Riyadh Auction Market
Spiraling Canopy for Commerce and Civic Flow
Location: Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
Completion Year:2014
Scope of Work:Design, Engineering, Fabrication & Installation
Covered Area: 36,000 m²
Structural Steel Weight:110 tons
Key Materials:PTFE-Coated Fiberglass FabricGalvanized SteelTensioned Cable Systems
Riyadh Auction Market
Spiraling Canopy for Commerce and Civic Flow
Designed to support high-volume retail and auction operations, the Riyadh Auction Market features a permanent modular tensile roofing system. The structure balances functionality with bold architectural form, providing expansive shade and a visually distinct landmark for civic and commercial activity.
At the core of the design lies a spiraling roof canopy, with six steel trusses radiating outward from a central mast. Surrounding this are 14 identical triangular modules, all tensioned with PTFE membrane and cable systems. The entire structure emphasizes modular precision and climatic efficiency.
The roofing system comprises 14 triangular modules (42 x 8 meters each), arranged in a radial pattern. At the center, a vertical mast supports six spiraling steel trusses that stretch outward to hold the membrane. This configuration creates a striking and symmetrical canopy over the auction zone.
Though technically a roof, the exposed structure and membrane form a dramatic architectural expression. The PTFE fabric diffuses natural light, resists fire and UV degradation, and contributes to the shaded microclimate within the market.
Structure and Cultural Form
This spiral-based tensile configuration merges modern engineering with civic scale utility. The radial form, with its sculptural geometry and functional shade, reflects Riyadh’s evolving architectural language—offering a distinctive and efficient public marketplace.
