2022

DGDA

MBS Centre for Arabic Calligraphy

Journey the Spirit of Calligraphy, and Traditional Najdi Architecture.

Aerial view
Aerial view
Aerial view
Aerial view
Aerial view
Material colection
Material colection
Material colection
Material colection
Material colection

The Centre for Arabic Calligraphy is in the cultural heart of Riyadh. It serves as a public space that honors one of the region's oldest traditions. Architecture and language work closely together. The design is inspired by the discipline of the scribe and the flowing shapes of Arabic letters to create a place for rhythm and reflection.

Interior Render library vignette
Interior Render library vignette
Interior Render library vignette
Interior Render library vignette
Interior Render library vignette

Built as a modern landmark, the centre serves both as a public destination and as a foundation for calligraphic heritage. Each element has purpose. Stone, stucco, brass, and wood connect to the local material culture and age gracefully. The architecture avoids excessive decoration. Surfaces act as canvases. Transitions are exact.

Interior Render grand entry hall
Interior Render grand entry hall
Interior Render grand entry hall
Interior Render grand entry hall
Interior Render grand entry hall
Material Board
Material Board
Material Board
Material Board
Material Board
Material Board

The layout resembles the structure of a calligraphic composition. Courtyards provide balance. Shaded pathways connect areas of quiet and clarity. Water features cool the space and promote a sense of calm. The building reflects both the climate and culture through its simplicity and rhythm.

Interior render, public lounge area
Interior render, public lounge area
Interior render, public lounge area
Interior render, public lounge area
Interior render, public lounge area
Material Board
Material Board
Material Board
Material Board
Material Board
Material Board

"A landmark destination where modern design meets the timeless art of Arabic calligraphy".

Interior render lounge area vignette
Interior render lounge area vignette
Interior render lounge area vignette
Interior render lounge area vignette
Interior render lounge area vignette
Material Board
Material Board
Material Board
Material Board
Material Board
Material Board

This is not just a tribute to the past; it is a space for interaction. The centre combines research, exhibitions, and learning in one place. Visitors move through areas that link writing to real-life experience—where script is not only visible but also felt in its shape and layout.

Interior render library vignette
Interior render library vignette
Interior render library vignette
Interior render library vignette
Interior render library vignette
Material Board
Material Board
Material Board
Material Board
Material Board
Material Board
Interior render classrom and practice area vignette
Interior render classrom and practice area vignette
Interior render classrom and practice area vignette
Interior render classrom and practice area vignette
Interior render classrom and practice area vignette
Material Board
Material Board
Material Board
Material Board
Material Board
Material Board

As an institution, the Centre for Arabic Calligraphy establishes Riyadh as a global hub for studying script. It values language as a structure, heritage as a living presence, and design as a way to engage. 

Interior render lecture hall vignette
Interior render lecture hall vignette
Interior render lecture hall vignette
Interior render lecture hall vignette
Interior render lecture hall vignette
Material Board
Material Board
Material Board
Material Board
Material Board
Material Board

Inspiration and Use of Reference Imagery

Our work draws inspiration from the world around us, including urban environments, digital platforms, social media, and other publication and or accessible sources. We make every reasonable effort to identify and credit original authors and creators where possible. In cases where the original source cannot be determined, this is entirely unintentional. All mood boards and reference imagery are used strictly for internal inspiration to help define the atmosphere, tone, and conceptual direction. We do not intend to replicate, copy, or otherwise infringe upon the intellectual property rights of any author, artist, or creator. Such images are not used for commercial purposes, but solely as non-commercial visual references to guide our creative process.