GRACE AARAJ LEED AP BD+C
B.ARCH, M.ARCH
Fulbright Scholar
Beirut, Lebanon
+961 81 681825
grace.aaraj@gmail.com
grace.aaraj@archibuild-lb.com
EDUCATION
2012-2014 Masters of Architecture [M. Arch II] A&AA - University of Oregon, Portland, USA
Emphasis on sustainable urban design and community engagement
Thesis project “BEYOND THE TENT: Rethinking Architecture of Response to Service Refugees and Their Host Communities”, awarded by AIA and statewide
2008-2012 Bachelor of Architecture [B. Arch] Lebanese University, Institut des Beaux-Arts II, Lebanon
2007 Lebanese Baccalaureate [General Sciences], Ecole des FIlles de la Charite, Ashrafieh – graduated with high distinction
CERTIFICATES / CONTINUING EDUCATION
2015-present LEED Accredited Professional in Building Design and Construction– LEED AP BD+C (GBCI#: 10977691)
2019 Certificate in The Sustainable Development Goals – A global, transdisciplinary vision for the future– University of Copenhagen
2018 Reach mentorship program for business development – Dubai, UAE
2013 Haiti Design-Build – Center for Public Interest Design – Portland State University –Port-au-Prince, Haiti
2013 International Architecture and Urban Design Workshop, Meiji University – Tokyo, Japan
LANGUAGES
Arabic, French and English (professional proficiency)
Spanish (Learning)
ACADEMIC EMPLOYMENT
2019 Instructor, Architecture, College of Design - University of Oregon with Prof. Hajo Neis. Regina Coeli Inclusive Neighborhood – The Transformation of a Prison in Rome.
2016-present Instructor, Architecture, Faculty of Architecture and the Built Environment – Beirut Arab University (RIBA Accredited Parts 1 and 2)
2016-present Trainer, LEED Green Associate Exam Preparation Workshop, AMIDEAST
2018 Lecturer, Workshop, European Cultural Academy for Venice Biennale Course “DIY Cities”
2016-2017 Instructor, Architecture, School of Architecture and Design – Lebanese American University (NAAB Accredited)
2016-2017 Instructor, Architecture, School of Architecture and Design – Lebanese American University (NAAB Accredited)
PROFESSIONAL EMPLOYMENT
2015 – PRESENT ArchiBuild Design & Construction, architecture practice | Beirut Lebanon
[www.archibuild-lb.com]
2016 - 2017 Lead senior architect, DTC Oman | Jal el Dib, Lebanon
The Dunes - Muscat, Oman–
Invited competition / winning entry & Schematic design phase
First place competition: Inter-office collaboration to design the Oman’s largest touristic investment following rigid sustainability and cultural requirements
Chnaniir Country Club - Chnaniir –
Invited competition/ winning entry First place competition: Inter-office collaboration to design a country club in the Lebanese hills overlooking Jounieh bay
2015 – 2016 Local Architect, Catalytic Action | London, UK
Jeb Jannine Playground for Syrian Refugees in Lebanon– Beqaa, Lebanon
2015 – 2016 AHLCO | Beirut, Lebanon
Prepared complete bidding package including Bill of quantities and cost studies for the Rehabilitation project of 23 Public Schools in Lebanon for locals and refugees. Project initiated by UNICEF
2015 – 2016 Architectural Designer, G70 | Honolulu, USA