Michel Abboud

Michel Abboud is a Lebanese born architect. He heads the architectural practice SOMA Architects, which he established in 2004 in New York City.

Michel Abboud studied at Columbia University Graduate School of Architecture and Planning. He is renowned worldwide for his avant-garde portfolio, and has a reputation for projects that combine design aesthetics and user-friendly functionality. Among others, Michel Abboud designed the highly controversial Park51 Islamic Cultural Center infamously dubbed the Ground Zero Mosque, and unveiled its design in October 2010. His one-of-a-kind design for the center was shelved, however, in favor of 45 Park Place, a 665-foot condominium tower that will sit adjacent to Jean Nouvel-designed museum and public green space.