Princess Sarah Bint Ahmad Al Sudairy Center for Feminine Research
Client: Al-Riyadh Development Authority
Location: Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
Total Built-up Area: 6,557 m²
Services Provided: Design and Working Drawings
Construction Cost: 12,800,000 USD
Starting Date: 2010
Completion Date: 2011
Challenge:
The Princess Sarah Bint Ahmad Al Sudairy Center for Feminine Research needed to balance cultural preservation with modern architectural techniques. Located within the historically significant King Abdul Aziz district, the design had to reflect Riyadh’s heritage while ensuring privacy and functionality for a research center dedicated to documenting the role of Saudi women in history.
Approach:
Drawing inspiration from Riyadh’s traditional architecture, the design integrates modern construction technologies with cultural elements. The project consists of three floors—basement, ground, and first—enclosed within stone walls and towers that provide privacy while maintaining an open and inviting atmosphere. A central courtyard, shaded and adorned with a fountain, serves as a tranquil outdoor space that enhances the interplay between the built environment and the surrounding landscape. Transparency in the design allows for natural light penetration while maintaining seclusion, creating a serene environment conducive to research and intellectual exchange.
Impact:
The center stands as a cultural and academic landmark, preserving manuscripts and research related to Saudi women’s contributions to history. Its architectural design respects the city’s heritage while embracing modern sustainability principles, fostering a space that is both functional and symbolic. Through its carefully planned spatial arrangement, it provides an environment that encourages scholarly pursuits, ensuring that the narratives of Saudi women continue to be documented and celebrated for generations to come.
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