The Red Sea Development Company (TRSDC) describes its future destination — the Red Sea Project — as grounded in sustainability and sustainable tourism.
Architectural design firms such as Foster + Partners, Kengo Kuma and Killa Design have delivered designs aimed at developing eco-friendly hotels and resorts informed by the special conditions and unique characteristics of the site.
The first thing you notice when you visit the islands of the Al-Wajh lagoon, a chain of more than 90 undeveloped islands between the cities of Umluj and Al-Wajh on the west coast of Saudi Arabia, is the nearly pristine environment, with clear turquoise waters, white sand, and an abundance of thriving coral reefs.
Environment and social sustainability are key drivers for this futuristic destination and the entire project is underpinned by a commitment to going beyond sustainability to achieve regenerative results. This commitment is framed within the context of a concept masterplan, which predicts a 30 percent net conservation benefit by 2040 and is reviewed against international best practices and the global UN Sustainable Development Goals. In fact, Saudi Vision 2030 and the wider tourism strategy of the Kingdom is moving toward this kind of sustainable tourism on a range of large-scale projects.
TRSDC has chosen to partner with design firms that do not consider sustainability as a choice but rather a fundamental pillar of every project.
Dubai-based Killa Architectural Design proposed concepts rooted in the natural environment. The firm designed 38 overwater assets for the most remote island within the archipelago, Sheybarah, which reflect the form of round-headed corals.
Engaging Saudis who are rich with local knowledge and cultural heritage is also key to developing a genuine experience for visitors.
The “Eco-tecture” initiative was an architectural design competition launched by TRSDC in the summer of 2020. It invited young architects exposed to the rich culture and unique nature of the destination to share designs for the Coastal Village Community Center. Most of the designs shared were modern in style and innovative, yet reflective of a fabled history.
Article Source: Arab News
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