2026
Asalah Chess
A contemporary chess set inspired by the rich cultural heritage of Saudi Arabia.
Saudi
Chess
Design Inspiration
The design of Asalah draws inspiration from iconic symbols, architecture, and cultural elements that represent the identity and heritage of Saudi Arabia. Each chess piece translates a recognizable Saudi reference into a contemporary and sculptural form while preserving the hierarchy of traditional chess.
Material & Color
The primary visual identity of the set is based on a translucent green stone-inspired material, selected to evoke the natural landscape and distinctive color palette associated with Saudi Arabia.
The green pieces are complemented by warm gold-toned details, introducing a sense of craftsmanship and luxury. The opposing pieces use a soft ivory/white finish, creating a subtle contrast while maintaining the overall refined aesthetic.
The combination of green, ivory, and gold establishes a contemporary palette that connects the product to Saudi identity without relying on excessive ornamentation.
Chessboard
The chessboard was designed as an integral part of the collection rather than as a separate functional component.
Its alternating green and light squares are complemented by geometric floral motifs, creating a subtle decorative layer inspired by traditional Saudi and Islamic patterns. The board is elevated on a sculptural pedestal with a tapered form, transforming the complete chess set into a statement object for the interior.
When the pieces are placed on the board, the elevated platform creates the impression of a miniature architectural landscape.
Design Philosophy
The project explores how cultural heritage can be preserved through reinterpretation rather than replication.
By abstracting traditional references into contemporary forms, Asalah aims to demonstrate that heritage can exist naturally within modern interiors and luxury objects. The design transforms a globally recognized game into a platform for storytelling, allowing Saudi cultural identity to be experienced through interaction, form, and material.
Design Focus: Cultural Identity · Product Design · Heritage Reinterpretation · Sculptural Form · Contemporary Saudi Design
King – Agal: Inspired by the traditional Agal, a symbol of leadership, dignity, and Saudi identity. Its circular form represents authority and unity.
Queen – Kohl Container: Derived from the elegant silhouette of the traditional Kohl container, reflecting beauty, craftsmanship, and intricate ornamentation.
Bishop – Makkah Clock Tower: Inspired by the slender vertical form and crescent element of the Makkah Clock Tower, symbolizing spirituality and cultural significance.
Knight – Faris (Arabian Horse): Representing the Arabian horse, a timeless symbol of nobility, strength, and the equestrian heritage of the Arabian Peninsula.
Rook – Masmak Fortress: Inspired by the architectural form of Masmak Fortress, reflecting protection, resilience, and the historical foundations of Saudi Arabia.
Pawn – Palm Tree: Based on the date palm, one of the Kingdom’s most recognizable symbols, representing prosperity, growth, and the deep connection between people and nature.
More Works
2026
Asalah Chess
A contemporary chess set inspired by the rich cultural heritage of Saudi Arabia.
Saudi
Chess
Design Inspiration
The design of Asalah draws inspiration from iconic symbols, architecture, and cultural elements that represent the identity and heritage of Saudi Arabia. Each chess piece translates a recognizable Saudi reference into a contemporary and sculptural form while preserving the hierarchy of traditional chess.
Material & Color
The primary visual identity of the set is based on a translucent green stone-inspired material, selected to evoke the natural landscape and distinctive color palette associated with Saudi Arabia.
The green pieces are complemented by warm gold-toned details, introducing a sense of craftsmanship and luxury. The opposing pieces use a soft ivory/white finish, creating a subtle contrast while maintaining the overall refined aesthetic.
The combination of green, ivory, and gold establishes a contemporary palette that connects the product to Saudi identity without relying on excessive ornamentation.
Chessboard
The chessboard was designed as an integral part of the collection rather than as a separate functional component.
Its alternating green and light squares are complemented by geometric floral motifs, creating a subtle decorative layer inspired by traditional Saudi and Islamic patterns. The board is elevated on a sculptural pedestal with a tapered form, transforming the complete chess set into a statement object for the interior.
When the pieces are placed on the board, the elevated platform creates the impression of a miniature architectural landscape.
Design Philosophy
The project explores how cultural heritage can be preserved through reinterpretation rather than replication.
By abstracting traditional references into contemporary forms, Asalah aims to demonstrate that heritage can exist naturally within modern interiors and luxury objects. The design transforms a globally recognized game into a platform for storytelling, allowing Saudi cultural identity to be experienced through interaction, form, and material.
Design Focus: Cultural Identity · Product Design · Heritage Reinterpretation · Sculptural Form · Contemporary Saudi Design
King – Agal: Inspired by the traditional Agal, a symbol of leadership, dignity, and Saudi identity. Its circular form represents authority and unity.
Queen – Kohl Container: Derived from the elegant silhouette of the traditional Kohl container, reflecting beauty, craftsmanship, and intricate ornamentation.
Bishop – Makkah Clock Tower: Inspired by the slender vertical form and crescent element of the Makkah Clock Tower, symbolizing spirituality and cultural significance.
Knight – Faris (Arabian Horse): Representing the Arabian horse, a timeless symbol of nobility, strength, and the equestrian heritage of the Arabian Peninsula.
Rook – Masmak Fortress: Inspired by the architectural form of Masmak Fortress, reflecting protection, resilience, and the historical foundations of Saudi Arabia.
Pawn – Palm Tree: Based on the date palm, one of the Kingdom’s most recognizable symbols, representing prosperity, growth, and the deep connection between people and nature.
More Works
2026
Asalah Chess
A contemporary chess set inspired by the rich cultural heritage of Saudi Arabia.
Saudi
Chess
Design Inspiration
The design of Asalah draws inspiration from iconic symbols, architecture, and cultural elements that represent the identity and heritage of Saudi Arabia. Each chess piece translates a recognizable Saudi reference into a contemporary and sculptural form while preserving the hierarchy of traditional chess.
Material & Color
The primary visual identity of the set is based on a translucent green stone-inspired material, selected to evoke the natural landscape and distinctive color palette associated with Saudi Arabia.
The green pieces are complemented by warm gold-toned details, introducing a sense of craftsmanship and luxury. The opposing pieces use a soft ivory/white finish, creating a subtle contrast while maintaining the overall refined aesthetic.
The combination of green, ivory, and gold establishes a contemporary palette that connects the product to Saudi identity without relying on excessive ornamentation.
Chessboard
The chessboard was designed as an integral part of the collection rather than as a separate functional component.
Its alternating green and light squares are complemented by geometric floral motifs, creating a subtle decorative layer inspired by traditional Saudi and Islamic patterns. The board is elevated on a sculptural pedestal with a tapered form, transforming the complete chess set into a statement object for the interior.
When the pieces are placed on the board, the elevated platform creates the impression of a miniature architectural landscape.
Design Philosophy
The project explores how cultural heritage can be preserved through reinterpretation rather than replication.
By abstracting traditional references into contemporary forms, Asalah aims to demonstrate that heritage can exist naturally within modern interiors and luxury objects. The design transforms a globally recognized game into a platform for storytelling, allowing Saudi cultural identity to be experienced through interaction, form, and material.
Design Focus: Cultural Identity · Product Design · Heritage Reinterpretation · Sculptural Form · Contemporary Saudi Design
King – Agal: Inspired by the traditional Agal, a symbol of leadership, dignity, and Saudi identity. Its circular form represents authority and unity.
Queen – Kohl Container: Derived from the elegant silhouette of the traditional Kohl container, reflecting beauty, craftsmanship, and intricate ornamentation.
Bishop – Makkah Clock Tower: Inspired by the slender vertical form and crescent element of the Makkah Clock Tower, symbolizing spirituality and cultural significance.
Knight – Faris (Arabian Horse): Representing the Arabian horse, a timeless symbol of nobility, strength, and the equestrian heritage of the Arabian Peninsula.
Rook – Masmak Fortress: Inspired by the architectural form of Masmak Fortress, reflecting protection, resilience, and the historical foundations of Saudi Arabia.
Pawn – Palm Tree: Based on the date palm, one of the Kingdom’s most recognizable symbols, representing prosperity, growth, and the deep connection between people and nature.
More Works