Created as an intimate VIP dinner for Marriott International’s luxury portfolio, the experience explores how Saudi heritage can be translated into contemporary expressions of hospitality, atmosphere and design.
The concept draws from the visual language, craftsmanship and cultural memory embedded within the Kingdom
using these references as the starting point for two distinct immersive worlds.
The first looks to the Rawashin architecture of historic Jeddah, transforming its layered turquoise woodwork, intricate lattice screens and filtered light into an elegant architectural setting. The second draws from Al Sadu weaving, expanding its bold geometry, rhythm and tactile materiality into a richer, more textural environment.
Across both directions, the aim is to create a dining experience that feels deeply connected to place while remaining refined, contemporary and aligned with Marriott’s luxury positioning, allowing culture to be felt through material, light, ritual and atmosphere rather than treated as decoration.
LOOK ONE
THE INSPIRATION
The first direction draws directly from the Rawashin architecture of historic Jeddah, celebrating its distinctive turquoise timber façades, projecting windows, intricate latticework and layered craftsmanship.These recognisable architectural elements are recreated throughout the experience, then refined through cleaner proportions, considered lighting and contemporary detailing. The contrast of weathered turquoise wood, warm stone and glowing patterned light becomes the defining visual language of the world.
THE ARRIVAL
Guests enter through a setting inspired by the layered streets and façades of Al-Balad, surrounded by recreated Rawashin structures, carved timber panels
and illuminated lattice screens.
The journey leads into an intimate reception area integrated within the architecture, where guests are welcomed with dates and Arabic coffee,
bringing a familiar Saudi ritual into a refined contemporary setting.
THE EXPERIENCE
The dinner extends this architectural world through a combination of full Rawashin-inspired structures and more subtle references across screens, lighting, furniture and table details.
Turquoise timber, warm stone and softly glowing latticework create an atmospheric backdrop, while candlelight, elegant florals and refined tableware bring a softer layer of luxury to the space.
The result feels unmistakably rooted in Jeddah’s architectural heritage while remaining polished and appropriate for an intimate VIP dinner.
LOOK TWO
THE INSPIRATION
The second direction is inspired by Al Sadu weaving, drawing from its bold geometric patterns, rhythmic stripes, contrasting colour and deeply tactile handmade character.
Rather than treating the textile as a decorative surface alone, its visual language becomes the foundation of the space, translated through scaled patterns, woven textures and architectural applications that celebrate the craft in a contemporary way.
THE ARRIVAL
Guests are introduced to the world through a rich combination of Sadu-inspired patterns, textile textures and warm earthen tones.
Graphic motifs and woven elements create a strong visual rhythm, while the deep reds, black, ivory and natural desert tones establish a distinctly Saudi character from the moment of arrival.
THE EXPERIENCE
Within the dinner, the language of Sadu continues across textiles, patterned surfaces and carefully integrated decorative details.
Rich woven textures are balanced with more refined materials and restrained styling, allowing the craft to remain the visual focus without overwhelming the intimacy of the dining environment. Warm lighting, candlelight and considered table styling add depth and softness.
The final setting translates the rhythm, geometry and craftsmanship of Al Sadu into a tactile and contemporary expression of Saudi luxury.
