TALKS
Sustainable Hour: The Restoration of Historic Palaces
April 2, 2025 | 5:30 PM
The restoration of King Abdulaziz's historic palaces is an ambitious conservation and architectural endeavor that integrates heritage values with sustainable development principles and contemporary restoration methods. Built during an era of political unification and social transformation in Saudi Arabia, these palaces stand as testimonies to the region's rich legacy, combining traditional construction techniques with the functional requirements of their time.
Through a multidisciplinary research approach that includes architectural analysis, urban studies, and historical documentation, the spatial relationships, structural characteristics, and decorative elements of the palaces have been meticulously mapped. Modern methods such as 3D scanning, photogrammetry, and BIM modeling have enabled precise documentation of the existing state and the development of restoration guidelines. The sustainable rehabilitation of these palaces goes beyond physical preservation—it emphasizes their adaptation to contemporary social and touristic functions while respecting their historical identity.
Speakers:
Nataša Ivanišević – Architect and partner at A&A Architects, presenting a multidisciplinary approach to documentation and restoration.
Fausto Ferlin, M.Sc. Civ. Eng., and Marko Iveković, M.Sc. Civ. Eng. – Representatives from Mapei, discussing specialized solutions for the protection and rehabilitation of historic structures.
The project is based on sustainable principles that include:
Preservation of authenticity and identity – Restoration efforts relied on original materials and traditional techniques to maintain the historical character of the buildings.
Functional revitalization – The adaptation of palaces to modern needs was carried out with strict respect for their heritage value, ensuring their long-term relevance.
Integration with the environment – Analyzing the natural and urban context ensured a harmonious incorporation of the restored structures into the existing landscape.
Application of advanced technologies – Precise digital models allowed for accurate reconstruction, long-term data protection, and transparency in the restoration process.
Community involvement – Educating local communities and involving experts at every project stage contributed to sustainability and the preservation of cultural awareness.
Environmental efficiency – The use of renewable materials and energy-efficient systems reduces the ecological footprint.
A&A Architects collaborated on this project with Mapei, whose innovative solutions enable the restoration and structural reinforcement of historic buildings while preserving their original aesthetics. By using specialized mortars, moisture control systems, and structural reinforcement techniques, minimally invasive and reversible restoration was achieved, ensuring the stability and visual integrity of these historic palaces.
Sustainable restoration is not just a technical challenge—it is an opportunity to redefine urban spaces and implement solutions that guarantee the long-term protection of cultural identity.
Join us on Wednesday, April 2, at 5:30 PM to be part of the conversation on the future of restoration and sustainable practices!
Seats are limited, so please reserve your spot here. Admission is free!
