CITY
HUNT
10 min
1st
Prepare for the Site Scavenger Hunt
You are going to make a trip to the city and look for interesting design elements.
Bring with you:
- Something to record notes/ sketches with/on
- Something to take photos with
5 min
2nd
Prepare your worksheet
You are going to divide your paper into 4 columns:
🟦 Shapes 🎨 Colors 🔁 Patterns 📏 Textures
Pay attention to the shapes that dominate the architecture. Are there geometric patterns on buildings/interiors? Curves or sharp angles on modern structures? Arches in traditional design? The lines and outlines you notice will give you a sense of how both the past and future of the city are shaping the environment.
SHAPES
Take note of the colors that stand out to you. Look for contrasts—are the walls painted in warm desert hues, or are there pops of vibrant colors on signs or murals? Notice how the natural surroundings—such as the golden tones of the sand or the green of the palm trees—blend with the man-made environment. Colors can reveal a lot about the cultural and emotional layers of the city.
COLORS
Patterns are everywhere! From tiles on the floor to ornate fences and even clothing. Keep an eye out for repeating designs, whether it’s in the tiling of streets or the intricate details on a building’s facade. These recurring motifs can inspire future design ideas, from traditional to modern interpretations.
PATTERNS
The feel of a place can be just as inspiring as what you see. Touch the smooth, shiny surface of glass buildings, the rough texture of stone or clay, or the soft, plush materials found in market stalls. Textures tell stories of craftsmanship, history, and the present moment. How does each texture contribute to the atmosphere of the place?
TEXTURE
~2 hrs
3rd
Time to go on site.
Choose one place from your mental maps to go to and start to fill you worksheet.
How to document your exploration?
- Take notes: Jot down anything that stands out to you. It doesn’t have to be detailed, just key observations.
- Snap photos: Capture the places, details, and moments that inspire you.
- Make quick sketches: Draw shapes, patterns, or textures you observe. Even rough sketches can help capture the essence of the scene.
4th
- Scan you worksheet and submit!
City Hunt
It's time to immerse yourself in the heart of Riyadh! Explore a place within the city—whether it’s a busy street, a tranquil park, a vibrant market, or a lively mall—and look at everything with a fresh perspective. Take your time and absorb the surroundings.