Renowned architectural firm Erick van Egeraat has unveiled its design for the city center of Unayzah, Saudi Arabia, marking a significant shift towards pedestrian-friendly urban planning. Spanning 58 hectares, the ambitious project aims to transform the bustling city center into a vibrant, car-free zone, fostering a conducive environment for community interaction and commerce.

Pedestrianization and Urban Connectivity

Central to the design is the elimination of vehicular traffic at ground level, achieved through the implementation of a 4-lane ring road and an underground thoroughfare leading to subterranean parking facilities. By prioritizing pedestrian access, the city center will accommodate 70,000 square meters of retail spaces, a gold market, residential units, and office complexes, seamlessly integrated with the existing central mosque.

Embracing Cultural Heritage

Erick van Egeraat’s masterplan celebrates Unayzah’s rich cultural heritage by incorporating elements of traditional architecture and local aesthetics. Drawing inspiration from the city’s lush plantations, the design integrates date palms throughout the landscape, symbolizing the region’s identity and heritage. Existing structures are preserved, with strategic facelifts to enhance sustainability and visual appeal.

Human-Centric Design

With a keen focus on human experience, the masterplan prioritizes pedestrian comfort and convenience. Varied street widths and fluid transitions between alleys, streets, and squares cultivate intimate pedestrian spaces, fostering a sense of community and belonging. Abundant greenery, including date palms, offers natural shading, creating inviting outdoor environments for leisure and relaxation.

Future Development and Implementation

While currently in the conceptual stage, Erick van Egeraat’s design has garnered momentum, with plans for further development and implementation over the next decade. Initial construction efforts have commenced, with the construction of the ring road underway. As the project unfolds, Unayzah’s city center is poised to undergo a remarkable transformation, blending modern functionality with timeless architectural charm.

Erick van Egeraat’s visionary approach to urban design underscores the firm’s commitment to innovation and sustainability, shaping Unayzah’s cityscape into a dynamic and livable urban hub for generations to come.