The project forms part of a much broader regeneration scope located on the former site of Riyadh International Airport. King Salman’s Park will combine a wide variety of activities including environmental, cultural, recreational and sports projects. Facilities will include the Royal Art Complex, a National Theatre, Art Academies, Museums and Galleries. It is envisaged that this will become a hub for tourists and significantly contribute to improving the lifestyle of Riyadh residents.

Platform were approached by Ilimego Architects to lead a design team and oversee the formal submission of an architectural competition to create a vertical garden. The submission drew upon Riyadh’s cultural roots as a source of inspiration and reinterpretation focusing on the sensory experience of an Islamic garden. The proposal sought to re-interpret the wisdom of traditional Islamic agriculture for the 21st Century by using the most innovative systems to create a sensory experience for visitors.  The building was vertically divided into three distinct zones consisting of urban farming, education and dining.

Client: King Salman Park Foundation
Role: Project Manager
Use: R&D/Cultural
Size: GFA 18,000m2 approx.
Cost: c. 110,000,000 Saudi Arabic Riyal
Programme: Pre-Construction