Syn Architects' Project Orion: A Contemporary Take on Saudi Heritage
Saudi architecture studio Syn Architects, founded in 2018 by Sara Alissa and Nojoud Alsudairi, has been featured in the Wallpaper* Architects' Directory 2026, an annual round-up of emerging architecture studios. The studio is known for ecologically sensitive design that draws from local contexts. Their latest project, Project Orion, is a trio of villas in Alkhozama, Riyadh, inspired by traditional Najdi architecture, which uses mudbricks and tamarisk wood. The design incorporates recessed balconies for privacy and shade, and a limestone facade that blends with the landscape. The architects also co-founded the Um Slaim collective, which investigates the displacement of vernacular Najdi architecture, and saudirchitecture.org, an independent organization archiving modernist and post-modernist buildings in Saudi Arabia. The Wallpaper* Architects' Directory, now in its 25th edition, includes 30 young studios from around the world, celebrating emerging talent in residential architecture.
Key facts
- Syn Architects was founded in 2018 by Sara Alissa and Nojoud Alsudairi.
- Project Orion comprises three villas in Alkhozama, Riyadh.
- The design is inspired by traditional Najdi architecture using mudbricks and tamarisk wood.
- Recessed balconies provide privacy and shade.
- The limestone facade gives a fortress-like silhouette.
- Alissa and Alsudairi co-founded the Um Slaim collective and saudirchitecture.org.
- The Wallpaper* Architects' Directory 2026 includes 30 studios from 26 countries.
- The directory is in its 25th edition, with over 500 alumni.
- The project emphasizes privacy, light, and outdoor living.
- The architects aim to create spaces that are contextual and timeless.
Entities
Artists
- Sara Alissa
- Nojoud Alsudairi
Institutions
- Syn Architects
- Um Slaim collective
- saudirchitecture.org
- Wallpaper* Architects' Directory
Locations
- Saudi Arabia
- Riyadh
- Alkhozama
- Najd