The Shaded Family Club

A concept for a 2,400 m² family club and pool in a Riyadh residential compound.

In Riyadh, an open pool deck often stands empty from late morning until evening, so this concept starts with shade. A single broad canopy of perforated panels, carried on slender columns, spans the family pool, the lap pool and the surrounding terraces, dappling the light and keeping the water and the paving cooler. Under it, the club building — lounges, changing rooms, a café and a children's room — opens fully onto the water through sliding glass.

The plan is zoned for families. A shallow splash pool for young children sits closest to the café terrace, where parents can sit in view; the lap pool runs along the quieter edge; and a separately screened pool court can be used privately. Pale, heat-reflective stone paving, timber cabanas and palms planted through openings in the canopy soften the whole. After sunset, lights set into the canopy turn it into a glowing ceiling over the water.