Snøhetta has been chosen to create a design for an opera house in the historic Diriyah area of Saudi Arabia. The proposal takes inspiration from the surrounding desert landscape, local cultural heritage, and Najdi building traditions. This ambitious project aims to establish a new platform for performers and audiences, celebrating the rich cultural tapestry of the region.
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About Royal Diriyah Opera House
As part of a broader master plan, the Royal Diriyah Opera House is pivotal in redeveloping the historic Diriyah area near Riyadh. The goal is to transform the region into a dynamic community harmonizing with cultural heritage. The opera house, set to open in 2028, will be built by Diriyah Company and overseen by the Royal Commission for Riyadh City.
“This project aims to connect the area’s rich history with contemporary culture, highlighting the importance and integrity of arts when building future communities. Through this project, Diriyah Company showcases the significance of architecture as a catalyst for building a profound cultural understanding and for sensitizing the societal experiences,” says Snøhetta’s co-founder Kjetil Trædal Thorsen”
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Ruba Ahmed, a senior project editor at Arch2O and an Alexandria University graduate, has reviewed hundreds of architectural projects with precision and insight. Specializing in architecture and urban design, she excels in project curation, topic selection, and interdepartmental collaboration. Her dedication and expertise make her a pivotal asset to Arch2O.