BIBA ELEMENTARY SCHOOL RENOVATION
MALVERN COLLEGE RIYADH
The core of this design concept is to integrate the legacy of Malvern College and the principles of the IB pedagogy into the cultural context of Saudi Arabia, aligning with Vision 2030’s focus on sustainability.The design draws inspiration from the lush Malvern Hills and the mirage-like desert landscape.
LOCATION Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
AREA 32400 m²
STATUS In Design
CLIENT Malvern College
YEAR 2025
PROGRAMS Educational, Architecture Design
The design effectively positions the divisions of the Pre-School, Prep School, and Senior School, along with extensive shared facilities, within one lower ground level and four floors above grade. As shown in the rendering of The Ascent, sunlight filtering through the skylight and brise-soleil will reach all the way to the lower ground level, where students and faculty can enjoy food and beverages while overlooking the terrace landscape. In addition to the Blackbox theater, rehearsal hall, and other performing arts spaces, the sports center will include basketball, squash, and padel courts, along with a 25-meter swimming pool. Above this, a 200-meter running track will be elevated, offering views over the sports fields, performing arts spaces, and cafeteria, creating a holistic environment for learning and living.
The design features stepped terraces leading to the lower ground level, forming a two-tiered entry courtyard that offers both fun and security for preschool children to play without interference from older students. These terraces serve as an outdoor counterpart to the indoor atrium, the Ascent, evoking the British landform within the mirage of the desert. The façade depicted in this rendering is the theater, with a 30-meter-tall stage tower. If possible, we envision sculpting it into an “Interstice of Time,” where the school crest projects at noon—a playful concept that encapsulates the spirit of innovation.
The classroom building is anchored by a central atrium that visually and physically connects all floors, with daylight filtering in from above. The form of the atrium evokes the Malvern Hills, encouraging students’ progression from the Prep School (on the ground and first floors) to the Senior School (on the second and third floors). Designed to foster cross-disciplinary exploration, the space blends academic study with exhibitions, performing arts, dining, and sports. The atrium is currently envisioned as open-topped with light-filtering brise-soleil. If site coverage permits, we may consider an operable ETFE roof that opens and closes as needed.
The Ascent will be a one-of-a-kind, memorable, and photogenic space at Malvern College Riyadh, where students forge connections with their learning, peers, and nature.
CHIEF DESIGNER
Xiaoyi Ma, Adam Robarts
DESIGN TEAM
RS team, Pengfei Chen, Yun Hong, Jing Zhu