Case Study

Confidential Wellness Center Designing a Holistic Haven for Healing: A Healthy Environment for Mind, Body, and Spirit

Jeddah, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia

The Challenge

The challenge for HKS designers was to convert a low-end retail mall nestled within the heart of Jeddah city into a tranquil, holistic wellness center that integrates itself within the context of the city. The vision is to create a state-of-the-art, patient-centered health care facility that prioritizes overall well-being through a holistic approach to medicine and wellness, catering to the diverse needs of the local population and visitors.

The Design Solution

Healing by Design is an approach that prioritizes the well-being of patients by incorporating elements of nature, culture, and tradition to enhance the healing process. In this wellness center, the building design deeply embeds itself into the cultural fabric of Jeddah, paying homage to the identity, culture, and tradition of Islam. Each space has been carefully crafted to achieve a balance between the traditional and the contemporary, creating an elevated experience for patients. The design is defined by Jeddah’s strong connection to the coast, with a soothing ambience created by a soft, muted material palette that references the coastal hues and vernacular architecture. The center also prioritizes sustainable design, with the strategic use of gardens and openings to naturally ventilate and cool the building, and ample daylighting used to brighten the interior spaces.

The Design Impact

The wellness center is dedicated to promoting a holistic understanding of wellness and encourages individuals to adopt lifestyles that prioritize their overall well-being. This philosophy is reflected in the center’s planning and design, as mental and social wellness are emphasized through the establishment of mental health clinics, while physical wellness is advocated through the inclusion of an indoor gymnasium with direct access to an outdoor sports garden. Additionally, the center nurtures spiritual well-being by integrating mindfulness spaces where patients can engage in meditative practices, promoting a holistic and comprehensive approach to healing.

Project Features

  • Hyperbaric Chamber
  • Mental Health Clinics
  • Beauty Clinics
  • Rehabilitation Gym