Benoy unveils design of Global Business School in Saudi Arabia
Jeddah school will collaboratewith Imperial College Business school, Harvard Law School and Cornell University
Design firm Benoy has unveiled new renderings and details of its Global Business School (GBS) project in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. The design philosophy is in line with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 to develop a progressive, knowledge-based economy.
Set to open in 2020, the school aims to establish a new educational benchmark within the Kingdom and aims to attract students from within the country and international markets.
Benoy’s brief was to design a business school for both males and females in Jeddah, which would reflect the client Shababco’s ethos of promoting youth and education, supported by gender inclusion and knowledge sharing in a creative environment, encouraging social engagement and innovation, said a statement.
“It was Benoy’s creative approach and ability to understand the commercial drivers that were pivotal to Shababco choosing Benoy as a design partner for the state-of-the-art educational institute,” remarked Monika Laudencka-Sobik, director at Benoy.
The school is spread over an area of 31,336 sqm and will provide academic, executive education, administrative and faculty facilities over six levels. The building’s larger south wing will have a gym, sports area, auditorium, knowledge centre and student dining halls and is to support the core academic and executive accommodation. The smaller north wing will have a distinctive form and will house the innovation centre, faculty offices and teaching accommodation.
“Benoy’s design for GBS is driven by Shababco’s innovative approach of a business school that embodies the country’s rapidly-evolving image and is the manifestation of the increasingly progressive attitude that Saudi Arabia is embracing and promoting. Those aspirations and commitment to support the young and highly educated society are reflected in GBS’s architectural philosophy, which goes beyond the ordinary – it is not an ordinary business school, it is the knowledge and social hub that is inspirational, fun and encourages social interaction,” remarked Dr. Makarem Batterjee, founder and president of GBS.
The project is said to evoke Benoy’s dedication to create places that will inspire users and have a positive impact on the wider community and environment.
“Our client is committed to furthering the aspirations of the new generation, and we are honoured to be part of this transformation – to create a business school where the art of finances, technology and creative industries interact to inspire the future leaders of our time,” stated Laudencka-Sobik.
Barry Hughes, global design director at Benoy, concluded, “The GBS seeks to create a vibrant and dynamic environment which encourages learning in the digital age. As the first phase of a new center for excellence, the building reflects the institutions’ goal of creating an iconic building – one that reflects its values and aspirations as a center for advanced and innovative education.”
