This project transforms an old desalination plant into the centerpiece of a new district on the waterfront of Jeddah for the next generation of artists and makers.

The Museum will offer production spaces including studios and ateliers, alongside a program of public exhibitions and large-scale commissions, on a campus dedicated to helping people learn about, experience and feel inspired by the creative process.

The design includes conversion of the main turbine hall into a dramatic exhibition space and the old desalination plant into a Makers’ souk. It fuses human scale and comfort with the large industrial character of the site.

An incredible mix of making, learning, interaction and exchange will mean there is life and activity throughout the day and night in a place that meaningfully reflects the past, present and future of the city and all of Jeddah’s historic and contemporary cultures.

The new Museum is one part of a 5.7m sqm development in the heart of Jeddah, providing tourist, entertainment, sport, cultural, commercial and residential amenities. It seeks to be a place of inspiration and creation for both residents and visitors, promoting creativity and artistic endeavour in the Kingdom. 

Jeddah has been a city of artists and makers for over a thousand years and an engagement programme has already begun with the existing creative community so they can actively help to shape the design.