Welcome to a community of co-creators; a collective of ideas; a place of making.
Here, we come from all corners, crossing borders, curious and experimental, to trade in experience and knowledge. We come together - multi-generational, multilingual, multi-disciplinary - to plan and design for our world today.
We come to be inspired by the indescribable landscape around us and those who walked here before us.
We come seeking diverse viewpoints. We come to challenge our assumptions.
We come to connect in real time, in real life. We come to be moved to see differently.
To all who walk through our door, designers, or design enthusiasts, this is your space too.
Come in and collaborate. Come in and look. Come and be a part of a design space that is alive, evolving, always a work-in-progress.
DESIGN SPACE ALULA
Design Space AlUla combines a gallery, archive and workshop in a dynamic new centre for design in the region. Located in the heart of the AlJadidah Arts District, Design Space AlUla interrogates design practices from around the world through the prism of AlUla’s cultural and natural landscapes. It aims to fuel creative thought and expression through a dynamic programme of collaboration and exchange, situating the creative practices of Northwest Arabia in the international design ecosystem. This is a space for designers and design enthusiasts to learn, dream, investigate, collaborate, experiment, make and share.
MADRASAT ADDEERA
Madrasat Addeera, originally established as the first girls' school in AlUla, underwent a remarkable transformation in 2019, becoming the region's first arts and design centre. This site, located in AlJadidah Arts District, now serves as a vibrant hub for creativity and craftsmanship, fostering the development of traditional arts in AlUla.
The school offers innovative programs, that equip artisans with the skills and techniques needed to preserve and evolve the crafts passed down by their elders. By blending heritage with contemporary design, Madrasat Addeera empowers local artisans from AlUla to breathe new life into time-honored traditions, ensuring that AlUla’s cultural legacy continues to thrive in the modern world.
Special thanks to all the designers, contributors, and collaborators whose unwavering support and dedication brought this project to life. Your collective efforts have been truly invaluable. We extend our deepest gratitude to Elisabeth Dodinet, Dr. Desmond Lazaro, William Riding, Dr. David Cranswick, John Oliver, Meshal Alzeer, Fahad Alharbi, Saud Alasiri, Eman Ramadan, Miriam Johnson, Mark Mills, Joachim Tantau, David Gray, Simon Trethewey, Sarah Basheer, Katrina Gosiengfiao, Samantha Buckley, Natasha Mann, Bassam Abduallah Al-Alwan, Rakan AlMansour, Isra Butt, Amanda Critchlow, Dr. Nooshin Shafiei, Ammar Jiman, Tahani Mohammed, Haifa Altwaili, Malek Alahmadi, Moneeb Fallatah, Abdulhakeem Mabrook, Nrmeen Jundi, Rasha Alblwi, Saleh Altwailie, Nadia Madani, Khaled Alboshi, Lujain Farah, Salah Albloshi, Dante Necdao, Fahad Alhatem, Sultan Jumaa, Ahmed Bash, Duaa Alrayes, Donna Sdiri, Salaah Alboush, Nora Alblway, Faizah Almansouri, Hanan Albalawi, Reyouf Altuwaili, Samer Yamani, Zakari Boukhari and Abdoulaye Niang.
Design and Production
Craft Group
Madrasat Addeera, AlJadidah Arts District.
Foreword
Sara Ghani, Curator, Design Space AlUla
Since the dawn of human presence over 200,000 years ago, AlUla stood as a testament to human ingenuity, storytelling, and cultural exchange. This extraordinary desert oasis, shaped by the forces of nature and enriched by the legacies of successive civilizations, serves as a unique crossroads where history and creativity intertwine. Over millennia, AlUla has evolved, continually inspiring new interpretations while bridging the past with the future.
Raw to Revival is the second exhibition at Design Space AlUla, marking a significant milestone in our exploration of AlUla’s creative identity and a heartfelt celebration of our roots. For the first time, this exhibition unites the visionary ethos of Design Space AlUla with the exceptional talents of Madrasat Addeera, AlUla’s renowned arts and design hub. This collaboration honors the region’s rich heritage while showcasing innovative approaches that define AlUla’s evolving design narrative. By blending tradition with modernity, Raw to Revival illustrates how AlUla’s storied past continues to shape its creative present and inspire its future.
Positioned at the intersection of tradition and modernity, Raw to Revival explores the material essence of AlUla, reimagining these elements as a wellspring of inspiration and transforming them into extraordinary expressions of art and design. The exhibition narrates the story of AlUla’s natural beauty and craftsmanship through a captivating multi-sensory journey, inviting visitors to immerse themselves in its textures, colors, scents, and forms. Each piece serves as a tribute to AlUla’s enduring legacy and its boundless capacity to inspire new creative frontiers.
Design Space AlUla remains steadfast in its mission to serve as a catalyst for creative exploration, fostering meaningful dialogue among local, regional, and international designers. Raw to Revival brings this vision to life, inviting audiences to discover the dynamic interplay between AlUla’s timeless landscapes and its innovative design future.
We are delighted to welcome you to this next chapter at Design Space AlUla. May this exhibition inspire new conversations and connections, rooted in the rich cultural and natural heritage of this remarkable landscape.
Palm Weaving, Madrasat Addeera.
A Revival Journey
Majda AlDulaijan, Exhibition Lead
The Raw to Revival exhibition celebrates the harmonious fusion of AlUla’s rich natural heritage with contemporary design practices. It highlights how art and craftsmanship act as dynamic forces in preserving cultural traditions while driving innovation and promoting sustainability for future generations. The exhibition showcases the transformation of raw materials from AlUla’s landscapes into meticulously crafted pieces that honor local heritage while embracing modern design sensibilities.
At its core, Raw to Revival explores the journey from raw, natural resources to refined, practical art forms. The exhibition emphasizes the intrinsic connection between nature, art, and sustainable design, showcasing materials like palm fronds, stones, pomegranate peels, and natural dyes. These elements are reimagined into exquisite creations, demonstrating how ancient techniques can be reinterpreted and integrated into today’s world of design.
In curating the exhibition, we focused on works that embody AlUla’s deep-rooted artisanal traditions, with a particular emphasis on the contributions of the artisans at Madrasat Addeera. Each piece reflects AlUla’s cultural richness and the dedication of its artisans, seamlessly blending historical craftsmanship with forward-thinking design. From intricately woven textiles to beautifully crafted ceramics, the exhibition celebrates the timeless spirit of AlUla’s artistry.
The exhibition unfolds as a journey, tracing the transformation of raw resources into art. Visitors begin by exploring the natural resources of AlUla and follow their evolution as skilled artisans shape them into functional and artistic creations. The narrative delves into the cultural and environmental significance of these crafts, offering insights into how traditions are preserved and adapted for contemporary use.
The exhibition space mirrors AlUla’s natural environment, incorporating organic shapes, earthy tones, and textures that evoke the region’s landscape. The layout guides visitors through the creation process, inviting them to interact with materials, observe craftsmanship, and learn about the cultural significance of each piece. Interactive features, such as the
AlUla Patterns Library and Colour Vials, provide an immersive and participatory experience, allowing visitors to connect more deeply with the creative process.
At the heart of this exhibition is a dialogue; between past and present, and between artisans and visitors. Workshops, panel discussions, and live demonstrations offer a unique opportunity to engage directly with artisans, learning the techniques and stories behind their work. These interactions deepen visitors’ understanding and appreciation of AlUla’s cultural identity and artisanal traditions.
To enhance the visitor experience, contextual materials are strategically placed throughout the exhibition. These provide insights into the resources used, the historical context of the crafts, and the significance of the works on display. This framing ensures visitors leave with a comprehensive understanding of AlUla’s heritage and the ongoing efforts to preserve and innovate within its artisanal community.
The patterns of AlUla serve as a vital source of inspiration for designers and artisans. These intricate motifs, rooted in the region’s history and cultural heritage, are reimagined in modern creations, bridging the past and present through design. Similarly, AlUla’s natural color palette; its earthy tones, sunlit hues, and vibrant contrasts, shapes the creative process, infusing each piece with a sense of place and paying homage to the breathtaking beauty of the region.
Through Raw to Revival, we aim to illuminate AlUla’s unique artisanal culture and its enduring relevance in contemporary design. By fostering collaboration, creativity, and cultural dialogue, the exhibition serves as a platform to celebrate AlUla’s rich history while inspiring the future of craftsmanship and sustainable design.
Ceramics, Madrasat Addeera.
Raw to Revival: Celebrating Our Roots.
Connection with Nature
Immerse yourself in the Connection with Nature zone, where raw materials are transformed through sustainable craftsmanship. This zone offers a deeper exploration of AlUla’s rich natural resources, from palm fronds and clay to vibrant pigments, each playing a vital role in the creation of both functional and artistic expressions that honor the past while embracing the future.
This zone introduces you to the beauty and relevance of these materials through pieces such as After the Rain - A Geometric Garden and Painting the Desert with the Desert. The works of art highlight the seamless integration of tradition and contemporary, encouraging creativity and developing a stronger connection to AlUla’s land and culture.
The Connection with Nature zone emphasizes the critical link between craftsmanship, sustainability, and the environment, promoting thought about how natural resources impact artistic expression and inspire new possibilities for the future.
Textile, Madrasat Addeera.
Ceramics Process of making, Madrasat Addeera.
Process of making, Madrasat Addeera.
Palm Weaving, Madrasat Addeera.
Palm Weaving, Madrasat Addeera.
Raw Material
Begin your journey by immersing yourself in the essence of AlUla’s natural treasures. This opening section of the exhibition introduces you to the raw materials that serve as the foundation of the entire showcase. Experience the timeless beauty, the intricate textures of palm fronds, and the earthy richness of clay. Delight in the vibrant hues drawn from
pomegranate peels, madder, henna leaves, walnut husks, and more. These materials are more than just the starting point of your exploration—they are the roots from which creativity flourishes. They inspire and shape everything, from homeware and jewellery to perfumes and art, embodying the spirit and heritage of AlUla.
Henna Tree, AlUla.
Pomegrante Tree, AlUla.
Sandstone, AlUla.
Textile, Madrasat Addeera.
Process of Making
AlUla has undergone a remarkable transformation in a short time—a journey beautifully captured in our exhibition, Raw to Revival. At the heart of this evolution are the skilled artisans of Madrasat Addeera, who take the natural materials of this land and infuse them with new life and purpose. From pots and cups to bags, cushions, and exquisite jewellery, every piece reflects the artistry and dedication of the community of AlUla. These artisans are not merely preserving traditional techniques; they are redefining them, shaping a future that honors the past while embracing the possibilities of tomorrow. Through their craft, they play an essential role in the revitalization of this extraordinary region, ensuring its heritage continues to thrive and inspire.
Khaled Alboshi drew inspiration from traditional palm woven baskets, known as Guffa.
Textile, Madrasat Addeera
Ceramics, Madrasat Addeera
Sustainable Display Units
The display units in the Raw to Revival exhibition embody our steadfast commitment to sustainability.
Crafted from Palm OSB (Oriented Strand Board)—a material composed of wood strands or chips—these units exemplify the principles of the circular economy and environmental responsibility. Palm OSB is not just an eco-friendly choice; it is also remarkably durable, and reusable. Designed to endure diverse environmental conditions, it retains its structural integrity while showcasing a sleek, natural aesthetic.
The modular design of these display units, made entirely from palm boards, offers boundless possibilities for creative configurations and adaptable stacking arrangements, catering to a variety of presentation needs. With their clean lines and practical elegance, these displays go beyond functionality, presenting products, artwork, and other items in a manner that is both organized and visually compelling.
Sketches of the Sustainable Units, by Tauha Railoun.
After the Rain – A Geometric Garden
by Joachim Tantau & Aline Marion
Inspired by the spiraling growth patterns of AlUla’s desert flowers, After the Rain – A Geometric Garden is a public artwork that celebrates nature’s inherent geometry and harmonious proportions. Created by artist Joachim Tantau, the installation features a ‘garden’ of structures, including a striking geodesic dome crafted from palm wood with the support of the local community. Surrounding
the dome are five Platonic solids, each symbolizing one of the essential elements of life. The project fostered deep community engagement through workshops designed to uncover the fundamental laws of nature. Participants explored these principles creatively, crafting small Platonic solids and contributing to the dome’s construction, bringing the artwork to life as a shared endeavor.
Joachim Tantau & Aline Marion،
Aline Marion, AlUla
Dr. David Cranswick، AlUla.
Painting the Desert with the Desert
Dr. David Cranswick, assisted by Samer Bin Qasim and students of Madrasat Addeera
Painting the Desert with the Desert by Dr. David Cranswick is the culmination of his artist residency, exploring the creation of natural pigments from the richly colored earths of AlUla’s majestic mountains. Deeply inspired by the breathtaking landscape, Dr. Cranswick sought to capture the unique hues and luminous quality of light that define AlUla’s skies and mountains. Every element of his work is meticulously handmade,
from the gesso ground to the natural earth pigments produced in AlUla.
This artistic practice is rooted in a deep respect for traditional techniques and materials, drawing inspiration from medieval and Renaissance methods. Known globally for his expertise in the “alchemy of paint,” he shares his knowledge through teaching, revealing the secrets behind transforming raw natural materials into vibrant works of art.
Dr. David Cranswick, assisted by Samer Bin Qasim.
Dr. David Cranswick, assisted by Samer Bin Qasim.
Madrasat Addeera, Ceramics.
The Art of Nature
Madrasat Addeera Collection 2024
The Art of Nature showcases a variety of products from Madrasat Addeera, reflecting the essence and spirit of AlUla. Its breathtaking nature intertwines with its deep-rooted traditions and rich stories, resulting in contemporary works of art that exude authenticity and creativity.
These collections form a cohesive narrative that bridges the past and the present, offering visitors a profound connection to the core and spirit of AlUla.
The Art of Nature Zone is not merely a space for showcasing art but a sensory journey that celebrates the spirit of this remarkable place, embodying its enduring legacy and narrating stories of AlUla that merge the fragrance of history with the beauty of modernity.
Madrasat Addeera, Ceramics.
Madrasat Addeera, Palm Weaving.
Madrasat Addeera, Jewellery.
Al Gharameel: The Magical Pillars.
Madrasat Addeera Editions
Samer Yamani, Curator and Creative Director
Madrasat Addeera Editions.
Madrasat Addeera Editions were created to celebrate and embody this essence, revealing AlUla’s allure through narratives inspired by its mountains, stones, sands, oases, and flora. This collection, comprising four Statement Pieces, draws on the richness of local culture while blending traditional crafts with contemporary techniques and sustainable materials.
Designed and produced by Saudi and international designers and artisans from over eight countries, the collection aims to position Madrasat Addeera at the forefront of Saudi design and traditional arts on the global stage. Each of the four pieces intertwines the multifaceted narratives of AlUla, highlighting the craftsmanship of exceptional artisans, the vision of acclaimed artists, and the profound sociocultural influences that continue to shape local communities.
Alwadiya: The Living Pots by TECHNOCrafts.
Al Gharameel: The Magical Pillars.
Madrasat Addeera Editions
Samer Yamani, Curator and Creative Director
Crafts possess a remarkable ability to capture the essence of local culture. They embody materials, resources, techniques, traditions, beliefs, relationships, and behaviors, weaving a tapestry of identity through everyday objects. By narrating the stories of a place, crafts reveal profound insights into society, offering intimate portraits of cultural evolution.
Through their captivating tales of heritage, crafts uncover hidden secrets or reinforce the visible attributes of a community. In AlUla, this legacy is unmistakable. Its traditional arts mirror the region’s scenography, landscapes, colors, and textures, portraying the evolution of its community and the transformations that have shaped it over time.
Alwadiya: The Living Pots by TECHNOCrafts.
Al Gharameel: The Magical Pillars.
AlWaha:
by Cristián Mohaded.
AlWaha: a room divider by Cristián Mohaded.
Alwadiya: The Living Pots
TECHNOCrafts
The Alwadiya collection captures the essence of AlUla’s lush oasis, showcasing its vibrant flora, including citrus trees, herbs, and date palms. These elements reflect the natural richness and vitality of AlUla’s landscape.
At the heart of the collection are the Living Pots, crafted from 3D-printed natural cellulose and PURE.TECH, an innovative material that absorbs CO2. These pots decompose naturally and integrate into ecological cycles, representing a harmonious blend of traditional craftsmanship and digital innovation. The collection
also features biodegradable materials and naturally dyed fabrics, created using AlUla’s fruits and herbs. This thoughtful use of local resources honors AlUla’s cultural and natural heritage, bridging tradition with sustainability.
Inspired by growth and transformation, the pieces reflect the life cycle of trees and the passage of time. Their dynamic, evolving designs emphasize interconnected layers, celebrating the enduring vitality of AlUla’s spirit and landscape.
Alwadiya: The Living Pots by TECHNOCrafts.
Alwadiya: The Living Pots
Duna: The Seating Dune
TAKK Mireia Luzárraga and Alejandro Muiño
From rugged rocks to serene fields, and from simple cave lodgings to the flowing embrace of vast sand dunes, humanity has always sought the ideal resting place. This timeless quest, though imperfect and ever-evolving, reflects a boundless desire for comfort, tranquility, and connection with the environment.
This project introduces a versatile resting space unbound by traditional constraints. With no fixed front or back, users can freely determine their preferred level of intimacy, individuality,
and positioning, making the experience highly personal, flexible, and adaptable to any need.
Inspired by the captivating desert landscape of AlUla, The Seating Dune draws from its materiality, color palette, and geometry. Clay and naturally dyed fabrics, commonly used in traditional crafts, are the primary materials. The colors reflect the enchanting hues of AlUla’s mystical sunrise, creating a cohesive and delightful palette that intimately connects the design to its natural roots.
Duna: The Seating Dune by TAKK.
Drawings
AlGharameel: The Magical Pillars
Dr. Zahrah Alghamdi
Nestled in AlUla, AlGharameel is a mystical place, known for its unique stone pillars—a rare and extraordinary sight. The Gharameel Pillars evoke wonder, resembling imaginary plateaus, carved mountains, or palm trunks sculpted from stone, as if taken from a desert tale.
Shaped by the wind, these crimson rock formations have distinct, non-identical silhouettes.
At night, they appear as divine paintings of breathtaking beauty.
This collection draws inspiration from AlGharameel’s surroundings, showcasing chamomile flowers and desert grasses, with their deep green hues and captivating yellow and white blooms, inviting with their enchanting scents.
Al Gharameel: The Magical Pillars by Dr Zahrah Alghamdi.
Sketches of Al Gharameel: The Magical Pillars.
AlWaha: A Room Divider
AlWaha showcases the technical, formal, and physical qualities of Al Khous – the art of weaving palm fronds, one of the most common craft practices and Saudi heritage.
Cristián Mohaded design and art. Drawing inspiration from the mesmerizing undulations of desert sand dunes and the serene beauty of living oases adorned with palm trees, the room divider’s intricate weaving composition transcends space and time, fusing timeless local techniques with state-of-the-art development.
The concept of the AlWaha room divider comes as a material manifestation of the essence of Al Khous within the realms of
AlWaha: a room divider by Cristián Mohaded.
AlWaha: a room divider by Cristián Mohaded.
Madrasat Addeera Editions.
Aromas of AlUla Perfumery Cabinet
AlUla invites you on a captivating sensory journey, where fragrances conjure the serene silence of the desert and echo the majestic beauty of the landscape. These enchanting aromas weave through the desert and its lush oases, immersing visitors in the essence of this extraordinary region. We proudly present this olfactory journey in five stages—a tribute to the scents that define the spirit and allure of AlUla.
Elisabeth Dodinet, Head of the Botanical Products Department, AfAlula.
Hegra, AlUla.
Aromas of AlUla
The Road and the Oasis
The Road
The historic site of Hegra, once a vital hub along the incense trade route, encapsulates the spirit of ancient journeys. As you walk this storied path, the evocative aromas of fire, camel milk, styrax, musk, and lemongrass transport you back in time, retracing the footsteps of travelers who once navigated these fragrant corridors. The Hegra Scented Oil has been meticulously crafted to revive the epic tales of these ancient civilizations. Each note envelops visitors in a rich tapestry of fragrances, evoking the history, traditions, and essence of the region.
The Oasis
A resting place along the incense trade route, offered weary caravans a haven of shade and renewal. It represents the heart and soul of AlUla. In this enchanted garden, the vibrant aromas of pomegranate, mango, fig, tangerine, and basil harmonize with the delicate fragrances of rose and jasmine. At its center reigns the king of Arabian fruits—the date. The Enchanted Oasis fragrance invites you on a tantalizing sensory voyage, an ode to the senses that transports you to the tranquil embrace of its palm groves.
Hegra, AlUla.
Citrus Flower, AlUla.
Stephane Piquart, a famous sourcer, capturing the scent of a Thorounge young leaves.
Moringa Peregrina.
Aromas of AlUla
The Market and the Desert
The Market
The AlUla market is a vibrant hub brimming with life, energy, and culture—a dynamic whirlwind of sounds, colors, and aromas. This lively space tells a story of gardens, exotic trade, and community through its fresh, fruity, and spiced fragrances. The scents of mint, pepper, ginger, saffron, Arabic coffee, oud, and cardamom evoke the warm memory of AlUla’s renowned hospitality, inspired by the tradition of offering freshly brewed coffee. Together, these elements create a complex and captivating fragrance profile, Arabian hospitality, mirroring the richness of the bustling market stall experience.
The Desert
The desert inspires both awe and intrigue, a vast and barren expanse that evokes wonder and mystery. Its sandy, mineral landscape whispers of ancient dreams woven over time, offering a space where the monumental beauty of nature enlightens the soul. Here, the aromas of burning sand, sun-scorched rock, acacia, thyme, and giant fennel create a tapestry of fragrant nuances, guiding you along the storied paths once traversed by AlUla’s Bedouin ancestors. The Harrat fragrance encapsulates this enigmatic solar essence—a warm, earthy breath that evokes the sensory mirage of the desert’s timeless allure.
Acacia Plant, AlUla.
Cardamom Plant, AlUla.
Ferula, AlUla.
Aromas of AlUla
The Wadis
Carved through valleys and canyons, the wadis of AlUla are nature’s reservoirs, gathering the seasonal rains that bring life to this arid land. These thriving ecosystems form natural oases, rich with diverse vegetation such as Arabic lavender, juniper, jujube, wild caper, moringa, and terebinth. At the heart of this flourishing environment lies the mineral element, which serves as the central olfactory note of the Moringa Flora fragrance. This quintessential blend of floral, and honey-sweet scents captures the essence of spring in AlUla, evoking renewal and vitality.
Lavendar, AlUla.
Moringa
Interactive Playground
The Interactive Playground is a dynamic space where visitors can immerse themselves in AlUla’s essence through hands-on experiences. This zone showcases the AlUla Patterns Library, AUula as a Language, and Colours of AlUla. It offers a platform for creativity and invites individuals to explore and experiment with the region’s unique patterns, textures, colours, and cultural elements in innovative ways.
By blending AlUla’s rich history with contemporary creativity, the Interactive Playground provides an opportunity for personal discovery. Visitors engage with AlUla’s timeless beauty while exploring new forms of artistic expression. The space sparks curiosity, encourages experimentation, and deepens the connection to the spirit of AlUla and its evolving artistic landscape.
Colours of AlUla, AlJadidah Arts District.
AlUla Patterns Library
Explore, Create, and Design
Step into the Pattern Playground—a vibrant space where creativity knows no bounds. Here, visitors are invited to explore and engage with the distinctive patterns and textures that reflect the essence of Madrasat Addeera. Through an interactive screen, guests can experiment with a rich palette of patterns, colors, and textures, crafting their own unique designs inspired by the exhibition.
The AlUla Patterns Library has grown from a meticulously curated collection of designs into a dynamic platform for exploration and innovation. Originally conceived as a comprehensive repository of patterns, it has evolved into an immersive space where designers, artists, and creators of all kinds can delve into the rich visual language of AlUla.
This exceptional library offers a treasure trove of patterns inspired by AlUla’s breathtaking natural landscapes and cultural heritage. It empowers users to download, adapt, and incorporate these designs into their own projects, spanning fields such as fashion, interior design, and the visual arts. Whether you’re an experienced designer or an aspiring artist, the AlUla Patterns Library serves as a boundless source of inspiration. It enables you to infuse your creations with the timeless beauty and authenticity of AlUla.
Jewellery, Madrasat Addeera.
Colour Vials
Colour vial making, Design Space AlUla.
As the Madrasat Addeera team ventures into AlUla’s oases and mountains, the earth and rocks reveal their hidden potential, inspiring tutors and students to transform raw minerals into vibrant pigments. This dedicated exploration gave rise to the Colours of AlUla—a harmonious collection of hues drawn from the breathtaking landscape. Visitors are invited to collect natural powdered pigments from the environment to fill small vials, creating a tangible keepsake of their journey. These vials, which can be placed on a dedicated shelf as part of the exhibition, symbolize a personal connection to AlUla’s natural beauty. The collection features an array of earth whites, yellows, reds, and pinks, alongside a striking black pigment derived from local date seeds.
Colour making, Madrasat Addeera.
Old Town, AlUla.
Colours of AlUla Book
The Colours of AlUla book is a heartfelt tribute to the preservation and celebration of AlUla’s rich artistic and cultural heritage. At its core, it highlights the transformative work of the Integrated Education Programme at Madrasat Addeera, a groundbreaking initiative that equips students with vocational training in traditional crafts. This program empowers students to become designer-makers, fostering a profound connection to their cultural roots.
The book explores the outcomes of practice-led research on the natural pigments derived from AlUla’s diverse ochres, offering insights from a vibrant tapestry of perspectives. Contributions from artists, geologists, teachers, and students come together to create a holistic narrative about the intersection of nature, craft, and culture.
You are invited to explore both the practical and philosophical dimensions of color-making, gaining a deeper appreciation of the artistry and craftsmanship involved. The book also showcases the inspiring work of talented students, reflecting the ongoing legacy of creativity nurtured through this program. Colours of AlUla takes you on a journey of discovery—one that we hope will ignite inspiration, spark new ideas, and build lasting connections within AlUla and beyond.
The Colours of AlUla Book.
Colours Process of making, Madrasat Addeera.
AlUla Desert.
AlUla as a Language
The AlUla as a Language initiative captures the distinctive sensory elements that define the art, culture, and landscapes of AlUla. Designed to inspire architects, artists, and designers, this initiative offers a vibrant palette of pigments, textures, aromas, sounds, and sensations that encapsulate the region’s unique aesthetic. Its goal is to establish a cohesive visual and sensory identity for AlUla, positioning it as a cultural destination of global significance.
Beyond inspiring creativity, AlUla as a Language fosters cultural exchange and dialogue, uniting diverse communities through a shared appreciation of the region’s artistic and cultural expressions. This initiative comes to life through a thoughtfully curated book, an evocative short film, and a sensory toolkit, making AlUla’s essence accessible to all who seek to experience its vibrant spirit and heritage.
AlUla Mountains.
AlUla as a Language - Book
The AlUla as a Language book presents a groundbreaking approach to artistic creation rooted in AlUla’s unique historical, cultural, and environmental contexts. It explores the sublime aesthetic system emerging at the intersection of these elements, identifying the «ingredients» that shape AlUla’s distinct identity and conceptualizing them as a holistic ethos. This ethos serves as a valuable tool for artists, architects, designers, and other creative practitioners, enabling them to perceive and interpret AlUla through its layered stories, meanings, and objects.
Rather than presenting a single unifying theory, the book offers an accessible and modular framework, inviting readers to learn, understand, and ultimately speak the language of AlUla.
The book underscores that AlUla’s values and beauty are best understood through embodied experiences—through the stories it tells, the meanings it holds, and the objects it creates. It encourages readers to approach AlUla not with predefined notions but with curiosity and openness, allowing its layered essence to unfold.
Ultimately, this book transcends disciplines. It is as relevant to scientists, journalists, researchers, and engineers as it is to artists and designers. For those who seek to perceive and encounter AlUla, its beauty reveals its true depths only to the prepared observer.
AlUla as a Language – Short Film Synopsis
AlUla as a Language is a documentary short film that explores AlUla through evocative imagery of its breathtaking natural landscapes, crafted forms, design elements, and cultural narratives. Enhanced by insightful interviews with experts working in AlUla, the film offers a contemplative and immersive journey into the region’s aesthetic essence—its spirit, or “genius loci.” Through artful scenes, the film unveils
the raw beauty and preciousness of AlUla’s diverse settings, encouraging viewers to form an intimate connection with its landscapes and cultural heritage. It invites artists, designers, architects, and creative practitioners to uncover the defining attributes and sensory elements of AlUla, likening these elements to a “language” that must be learned to engage with AlUla in meaningful and transformative ways.
Hegra, AlUla.
Haul Haus.
Haus Dari
Haul Haus
Haus Dari is a standout creation from the AlUla Design Residency, inspired by the essence of the traditional outdoor majlis. This innovative design bridges the timeless charm of classic gathering spaces, such as the Sadaris of North Africa, with the functionality and style of contemporary Western sofas, creating a harmonious dialogue between the past and present.
The piece is fully modular, offering remarkable versatility with four distinct modules that can be rearranged into sixteen unique configurations. Haus Dari is crafted with two types of foam with varying densities, paired with a waterproof coating and durable outdoor fabric. These thoughtful features ensure both exceptional comfort and resilience, making it a perfect blend of practicality and elegance.
After making a remarkable debut in Milan and Paris, Haus Dari now returns to its origins in AlUla. It stands as a true embodiment of the region’s rich design heritage and forward-thinking innovation, a testament to the creative spirit nurtured by the AlUla Design Residency.
Reinterpreted Haus Dari.
Haus Dari, AlUla.
Haus Dari, AlUla.
Textile, Madrasat Addeera.
The King’s Foundation School of Traditional Arts
The King’s Foundation is one of the core charities established by His Majesty King Charles III. Its mission is to advance His Majesty’s vision of fostering an appreciation for the universal values embedded in the great artistic traditions of the world. Today, the School is globally recognized as a leader in the teaching and research of traditional arts and crafts. It has pioneered postgraduate education rooted in practice, offering Master’s and Doctoral degrees in the UK that integrate academic rigor with handson craftsmanship. Beyond its UK base, the School’s international reach is remarkable, having developed outreach programs across 20 countries. It has also established educational centers in Egypt, Azerbaijan, China, Qatar, and Saudi Arabia, spreading its commitment to preserving and advancing the traditional arts on a global scale.
Turquoise Mountain
Turquoise Mountain is dedicated to empowering Saudi artisans by integrating them into global markets. In partnership with the Saudi Handicrafts Programme at the Saudi Commission for Tourism and National Heritage, the organization promotes craft markets and provides artisans with access to new commercial opportunities while preserving traditional craft techniques. The organization’s mission is to foster a sustainable crafts sector that highlights authenticity and quality. By building a diverse portfolio of exceptional products, Turquoise Mountain ensures that Saudi artisans appeal to clients both locally and internationally. Turquoise Mountain offers comprehensive training and workshops in entrepreneurship, branding, and production, equipping artisans with the skills needed to enhance their craft and grow their businesses.
Through these initiatives, Turquoise Mountain plays a pivotal role in sustaining Saudi culture and heritage. By supporting traditional crafts such as sedu weaving, jewelry making, and calligraphy, the organization ensures that artisans can earn a sustainable livelihood.
Creative Dialogue
Creative Dialogue specializes in the creative direction and curation of design collections, exhibitions, programs, and content creation. Our expertise lies in deeply understanding local cultures and narratives, which we seamlessly integrate into design and innovation projects. We collaborate with a diverse range of clients, including design organizations, brands, designers, and cultural institutions. Founded in Barcelona, Creative Dialogue operates with a global perspective. Our work spans over 40 cities across the Middle East, North Africa, Europe, Latin America, and the South Caucasus, with a particular emphasis on the Arabian Gulf.
An innovative design organisation whose design philosophy is centred on three core areas: objects, experiences and transmission. Hall.haus was founded in 2020 by visionary designers Abdoulaye Niang, Sammy Bernoussi, Teddy Sanches and Zakari Boukhari, who have collectively cultivated a creative approach that draws on the intersection between their multicultural environment ‘hall’ and their design ‘haus’ expertise. Hall.haus seeks to create designs that serve a practical purpose and deliver an unforgettable experience to the user.
France has established the French Agency for AlUla Development (AFALULA) to work side by side with RCU in a co-construction framework, dedicated to the AlUla project. To support the delivery and manage the strategic direction of this collaboration, RCU’s Partnerships Department has established a steering committee and a high-level ministerial committee, consisting of six ministers from both countries. Aligned with the partnership’s goals, AFALULA has been instrumental in mobilising French expertise and supporting RCU in establishing strategic alliances with prominent French companies. These collaborations have yielded impressive outcomes, demonstrating the effective transfer of knowledge, skills, and technology across all critical domains of the AlUla development project.
Since 2019, the close collaboration between RCU and AFALULA has resulted in over 170 contracts being awarded to French companies, with a combined value surpassing US$200 million. In 2022 alone, we have commissioned 72 contracts worth US$35 8 million, fast-tracking the development of AlUla.
AFALULA
Haul Haus
Madrasat Addeera Artisans
We extend our heartfelt gratitude to the talented artisans of Madrasat Addeera, whose exceptional craftsmanship and unwavering dedication have brought this exhibition’s vision to life. Rooted in tradition and enriched with innovation, their work stands as a testament to the cultural richness of AlUla.
The artisans of Madrasat Addeera are at the heart of preserving and reviving local crafts, skillfully transforming raw materials into breathtaking works of art. Their creations embody the spirit of AlUla—a place where history, nature, and creativity converge in harmony. We honor their extraordinary talent and passion, which continue to inspire and shape the artistic landscape of this remarkable region.
Ceramics:
Nimah Saleh Al Kahlani
Sarah Musnad Alblawi
Tamadur Musa Al Qadi
Rahaf Abdulwahab
Shaden Ahmed Alsharif
Huda Farhan Alfaqiri
Majed Mohammed Zuayr
Arwa Nasser Alanezi
Afrah Mansour Alharbi
Elaf Saleem Alanazi
Rawan Abu AlHassan
Obeida AlOnayzi
Bayan Nasser
Zainab AlShallali
Palm Weaving:
Sumayah Mohamed Altuwaaylie
Alhaanouf Ali Alharbi
Fatima Ahmed Alhiery
Maymonah Abdullah Alrayes
Bushra Alhiery
Awatif Ghadhayan Alanzi
Areej Abdullah Alemam
Mari Ahmed Albalawi
Shorouq Hasan Abu Shuqayr
Sabah Shuqir
Maqbula Mohamad Shuykan
Awatif Abdullah AlRayes
Dalal Abdullah AlBalawi
Fatimah Adm Alabdayem
Manal Mohammed AlTuwailye
Ashwag Hassan Abushqeer
Zainab Mohammed Albalawi
Faiza Saleh Alhiri
Huda Aljehani
Textiles:
Anwar Mohammed M Albalawi
Hanan Awad A Albalawi
Reem Salem S Alhalbani
Norah Hamed A Albalawi
Ghaliah Mohammed F Albalawi
Zakiah Marzouq S Alshammari
Reem Muhammed Altwailey
Nuhayr Mohammed M Albalwi
Khadija Faraj Albalawi
Lamees Mohammed Bassam
Hanan Ibrahim Albalawi
Altaaf Suliman Albalawi
Alanud Saleh AlKhahlani
Muna Abdullah Aljoud
Amirah Abdulwhab Alharbi
Jamilah Farhan Alenizy
Sarah Mohamed Albalawi
Wasayf Fahad Almahfodh
Anaam Abdullah Aqel
Alaa Alfraidi
Candles & Soap:
Reem Mohammed Al-Tuwaylie
Omniya Abdullah Alhabange
Asayel Salem Al-Balawi
Amani Ahmad Al-joud
Mona Mosa’ad Alhazmi
Ebitsam Sa’eed Saleh Al-Enezi
Reem Muhammed Alblowi
Zuhoor Hamed AlBalawi
Danah Abdullah AlEnezi
Asma Abdullah AlEnezi
Khawlah Abdullah AlBoshi
Madrasat Addeera Artisans
Jewellery:
Ashwaq Sauud Awdah
Waad Hasan Abu Sugair
Ruba Hamza Mansour
Ghadeer Saleh Alnajdi
Najwa Albalawi
Reem Aziz Alenzi
Aishah Mousa Alshalali
Ibrahim Alhuwaiti
Wood and Stone Carving:
Rehab Hashim Ali Awaidah
Rawan Muhammad Jumah
Salwa Hammoud Sabbar
Ashwaq Khidr Ibrahim Al-Enzi
Raghad Mohamed JumaH
Nesreen Hamed Alsubhi
Duha Hamza Abu-Alhassan
Abdulrahman Ahmed Lafi Al Nasser
Ibrahim Al-Balawi
Pigment Making and Painting
Amira Hashim Al-Enzi
Maryam Hammoud Saad Al-Balawi
Layla Abdullah Mahanshi
Textiles (Felting; Sadu Weaving; Embroidery & Palm Frond Weaving)
Arts AlUla and Design Space has made every effort to trace and contact copyright holders of the illustrations reproduced in this catalogue; it will be happy to correct in subsequent editions any errors or omissions that are brought to its attention.
