King Abdullah Foundation Project

This 100.000sq.m mixed-use development located in Riyadh, KSA, will hold the Foundation’s Headquarters, in addition to a high-end convention centre, luxury hotel and mosque.

The master concept for the façade lighting of all buildings was based on the idea of using reference elements to create a consistent look during the nighttime. These blue references work as visual targets which virtually connect the buildings with each other, providing a unified atmosphere throughout the site. The blue light contrast beautifully with the warm white of the landscape and internal areas. Blue suggests tranquility and stability, and has a soothing effect, which makes it ideal for this setting.

The façade lighting proposal for the Foundation Building was based on giving the glass box above the main entrance the appearance of an illuminated lantern. Led profiles located on the vertical edges of each glass pane illuminate the façade revealing the frit pattern and creating a surreal lighting effect. The internal coves along the perimeter were used as façade lighting elements by leaving them on after working hours. This helped delineate the shape of the building while avoiding using additional lighting elements, which was critical to comply with the project’s LEED requirements.