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Roar has delivered a new chapter in its ongoing collaboration with global consulting firm Oliver Wyman, unveiling the interior of its new Riyadh headquarters. Going beyond being just another corporate space, this office was designed to reflect the cultural pulse of Saudi Arabia while offering modern, functional solutions for today’s workforce. Pallavi Dean, Founder and Creative Director of Roar, comments: “When Oliver Wyman approached us to design their Saudi office, they were clear about one thing: this space had to feel like Riyadh and resonate with its identity. It wasn’t about recreating their offices elsewhere, but about ensuring this headquarters felt deeply rooted in its surroundings, both culturally and contextually.”

Cultural Inspiration Through Thoughtful Design
To achieve this, Roar collaborated closely with a cultural consultant and held extensive focus groups with local staff to ensure the space met both operational and emotional needs. The result is an office that integrates cultural motifs and traditions with the functionality required of a modern workspace.

The design language is intentionally restrained, using a neutral, calming palette that creates a sense of serenity throughout the space. This muted backdrop is punctuated by carefully selected art and decorative elements, each reflecting the region’s heritage. A prominent feature in the reception is the falcon wing structure — a graceful architectural form that draws on Saudi Arabia’s iconic symbol while maintaining a contemporary edge. Nearby, a striking calligraphy sculpture by Hazem Kurdali, based on a poem by Khalid Al Faisal, adds a layer of cultural depth and narrative to the space.

Artistry and Craftsmanship at the Core
Roar’s commitment to honouring local craftsmanship is evident in the various artistic touches throughout the office. One of the key elements is the use of custom calligraphy integrated into the design. Selected poetry from employees was transformed into glass manifestations that serve both as art and functional privacy screens for meeting rooms.

Complementing the calligraphy is the intricate detailing on the columns, inspired by traditional Saudi jewellery and metalwork. These patterns were hand-applied using a textured stucco finish, providing a tactile connection to the country’s rich artisan history. Additionally, custom sadu stitching, referencing Bedouin weaving techniques, decorates office dividers, entwining traditional craftsmanship into the fabric of modern workspaces.

A Workspace Designed for Versatility and Well-Being
The Riyadh office is divided into distinct zones that cater to a variety of work styles. A multipurpose room can be configured for training sessions, conferences, or seminars, while the café has been designed with a welcoming, hotel-lobby ambience, offering spaces for both casual socialising and focused individual work. Agile workspaces and private booths within the café enable employees to adapt their work environment to their needs throughout the day.

Roar’s design for the Riyadh office also includes several wellness-driven features, such as a wellness room for new mothers and prayer rooms. Partner offices are placed toward the core of the building; in this way, the open work areas benefit from maximum natural light and city views. This thoughtful layout ensures that private and quiet spaces are balanced with areas that foster collaboration.

A Design Grounded in Research and Psychology
Central to Roar’s approach is its evidence-based design process, where every decision is rooted in research and collaboration. By partnering with workplace psychologist Briar Jacques, Roar explored how elements like colour, light, and materiality affect mental well-being. The insights gained from these studies were used to reduce stress and promote cognitive restoration, ensuring the space not only looks beautiful but also enhances productivity and employee satisfaction.

Pallavi concludes: “We always take the time to understand how a space should function, but also how it should make people feel. In Riyadh, we’ve created an environment that’s both calming and dynamic – one that truly reflects Oliver Wyman’s values and the culture of Saudi Arabia.”

Design: Roar
Photography: Yasser Ibrahim