Desalination Plant By The Red Sea Will Transform Into Crafters’ Marketplace

One of the greatest feats of architecture is transforming an eyesore into a structure of beauty. That’s exactly what Heatherwick Studio is setting out to do with its latest project, which involves turning a former desalination plant in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, into the Jeddah Central Museum.

Situated by the Red Sea, the building—which will double up as a souk (marketplace) for crafters—will be part of a new waterfront district spotlighting arts and culture. The main turbine hall will gain a new lease of life as a “dramatic” exhibition space for forthcoming showcases.

Images of the museum depict an elongated building clad in a silver façade. According to the firm, the exterior will feature silver wrap as an eco-friendly solution to reflect sunlight and keep the building cool even in the sweltering summer months.

Just ahead of the main structure is a semi-open marketplace where craftspeople can hawk their wares. In total, the project will span 257,000 sq m (2,771,706 sq ft), allowing artists to make use of ateliers and studios, and host large-scale public exhibitions or commissions.

Heatherwick Partner Mat Cash told Dezeen all structures of the site will employ “active and passive low carbon” solutions to minimize the construction footprint, including insulation and solar shading to keep temperatures cool on the inside.

Within its interiors, the museum hopes to retain the desalination plant’s “industrial feel,” as a reminder of the city’s transformation from its fossil fuel past to a new dawn highlighting creativity and the potential of youth. 

“An incredible mix of making, learning, interaction and exchange will mean there is life and activity throughout the day and night in a place that meaningfully reflects the past, present and future of the city and all of Jeddah’s historic and contemporary cultures,” explained the design studio.

“It seeks to be a place of inspiration and creation for both residents and visitors, promoting creativity and artistic endeavor in the Kingdom.”

[via Dezeen and Architects’ Journal, images via Heatherwick Studio]