Can architecture encourage curiosity and connection?
EARLY EDUCATION CENTER IN RIYADH
#architecture, #urbanplanning, #ksa, #education, #highschool
Bilgi
EARLY EDUCATION CENTER IN RIYADH
Placing a building within a nature inherently divides the environment into interior and exterior, above and below, left and right. However, in Saudi culture, social life is not confined to the inside or outside of buildings but unfolds in the interstitial spaces—the rich in-between zones.
For example, in educational buildings, this concept can be observed in the design of traditional madrasas. While they include enclosed classrooms, the presence of courtyards, arcades, and patios softens the division between indoor and outdoor spaces, creating transitional areas that enhance social and educational interactions.
By embracing these transitional spaces in our design, we aimed to capture the essence of Saudi cultural life, where architecture supports fluid, adaptable social experiences rather than rigidly defined zones.
Müşteri
ROSHN
Konum
Riyadh, KSA
Boyut
10.500 sqm
programı
Masterplan, Urban Design, Commerical District, Mosque, Education, Neighborhood Park
Durum
In Progress
ortak çalışanlar
Sacit Arda KARAATLI
Lebriz ATAN KARAATLI
Ömer AKMAN
Ecem TORUN
Ehab Al Amri (Urban Planner)
Abdarrouf Alamri
Saif Diab
Being Outside While Being Inside
Our design draws inspiration from key elements of Saudi and Islamic architectural traditions, alongside the principles of the contemporary learning methods, to create interstitial spaces that seamlessly blur the boundaries between inside and outside. This approach foster a deep connection to nature and openness, while still providing a secure, nurturing atmosphere conducive to growth and learning.
By blending these influences, our design creates spaces that are not only functional but also inspire a profound sense of belonging and connection. The result is an environment where the physical boundaries between inside and outside, as well as between individual and collective spaces, are thoughtfully woven together to support both intellectual and emotional growth.
Our primary approach for the Early Education Center focuses on creating a spatial framework that supports contemporary and innovative learning. Modern educational spaces prioritize collaborative areas outside the classroom, emphasizing places where students can gather and interact. Therefore, although the GFA was less than 3,000 m² in the initial program, we considered it crucial to allocate an additional 50% for circulation and shared spaces to foster a more dynamic environment.
The school building is a large rectangular volume positioned at the center of the site, away from traffic and noise, fostering a stronger connection with the surrounding neighborhood.
A pedestrian axis extends from the main road in the north, passes through the school, and continues south toward the Mixed-Use Center Hub. To enhance rather than obstruct this flow, the educational building is elevated, with the ground floor dedicated solely to public functions. Spaces such as the multipurpose hall and cafeteria are placed on the ground level, ensuring they remain accessible even when the school is closed, contributing to the ongoing life of the public realm.
An Elevated Space for Exploration and Connection
The Red Spine
The building’s layout is organized around a spiral spine. Beginning at the ground level as a staircase and seating area, this red spiral continues upward, becoming the core of the school’s social life. This surface seamlessly forms various functional elements, such as steps, seating, the library, and an amphitheater, and extends all the way to the rooftop play area, creating a continuous flow of activity.
The building’s plan is straightforward, with a central void measuring 18 meters in diameter, ensuring the large interior feels open and bright. One side of the void is dedicated to kindergarten classrooms and their social areas, while the other side houses elementary classrooms and their gathering spaces. The rooftop offers a playful and engaging environment designed specifically for children, adding an imaginative dimension to the school experience.
Learning Without Walls: Where Every Space Sparks Curiosity
Ambience and Shadows
The triangular forms used on the façades are more than just historical references. Their design comes from our belief that the way these patterns interact with sunlight—creating shifting plays of light and shadow—is closely connected to Saudi culture. This approach goes beyond aesthetics, reflecting how spatial experiences in Saudi architecture have long been shaped by the movement of natural light across intricate details. By letting sunlight filter in and bring the interiors to life, these motifs not only reference traditional forms but also create a dynamic atmosphere that highlights the cultural importance of spaces where the indoors and outdoors blend seamlessly.
The façade design takes inspiration from the traditional triangular patterns found in Traditional Najd Culture, known for casting intricate shadows that animate interior spaces. Large precast concrete panels with triangular perforations allow sunlight to filter into the building, illuminating the open circulation areas while providing shade and reducing heat gain.
This holistic approach creates an educational space that is not only functional but also deeply rooted in the cultural and social fabric of the community, supporting both learning and social interaction
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