Jeddah’s historic district, Al Balad, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, reflects centuries of adaptation to the geographical, climatic, and social needs of the Hejaz region. Its urban fabric, characterized by coral stone buildings, intricate wooden latticework (Roshan), and narrow streets, exemplifies a unique architectural language shaped by its role as a hub for trade and pilgrimage. Beyond architecture, the Hejaz region’s cultural identity is deeply tied to Maqam Al-Hijaz, a musical tradition rooted in the area. This evocative modal system, integral to the Arabic musical canon, symbolizes the region’s spiritual and cultural heritage and serves as inspiration for translating musical rhythms into physical forms.
The Sherbatly family, esteemed stewards of Jeddah’s heritage, commissioned the Sherbatly Annex Musical Hall to celebrate and reinterpret Hejazi traditions through contemporary architectural expression. Known for their dedication to preserving the cultural identity of Jeddah, the family’s vision for the project bridges the city’s rich history with innovative design to engage modern audiences.
Situated in Al Balad, Jeddah’s historic core, the project resides within a globally significant context where architectural interventions must harmonize with the district’s traditional aesthetic. Al Balad’s designation as a UNESCO World Heritage Site underscores its cultural and historical value, emphasizing the need for designs that honor and preserve its legacy while introducing thoughtful modernity.
The Sherbatly Annex Musical Hall is a medium-scale project covering an area of 520 square meters. It houses a range of functions, including a 144-seat theater, a coffee shop, a gift shop, a rentable commercial space, and a kitchen. The design’s primary focus is the building’s façade, with the scope involving the integration of traditional Hejazi architectural motifs with contemporary techniques. The project seeks to reinterpret the rhythmic qualities of Maqam Al-Hijaz into its architectural language, balancing cultural symbolism with modern functionality.
The design draws inspiration from Al Balad’s architectural heritage, incorporating coral stone textures, intricate roshans, and ornamental patterns. These traditional elements are reimagined to embody the rhythm and flow of Maqam Al-Hijaz, creating a façade that reflects the tonal variations and cadences of this musical tradition. Geometric patterns mimic these rhythms, producing an interplay of light, shadow, and texture that enriches the visual and sensory experience.
To ensure durability and sustainability, modern materials such as engineered wood and reinforced concrete are employed alongside locally sourced materials and passive cooling techniques. The tactile qualities of coral stone and the functionality of reinterpreted roshans highlight the balance between tradition and innovation, aligning the project with contemporary environmental standards.
The façade’s rhythmic design, inspired by Maqam Al-Hijaz, alternates patterns to symbolize its tonal variations, merging auditory and visual aesthetics. Sustainability is emphasized through the use of local materials and passive cooling systems, ensuring the project meets modern environmental expectations while preserving the essence of Hejazi architecture. The use of modern construction techniques complements traditional design elements, ensuring both functionality and cultural resonance.
The Sherbatly Annex Musical Hall façade exemplifies how architecture can honor cultural heritage while fostering contemporary innovation. By translating Maqam Al-Hijaz into architectural language, the project bridges Jeddah’s past and present, offering a vibrant reinterpretation of Hejazi traditions. With its thoughtful integration of traditional motifs, sustainable practices, and diverse programming, the project reinforces Al Balad’s identity as a cultural and historical hub, inspiring future generations to cherish and evolve their heritage.
