The architecture of Nassif House exemplifies the traditional Hejazi architectural language, an evolutionary narrative shaped over centuries by ecological, economic, and ideological factors specific to its locale. As Victor Hugo remarked in Notre Dame de Paris, "The greatest works of architecture are not so much individual as they are social works…the legacy of a race; the accumulated wealth of centuries." Nassif House embodies this sentiment, standing as a collective effort of civic society rather than the vision of an individual architect. This historical narrative is reflected in the architecture of Al Balad, where the built environment mirrors the social, cultural, and environmental dynamics of the region.
Any contemporary architectural intervention in Jeddah’s historic Al Balad must integrate into the broader language, typologies, and materiality of the city's heritage. This ensures continuity with the historical and cultural essence of the area, emphasizing architecture as a communal and iterative practice rather than a contextually isolated form. The client’s vision seeks to balance tradition with innovation by creating spaces that honor the historical significance of Al Balad while addressing modern hospitality and ecological challenges. The project aligns with the global emphasis on responsible tourism and heritage conservation, aiming to foster sustainable practices while celebrating local culture.
Al Balad’s architectural fabric reflects its history as a hub for pilgrims and traders. The buildings are primarily constructed from coral stone and limestone plaster, complemented by imported woods from India and Indonesia. The architecture is characterized by intricate ornamentation and functional design, creating a distinctive atmospheric quality that resonates with both locals and visitors. This rich heritage provides a foundational context for the project’s design and ambition.
The project involves the restoration of key architectural features of historic structures and the design of new buildings that draw inspiration from the syntax of Nassif House. The scale of the project positions it as a benchmark for sustainable development within Al Balad. One of the key components is the development of a boutique hotel program that integrates hospitality, culture, and sustainability. Additionally, the establishment of the Greenhouse Foundation as a hub for sustainable food production and gastronomy further reinforces the project’s commitment to ecological stewardship.
The design draws heavily from the analysis of Nassif House, employing its architectural language across multiple dimensions. Spatially, the Roshan, a protruding feature clad in ornamental woodwork, serves as a central element that is both functional and aesthetically significant. Formally, the design adopts window casements and ventilation openings with rounded arches and circular motifs, further articulated by louvers and railings to emphasize human scale. Cosmetically, intricate surface patterns showcase the craftsmanship and cultural identity of the region. Tectonically, joinery techniques inspired by Sufi philosophy poetically bridge cosmic and structural elements. Haptically, the use of materials such as coral stone, limestone plaster, and imported woods creates a sensory-rich environment, evoking the textures, smells, and atmosphere distinctive to Hejazi architecture.
The Greenhouse project integrates two main components to create a sustainable and culturally immersive experience. The Greenhouse Foundation serves as a multidisciplinary initiative promoting sustainable food practices and features a restaurant, market, and residency program that engages both guests and locals in ecological and gastronomic education. The Greenhouse Hotel combines restored Hejazi homes with contemporary structures, exemplifying sustainable hospitality practices inspired by agro-tourism. Architectural innovations include Roshan-inspired half-circular projections functioning as seating elements and balconies, arched windows expanded spatially to echo the versatility of the Roshan, and the use of pigmented concrete to reinterpret Mangabi stone alongside brass elements that emulate traditional woodwork.
This project seeks to honor the legacy of Al Balad by weaving its rich architectural traditions with forward-thinking sustainability. By drawing from the syntax of Nassif House and adapting it for contemporary use, the design not only preserves the cultural heritage of the region but also sets a precedent for responsible tourism and urban development. The Greenhouse initiative and boutique hotel program aims to foster a deeper connection between visitors and the local environment, ensuring that the cultural and ecological narratives of Al Balad continue to inspire future generations.
