Image Credit : Cass Calder Smith Architecture + Interiors
Project Overview
Strand is a bold new commercial development in Riyadh that reimagines the traditional Middle Eastern marketplace for the 21st century. Located along King Salman Road, this 187,000 sq-ft complex features 12 interconnected buildings, blending modern architecture with cultural heritage to create a vibrant hub for commerce, community, and creativity.
Project Commissioner
Project Creator
Cass Calder Smith Architecture + Interiors
Team
Cass Smith, Taylor Lawson, Raunak Rekhi
Project Brief
Currently under development, Strand spans the equivalent of three football fields along one of Riyadh’s most prominent thoroughfares. Designed as a dynamic, multi-building complex, Strand draws inspiration from the traditional Souk, but with a contemporary twist — replacing enclosed, overcrowded corridors with open-air pathways, shaded public zones, and architectural clarity.
Clad in Riyadh Limestone, the street-facing buildings present a unified and iconic image, while the interior of the site is activated by small-format retail spaces, water features, lush landscaping, and sculptural installations.
The project supports local economic growth by catering to emerging entrepreneurs, creating a layered experience that merges shopping, working, and gathering in a uniquely Saudi context. A central skywalk connects the upper levels of the buildings and enhances movement across the site, culminating in a vibrant rooftop zone of office spaces.
Project Innovation/Need
Strand introduces a new commercial paradigm to Riyadh by merging the timeless appeal of a Souk with a modern, community-centered design. Rather than relying on large anchor tenants or enclosed malls, the development prioritizes small-scale retail for local entrepreneurs, and weaves together indoor and outdoor environments. The integration of a skywalk between buildings adds a novel vertical experience, while the use of traditional limestone ties the project to regional identity in a contemporary way.
Design Challenge
One of the primary challenges was creating a comfortable, engaging outdoor retail environment in the extreme Saudi climate. The solution lay in a carefully layered design approach — using architecture, landscaping, shading, and water elements to mitigate heat and create inviting pedestrian zones.
Another challenge was balancing heritage and innovation: capturing the spirit of a traditional market while delivering a distinctly modern, forward-thinking commercial experience. Connecting twelve separate buildings in a cohesive yet flexible layout also demanded strategic spatial planning and circulation solutions, which the elevated skywalk helps address.
Sustainability
Sustainability in Strand goes beyond materials — it’s about fostering lasting community and economic viability. The project uses Riyadh Limestone, a local material that reduces transportation impact and connects the design to place.
Shaded walkways, integrated landscaping, and water features create microclimates that support outdoor comfort and reduce cooling loads. By supporting small, locally-owned businesses and encouraging public interaction, the development also builds social sustainability, giving back to the community with more than just commerce.
Architecture - Proposed
This award celebrates the design process and product of planning, designing and constructing form, space and ambience that reflect functional, technical, social, and aesthetic considerations. Consideration given for material selection, technology, light and shadow. The project can be a concept, tender or personal project, i.e. proposed space.
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