An international open call for designs of a picture house positioning itself as the first independent cinema in Saudi Arabia, has been announced by Art Jameel.

Showcasing local and international films, the cinema space will be situated within the Hayy: Creative Hub in Jeddah, Saudi Ara­bia. Currently under con­struction and due for completion in 2020, the complex will house the bespoke independent picture house positioned to be unique in programming, to invigorate a thriving cultural scene in Jeddah and to stand out within a truly remarkable social and ar­tistic exchange.

The timing of its launch boasts significant and symbolic importance as part of the Kingdom’s 2030 vision and promoting cultural initiatives.

This open call for design submissions by registered architectural and interior design practices from around the world provides an opportunity for regional and international designers to present innovative and creative approaches to the design of a cinema space.

Alongside the awarding of the design project itself, the competition will also provide a learning opportunity through a forum that will present the shortlisted submissions, address discussion points such as the possibilities, formats and ideas in determining the visitor experience of the cinema.

The scope is to curate the experience, whilst exploring innovative ideas and ad­aptations that determine our impressions. Design proposals will work to a prescribed space within the Hayy: Creative Hub, and are challenged to assume the role of architects and interior designers in de­livering turn-key design proposals for a complete­ly fitted cinema space.

Art Jameel encour­ages the participating designers to explore benchmarks for energy efficiency and for sustainable as well as ethical procurement, whilst the aim of the competition is to award the winning design team, with a contract for the detailed archi­tectural and interior design turnkey development of the developed scheme.

The competition registration deadline is 22 March, whilst the design submission deadline is on 11 April.

Find out more about participating here.