Al Hamra Oasis Village

Originally installed in 1996, the canopies at the Al Hamra Oasis Village showcase the durability and security which fabric structures can provide.

The residential compound, located outside Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, experiences some of the most extreme weather conditions in the world. Designers of the complex felt it was important to install a series of shade structures around the pool area to shield residents from the sometimes blistering heat of the desert sun.

Additionally, designers wanted to incorporate a fabric roof onto the main building on the resort to form a focus point and easily recognisable centre piece.

Due to its ability to cope with the intense heat and UV rays, PVC coated polyester was selected as the material of choice and Architen Landrell tendered for the chance to manufacture and install this extensive project and were thrilled to be awarded the contract.

On 12 May 2003, after the canopies had been in place for over six years, the Al Hamra Oasis Village was one of three Riyadh compounds attacked by suicide bombers, and much of the complex was destroyed.

The fabric structure absorbed a large amount of the impact and remained largely intact, however, the proximity of the blast did damage the structural integrity of the canopies and later that year, Architen Landrell returned to site to replace the fabric and cables.