Client: Royal Commission for Riyadh City
Location: Riyadh - Saudi Arabia
Services Provided: Architecture, Engineering & Interior Design + Supervision
Site Area: 5,622 m²
Total Built-Up Area: 16,100 m²
Construction Cost: US $ 21,333,000
Starting Date: 2011
Completion Date: 2019
Project Description:
In 2011, the Diplomatic Quarter of Riyadh City witnessed the unveiling of a marvel in sustainable architecture - the newly constructed office building of the RCRC. Positioned strategically next to its predecessor, this modern edifice is also within proximity to notable structures like the United Nations building and the Ministry of Tourism.
Salmani Architecture was behind the architectural design, making sure to seamlessly integrate the existing building with the proposed extension. Their design not only reflected the modern essence of today's architecture but also deeply resonated with the spirit of heritage architecture. This blend was a conscious effort, aiming to mirror the image and objectives of RCRC, intertwining both the modernity of our age and the richness of our heritage.
The core ambition of the project was to echo the stature and image of a prominent institution while maintaining its administrative functionality and retaining the elegance of simplicity. With these foundational design principles, the architectural team aimed to address the larger urban design by enhancing the connectivity with the surroundings. A hallmark of this effort was the establishment of an urban spine, a physical passage that intertwined the space at the ground level with the nearby Kindi Plaza. This initiative not only fostered a tangible connection but also formed a visual bridge between the plaza and its environs, augmenting the visual continuum and endorsing pedestrian accessibility.
Another distinctive aspect of the RCRC building’s design was its orientation concerning the Qibla direction. This positioning emphasized the hierarchical structure of the spaces and courtyards, giving birth to a new paradigm for office buildings. The courtyards, designed by Salmani Architecture, are more than just open spaces; they serve as social hubs for both the building's occupants and the general public. Furthermore, these spaces are engineered to let natural light flood into the building's interior spaces, underscoring the principles of sustainable architecture.
The landscape design was finely attuned to the neighboring Kindi Plaza. It flaunted quaint gardens placed at strategic points within the building, establishing a vibrant and healthy ambiance for its users. This conscious integration of heritage and sustainable architecture is what makes the RCRC building a modern-day architectural marvel.
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