Client: ADA
Location: Diriyah, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
Services Provided: Master Planning and A/E Design
Plot Size: 8,025 m²
Built-Up Area: 1,254 m²
Construction Cost: 20,671,900 SAR
Starting Date: February 2015
Completion Date: August 2015
Affiliation: Bodeker Partner
Challenge
Al-Mreeh is part of the larger master plan for the ancient district of Diriyah, a UNESCO-listed heritage site. The challenge was to create a public space that honored the historical and cultural significance of the area while integrating modern amenities that catered to both business visitors and local residents seeking relaxation. The project needed to strike a balance between heritage conservation and contemporary urban functionality.
Approach
The design concept seamlessly blended traditional Najdi architectural elements with modern materials and landscape interventions. Raised gardens enclosed by precast concrete benches, water channels, and an accessible reflecting pond were introduced to enhance the ambiance. Shadow patterns cast by boundary walls added an ephemeral aesthetic quality, enriching the visitor experience. The master plan also incorporated diverse usage zones—family-friendly areas with playgrounds, cultural spaces connected to At-Turaif, and tranquil seating areas for dining and socializing. Formal dining facilities were strategically placed near the main restaurant building, while more secluded seating arrangements were distributed around the elevated gardens to foster privacy and serenity.
Impact
Al-Mreeh successfully transformed a segment of Diriyah into a contemporary public space that remains deeply rooted in its historical setting. By thoughtfully integrating landscape design with architectural heritage, the project has become a key destination where visitors can experience the cultural richness of Diriyah while enjoying modern amenities. It serves as an inviting retreat that strengthens Diriyah’s role as a historical and leisure destination within Riyadh’s urban fabric.
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