The Equestrian Club

Situated between two parks in Al Malaz in Riyadh, in 1973 architect Frank Basil developed an equestrian members club to accommodate its neighborhood residents. The design focused on geometric manipulation, and thus created a dynamic structure of intersecting concrete walls, glass facades and tensioned membranes. This octagonal form reinforced the connection between interior and exterior spaces, allowing natural light to enter from all sides. The program surrounds a centralized courtyard, where spaces are articulated around the garden - each with its own functional form - unified by ample, logical and enticing circulation routes that reveal all major program areas and encourage public passage through the building. The facility includes a recreational complex with a large swimming pool, gymnasium, restaurants and outdoor basketball and tennis courts. The building continues its tradition and service to inner-city residents while responding to lifestyle and cultural needs of a growing population.