Omar Harb

advisor

USEK - Holy spirit University of Kaslik

Lebanon

As an architect and founder of Omar Harb Architects & Associates, my work centers on creating… more

A. Form and Aesthetic Narrative

Strengths: The "wave" geometry is visually striking and effectively breaks the monotony of typical rectangular urban blocks. Using sandstone and glass for the exterior provides a sophisticated, "marine-inspired" texture that stands out in the Moscow skyline. The contrast between the smooth outer shell and the "hustle-and-bustle" interior (terraces and balconies) is a strong architectural concept.

Critical Review: With a semi-circular form, the jury will look closely at the floor plan efficiency. Curved buildings often create "dead corners" or awkward furniture layouts within apartments. If the 69 apartments are high-luxury, the internal spatial logic must be as refined as the exterior curve.

B. Urban Integration and the Stylobate

Strengths: The use of a multi-functional stylobate (podium) to lift the residential oasis away from the city noise is a classic, successful urban strategy. Integrating commercial areas and cafes on the ground floor ensures the building contributes to the "active embankment" rather than being a gated, silent tower.

Critical Review: The "pedestrian bridge" is described as a "red thread." The jury will evaluate if this bridge is a functional piece of infrastructure or a decorative addition. In Moscow’s climate, an open bridge can be difficult to maintain in winter; they will look for how it connects to the internal circulation.

C. Technical and Climate Considerations

Strengths: 3.3-meter ceiling heights and monolithic reinforced concrete walls suggest a high-quality, durable construction.

Critical Review: Moscow has extreme temperature fluctuations. Large glass surfaces in a "marine" style require high-performance thermal breaks. The jury may ask how the "smooth and fluid" sandstone facade handles heavy snow loads or ice formation on the "waves."

I. Optimizing the "Meander" Floor Plan
Suggestion: Prove that the curve isn't a hindrance to living.

Refinement: In your documentation, include a detailed apartment layout for one of the curved corner units. Show how the built-in furniture or the radial walls are handled. This demonstrates "Design Intelligence"—showing the jury you didn't just design a beautiful shell, but a functional home.

II. The "Fifth Facade" and Winter Strategy
Suggestion: Moscow is a "winter city."

Refinement: Since the "Meandra" has many balconies and terraces (the "seafoam" effect), show how these spaces remain usable or protected during the long Moscow winter. Consider adding "winter gardens" or glass-enclosed loggias that can open in summer and close in winter. This technical adaptation to the Moscow climate would greatly impress the local and international jury.

III. Materiality: Sandstone and "The Wave"
Suggestion: Sandstone is a heavy material for a "fluid" form.

Refinement: Specify the facade system. Is it a ventilated facade with curved stone panels? For the Archicad/Chaos Prize, show a technical 3D detail of how the sandstone panels are attached to the monolithic concrete structure. This proves the "wave" is buildable and technically resolved.

IV. Strengthening the "Embankment" Connection
Suggestion: The project aims to create a "vibrant embankment atmosphere."

Refinement: In your renders, focus more on the ground-level experience. Show the transition from the public commercial space up to the private residential stylobate. If the building "grows out of the shore," show the landscape design of the embankment itself—perhaps using wave-like paving patterns or tiered seating that mimics the building's form.

V. Lighting as a Narrative Tool
Suggestion: Moscow’s winter nights are long; the "Wave" should be a beacon.

Refinement: Design a Lighting Concept. Use linear LEDs to highlight the "meandering" curves of the facade at night. This emphasizes the "fluidity" of the sandstone even when the sun is down, making the building a landmark 24 hours a day.
24.01.2026