Kingdom Centre

Kingdom Centre


The Kingdom Center in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, is undoubtedly an architectural masterpiece and a landmark of the capital. With its imposing height of 302 meters and 41 floors, it currently stands majestically in the skyline as the fifth tallest skyscraper in the country. The building, which was completed in 2002, not only became known as the first supertall skyscraper in Saudi Arabia, but also as the tallest in the country until 2012.

An outstanding feature of the Kingdom Centre is the 56-metre-wide skybridge, which connects the two spires and forms an impressive inverted parabolic arch. This structure, described by the architects as the "necklace of the city", is not only a visual highlight, but also the largest opening within a building in the world. The inverted arch, framed in an aluminum construction, is illuminated in changing colors and thus stands out in contrast to the building, giving the cityscape of Riyadh a magical touch at night.

The exterior cladding of the entire building consists of butt-joined glass façades that create an almost seamless surface. The reflective glass panels are illuminated in blue at night, creating a cool, aesthetic aura in contrast to the warm earth tones that dominate Riyadh and the surrounding area during the day. The skybridge not only functions as an architectural element, but also houses the exclusive Four Seasons Hotel Riyadh as well as numerous luxury apartments, retail spaces and offices. This mixed use on 41 floors not only gives the building a versatile function, but also creates a unique living space for its residents and guests.

The view of Riyadh from the upper floors of the Kingdom Center is undoubtedly breathtaking and adds to the extraordinary comfort of the luxury hotel. The bridge is accessible to visitors and has become a popular excursion destination, attracting not only architecture enthusiasts but also tourists.

The Kingdom Centre received the prestigious Emporis Skyscraper Award for its impressive architecture, beating major competitors such as Sir Norman Foster's Canada Square in London and 111 Huntington Avenue in Boston. Since its completion in 2002, the Kingdom Centre has caused international sensation and remains a timeless symbol of progressive architecture and modern design in Saudi Arabia.

 

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