Historical background: King Salman bin Abdulaziz assumed the position of Emir of Riyadh in 1954 AD, when he was nineteen years old. He was initially appointed acting Emir, then became an official Emir with the rank of minister the following year. During his reign, which initially lasted five years and later resumed from 1963 until 2011, King Salman led one of the largest urban development operations in Riyadh and the region, and played a pivotal role in defining the city’s urban identity.
Al-Salmani style: a renewed urban imprint in the heart of Riyadh
In the heart of the Saudi capital, Riyadh, King Salman’s urban vision is evident, which established what is known today as the “Salmanian style.” This style was distinguished by the merging of modernity and heritage, embodying innovation and sophistication in the city’s architecture, while preserving the cultural and historical imprint.
Architectural competition: Al Faisaliah Tower and Kingdom Tower
One of the most prominent features of the Salmaniya style is the architectural competition between the Al Faisaliah Tower, whose construction began in 1997 and opened in May 2000, and the Kingdom Tower, which was completed in 2002. This competition was not just a race to the sky, but rather was an embodiment of the spirit of challenge and aspiration towards achieving leadership. And innovation.
Riyadh’s development and urban growth
Under the emirate of King Salman, Riyadh witnessed remarkable growth between 1963 and 2011. Its population increased from about 150,000 people to more than 5.2 million people in 2010, which reflects the scale of development and modernization that the city has witnessed.
The Salmanian style is a modern architectural style associated with the reign of King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, King of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. This style reflects a combination of Arab-Islamic traditions with modernity and innovation in design.
As for the “King Salman Charter,” it expresses a set of values and principles that King Salman supports and reflects his vision for the Kingdom. This charter emphasizes Islamic values, preserving cultural heritage, and promoting innovation and development in various fields.
The architectural form of the Selmanian style can be distinguished by certain characteristics:
Integration of traditional and modern: The Salmanian style blends traditional elements of Islamic architecture such as domes, minarets and Arabic motifs with modern design concepts.
Use of modern technology: It relies on the use of advanced building materials and modern technology to improve efficiency and sustainability.
Concern with sustainability: Focuses on energy efficiency and the use of sustainable resources in construction.
Open spaces and green areas: includes designs that encourage social interaction and provide large green areas for rest and recreation.
Focus on cultural identity: The Salmanian style preserves Saudi cultural identity and highlights it in architectural designs.
This architectural style is not limited only to government or religious buildings, but extends to commercial and residential projects, reflecting the development of architecture in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
Definition of the Salman style
The Selmanian style is a combination of architectural elements that developed during the rule of the Ottoman Sultans, and this style reflects multiple influences from the different cultures that the Ottoman Empire embraced.
The main architectural elements of the Salmanid style
Domes: Domes are one of the most prominent features of the Salman style. These domes are distinguished by their large size and architectural symmetry, and are usually decorated with delicate Islamic decorations.
Arches and Columns: The Salman style is characterized by the use of large arches and massive columns that support the building. These brackets are not only supportive but also an important decorative element.
Islamic motifs: Islamic motifs include Arabic writings and floral and geometric motifs that adorn the walls and ceilings.
Iwans: The iwan is an architectural element consisting of a large opening covered by an arch. Iwans are widely used in the architectural construction of mosques and palaces.
Mosaics and tiles: The Selmanian style is characterized by the extensive use of mosaics and colorful tiles covering the walls and floors, giving it a luxurious and sparkling look.
Interior design: The Salmanian style is characterized by a luxurious interior design that includes ornate columns, painted ceilings, and rich fabrics, which reflects luxury and sophistication.
Gardens and courtyards: Gardens and courtyards play an important role in the Selmanian style, as they add an aesthetic and functional dimension to buildings.
[row]
[col span__sm=”12″]
[row_inner]
[col_inner span=”6″ span__sm=”12″]
[/col_inner]
[col_inner span=”6″ span__sm=”12″]
[/col_inner]
[/row_inner]
[/col]
[/row]
