Natural Oasis in Saudi Arabia by Rafael de La-Hoz

The Madrid architect Rafael de La-Hoz drew as much inspiration as possible directly from the Quran in his competition proposal for the natural oasis Noble Quran in Saudi Arabia. Literal and metaphorical passages from the Muslim holy book helped De La-Hoz gain an honorable mention in the international competition. The site for the oasis is located near the second holiest site of Islamic culture. The Quran was chosen as the main symbol of understanding and a significant center of knowledge. While studying the Quran, De La-Hoz's studio discovered that none of the 114 chapters mention architectural typology. Therefore, they preferred to adhere to the interpretation of an oasis, often described as a heaven containing gardens with lush vegetation, shaded areas, and cooling streams with fountains. In Islamic society, the oasis is a heavenly analogy of a source of livelihood, safety, comfort, and survival in an unfavorable climate. Therefore, De La-Hoz decided not to design “any buildings, no gardens, but an oasis, which as a fundamental architectural element rises directly from the Quran.” The resulting design appears as a page from the Quran levitating above the landscape, thereby respecting the teaching that the Quran should never touch the ground, but only be held in hands or placed on a pedestal. A thin element resembling a roof with slightly twisted edges rests on four objects defining the entire territory. The quartet of objects is meant to represent human palms supporting the Quran. The expansive roof with large overhangs provides plenty of shade across the grounds and allows for outdoor activities in an otherwise unbearable climate. The central element of the whole area is a natural oasis as a place for contemplation. The landscaped area, enhanced by pleasant greenery and the cooling touch of water, serves as a tranquil spot for inner pleasure as well as for physical comfort. Viewing spots enhance the curiosity of visitors and their desire for knowledge, which is another principle of Islamic teaching. In the center, the roof opens with an elliptical opening, thereby expanding horizons upward, but is also filled with a smaller circular roof adorned with a calligraphic ornament. The opening in the roof allows the sun to flood the garden with its rays while preserving a beautiful play of shadows and a mild climate.