Client: KEC
Location: Al-Madina Al-Monawara, Saudi Arabia
Services Provided: Concept Design
Total Built-up Area: 65,000 m²
Construction Cost: US $52,000,000
Starting Date: 2012
Completion Date: 2012
Challenge:
The KEC Residential Apartment Buildings project was envisioned as a gated residential community that would serve Saudi residents as a second home in Al-Madina Al-Monawara, providing a serene and well-integrated living environment near Al-Haram Al-Shareef. The challenge was to design a high-density residential complex that maintained a sense of privacy and exclusivity while respecting the architectural traditions of the Hijaz region. Additionally, the development had to seamlessly connect with the surrounding urban fabric, which included a museum and mosque to the east and villa communities to the north.
Approach:
The design concept drew from the rich heritage of Hijazi architecture, incorporating traditional facades, intricate detailing, and spatial compositions that reflect the lifestyle of Saudi families. The 18 residential buildings, spread across a 26,000 m² plot, were positioned along four main roads, ensuring optimal accessibility and circulation. With a 50% site coverage and a 2.5 FAR, the planning allowed for ample communal spaces and amenities, including 2,000 m² of retail and shared facilities, fostering a sense of community. The integration of courtyards, shaded walkways, and vernacular design elements ensured that the residences remained climatically responsive while enhancing the overall experience of living in the sacred city.
Impact:
The KEC Residential Apartment Buildings successfully established a harmonious balance between modern comfort and cultural authenticity, creating a welcoming retreat for Saudi families in Al-Madina. By incorporating traditional Hijazi design principles within a modern residential framework, the project enriched the city’s architectural landscape while fostering a strong sense of identity and belonging. Through its thoughtful master planning and cultural sensitivity, the development not only met the practical needs of its residents but also contributed to the urban and social fabric of one of Islam’s most revered cities, ensuring a timeless connection between heritage and contemporary living.
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