Al-Awdah Mosque

Date 2025
Client private
Value n.a.
Location Riyadh, Saudi Arabia

In the Al-awdah proposal, landscaping plays a key role in integrating greenery into parking areas and framing views and sightlines of the Mosque. To do so, native trees and shrubs are used to screen surrounding third-party properties. The plan incorporates organic rammed earth street furniture with varying radii to create shaded areas and different degrees of enclosure, resulting in privacy, while water features are an option as a passive cooling strategy. The design enhances social engagement through semi-pedestrianised roads and kiosks placed at the periphery, which act as welcoming elements and introduce a commercial aspect to the site.

Vehicular access is directed toward the rear, allowing the front of the mosque to remain pedestrian-friendly and inclusive. Architectural paving patterns and visual alignments are used to frame important views and pathways, ensuring the space remains functional, inviting, and deeply rooted in its cultural and environmental context.

The use of rammed earth is both a sustainable and contextual material, with a high thermal mass to moderate extreme heat while minimising environmental impact. With its low energy footprint and reliance on locally available soil, it aligns with the region’s natural conditions. It connects directly to the architectural heritage of Diriyah - the city of earth – referring to a deep-rooted heritage that is closely tied to the earth itself. Thus, rammed earth is not solely aesthetic, but functional, sustainable and cultural.

Landscaping is proposed not only as a visual buffer but also as a way of framing key areas, enhancing shade, and improving the overall comfort of all visitors to the site, at all times. Native species such as Ziziphus spina-christi, Phoenix dactylifera, and Tamarix aphylla are suggested as key elements of the landscaping strategy.

Shading devices are introduced to support extended use of the Mosque surroundings beyond prayer times, encouraging gathering, rest, and social interaction throughout the day.