The Jubail Island project presented a bold opportunity to design an architecture that contains multiple commercial activities that is within close proximity to the natural habitat of mangroves.

The studio’s approach to the design was to first visit the site and gain valuable insight & awareness of the ecological function of the mangroves. Our resulting findings informed us of the sensitive approach the buildings footprint should have but also how to dress the building to allow it to blend in and not cause any visual disruption.

Drawing inspiration from the meandering boardwalk that snakes around the mangrove sanctuary, we developed a concept fusing the practical organization of a traditional market with opposing shop fronts and the bending nature of the boardwalk – thus a form was developed and placed as an extension to the mangrove park pathway. In addition to the main building five standalone kiosks were designed and placed along the coast to be able to offer visitors outdoor seating while dining.

To address materiality – swatches of color were extracted from the photos taken of the surrounding nature – beiges/light browns representing the mud found at low tides and the color of the boardwalks and observation towers found on the paths.

Our concept seeks to enhance, educate and raise awareness about the ecological function of mangroves in Jubail and create a lifestyle that coexists alongside nature.