Assalamu Alaikum - New Middle East architecture awards honor cultural sensitivity and sustainability
Assalamu Alaikum - The first Middle East’s Most Transformative New Buildings Awards by the Royal Institute of British Architects aims to shine a light on the region’s developing architectural scene, highlighting projects that blend respect for culture with forward-thinking design.
Jury chair Kerem Cengiz told Arab News that the judging focused on more than just form - it looked at how designs respond to their surroundings and local traditions while using sustainable methods.
“The main thing was not only judging buildings, but seeing how they relate to their environment,” Cengiz said.
The panel reviewed entries across many categories, from small boutique works to major urban projects, reflecting the region’s lively architectural landscape.
“The shortlist really reflects a region in an architectural revival, where cultural identity is present, changing and woven into contemporary design,” he added.
Fifteen projects made the shortlist, with two from Saudi Arabia: King Salman Park in Riyadh, and the nearby Wadi Safar Experience Center.
King Salman Park is a large-scale regeneration of the city’s former airport site by Gerber Architekten, Buro Happold and Setec. The project turns an aviation-era site into a vast urban green space, offering residents and visitors a network of gardens.
The Wadi Safar Experience Center, drawing on Najdi architectural traditions and designed by Dar Al-Omran – Rasem Badran, uses inward-facing courtyards and earth-berm landscaping to create cool, reflective spaces that celebrate local heritage.
The judges emphasized criteria like careful composition, strong spatial qualities, continuity with cultural traditions, environmental responsibility, and sensitivity to context.
Cengiz said he was pleased the jury reached clear agreement, showing a shared sense of what architectural quality means in the Middle East.
“The entries showed a move away from copying global trends toward building distinct regional identities,” he said.
He encouraged young architects in the region: “Don’t hesitate to submit your projects. Design with respect for your environment and heritage while using contemporary methods.”
“Be aware of modern design approaches, but remember you’re in a place where what you design speaks about our environment, heritage and culture. Don’t be overwhelmed by that or try to overplay it - let it be part of what shapes your architecture.”
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