The Jeddah Central Museum is a transformative project located in Jeddah’s former desalination plant turning it into a “factory of creativity”, where visitors can explore materials, problem-solving, and innovation.
Developed by the Jeddah Central Development Company in collaboration with Heatherwick Studio, this institute celebrates human creativity across art, craft, engineering, and design, while emphasizing sustainability, openness, and equality. It highlights the site’s industrial heritage through key components, including the Hall of Imagination (38,271 sq.m), the Makers’ Souk (11,800 sq.m), and the Pump House (2,208 sq.m). With a total plot area of 150,865 sq.m, a building footprint of 52,279 sq.m, and 114,000 sq.m of outdoor space, the institute honors Jeddah’s history while promoting contemporary creativity.
Avesta Group played a pivotal role in shaping the institute’s concept, operations, and design. Our contributions included architectural analysis, functional development, and the creation of a unified site narrative through interpretive programming. We refined concepts for the three main buildings and outlined operational parameters such as audience estimates, occupancy diagrams, opening hours, ticketing, and business models. Additionally, we provided staffing plans and governance options. Avesta Group also prepared facility planning through needs assessments, space programs, and functional diagrams. We conducted detailed design reviews at various stages for feasibility, integration, and accessibility, and developed the interpretive plan for the permanent gallery, including thematic frameworks, storylines, key messages, and immersive tools.
The project delivers significant outcomes, including enhanced operational efficiency, alignment of design with the brief, and optimised facility planning performance. By ensuring technical feasibility, visitor-centric experiences, and sustainable integration, Avesta Group’s efforts support the institute’s vision of inspiring makers of all levels, preserving heritage, and promoting innovation. This has resulted in a landmark that not only commemorates Jeddah’s desalination revolution but also empowers future generations through creative problem-solving and inclusive programming.
