^plus it has a higher vantage point than the rest of the marina area which will make it tons higher than PT and MT and look much more awesome

Bad News Guys:


Speaking in a round-table to the media, Damac Chairman Hussein Sajwani said the developer had cancelled its residential project in Lebanon that was announced in 2005.

"We have stopped any international expansion for now. We will do few launches but our focus will be geared more towards the efficiency of the organisation. Money has been returned to investors in Lebanon," said Sajwani, adding: "The year 2009 will be a challenging year for us but we believe the realty market to pick up from end of 2009 and 2010."


Damac has been hit by the global crisis ..they do own a few plots in Beirut tho..

^^:badnews:

This is sad news indeed, but we cant say we are surprised. Even if there wasn't this global economic crisis, when would they have shown any sign of moving forward with this project?

Will they still remain the owners of the plot?

Well if there was no 2006 and the events last year it probably would be built..

A guy from Damac told me they OWNED plots...plural..so either they will wait or sell them off..

^^They better sell them off.

Well if there was no 2006 and the events last year it probably would be built..

A guy from Damac told me they OWNED plots...plural..so either they will wait or sell them off..

I do not agree! It is all about the economical crises. Real estate is the sector that suffers the most.

Lets hope smthing better comes out.

Didnt DAMAC declare bankruptcy or something?

They laid off 200 workers..but structurally i think the company is sound

beirut would be the one place where expansion would be safe,this is ridiculous.

^^ are u sure with our politicians, militias, ....? hehe

It was from my favorites, so special design , it was going to give Beirut a very modern and different look and waterfront ,
Hope in the future will be something beautiful in that plot , and who knows , may be better yet ;)

I think they have too much going on now..theyre cutting dwn..But i read the article and it said they will continue on land they own..hmm I dunno..the dude from Damac told me they own the plot

Does anybody know what they are building instead on this plot? what will they do with it?:ohno:

^^ I dont think they will announce anything any time soon.

I don't know if the project was ever removed from the DAMAC website! but here it is, still there.. alive and kicking..

http://www.damacproperties.com/timthumb.php?src=http://www.damacproperties.com/media/system/images_videos/62/images/thumb_gallery-la-residence.jpg&w=758

http://www.damacproperties.com/index.php?option=com_property&view=listing&id=62

If it was canceled shouldn't it be removed from their list?

OMG. My favorite project EVER! I hope it comes back. Maybe they didn't really cancel it and will announce it again soon?

i dont think that project its cancelled bz from 4 months i have seen an advertisement in dubai about all projects for damac and their was also advertisement for this project,i like that desgin.

Hmm the picture on the site is there but the next one has dubai in it..i hope they didnt move it..

DAMAC is famous for advertising projects that will never be built.

This is still listed in the current annual report..we may still see it built.

That's good news! :)

i dont think it will ever be built although i really like the design, but i heard brokers talk about selling this land so i don't know. hopefully we see the project progress and the interior of the apartments

Yet another rendering. This is posted on the Solidere website so may be final. This also means the project is still alive...

http://i35.photobucket.com/albums/d184/rhmud/1396-Mina-El-Hosn.jpg

I really like this, I wish their were more shops on the ground floor but I like it nonetheless

That's great news! It means that they might go ahead with the project.. I'm not sure of the new render though! It kinda looks it's occupying more plot and I counted 25 floors!

I wonder if this project is still stamped by Ivana Trump?

Its weird because the project was listed on their website as much as a month ago, now its gone........

Maybe their updating?, New Management?

YAY!

Though the original was a bit nicer IMO, I think the whole idea is wonderful. And if Ivanna is still behind the product, it will surely attract more names to Beirut.

Latest news about this project is that DAMAC going to launch very shortly, fences arround the plot have been placed and will be wrapped by a banner

^^ that's sexpected,thanx for the update,i also expect the re;auch of the Phoenician village soon as well :)

So its not On Hold anymore?

i also expect the re;auch of the Phoenician village soon as well

Hassoun the problem with Phoenician Village is that they have no investors..
its a $600 million project and no one wants to risk to invest that much...
especially when the value of buying a house there is very very expensive (around $9,000/m2)

Hassoun the problem with Phoenician Village is that they have no investors..
its a $600 million project and no one wants to risk to invest that much...
especially when the value of buying a house there is very very expensive (around $9,000/m2)

The project was fully funded and the money was returned to the investors..What do you mean?

The reason i said so,is because the PV website is still up and running.
anyway,this is La Residence thread.

Fences placed on the main road side
http://img168.imageshack.us/img168/8061/plot1.jpg (http://img168.imageshack.us/i/plot1.jpg/)


From Omar Daouk Street side
http://img687.imageshack.us/img687/9194/plot2.jpg (http://img687.imageshack.us/i/plot2.jpg/)

Uploaded with ImageShack.us (http://imageshack.us)

internal news from Damac .... they will relaunch the project very soon ! ..i hope its still Trump signature !

This is just awesome news!!! Can't wait to see it officially announced! They are keeping the same design right?

Damac, Versace tie up to launch luxury Beirut project
by Andy Sambidge, Friday, 25 June 2010

http://www.arabianbusiness.com/images/magazines/arabianbusiness.com/web/damac-tower_thumb.jpg
LUXURY PROJECT: An artist's impression of the joint Damac/Versace project in Lebanon.

Dubai developer Damac Properties on Friday announced the launch of Damac Tower in Lebanon, a project in collaboration with Italian fashion giant Versace.

The 28-storey luxury tower is slated for completion in 2013 and will be built in downtown Beirut. Apartments in the tower will start from $700,000.

It is the second collaboration between the developer and Versace after it opened the Versace Home retail outlet in The Dubai Mall last year.

http://www.arabianbusiness.com/591401-damac-versace-tie-up-for-luxury-beirut-project

^^ So Trump is out? The design looks similar - did Ivana not have a role in the design?

^^ So Trump is out? The design looks similar - did Ivana not have a role in the design?

Ivana is out now its Versace. Its also one floor taller.

http://i209.photobucket.com/albums/bb2/Htlebmn/thumb_biglogo1.jpg

http://i209.photobucket.com/albums/bb2/Htlebmn/thumb_biglogo2.jpg

Damac Tower


DAMAC Tower situated in Solidere Beirut, Lebanon is not just an address it is a lifestyle. Designed to epitomise luxury living through a unique partnership with world renowned Italian designer VERSACE Home - each apartment boasts the finest fixtures and fittings with a choice of two stunning contemporary design packages available.

Situated at the heart of this stylish city in the chic area of Solidere, the 28 storey DAMAC Tower offers residents the opportunity to make the most of life in this vibrant and dynamic city often referred to as the ‘Paris of the Middle East.’


--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Damac Properties Launches Versace Home Design Residences At The "Damac Tower", Beirut

25 June 2010
(June 25th 2010, Beirut Lebanon) - DAMAC Properties - a leading private residential, leisure and commercial developer in the region today announced the launch of DAMAC TOWER, a magnificent and exclusive new high-rise building set to open its doors in 2013 located in down town Beirut.

DAMAC has tied up with VERSACE, the world-renowned Italian fashion house synonymous with glamour and luxury to provide exclusive interior design by VERSACE HOME.

"DAMAC TOWER" - a high rise luxury tower will feature spacious private units resplendent with custom designed interiors. All the common areas including the health and fitness facilities, the concierge reception, and the main lobby will feature VERSACE HOME products.


Commenting on the partnership, a first of its kind for the Middle East, Chairman of DAMAC Properties Hussain Sajwani said he believed it was the shared vision of the two companies that would combine to deliver the most prestigious and sought-after property in Beirut.

'As a company that has already established a reputation for building luxury properties in desirable locations in the UAE, this exclusive tie-in is a natural progression for DAMAC Properties,' explained Mr Sajwani.

'We will be working with Versace to combine our considerable expertise and talent to create a state of the art property that will provide a unique and exclusive opportunity for investors in Beirut.


'It is part of our ethos to look for ways in which we can develop and expand the DAMAC Properties portfolio - and of course partnering with such a well known and respected brand is further testament to our commitment to be known and viewed as the world's leading luxury private property developer,' he added.


In 2009, DAMAC joined forces with VERSACE HOME to launch the company's first retail outlet in the UAE at The Dubai Mall - the Emirate's largest shopping mall.


Santo Versace, President of Versace S.p.A. said: 'We are very excited to be working with DAMAC Properties to create what will become one of Beirut's premiere addresses. Our knowledge combined with the developer's vision will result in a project unlike any other."

He continued: "After creating private luxury interiors for our other exclusive resorts, such as The Thomson Penthouse in Shanghai in 2009, we are happy to supply an interior design project for this luxurious real estate project that will result in a beautiful one of a kind building in Beirut."

Mr Sajwani concluded: 'For DAMAC Properties, with our proven track record already full of notable achievements and
accolades, we look forward to using our considerable strength and skill in entering the real estate market in Lebanon.

'We are always looking at new locations where we feel that our experience combined with the product that we have to offer will provide the right opportunity for the right market at the right time.

'We feel the time is now right for the launch of this high-end and bespoke product to a market which continues to show signs of buoyancy and recovery. Beirut is a city that is well known for its cosmopolitan flair in the Middle East and we feel that the DAMAC TOWER will be a great addition to this chic and sophisticated city.

'Beyond that we are also excited at the prospect of bringing our luxury lifestyle proposition to the Lebanese market and we feel confident that its appeal will be far reaching in this region and beyond.'

http://www.damacproperties.com/index.php?option=com_property&view=listing&id=81

^^ So Trump is out? The design looks similar - did Ivana not have a role in the design?

lol Ivana designing? I HIGHLY doubt that!

lol Ivana designing? I HIGHLY doubt that!

originally she supposedly did. I think the old design is nicer..it was more tapered at the base and thinner in general..more lopsided waves etc

Finally!!! And the fact it,s designed by Versace is so sexy and suits the location.Damac didn't lose faith in Lebanon,and this is the most important thing,now it's time for the reclaimed area projects to be announced.

I took this today:
http://img62.imageshack.us/img62/5871/img7348du.jpg (http://img62.imageshack.us/i/img7348du.jpg/)

Valode & Pistre did the design !

http://gulfnews.com/business/property/international/damac-versace-tie-up-to-relaunch-beirut-project-1.648998

^^
http://gulfnews.com/polopoly_fs/luxury-reaches-new-heights-1.649074!image/3644572631.jpg_gen/derivatives/box_475/3644572631.jpg
From right: Damac Properties Chairman Hussain Sajwani, President of Versace Santo Versace, Italian ambassador to Lebanon Gabrielle Checchia and Ramiz Abu Nadir, adviser to Lebanon's Ministry of Tourism at the relaunch of the Damac Tower in Beirut.
Image Credit: Samia Badih/Gulf News

Ads for this project are everywhere online [google ads]

Ads for this project are everywhere online [google ads]

There were also several in the airport yesterday when I arrived

Damac awards enabling contract for Versace tower
by Elsa Baxter on Sunday, 11 July 2010

Dubai developer Damac Properties has awarded the enabling works contract for its real estate project in Beirut to Zetas Apex Foundation Technologies.

This phase of construction is expected to take nine months due to the rocky terraine, and will involve piling and excavation to a depth of 24m, Damac said in a statement on Sunday.

The 28-storey luxury tower, in the downtown area of the Lebanese capital, is being built in collaboration with the Italian fashion giant Versace.

The building is slated for completion in 2013 with apartments set to start from $700,000.

http://i950.photobucket.com/albums/ad345/Nadini1/10.jpg

http://i950.photobucket.com/albums/ad345/Nadini1/9.jpg

http://i950.photobucket.com/albums/ad345/Nadini1/8.jpg

http://i950.photobucket.com/albums/ad345/Nadini1/6.jpg

http://i950.photobucket.com/albums/ad345/Nadini1/5.jpg

http://i950.photobucket.com/albums/ad345/Nadini1/4.jpg

http://i950.photobucket.com/albums/ad345/Nadini1/3.jpg

http://i950.photobucket.com/albums/ad345/Nadini1/2.jpg

http://i950.photobucket.com/albums/ad345/Nadini1/1.jpg

Wow, the inside looks match better than the outside.-

Yes, I would think an Art Deco design would have been much more suiting for the exterior, but then again that would be not not fitting for the area. What do you guys think?

i.e.
http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/c/c5/Chrysler_top2.jpg/294px-Chrysler_top2.jpg

http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/a/ad/NewIndiaAssuranceBdg.jpg/450px-NewIndiaAssuranceBdg.jpg

WOW... I just love the interior so Classy!

These billboards are all over Beirut:

http://i1022.photobucket.com/albums/af347/dharma815/mini-P8120009.jpg

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4088/4963655076_2b4f1af0bd_b.jpg

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4089/4963655244_890b8c51d3_b.jpg

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4086/4963655402_87b1018e15_b.jpg

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4113/4963655600_d249f09142_b.jpg

Yes, I would think an Art Deco design would have been much more suiting for the exterior, but then again that would be not not fitting for the area. What do you guys think?

i.e.
http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/c/c5/Chrysler_top2.jpg/294px-Chrysler_top2.jpg

http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/a/ad/NewIndiaAssuranceBdg.jpg/450px-NewIndiaAssuranceBdg.jpg

It would be cost prohibitive, unless you want cheap fake Deco!

Courtesy of robertschrader

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4108/4993760028_a964bee12a_b.jpg

http://www.constructionweekonline.com/pictures/furniture/main_logo.gif

DAMAC wins big at Arabian Property Awards
by Orlando Crowcroft on Oct 31, 2010

The 28-storey building won Best High-rise Architecture and Best Interior Design at the awards, and will now go forward to compete in the global leg of the competition in London in November.

“This official recognition from a judging panel of distinguished experts is one of the highest endorsements a developer could hope to receive in one of its projects” said Mc Loughlin, Senior Vice President of DAMAC Properties.

DAMAC Tower was launched in June and is the first Versace-branded residential tower in the region. Situated in the marina area of the new Solidere development in Beirut, the flowing curves of the building were designed to emulate the waves of the nearby ocean.

http://www.constructionweekonline.com/article-9966-damac-wins-big-at-arabian-property-awards/

DAMAC Tower Wins On the Global Stage
Tower in Beirut attract top accolade at Bloomberg International Property Awards

Niall Mc Loughlin, Senior Vice President of DAMAC Properties.

The Middle East's largest private luxury developer, DAMAC Properties, has won a prestigious International Property Award for DAMAC Tower, its landmark collaboration with VERSACE Home in Lebanon.

DAMAC Properties beat a field of international developers to win the award for "Best High Rise Architecture" for its luxury DAMACTower development in Beirut. The award was announced at a gala ceremony in London at the weekend.

Speaking at the event, Niall Mc Loughlin, Senior Vice President of DAMAC Properties
said "DAMAC Tower is a masterpiece. It's a stunning blend of exquisite VERSACE interiors, unique architectural design, in an enviable location on the shores of the Mediterranean. This international accolade recognises DAMAC Tower on the global stage, and distinguishes the project as one of the most highly regarded residential developments in the world."

DAMAC Tower was launched in June and is the first exclusive VERSACE Home branded residential tower in the region. Situated in the elite marina area of the new Solidere development in Beirut, DAMAC Tower has extensive views of the Mediterranean. The spectacular flowing curves and undulating volumes of the 28 storey building were designed to emulate the surging waves of the ocean. "DAMAC Tower is a majestic development which strikes a balance between technology and luxury without compromising on style and aesthetic appeal. This innovative collaboration between DAMAC Properties and VERSACE Home will deliver to residents the luxurious Italian lifestyle concept." Mc Loughlin said.

DAMAC Tower will feature spacious private units resplendent with custom designed interiors. All the common areas including the health and fitness facilities, the concierge reception, and the main lobby will feature VERSACE Home products. "DAMAC Properties
' partnership with VERSACE, the world-renowned Italian fashion house synonymous with glamour and luxury, defined the interiors of DAMAC Tower. The shared vision of the two companies has combined to deliver the most prestigious and sought-after property in Beirut" said Mc Loughlin, "and now that DAMAC Tower has been recognised as being one of the most outstanding developments in the world, interest in this project is likely to come from much further afield." He added.

The judging of the International Property Awards was carried out by an esteemed panel of international judges. This year's judges included Luke McKend, industry head property markets of Google UK; Peter Bolton King, group chief executive of the National Federation of Property Professionals; Christopher Hall, president elect of FIABCI; Thijs Stoffer, International Consortium of Real Estate Agents Association (ICREA); Fiona Nixon, chairman of the Australia Institute of Architects, Hendrik Nelde, president of FIABCI Belgium; Helen Shield, editor-in-chief of International Homes Luxury Collection magazine and Sven Johns, CEO of the German Real Estate Association.

From Damac Properties website

http://www.damacproperties.com/uploaded-files/Property/ConstructionUpdates/-1/damac%20tower-2010-11-25-5.JPG

http://www.damacproperties.com/uploaded-files/Property/ConstructionUpdates/-1/Damac%20Tower%202010-12-14-(2).JPG

http://www.damacproperties.com/uploaded-files/Property/ConstructionUpdates/-1/IMG_0753.jpg

http://www.damacproperties.com/uploaded-files/Property/ConstructionUpdates/-1/IMG_0737.jpg

Does anyone know what that building is in the last picture under construction?

Beirut Terraces

^^ No it's not. It's a new project coming up in this plot:
http://wikimapia.org/#lat=33.8984115&lon=35.4959223&z=19&l=0&m=b&search=beirut

The project is called: Greenline Real Estate
Architect: Batimat Architects

Its going to be an office building

^^ any renderings?

^^ any renderings?

From the architect's website:

http://i967.photobucket.com/albums/ae152/lebz06/Screenshot2011-03-08at33244AM.png

:ohno:

i dont think this is the render....if u check the constructed building, u can see that their is a spherical side with an upper frame which are not included in this render ^^

No the project from the front looks much better... Im trying to find the render from the net but I cant find it..

Courtesy of DAMAC (from their website) as of June:

http://i677.photobucket.com/albums/vv136/yoniwy/damac1.png
http://i677.photobucket.com/albums/vv136/yoniwy/damac2.png
http://i677.photobucket.com/albums/vv136/yoniwy/damac3.png
http://i677.photobucket.com/albums/vv136/yoniwy/damac4.png
http://i677.photobucket.com/albums/vv136/yoniwy/damac5.png
http://i677.photobucket.com/albums/vv136/yoniwy/damac6.png
http://i677.photobucket.com/albums/vv136/yoniwy/damac7.png

No the project from the front looks much better... Im trying to find the render from the net but I cant find it..

http://www.skyscrapercity.com/showthread.php?t=871464

Versace interior sneak peack

http://www.thenational.ae/lifestyle/house-home/step-inside-a-sneak-peek-at-an-all-versace-interior

December 2011

http://www.damacproperties.com/uploaded-files/Property/ConstructionUpdates/-1/P1(3).jpg

http://www.damacproperties.com/uploaded-files/Property/ConstructionUpdates/-1/IMG_4460.JPG

http://www.damacproperties.com/uploaded-files/Property/ConstructionUpdates/-1/IMG_4461.JPG

http://www.damacproperties.com/plot-development/LEBANON/Beirut/Solidere/Damac-Tower---Lebanon-/constr-updates/80.xhtml?p=4&cons=

Damac says 40% of Versace-linked tower sold


Units in the 23-storey Damac Tower start at $700,000

Damac Properties, the real estate developer behind Dubai’s Ocean Heights and the Waves, has sold more than a third of units in its Versace-branded tower in Beirut, its CEO said Monday.

The Dubai-based firm has secured investors for almost 40 percent of Damac Tower’s apartments, after signing a deal with Italian fashion house Versace to oversee the interiors in June last year.

“In Lebanon, we mobilised the site in 2010, we launched in June 2010, and so far, although being a very premium project in an area which is still under a lot of political turmoil, our sales are very good,” said Ziad El Chaar.

“Versace don’t get involved in the exterior look of the building, they just want to make sure the exterior is premium enough to carry the brand. They get involved in the design of all the common areas, and then they add a touch of Versace to all the individual apartments.”

The 28-storey tower is currently under construction in downtown Beirut, and will be completed in the last quarter of 2013. Apartments start from $700,000.

The project is one of three Damac developments with designs by Versace Home, but the first to be completely fitted-out by the Italian fashion house.

A cool render that I wasn't able to find on the net. This is from the newspaper ad (Al Balad)

http://i1005.photobucket.com/albums/af175/_Zippo_/SSC%20Projects%20Pictures/Damac%20Tower/Al_Balad_Ad_optimized.jpg

is it me or did that tower just get fatter?

^^ It is you getting fatter, Rabih! :lol: (j/k)

No seriously, this is the first accurate/photo-realistic rendering for that project so far. The others were more like an illustrative representation of what would the tower look like, with more or less artistic (weird) angles an field of views.

Nice tower! I like the new design, once again I wish that the tower is 10 floors taller or so!