Revolutionizing Education Spaces: M. Almana College of Health Sciences

Muhammed El Sepaey's Award-Winning Design Fuses Tradition and Modernity

The design of M. Almana College of Health Sciences is a testament to the power of thoughtful architecture. Inspired by the Kingdom's historical heritage and the dynamic beauty of the Arabian Desert and sand dunes, the design offers a unique blend of traditional and modern elements. The aim is to strengthen students' sense of belonging to the campus and inspire their constant aspiration for success.

The college's visitors are welcomed by a large lobby with an iconic dome and a medical art wall filled with symbols of chemicals and medicine in various scientific languages. This design feature not only adds to the aesthetic appeal of the space but also serves as a constant reminder of the college's educational mission.

The design of the college is unique in its use of natural light and materials. High-performance glazing systems have been used to maximize the healthy use of daylight. Local Saudi natural stone adorns both the exterior and interior walls, unified by a sandy color palette that extends to the floor marble, exterior paint, interior paint, wood cladding, and furniture. Natural brass has been chosen for all accessories and handles, adding a touch of elegance to the overall design.

The main building of M. Almana College of Health Sciences consists of four floors, housing a main lobby, a 1000-seat auditorium, a 100-seat seminar hall, administration offices, and a mosque. The building is directly connected with all medical schools, including the School of Pharmacy, School of Nursing, School of Physical Therapy, and School of Clinical Laboratory. It features five entries, one main entry and four others providing easy access to the auditorium.

The design process was not without its challenges. The creative challenge was to harmoniously blend traditional and modern elements in a way that would foster a sense of belonging among students. The designer also had to find materials that would suit the Kingdom's historical heritage and the Arabian Desert. Furthermore, the creation of the inscriptional stone wall, filled with chemicals and medicine symbols in various scientific languages, required additional medical research.

In conclusion, the design of M. Almana College of Health Sciences is a remarkable example of how architecture and design can enhance the educational environment. The project's success is evident in its recognition with the Silver A' Design Award in 2021, a testament to its outstanding creativity, technical excellence, and innovation. The design serves as an inspiration for future projects aiming to create engaging and inspiring educational spaces.