Water Grove, Riyadh (Saudi)

“Weaving context, sustainable architectural design and culture into a fluid masterplan, the design blends dynamic spaces with ‘slow moments’ of intimacy for a multidimensional, harmonious experience.”

Water Grove | Sunlit public landscape with large trees and a reflective pond creating a serene atmosphere.

Introduction

With the studio focused on sustainable architectural design, our response to this urban project was both considered and contextual – balancing environmental responsibility with a deep understanding of place, movement, and human experience.

The site is located at the end of the Sports Boulevard. It is lined with three separate roads, all with vehicular and pedestrian access. Due to the positioning of the site, there are various access routes into and through it, allowing for the creation of dynamic and fluid spaces.

The scale of the site is comparable to various notable public spaces. The size of the Water Grove enables framed views through the site, varying spaces as the user transitions through, and moments of stillness away from the wider activity of the site.

Framed by nature | Aerial view of tree-lined seating areas creating quiet pause.

Water Grove site plan | Masterplan design and spatial arrangement.

Water Grove location plan | Site plan highlighting Water Grove’s position within the wider urban context.

Approach

The design of Water Grove aims to establish a masterplan based on an aperiodic pattern that’s deeply rooted in context and culture. This pattern shapes a striking visual layout while creating dynamic spaces at a human scale. As visitors move inward, they encounter ‘slow spaces’ intimate seating areas shaded by single trees and featuring water elements that cool the air and invite moments of pause. This layered design creates a three-dimensional experience, integrating trees, water, and seating to extend the masterplan both vertically and horizontally.