Suliman Tea, Unizah
Abdulsalam Alfayez

Suliman Tea, Unizah

Abdulaziz Alkholief Architects as Architects

Suliman Tea: A Facade that Breathes

Located in the heart of Saudi Arabia, where the arid climate influences both form and function, Suliman Tea is a small, yet thoughtfully crafted cafe. The architecture addresses the local environment with an innovative facade that balances aesthetics, functionality, and sustainability. The design reflects a simple yet sophisticated approach to shading, ventilation, and integration with the surrounding landscape.

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Facade Design: A Rainfall Pattern of Brick

The cafe’s defining feature is its brick facade, arranged in a rainfall pattern. As the bricks cascade from the top of the structure, they create a dynamic interplay of density and transparency. The top section is tightly packed, offering protection from the harsh desert sun, while the lower portion gradually opens, allowing more light and air to flow through. This gradual transition creates a seamless connection between the interior and exterior, inviting visitors into the space while providing a sense of shelter.

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The bricks, stacked in vertical groups of four, protrude from the facade by 15 centimeters, adding depth to the design while casting shadows throughout the day. This not only enhances the visual appeal but also serves as a natural shading mechanism. Each brick arrangement sits within a steel mesh grid, a minimalist solution that holds the bricks in place while maintaining the structure's lightness. The precision of this system allows the bricks to be both functional and decorative, without the need for additional support.

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A Living Facade: Plants as a Cooling Element

In a further nod to the local climate, select bricks are hollow, allowing small desert plants to be placed within the facade itself. This touch of greenery softens the building’s appearance and contributes to passive cooling. The plants, while minimal, bring life to the design and help regulate the microclimate around the cafe, enhancing the experience for visitors.

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Interior: A Subtle Contrast

While the facade steals the spotlight, the interior remains minimal and functional. The design focuses on creating a cozy environment, suitable for social gatherings and relaxation. Natural light filters through the permeable facade, casting playful patterns on the walls and floors throughout the day. The material palette inside complements the exterior, with warm tones and simple textures, ensuring the space feels intimate and connected to its surroundings.

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At only 8 meters by 6 meters, Suliman Tea is a modest project that emphasizes quality over quantity. The facade is not just a boundary; it’s an active participant in shaping the cafe’s identity, responding to its environment while offering a refreshing and engaging space for visitors.

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'Suliman Tea' redefines how small-scale architecture can respond to its context through a thoughtful combination of materials, passive environmental design, and an eye-catching facade that invites both curiosity and comfort. The project serves as an example of how even the smallest interventions can enhance the urban environment while remaining sensitive to local climate and cultural aesthetics.

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