Sibley Grove was commissioned by the Olyan Group to design the interiors for Al Khozama Hotel & Residences, designing 206 rooms, suites and residences, as well as all public-facing areas including the grand lobby, two signature restaurants, a ballroom, gym and treatment rooms. In a second phase, completed in 2023, Sibley Grove returned to refresh the expansive lobby and create two new roof terraces and a rooftop café bar, expanding the hotel’s hospitality offer.
Sibley Grove’s design concept combined contemporary elegance with subtle Middle Eastern influences, drawing inspiration from the surrounding landscapes and regional architectural traditions. Vast interiors, such as the cavernous lobby with soaring ceilings, were made more intimate through clever zoning, timber partitioning, curated furniture layouts and large-scale hanging screens, creating warm, welcoming areas within the expansive space. With sunlight present for much of the year, careful attention was paid to lighting and material selection, ensuring that the interiors remained harmonious, comfortable and refined in natural light.
Sustainability was integral throughout. The project aligned with KAUST’s Platinum LEED certification, embracing Sibley Grove’s circular design ethos to prioritise longevity, functionality and minimal waste. Materials were responsibly sourced, working with regional suppliers and furniture makers in Turkey and Lebanon who upheld strong ethical and environmental standards. Planting for the terraces was carefully chosen to thrive in the local climate, while furniture, finishes and fittings were selected for durability and timeless appeal.
By blending modernism with cultural authenticity, Sibley Grove delivered an inclusive, cosmopolitan hospitality environment that resonates with both international guests and the local community. The Al Khozama Hotel now stands as an iconic addition to the KAUST campus, a landmark of modern sustainable luxury in Saudi Arabia. The Al Khozama Hotel has since been recognised internationally, receiving the Haute Grandeur Global Award for Best Conference Venue Hotel in the Middle East 2024 and Best Hotel Residences in Saudi Arabia 2024.
Project Delivery: September 2023
Location: Saudi Arabia
