King Abdullah Sports City: A Monumental Blend of Luxury and Functionality

Revolutionizing Stadium Hospitality with Savana Studio's Design

King Abdullah Sports City, located in Saudi Arabia, was a project that pushed the boundaries of stadium design. Savana Studio, led by Savana Al-Khudairi, took on the challenge of creating interiors that would connect with the exteriors, ensuring a cohesive design language throughout the stadium.

The task at hand was not an easy one. Stadium interiors are often functional and lack the aesthetic appeal found in VIP lounges and business suites. Savana Studio aimed to break away from this norm and infuse the spirit of indigenous charm into every aspect of the design.

One of the major challenges faced by the design team was the fragmented and disconnected nature of stadium interiors. Every shape, scale, finish, texture, furniture, lighting feature, and artwork had to be carefully selected to speak the same language and portray the vision of the project. This required a deep understanding of the technical, procurement, and costing considerations, adding layers of complexity to the design process.

Despite the challenges, Savana Studio's team worked together to achieve a unified vision. The focus was on creating connections between all aspects of the building aesthetics, ensuring that the design elements complemented each other seamlessly.

Communication with the various stakeholders involved in the project was another hurdle to overcome. With multiple parties, including the architect, Saudi Aramco, the Royal protocol office, the main contractor, and the inauguration team, it was crucial to listen and seek solutions that would satisfy everyone to the best of their abilities.

The result of Savana Studio's dedication and creativity is a stadium that reflects the grandeur of its scale. The interiors of King Abdullah Sports City are a harmonious blend of luxury and functionality. Soft neutrals and earthy tones, inspired by the undulating desert dunes, create a serene atmosphere, while fresh ocean blue accents add a touch of vibrancy.

The King Abdullah Sports City project was not without its challenges. The accelerated program posed difficulties in terms of specified finishes and products. Savana Studio had to take on the role of a project management support team to ensure the delivery of a high-quality space that was not compromised due to the accelerated timeline.

Additionally, Savana Al-Khudairi faced the challenge of being a woman in the construction industry, particularly in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Despite the initial surprise and skepticism, she proved her expertise and dedication, earning the respect of her colleagues and contributing to the successful completion of the project.

The design of King Abdullah Sports City by Savana Studio has been recognized with the prestigious Bronze A' Design Award in the Hospitality, Recreation, Travel, and Tourism Design category. This award acknowledges the outstanding creativity and resourcefulness demonstrated in the design, as well as its contribution to improving the quality of life.

The King Abdullah Sports City stands as a monumental achievement, showcasing the potential of art, architecture, and design to create spaces that inspire and uplift. It is a testament to the vision and dedication of Savana Studio and their commitment to pushing the boundaries of stadium hospitality.