Themed Garden

Saudi Arabia

Study of enclosure and shelter

The land’s journey from ocean sculpted surface to replenished and regenerated

Early emerging plan

Visitor journey based on following water and wellbeing

Contrasting light experience from resort core

Water sculpted landform providing shelter

Key Collaborators

Wilkinson Eyre Architects

FORREC

Overview

Designed as an immersive garden set in the vibrant ‘resort core’, Discovery Gardens will celebrate the magnificent landscapes of Saudi Arabia and Riyadh’s native ecology. It will combine nature, art, play and experience to educate and inspire visitors about nature.

Rainwater harvesting, solar-powered energy, and a focus on local plant species contribute to the goal of creating a green oasis that enhances the overall well-being of the city.

Nestled in a dramatic escarpment landscape, Discovery Gardens will be a sophisticated balance of high energy activity and experience, whilst also creating a clam and relaxing rest-bite from the rest of the resort core.

Process

Site exploration and drawing

Free form section development

Focus on tensions between contrasting elements of dry/ wet, dark / light, shelter / exposure

Implement engineering and architecture to realise concept