Project Description
The KAAR project is a multi-billion riyal real estate project located within the Haram zone in Makkah. The project provides the primary access route between the Holy Mosque and the high-speed rail terminal located to the city’s west. Working with the owners engineers, the team tasked with leading the development of the detailed landscape design for the main boulevard. In peak periods the boulevard will move an estimated 140,000 people per hour along a 3.5km long and between 40-60m wide public realm. The generous boulevard not only provides safe passage for people between the two landmarks but also a genuine contribution to the cities functional public open space. Landscaped public plazas will provide opportunities for respite, shopping, or dining at one of the many proposed restaurants or purpose built kiosks.
The 24Ha of urban landscape is to be constructed over a complex layering of parking structures, underground rail, and highway tunnels. Working within a fixed cost budget, wedeveloped a modular approach to the landscape, structured around a number of common elements. Key challenges included the surface water drainage system, managing levels to interface with the network of popups and emergency exits, and designing for complete disabled access.
Adam led the landscape component on behalf of the appointed landscape team.
Key Facts
- 24Ha of public realm design
- During peak periods, the site must safely move an estimated 140,000/hour
- Built on top of multiple structures and tunnels
- Links the Grand Mosque and recently opened High Speed Rail terminal
