Syn architects is a Riyadh based architecture practice founded by Saudi architects Sara Alissa & Nojoud Alsudairi, the practice focuses on ecologically sensitive architectural design that derives its aesthetics from a contextual awareness of nature and expresses the essence of the materials from where they are found.
Sara Alissa is a Riyadh-based architect and artist. Her practice focuses on and examines the physical boundaries of materials in the local context to help shape the quality of our environments. As a partner at Syn Architects, Alissa brings a nuanced understanding of place and form to her work. Alissa holds an MA in Situated Practice from Bartlett UCL, UK and a BA in Architecture from the University of East London. Her notable projects include When the Earth Began to Look at Itself (2024) at Desert X AlUla and Anywhere Can Be a Place of Worship (2023) at the Islamic Arts Biennale, both exploring materiality and cultural narratives. She led the restoration and extension of the Shamalat Cultural Center, Riyadh (2023) and developed the Almasar Mosque, Riyadh (2019).
Nojoud Alsudairi is a Riyadh-based artist and architect whose research-driven practice focuses on the personal and collective identity rooted in contemporary urban Saudi culture. A partner at Syn Architects, she explores culturally resonant design within the context of Saudi Arabia’s evolving urban landscape. Alsudairi holds an MA in Situated Practice from Bartlett UCL, UK, and a BA in Architecture Engineering from Prince Sultan University, Saudi Arabia. Her acclaimed projects include When the Earth Began to Look at Itself (2024) at Desert X AlUla and Ricochet (2021) at the first edition of Noor Riyadh, both exploring materiality, poetry, and cultural narratives. She led the refurbishment of the Prince Faisal bin Fahad Exhibition Center, Riyadh (2018) and contributed to the restoration of the Shamalat Cultural Center, Riyadh (2023).
