Alluhidan Engineering News Today

Saudis are embracing homes and businesses which are more inviting rather than imposing in Riyadh, thanks in part to revised building codes.

For years, Haitham al-Madinis house was like all the others on his block: a beige, nearly windowless facade sealed off from the outside world.

RIYADH — For years, Haitham Al-Madini's house was like all the others on his block: a beige, nearly windowless facade sealed off from the outside world.But two years ago, confined during a pandemic lockdown, Madini decided to open things up, adding a street-facing patio, redoing the exterior walls in limestone and installing soft lighting in the entryway.

For years, Haitham al-Madini's house was like all the others on his block: a beige, nearly windowless facade sealed off from the outside world -- as Saudi Arabia itself largely was.