Riyadh Memory: A Half-Century of Architecture (1950–2000)

Riyadh Memory: A Half-Century of Architecture (1950–2000) is a comprehensive documentary and scholarly reference that traces the architectural and urban transformation of Riyadh during a pivotal period in the city’s modern history. The book captures five decades of rapid change, positioning architecture as both a reflection of national development and a driver of social, political, and cultural transformation. It offers a structured and critically informed narrative that documents how Riyadh evolved from a traditional settlement into a modern capital with a distinctive urban identity. The opening pages establish the national and symbolic importance of the work through carefully selected statements by the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, the Crown Prince and Prime Minister, the Governor and Deputy Governor of Riyadh Region, and a foreword by His Highness the Mayor of Riyadh. These contributions frame the book within a broader context of leadership, governance, and cultural responsibility, emphasizing the role of architecture in articulating national identity and collective memory. Organized chronologically, the book is divided into clearly defined decades—from the 1950s through the late 1990s—allowing readers to trace shifts in architectural typologies, planning philosophies, construction technologies, and urban policies over time. Spanning 530 pages, it functions as a richly illustrated reference, combining analytical text with high-quality archival and contemporary photography, as well as specially commissioned two- and three-dimensional drawings that enhance understanding of spatial, formal, and urban characteristics. The publication is structured into seven main sections: an introductory chapter, five decade-based chapters, and a concluding synthesis. Each decade opens with a thematic cover and a spatial mapping of key buildings across Riyadh, offering a clear temporal and geographic reading of urban development. This is followed by an analytical overview discussing the social, political, and economic conditions that shaped architectural production during that period. Individual landmarks are documented in depth across four-page spreads, presenting essential factual information, historical and social narratives, architectural analysis, and visual documentation. Each chapter concludes with carefully curated bilingual references, reinforcing the book’s academic rigor. The concluding section synthesizes major architectural trends, reflects on documentation challenges, and presents strategic recommendations for preserving modern architectural heritage. A concise building index further enhances the book’s value as an essential academic, cultural, and planning resource for researchers, practitioners, and decision-makers alike.

د. نائف الغامدي Dr. Naif Alghamdi