A new architectural project is unfolding in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia’s second city after the capital Riyadh. It is Porta Jeddah, a mixed-use development with 123,000 m2 of retail, restaurant and leisure space, a 183-room hotel, flats, (including 53 serviced apartments), office space and three “themed plazas“. Architectural firm Chapman Taylor designed the complex on behalf of the real estate and development company Al Akaira. Al Akaira is owned 64.57% by the Saudi Public Investment Fund, while the remaining 35.43% of the company is owned by other shareholders (with less than 5% each).
According to Chapman Taylor architects, the design of Porta Jeddah “draws inspiration from the city’s rich cultural heritage“, with elements echoing Mecca Gate, its ancient port and historic Al Balad quarter, and the palace gardens. Undoubtedly, one of the most significant and distinctive elements of this new residential, commercial and leisure development is the central axis around which the buildings are arranged, namely the three central themed squares.
The first of these squares, profusely landscaped, represents the landscaped space to which the diverse range of dining options and terraces available to Porta Jeddah’s residents and visitors are open. The so-called “water plaza” gives centre stage to water and the “dancing fountains“, amidst interactive sculptures and other eye-catching amenities. It is also the meeting place for shopping in one of the many shops that will be part of the complex. Finally, we come to the third, the “entertainment plaza“, which brings together, around an amphitheatre, leisure and recreational activities “for social engagement and curated events”.
Finally, among the characteristics of this new project, we must underline the decision to place the public space, these squares, pedestrian and vehicle-free places, at the centre of the complex. Not only for its architectural and design interest, but also for the quality of life that it will offer to residents and visitors. We believe, therefore, that this is a good decision and that it is in keeping with, and indispensable to, Chapman Taylor’s statement of intent: “to create a destination that has a deep connection to its context, one that captures the energy and diversity of the city and creates a strong sense of place and authenticity“. Congratulations!
Sources: Chapman Taylor, Al Akaira.
Images: Chapman Taylor.
