Riyadh gets new signature towers design
Saudi Arabia’s capital, Riyadh, will soon feature the RIYMAR Towers, a signature project by Germany’s JSWD studio. Positioned centrally, the towers leverage the prime location along King Fahd Road and Olaya Street, alongside a metro stop for seamless access.
JSWD’s winning concept impressed RIYMAR Real Estate with its contemporary and ambitious form, taking inspiration from the dramatic Tuwaiq mountains and Riyadh’s vernacular traditions. The carved vertical forms reference ancient geological forms, juxtaposed with oasis-like terrace gardens, and allude to historic Diriyah, the birthplace of modern Saudi Arabia.
Design and Development
The development will contribute to Riyadh’s transformation under Vision 2030, encouraging culture, hospitality, and tourism, increasing homeownership for Saudis, and transforming the capital into a world-leading city. RIYMAR Towers are located next to the popular Riyadh Gallery complex, also owned by RIYMAR.
JSWD was selected to design RIYMAR Towers through an international competition organised by architect search and selection specialists, Malcolm Reading Consultants, on behalf of RIYMAR. The competition saw five studios shortlisted, including Aedas, AtkinsRéalis, JSWD, Mesura, and ZHA Architects.
Reaction and Next Steps
Dr. Bassam Boodai, Chief Executive Officer of RIYMAR Real Estate, said: ‘Choosing a winner of our international architectural competition is a major milestone for RIYMAR Real Estate. JSWD have matched our ambitions for RIYMAR Towers – a distinctive landmark connected to Riyadh’s story and identity.’ Malcolm Reading, Competition Director, Malcolm Reading Consultants, added that the JSWD team rose to RIYMAR’s ambitions.
JSWD, founded in 2000 in Cologne, has developed into an internationally active practice with offices in several cities, including Berlin, Tampa, Vienna, and Barcelona. The studio is recognised for design excellence and architectural quality, having received multiple German Design Awards and the International Architecture Award.
RIYMAR Real Estate and JSWD are now working together to bring this vision to life. They are committed to creating a unique and iconic landmark that will contribute to the city’s growth and development. The project is expected to have a positive impact on the local community, and its success will be a significant step forward for Riyadh’s transformation under Vision 2030.
