RIYADH: Diriyah Co. announced today the launch of Diriyah Tan, a custom Pantone color inspired by the iconic mudbrick architecture of the At-Turaif UNESCO World Heritage Site, in collaboration with the Pantone Color Institute.
According to the statement, the golden tan shade, derived from traditional Najdi building materials, will serve as a cornerstone of branding for Diriyah’s City of Earth initiative, symbolizing its historical roots and aspirational future.
“Diriyah Tan is a timeless tribute to At-Turaif and our new landmarks like Bujairi Terrace and Bab Samhan Hotel. It instantly connects people to Saudi Arabia’s cultural soul,” said Diriyah Co. Group CEO Jerry Inzerillo.
He emphasized that the color encapsulates Diriyah’s dual identity as a guardian of heritage and a global hub for community and innovation.
Laurie Pressman, vice president of the Pantone Color Institute, highlighted the shade’s symbolic depth, stating: “Diriyah Tan bridges history and progress. Its earthy warmth mirrors the textures of At-Turaif’s structures, reinforcing Diriyah’s role as a beacon of learning and youth empowerment.”
Kiran Haslam, chief marketing officer of Diriyah Co., revealed to Arab News the future collaborations and community involvement in shaping the city’s visual identity.
“The launch of Diriyah Tan — our collaboration with the Pantone Color Institute — was not simply about identifying a hue; it was about capturing the soul of a place,” said Haslam.
He added that future color explorations could draw inspiration from Wadi Hanifah’s lush landscapes, traditional Najdi craftsmanship, or Saudi Arabia’s contemporary art scene. These initiatives, he noted, would deepen Diriyah’s narrative as a global cultural destination where heritage fuels innovation.
“Diriyah Tan is, in many ways, the truest representation of The City of Earth. It is one brushstroke among many, but one that evokes the majesty of what Diriyah is,” Haslam remarked.
While formal plans remain unannounced, he emphasized that evolving the city’s palette would naturally involve collaboration with Saudi artists and cultural custodians.
Diriyah’s legacy as a hub for exchange, he explained, makes local voices essential to crafting a visual identity that honors authenticity while embracing a dynamic future.
Since 2022, Diriyah has drawn over 3 million visitors to its historic and modern attractions. Current projects include luxury hotels, residential communities, and cultural venues like the Diriyah Arena and Royal Opera House.
The company ensures retail offerings, fine-dining experiences, and leading hospitality brands complement Diriyah’s cultural landmarks.
Upon completion, Diriyah will host more than 100,000 residents, workers, students, and visitors, offering a diverse range of cultural, entertainment, retail, hospitality, educational, and residential spaces.
The first of those spaces include Bujairi Terrace, Riyadh’s new premium dining hub with over 20 global and local restaurants and cafes.
