Ministry of Municipal and Rural Affairs

Riyadh

This project was commissioned by the Ministry through a limited national design competition that was won by the firm. The building is located in Central Riyadh and consists of seven stories of offices and support functions required for the efficient running of the ministry. A carefully proportioned six story central atrium provides extensive natural light by an overhead skylight. This natural light is experienced by offices around the perimeter and overlooking the atrium. The diffused and softened natural light gained by these offices allow for comfortable working spaces with minimal heat gain. The form of the building was inspired by the traditional “Masmak fort” symbolic of Riyadh architecture. As such, the building is firmly positioned on three elevations, except for the main entrance elevation, which is predominantly glass and flanked by two solid tower-like structures.