Abdukarim Umarov

Program: Office Headquarters

Location: Riyadh, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia

Year: 2020

Built Up Area: 92,400 sq.m

Status: Proposal

Credit: X-Architects

Guided by Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, MEWA Sustainable Office Complex (MEWA SOC) is set out to enrich lives and stimulate economies by delivering the opportunities an ambitious nation craves. MEWA aim is to achieve sustainability of environment and natural resources, in such a manner that would ensure water security, contribute to achieving food security, and improve quality of life in KSA. As part of continuous effort to provide a better future MEWA follows a systematic agenda comprised of preserving the environment and natural resources all the way into activating the role of the private sector, research centers and non-profit organizations. The MEWA plot is located far-north of the city of Riyadh, encompassing a site that is rich in surroundings. The major surrounding districts were observed to be educational institutions.

The project mainly consists of a residential program and also includes a retail and creative component. The program is integrated in an architectural language which offers the best living conditions and high-quality spaces. To integrate the program efficiently and to boost public flow, the residential units are raised to the first floor to create an activated ground level for the retail space. A form-finding design process resulted in utilizing a “V” configuration that attempts to maximize the views of each residential unit and allows each apartment to have incredible views towards Dubai’s skyline, yet ensures privacy for its occupants.