Diriyah Art Features: A New Cultural Nucleus in Diriyah, Riyadh

Serving as the new art center in Addiriyah, Riyadh that presents the realms of digital arts, Diriyah Art Features nestled along the sloping rocky escarpment, acting as the connecting hub of the urban community with the artistic world. 

Diriyah Art Features by Schiattarella Associati, Images by Schiattarella Associati

The objective of this project is to reconnect the project area with the bed of the Wadi. To achieve this, the existing retaining wall is demolished, and the slope of the hillside is restored to its natural form. Additionally, an Art Centre is constructed, which functions as a permeable building complex. This building provides a walkway connection for pedestrians to the Sculpture Park, which is planned for future construction along the valley floor.

Diriyah Art Features by Schiattarella Associati, Images by Schiattarella Associati

Stands on one of the most significant archeological sites in Saudi Arabia, Diriyah City, this building spans along the sloping rocky escarpment following the linear layout of a farmland filled with luxuriant palms, Wadi. Consisting of a series of compact buildings with a crossed-path network and small squares to create shaded and cool areas, these compact shapes with irregular angles are arranged in a linear layout, creating a continuous spatial experience from one space to another. 

Top view of Diriyah Art Features, Images by Schiattarella Associati

This arrangement is developed by the need to build a unique system inside in which each part performs a specific function. It not only provides an exhibition hall but also various facilities, such as an administration area, classrooms, studios, cafes, and a wide parking area underneath it. Divided into two distinct parts, the internal part is destined for professional users such as artists, critics, teachers, students, administrators, technicians, and residents while the public part is destined for the visitors, art estimators, participants, art buyers, and tourists. 

Diriyah Art Features, Images by Schiattarella Associati

Utilizing the common materials used in this desert place, this building seamlessly blends with the surroundings, enhancing the relationship between the artificial creation with the natural creation. The use of stone brise-soleil on the facade presents a double visual effect and acts as sun-shading as a consequence of the weather conditions in the Mediterranean country. Aligns with the exterior shades, the interior is graced with a combination of white hues and the wooden and brass material that elevates the entire space inside. 

The stone brise-soleil on the facade not only presents a visually striking effect but also serves as a sunshade, Images by Schiattarella Associati

Diriyah Art Features by Schiattarella Associati, Images by Schiattarella Associati

The interior is adorned with a combination of white hues, wooden elements, and brass materials, Images by Schiattarella Associati

The ingenious design of Diriyah Art Features with its peculiar geometric shapes with natural hues, stands as a bold architectural marvel that stands amidst the historical site. Elevating the traditional values and connecting the urban community with the intersectional artist world in one place.

Diriyah Art Features by Schiattarella Associati, Images by Schiattarella Associati