Sibley Grove was commissioned by the developer Olayan Group to design the interiors for Al Khozama Hotel & Residences on the KAUST campus, Jeddah — 206 rooms, suites and residences, alongside all public-facing areas including the grand lobby, two signature restaurants, a ballroom, gym and spa facilities. In a second phase, completed in 2023 following the client’s decision to reappoint Sibley Grove, the studio returned to refresh the expansive lobby and create two new terraces restaurants 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. The hotel has extensive glazing so careful attention was paid to lighting and material selections, 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 Design for Disassembly approach to prioritise longevity, functionality and minimal waste. Materials were responsibly sourced, working with regional suppliers and furniture makers in Europe, Turkey, Cyprus 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. This project reflects Sibley Grove’s ongoing hospitality interior design work across Saudi Arabia and the wider Middle East, delivered alongside an established portfolio in the UK and Europe.
Scope of Appointment
Sibley Grove led interior design across all guest and public areas, from concept through to FF&E specification, across two phases of delivery between 2019 and 2023.
Recognition
Haute Grandeur Global Award — Best Conference Venue Hotel, Middle East, 2024.
Haute Grandeur Global Award — Best Hotel Residences, Saudi Arabia, 2024.
Reappointed by Olayan Group for a second phase of works, 2023.
Related Projects
Part of Sibley Grove’s wider portfolio of hospitality and residential work across Saudi Arabia — see also Al Khozama Residences – Riyadh, Al Bustan Village Residences – Riyadh, and Al Bustan Fitness & Wellness Centre – Riyadh. Other projects available on request.
Project Delivery: September 2023
Location: Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
