Meet Lana who joined Omrania in 2015 straight out of architecture school. She describes life at the firm as “fast-paced” and a “healthy work environment” where “ideas are shared across the table.” Also, “It is extremely mesmerizing to see a project being built from the ground up.”
Why did you join Omrania?
In architecture school, we faced the choice of “form follows function” or “function follows form” in design. Omrania pursues both paths simultaneously, where the projects are aesthetically pleasing and functionally efficient. Omrania is and will always be part of the heart of Riyadh, as it has designed and built many of the iconic projects in Saudi Arabia, not to mention globally. As a fresh graduate, I knew I wanted to be a part of such a prodigious endeavor.
What are your favorite projects you have worked on? And why?
Arriyadh Western Metro Station
In being part of the team on the Metro Station project, my skills have been intertwined to serve different disciples at various stages of design incorporating architecture, landscape and interior design. I have worked extensively on the project and I’m familiar with every aspect and it has been sensational seeing the impact of the Metro on the urban fabric of Riyadh.
Capital Market Authority (CMA) Tower
The Capital Authority Market is an iconic high-rise tower which serves as the highest point in Riyadh’s skyline. This project was one of the main reasons that drew me to Omrania — taking part in CMA was surreal.
King AbdulAziz Road Project (KAAR)
The location of King AbdulAziz Road (KAAR) is want makes it one of my favorites, where the project takes place in the holy city of Makkah. Through KAAR, I have learned to coordinate the engineering requirements to comply with the architecture.
What is your favorite part of the day at work?
I am extremely driven by my passion for architecture. My favorite part is waking up in the morning with an adrenaline rush knowing that I have a project submission to meet. Another favorite would be the site visits that we engage in regularly; it is extremely mesmerizing to see a project being built from the ground up. To see projects come to full fruition is very rewarding as an architect.
What do you like most about working with Omrania?
The fact that I can call it home. In Omrania, we have such a supportive design management team that continuously inspires every member. The friendly environment helps with making the most of all the creative minds that come together to produce extraordinary design concepts. We frequently hold design charrettes where ideas are shared across the table, and the merging of ideas is always unpredictable and intriguing.
What is the most challenging part of the work?
Omrania is based on a fast-paced work environment, with new projects coming in regularly. So the most challenging part in my opinion is managing different deadlines at the same time. Coordination and time management is a key factor that is to be incorporated into our everyday routine as architects.
If you were to recommend Omrania to your best friend; what would you say?
The opportunities one can encounter at Omrania are really exciting. Omrania offers the full package of having a healthy work environment and mega projects that challenge us as designers to think outside the box.
