Close

id50 2025 – Carl Gerges

Read more about the founder of Carl Gerges Architects in this exclusive interview.

Can you let us know about the latest exciting projects that you are working on? 

We’re currently working on a variety of exciting projects across hospitality, nightlife, fashion, and residential design. One project we’re particularly enthusiastic about is a gym and wellness space that we hope will offer something truly unique. We’re also designing new living experiences in major cities and working on projects that span from Europe to the Middle East and Africa, including a special concept in the UAE and fresh ideas for hospitality here in Lebanon. 

Please mention some of your proudest achievements as a firm 

Some of our proudest moments as a firm come from creating spaces that bring people together and connect with their surroundings. My team and I have stayed in Lebanon through difficult and uncertain times because we believe in the impact of what we do. Despite the challenges in Beirut and the region, it’s been incredibly fulfilling to see our projects come to life; places where people can gather, share moments, and celebrate life. From hotels to restaurants and nightclubs, seeing these spaces full of energy and joy reminds us why we do what we do. 

Can you talk about a type of project that you would like to take on in 2025 that would interest you and your team to pursue (dream project that you would like to manifest)? 

A wellness center in the middle of nature, where wilderness takes center stage and where all the building materials are native to the land. The fewer restrictions, the more I would go back to basics – creating something that is centered around experiences and rituals related to our well-being. I think we could all benefit from that. 

How would you describe your ‘house style’ and design philosophy? 

My design philosophy is centered around experiences first; I always want to create spaces around rituals that provide a sense of well-being by engaging the senses. Whether through texture, sound, or sight, I like straightforward design with a deep appreciation for refinement. Therefore, I never compromise on quality and prefer to keep things simple and quintessential. It’s imperative for spaces to age beautifully, by continuously interacting with their surroundings. 

As this is the power issue, what empowers you and your team? 

Our power comes from collaboration, both within our team and with the incredible craftsmen, and communities we work with. We’re very fortunate to have an abundance of incredible artisans and designers in Lebanon who are constantly overcoming adversity through their hard work. As an architect, it helps to be connected with the right workforce because together we can create magic. 

View the visionaries.

View the complete id50 2025 list.

The Latest

Here are 14 Emirati women we admire in the design and creative industry

In honour of Emirati Women’s Day, we celebrate the visionary Emirati women in the industry that are pushing boundaries

Casa Cazaux

A Spanish Revival Reimagined in the Hollywood Hills

Casa Cazaux designed by Jordana Maisie Design Studio was inspired by Slim Aarons photography of post WWII Italian high society and Mediterranean-inspired coastal architecture

Kaskade by Karim Rashid for TREDEX Sara Group

TREDEX x Karim Rashid Introduce KASKADE

A Collection Where Flow Meets Form

identity Design Awards 2025 categories

identity Design Awards 2025 – The Categories

Here's a breakdown of the 21 categories we have for this year's identity Design Awards.

Vedra | Palm Jumeirah villa

Owning the Development Process

How Vedra, a Boutique Project Development Consultancy is Redefining Development in the UAE

Dual Key – A Game-Changing Concept for Owner/ Investors

Here's how you can become a landlord and live in your property at the same time.

Penthouse in Dubai Marina by Lulie Fisher Design Studio

A Penthouse Reimagined

Lulie Fisher Design Studio Completes a Penthouse in the Intercontinental Dubai Marina

KIRA entrance

The Design behind Kira at the Jumeirah Marsa Al Arab

Designed by acclaimed studio Verhaal, KIRA is inspired by the Lunaria plant.

Design Take: Fairmont Tazi Palace

OBMI and Katara Hospitality breathe new life into a 1920s royal residence, balancing heritage and modern luxury on the eucalyptus-clad slopes of Tangiers, Morocco.

Kiyoshi Dubai

Step inside Kiyoshi Dubai

Japanese craft meets contemporary design at Kiyoshi designed by Mahsa Gholizadeh

AlUla Design Residency

The AlUla Artist Residency Programme Returns for its Second Edition

The Design Residency programme 2025 also coincides with the Year of Handicrafts as designated by the Saudi Arabian Ministry of Culture.

For Music Lovers

The interiors of the Backstage Hotel in Stockholm, Sweden echo the feeling of being behind the scenes at a great performance – rich in texture, layered in story and always with music in the background