Art is never simply aesthetics; often, the ways in which we design the world around us shapes how we live, think, and feel. This is what LAU’s School of Architecture and Design sought to instill in the grade 10 and 11 students enrolled in its summer camps this year.

Running from June 29 to July 12, 2025, on the Byblos campus, the school hosted two back-to-back residential camps—one in interior design, the other in studio arts—that introduced students to the creative process of ideation, creation and everything in between. Through hands-on experiential workshops and studio-based tasks, participants were exposed to myriad features within their respective disciplines to help them narrow down their choice of major further down the line.

Students explored 2D and 3D design, fabrication, wood cutting, drilling, ceramics, photography and printmaking. “It was like a mini simulation of how they would be taking their courses here at LAU,” said Chair of the Department of Art and Design Chahid Akouri. “We wanted them to realize the method of how things are done—that there’s a process from thinking, to representing and, ultimately, to making,” he added.

Apart from learning to create, students were challenged to present their work through curated exhibitions or carefully built portfolios. They also worked in groups, practiced giving and receiving feedback, and discussed their ideas—all key skills to acquire in any creative profession.

“At first they were very shy,” noted Assistant Dean of the School of Architecture and Design Sophie Khayat, “but by the second day, something just clicked. They got more vocal about sharing their ideas in the studio.”

Beyond technique, students were encouraged to explore the deeper purpose of their creative work. “Our role as designers is not just aesthetic,” Dr. Akouri emphasized. “It’s social, educational and cultural. Our art is how we reflect on the changes needed in our communities.”

For Daniella Saade, an aspiring architecture student living in the US, the Interior Design Camp gave her insights into fields she had not yet considered. “I think it’s important to incorporate all the aspects of the degree so that students can figure out what they want before they enroll in any of the programs,” she said.

Outside the classroom, Saade also got a taste of university life. “It was like a trial run of being in college. The campus and its location are beautiful, and the people were so warm. It reminded me of why I love Lebanon.”

In the Studio Arts Camp, 11th grader Zoe Sakr felt empowered by the program’s focus on visual communication and self-expression. “This camp taught me how to communicate through art—not just to do it because I can, but to express myself, to inspire others,” she said.

She was also pleasantly surprised by all the connections she made. “We didn’t expect to befriend anyone during our time here or to ever talk to each other ever again [after the week-long session], but I think we’re already planning our next hangout. There’s something in the air here that makes it feel like home,” she explained.

Reflecting on the outcome of the camp, Khayat affirmed that the goals were met. “We got the students familiar with the school, with potential professions, and with a range of design skills,” she said. “We delivered what we promised. There’s more we want to enhance and expand for next year—but this year was a success.”