I have an experience you can rely on, a curiosity that drives me to question design directions and a passion that pushes me to answer the clients’ needs adequately to their budget…

I have an experience you can rely on, a curiosity that drives me to question design directions and a passion that pushes me to answer the clients’ needs adequately to their budget…

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