elliptical roof opening invites natural light within desert x AlUla visitor center 2022

KWY.studio takes over Desert x AlUla 2022 edition

Following the success of the original site-specific art exhibition in AlUla, Desert X AlUla Visitor Center in 2020, KWY.studio was commissioned to design the 2022 edition, building upon the iconic circular courtyard, axial integrity, and deference to the encompassing landscape. Drawing from the acclaimed original structure, the design process for the 2022 Visitor Center begins with a deliberate focus on maintaining clarity and simplicity while reimagining key features for a new context. The project evolves as a unique iteration rather than a mere replica, allowing for the addition of North and East volumes to accommodate expanded program elements while preserving the essence of the original design. New volumes introduce corner shops, expanded event areas, indoor café seating, and upgraded staff amenities, enriching the visitor experience while maintaining architectural coherence.

all images by Colin Robertson

center achieves interplay between indoor and outdoor spaces

An elliptical roof opening optimizes solar exposure, emphasizing the diagonal character of the redesign and enhancing the interplay between indoor and outdoor spaces. Four new courtyards introduce varied levels of privacy and alternative circulation paths, enriching spatial relationships and providing new perspectives of the surrounding landscape. While retaining the singular essence of its predecessor, the 2022 Visitor Center takes on a slightly more complex architectural character, continuing to serve as a captivating landscape viewing device. KWY.studio enables the exploration of typological concepts and the expansion of successful design ideas, resulting in a refined and nuanced architectural expression. The 2022 edition of the Desert X Visitor Center marks another chapter in the ongoing tribute to the AlUla landscape and its people, setting the stage for the upcoming 2024 exhibition.

KWY.studio draws from the iconic 2020 structure to reimagine the 2022 Visitor Center

the center evolves uniquely, adding North and East volumes to enhance program elements

new volumes introduce corner shops, expanded event areas, indoor café seating, and upgraded staff amenities

four new courtyards in the 2022 Visitor Center offer varied levels of privacy and alternative circulation paths

the 2022 edition retains the original essence while adopting a slightly more complex architectural character

KWY.studio’s deliberate focus on simplicity ensures a refined and nuanced architectural expression

enhanced solar exposure and spatial relationships contribute to the captivating nature of the center

the expansion houses commercial functions enriching the visitor experience

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roof plan

plan

elevations and section

project info:

name: Desert X AlUla Visitor Center 2022
architect: KWY.studio | @kwy.studio

design team: Ricardo Gomes, Rebecca Billi and Luise Marter

commissioner: Royal Commission for AlUla

management: Aecom

contractor: Nesma

location: AlUla, Saudi Arabia

photography: Colin Robertson | @colinjr

designboom has received this project from our DIY submissions feature, where we welcome our readers to submit their own work for publication. see more project submissions from our readers here.

edited by: christina vergopoulou | designboom