The National Commercial Bank (NCB) Tower in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, stands as one of the city’s most remarkable examples of contemporary architectural design. Designed by Skidmore, Owings & Merrill (SOM) in 1983, under the leadership of Gordon Bunshaft, the tower is recognized for its distinctive triangular design and modernist approach, which represents a significant example of contemporary architectural design.
Architectural Design
The tower’s triangular shape is a defining feature of Modern architectural design, with solid façades punctuated by large glass openings, allowing natural light to filter into the interior spaces. The contemporary architectural design also integrates deep recesses in the façade, extending across three levels, ensuring efficient daylight penetration while minimizing heat gain—a crucial consideration for Jeddah’s hot climate.
Additionally, the structure includes a six-story circular parking facility, accommodating a significant number of vehicles while complementing the tower’s geometric aesthetics and Modern architectural design
Location & Views
Occupying a 1.2-hectare site near the Red Sea, the tower enjoys panoramic views of both the sea and Jeddah’s skyline. The building’s orientation and contemporary architectural design maximize these views while optimizing environmental efficiency, a hallmark of Modern architectural design, creating a comfortable workspace for over 2,000 employees.
Summary Table
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Jeddah, Saudi Arabia |
| Architect | Skidmore, Owings & Merrill (SOM) |
| Completion Year | 1983 |
| Number of Floors | 27 |
| Capacity | Over 2,000 employees |
| Site Area | 1.2 hectares |
| Key Design Elements | Triangular form, large glass recesses, circular six-story parking, all contributing to contemporary architectural design principles. |
The NCB Tower remains a symbol of Jeddah’s modern architectural evolution, blending aesthetic innovation with functional efficiency, while reflecting the city’s rapid development during the late 20th century and serving as an outstanding example of contemporary architectural design.
