BUILD Q1 2021 8 Oct20615 rom uber tech to sustainable homes, these are some of the latest trends forcing architects to go back to the drawing board in an ever-changing world. As a global design company, Saudi Architects knows only too well the emerging changes that are growing in popularity and is quick to respond. The Riyadh-based business, which has expertise at both managing and delivering complete integrated design along with project and construction management services, has nearly 30 years of experience with the Al-Khobar Wavefront and Umalmelh Airport among its lengthy portfolio. Abdullah Alabdulkareem, President and CEO of Saudi Architects, says it’s important to keep up with the changing way that people want to live: “As architects, trends play an important role in our design work. “Our modern lives impact the design of our homes, and this has created some unique trends in architecture and design.” One of the main trends, adds Mr Alabdulkareem, is how openplan spaces have gone mainstream: “Open-plan spaces are all about connectivity and interaction. To us, this is an exciting trend, as it shows a desire of people to be more connected to their family and friends. “They want clever storage too. Never has the phrase ‘a place for everything, and everything in its place’ been so true than now. It has become especially important as the average family burdens themselves with increasing amounts of stuff. “Alongside that are having charging stations throughout the home - areas where devices can be stored, charged and used. While uber tech means you can use a thumbprint to operate your entire security system along with advances like self-sterilising door handles or programmable kitchen cupboards. “There’s no limit to the amount of uber-tech that can be installed in a home these days.” Working Creatively To Build On The Latest Global Trends Saudi Architects has won numerous awards for the creativity and expertise of its talented teams. Company founder Abdullah Alabdulkareem talks about the top trends in design and the ethos behind creating such a world-class business. F A versatile company, Saudi Architects is responsible for creating a wide range of buildings - home offices and interiors to office blocks; villas to palaces; mosques to museums. When designing homes with clients, the CEO notes that multiple master suites have become more popular. This is especially true when more than one generation is living under the same roof or friends are sharing a house, so they can afford to live in the most desirable area. Also proving a favourite with many clients are off-the-shelf plans because people often prefer to rely on a tried-and-tested plan that can be chosen from a book but tweaked to suit their unique needs, he adds. Saudi Architects’ drive to combine creativity with attention to detail has seen them continue to innovate to meet a growing trend for quiet spaces around the home, which impacts on both bathroom and exterior design. “Freestanding baths are popular because people are designing their bathrooms to be quiet, relaxing spaces. It’s a haven from ENG. Mohammed A. Alabdulkareem our Executive VP – COO.
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