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Riyadh, Saudi Arabia

Royal Center

Riyadh’s Landmark of Suspended Architecture

Positioned in the heart of Riyadh’s business district, the Royal Center is distinguished by its dramatic tensile canopy—an architectural sculpture designed to shade the central retail plaza while enhancing the tower’s skyline identity. Tamimi Steel & Membrane delivered the complete design, fabrication, and installation of this cable-supported membrane system.

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Suspended from a 55-meter-high central spiral mast, the PTFE canopy spans 3,600 m² without internal columns—creating a fully open space beneath for retail circulation and public gatherings. Eight high-tension cables radiate from the mast, anchoring the canopy in a balanced structural composition.

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  • The canopy acts as a translucent roofscape, filtering sunlight and projecting a glowing presence during the day while remaining visually light and open. At night, integrated lighting enhances the spiral form and adds to the structure’s landmark appeal.
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Structure and Cultural Form

The design blends modern tensile technology with symbolic verticality—serving as a visible statement of Riyadh’s commercial growth and architectural ambition.