IMAM MOHAMED BIN SAUD MOSQUE

Addiriyah, Saudi Arabia

The mosque is located in Turaif Neighborhood considered one of the most important landmarks in historic Addiriyah, 22 km from the Kingdom’s capital Riyadh. It is home to important archeological buildings, palaces and historical monuments. In 2010, Turaif Neighborhood was declared a UNESCO World Heritage site.

The landscape design aims is to integrate the historical mosque within its natural environment. The project is comprised of mosque and  plaza. The plaza design offers a grandeur entrance to the mosque, a combination of magnificent marble intercepted with palms as punctuations for prayer distribution, a solemn vision of individuals in prayer postures.  Planting and hardscape are used to differentiate and identify areas. Worshipers, arriving on foot or by car, walk through geometrical hardscape design in earthy rainbow colors, while those heading toward the historical district view gravel paved areas filled with fragrant citrus trees. A sunken garden is situated close to pedestrian walkways, an area for gatherings and relaxation. Planting palettes selection is based on their adaption to arid environment and support of low water consumption. In all, visitors are presented with an impressive aesthetic locale.