Riyadh – Eng. Muhab Benten, Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Clusters Real Estate Development, visited the Heritage Commission, where he met Dr. Jasser bin Sulaiman Al-Harbash, Chief Executive Officer of the Commission, and presented the development journey of JAX Clusters in Diriyah and its relationship with the architectural and cultural identity of place.
The visit included a tour and discussions with members of the Commission’s team, providing an overview of several areas of its work, including urban heritage, crafts and artisans, and industrial heritage, as well as efforts to preserve, document, and strengthen the presence of Saudi heritage within contemporary life.
The Commission team also presented aspects of its work in industrial heritage, highlighting the importance of preserving the memory and value of sites associated with the Kingdom’s industrial history. The discussion created a natural connection with the context of JAX, which evolved from an industrial warehouse district into one of Diriyah’s prominent cultural and creative destinations.
Eng. Muhab Benten presented JAX Clusters, developed by Clusters in close proximity to JAX District, and explained how the project began with an understanding of its location and drew inspiration from Diriyah’s architectural heritage to shape a contemporary residential product.
The discussion also explored the role of craftsmanship, materials, and architectural detailing in strengthening the relationship between development and place. At JAX Clusters, the project identity was designed to extend beyond the façade into interiors, materials, and crafted details that contribute to the overall residential experience.
The meeting provided an opportunity to exchange perspectives on the relationship between heritage preservation and contemporary development, and how urban, craft, and industrial heritage can continue to inform new products and places while retaining their cultural meaning.
At the conclusion of the visit, Eng. Muhab Benten presented Dr. Al-Harbash with a copy of the JAX Clusters Magazine, documenting the project’s story from its location and original concept through its architectural identity, details, and relationship with Diriyah, in appreciation of the Heritage Commission’s role in preserving and strengthening Saudi Arabia’s cultural heritage.
