Boutique Group, the hospitality unit of Saudi Arabia’s sovereign wealth fund PIF, has hired an architect and interior designer for its key project that intends to convert a historic royal palace into an ultra-luxury hotel in Riyadh, as reported by Zawya.

The hospitality unit intends to combine the country’s culture and heritage with modern elegance to develop historic and cultural places into ultra-luxury boutique hotels.

It has appointed architect company Aedas and interior designer Tristan Auer to transform The Red Palace.

The Red Palace is one of the three royal palaces that Boutique Group is converting into ultra-luxury hotels in the country.

Built in the early 1940s by King Abdulaziz Al Saud, the founding monarch of Saudi Arabia, The Red Palace served as the residence and administrative centre for his son, King Saud bin Abdulaziz Al Saud.

Furthermore, it was Saudi Arabia’s first concrete building.

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It has hosted international receptions and royal banquets, later served as the Council of Ministers’ headquarters for over three decades and housed the Court of Grievances until 2002.

Boutique Group CEO Mark De Cocinis said: “Our transformation project will protect The Red Palace’s key architectural and design features, creating a compelling guest experience by combining the new function of the palace as an ultra-luxury hotel while preserving its original character and celebrating the Kingdom’s rich architecture and history.”

“Saudi Arabia is on a journey of unprecedented diversification of its economy under Vision 2030 and we are committed to supporting the transformation of the Kingdom’s tourism and cultural sectors.”

Aedas global design principal Ignacio Gomez said: “Our design aims not to simply recreate a physical space but rather to evoke a sense of time, specifically the solemnity and grandeur associated with the emotional importance of the kingdom’s history and its future vision.

“We want to create an experience that would transport visitors to a different era, immersing them in the rich heritage of the palace while also reflecting its significance in the present and future.”

Situated in the heart of old Riyadh, The Red Palace will feature over 70 keys, 26 deluxe rooms, 44 luxury suites, a royal suite, public event spaces, eight spa suites and five high-end food and beverage outlets.

Boutique Group will also convert Tuwaiq Palace in Riyadh and AlHamra Palace in Jeddah.

Tristan Auer said: “The interior design concept for The Red Palace is centred on smoothly integrating an Art Deco pattern that complements the palace’s regal ambience with the natural surroundings and royal landscapes while complementing the historical significance of the palace.”

“We place significant emphasis on enhancing the palace’s architectural allure and contributing to its overall magnificence. Our ultimate goal is to respect the palace’s heritage while providing a luxurious and contemporary experience for guests.”