by Alexandra Mansilla
Who Created a Bar Cabinet Made Of Onyx Marble? Meet Jeffrey Meawad, the Architect
6 Aug 2024
Jeffrey Meawad is an architect from Beirut who founded his architectural studio, JM Design & Architecture, in 2010. In 2024, as part of We Design Beirut, Jeffrey created a bar cabinet made of marble, a piece that immediately caught our attention. We decided to learn more about this bar cabinet from Jeffrey and asked him many more questions — for example, what his home and workspace look like.
— Your bio mentions, “From a young age, Jeffrey Meawad's heart beat to the rhythm of design, furniture, and architecture.” Can you share what it was like for you as a child? For example, one sculptor mentioned walking around, running his hand along the walls to feel the textures. Did you have experiences like that?
— From a young age, I was deeply fascinated by design. I would always pay close attention to the spaces I visited and could recall their details after just one visit. Every nicely designed restaurant, hotel or other interior would mark me.
— Was it clear from an early age that you would pursue a career in architecture?
— During my school days, I was passionate about creating spaces and conceptualising restaurant designs. I spent more time sketching ideas than focusing on my schoolwork. Unlike many of my classmates, I never wavered in my decision to pursue architecture; it was a clear choice for me from the beginning.
Jeffrey Meawad
— How would you describe your architectural style in a few words? Why did you choose these words?
— I prefer not to confine my style to a single box. Generally, I describe my approach as one that prioritises functionality while ensuring the best possible outcome in alignment with my identity. Each project is tailored to the client’s brief and needs, allowing for a unique and personalised design.
— Can you describe what your own house looks like?
— My house features light colours, white marble flooring in a chevron pattern, and warm touches of wood. The design includes two wall systems in marble, sometimes treated with striped accents. The reception area is configured to optimise seating arrangements, fostering communication among guests. Notable furniture pieces include Finn Juhl armchairs, Tachini dining chairs, a Classicon Bell coffee table, and a bespoke JM design console. The master bedroom is designed to resemble a hotel room in mood and comfort.
— What does your workspace look like?
— My workspace is divided into two areas separated by a glass façade. One area is a large, open space for the design team, featuring a big shared table allowing communication and endless discussions of concepts and ideas. The other area is my private office, which includes a statement marble conference table that doubles as a bar and a distinctive library behind it, reflecting our style.
SOLIS Bar Cabinet. Photo: Walid Rashid
— You founded JM Design & Architecture in 2010. What was your first project?
— My first project was an apartment in one of the most iconic buildings in Achrafieh. This project was a valuable learning experience, allowing me to incorporate strong design concepts and work closely with a client who later became a good friend. It taught me a lot about execution and the practical aspects of architecture.
— At We Design Beirut, you showcased SOLIS, a bar cabinet made from onyx marble. What inspired you to use this material, and why did you choose the narrow tubes for its design? Can you share the creative process behind this piece?
— When I first encountered the onyx marble, I was immediately inspired to design a piece around it. I envisioned the bar cabinet as a striking element that would intrigue and surprise. The narrow tubes were chosen to create a design that subtly reveals its true nature, enhancing its aesthetic appeal.
— Why did you name it SOLIS?
— The name SOLIS, meaning “of the sun” in Latin, was inspired by the sunset colours of the onyx marble. This name reflects the warmth and radiance of the material, aligning with the concept behind the piece.
Photo: Walid Rashid
— What is your dream project, and why?
— My dream project is to achieve international recognition, potentially by opening studios in major global capitals and designing for prominent clients. I also aspire to expand my collectable product design line to reach a cosmopolitan audience.
— One artist once said he enjoys observing how architecture influences people's emotions. Can you explain how architecture can affect people's feelings? Do you have any personal examples?
— Architecture profoundly impacts emotions and well-being. The design of a space can evoke a range of feelings, from comfort and tranquillity to excitement and inspiration. Elements like lighting, colour, texture, and spatial organisation play crucial roles in shaping these emotional responses.
For example, in a recent project — a villa in Kifisia, Athens — we used large windows showcasing the spectacular views, soft tones and natural materials were used, and open spaces to create a serene and inspiring environment. This approach provided the client with a sense of peace and inspiration.
Another example is the beach club bar and restaurant we designed for Mariolino in Bodrum. By using organic shapes, natural artisanal materials, and a harmonious colour palette, we crafted a space that enhances its seaside location, providing a relaxing and immersive experience for visitors.
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