Saudi Aramco, the world’s largest oil company, celebrated
its 75th Anniversary with a new cultural institution in tribute to
King Abdulaziz, the founder of the modern state of Saudi Arabia.
Construction on
the iconic King Abdulaziz Center for Knowledge and Culture has just begun, and
aims to promote cultural development, diversity, understanding and appreciation
in the Kingdom.
Designed
by Norwegian architectural firm Snøhetta, who won the invitational design
competition by the Saudi authorities with their concept reflecting the rich
history of oil in Saudi Arabia, the project is to be constructed on Dammam
Dome, along the site of Prosperity Well No. 7, the first well in Kingdom to
yield oil in commercial quantities.
The
Saudi Aramco initiative with a construction budget of $300 million will feature
a museum showcasing the rich history of the Kingdom, a world-class public
library with digital information access, a theater and outdoor amphitheatre,
and an education center for children aged two to twelve. The bold new facility
is scheduled to open its doors to the public in 2012.
www.snoarc.no
via The Design Blog