saudi-arabian-science-center: Saudi Arabian National Centre for Science & Technology
Designed 1982 with Dar al Riyadh
Riyadh, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
The Science Halls facility of the Saudi Arabian National Centre for Science and Technology (SANCST) was to play an important role in promoting popular understanding of scientific advancement with the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. The only SANCST facility intended for use by the general public, the Science Halls were located adjacent to the SANCST headquarters building ten kilometres from the centre of Riyadh. The 130,000 square foot facility included exhibition halls, an auditorium, a planetarium, a cafeteria, administrative and program offices, as well as garden and outdoor exhibit areas, parking and secondary infrastructure.
Both the Science Halls facility and its exhibits respond to the Koranic vision of creation, drawing on the vast scientific heritage of the Islamic world, and bring to visitors a deeper understanding of their environment. The design vocabulary of the Science Halls responds to the Saudi Arabian cultural context, local architectural traditions and the extreme climatic conditions of Riyadh.
Photo of model courtesy the Erickson Collection
