- Henning
- Larsen
The client is AIA headed by Abdullah Al Khorayef and one of Saudi Arabia's most ambitious developers. The Al Khorayef Centre is a modern interpretation of local traditions and culture. With inspiration from traditional Saudi Arabian building design, the Al Khorayef Centre stands out with its well-defined stepping volume, yet porous and inviting through its self-shading patterned facade.
The design approach the centre is not only to provide state-of-the-art facilities throughout the building, but also to ensure an integrated public realm that offers easy access, spaces for recreation and, first and foremost, a sense of a place.
The three lower levels feature high-end destination retail, accessed from the ‘retail plaza’, which will function as entrance but also as a vibrant public space with coffee shops. The 190 serviced apartments are located from level four and up and feature a reception, library and breakfast lounge. A pool and an exercise area are situated at the top floor with a splendid view of the city. The roof offers an exclusive recreational area for the residents.
The Al Khorayef Centre is a recognisable, urban composition whose diversity, transparency and dynamic will make the building a new destination and vibrant community in the Eastern Province of Saudi Arabia.
The detailed design of the project has begun. An operator has been found, and it is expected that construction will begin in 2014.