Four Seasons Hotel Riyadh renovation project bringing Saudi heritage to life (Saudi Arabia)
Redesigned interiors at Four Seasons Hotel Riyadh at Kingdom Centre will showcase the Kingdom’s rich heritage and provide an outstanding platform for talented artists from the local community
Four Seasons Hotel Riyadh renovation project bringing Saudi heritage to life (Saudi Arabia)
Redesigned interiors at Four Seasons Hotel Riyadh at Kingdom Centre will showcase the Kingdom’s rich heritage and provide an outstanding platform for talented artists from the local community
Further enhancing its status as one of Saudi Arabia’s top luxury hospitality addresses, Four Seasons Hotel Riyadh at Kingdom Centre has launched an extensive renovation project that is set to take the guest experience to new heights. The redesign will see the Hotel’s stylish rooms, suites and public areas updated with a fresh look and feel that both celebrates Saudi heritage and captures the excitement of the nation’s vibrant future.
Located in the iconic Kingdom Centre tower, a gleaming modern landmark in the heart of the city, the Hotel will bridge the gap between past and present by incorporating historical motifs and locally-produced artwork. Four Seasons has partnered with renowned hospitality design firm Hirsch Bedner Associates (HBA) to create a exquisite environment where both locals and international guests alike will feel immediately at home.
The first phase of the renovations is already underway, with all guest rooms and suites located between the 30th and 40th floors set to be finished by February 2020. Work will then commence on the lobby and lobby lounge areas, together with the remaining five floors, with the entire project scheduled to be completed by November 2020.
“Since first opening its doors to guests in 2003, Four Seasons Hotel Riyadh at Kingdom Centre has established itself at the pinnacle of the city’s hospitality scene. Our renovation will ensure that we continue to create incredible experiences for our guests and bring them a true taste of Saudi heritage through the unique artworks on display,” says Guenter Gebhard, General Manager of Four Seasons Hotel Riyadh at Kingdom Centre. “Art and design has always been a major focus for Four Seasons, and we are proud to support the community by offering a platform for emerging and established local creatives.”
In keeping with Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts enduring commitment to showcasing the work of talented local artisans, the design team is working closely with local charitable organisation Alwaleed Philanthropies to bring authentic Saudi heritage and craftsmanship to life through a range of artwork and decorative objects.
HBA partner David T’Kint comments:“It was very important for us to work with the foundation and give back to the community via the arts. Their skilled craftsmanship allowed us to work harmoniously and develop some contemporary pieces, while also maintaining a strong Saudi identity. The locally produced artwork contributed greatly to the development of a holistic interior design aesthetic and a welcoming, cohesive guest experience throughout the Hotel.”
Guests will be greeted by exceptional craftsmanship from the moment they enter the building, with consistent motifs appearing in the Hotel’s public areas and the intimacy of the lavishly appointed guest rooms. Each space has been conceived to convey a story through design, with the narrative further embellished by a carefully curated collection of bespoke artwork.
The lobby will feature a series of decorative art panels inspired by the traditional carvings found within the Kingdom’s historic adobe homes, while fabrics, embossed leather and trims are set to incorporate subtle geometric patterns that can be traced back to ancient tribal motifs. A group of sculptural trees in the atrium will create a one-of-a-kind experience through light, glass and design, together with crescent moon-inspired lighting fixtures that will gently illuminate the airy space.
The plush carpets throughout the Hotel will feature geometric patterns inspired by local architecture and traditional artwork, with the moon motif from the lobby echoed by the light fixtures in the corridors. Guests will be guided to their accommodations by new signage that takes its cue from the same heritage narrative.
The guestrooms themselves will showcase two distinctive colour palettes inspired by the literal meaning of Riyadh (Arabic for "garden"). Vivid shades of green and turquoise set the tone through the carpets, custom wall coverings and handmade accessories, while the walls and sliding bathroom doors will incorporate historic tribal patterns. Stylish tufted and stitched leather upholstery throughout the room will further add to the air of luxurious refinement.
The stunning transformation will be completed with the addition of a unique collection of locally produced artwork throughout the property. From large-scale sculptures to artworks hung on the walls, each piece has been sourced from within the Kingdom, creating an outstanding platform for emerging and established indigenous artists to showcase their talents. Many of the pieces have been provided by Alwaleed Philanthropies, offering unprecedented insights into local culture and creating the deep connection to place that seasoned travellers have come to associate with Four Seasons properties worldwide.
