Exploring the Fusion of Heritage and Innovation at Novalis 2029 Event in Saudi Arabia

On a recent Wednesday evening, ARX hosted a groundbreaking international event in Saudi Arabia, focused on the launch of Michael Schindhelm's book, Novalis 2029. This significant gathering took place at Sharq in Diriyah, drawing a diverse crowd comprised of senior officials, industry leaders, and experts engaged in a discourse that intertwined themes of culture, engineering, design, and urban development.

The choice of Diriyah, known as a symbol of the Kingdom’s rich cultural heritage as well as its continuous transformation, provided the perfect backdrop for the event. Significantly, one chapter of Schindhelm’s book is set against the historical tapestry of Diriyah, reinforcing how past legacies intersect with visions of future cities.

Novalis 2029 is an imaginative narrative that portrays a day in the life of Maren, an artist working at a design and engineering firm in the year 2029. The book serves as a canvas, blending speculative elements with expert reflections from prominent figures in architecture, engineering, urbanism, and sustainability. It dives deep into modern challenges, such as reutilizing obsolete areas, energy advancements, underground farming, smart city concepts, space exploration, and rebuilding efforts following conflicts. These themes are enhanced by insights from industry luminaries like Pierre de Meuron, illustrating the essential dialogues needed for progressive change.

A highlight of the evening was Schindhelm’s captivating live reading from the book, which offered guests a direct connection to the narrative’s insights and themes. Following the reading, a panel discussion unfolded, featuring high-profile speakers who engaged in a thoughtful exchange on the critical intersection of engineering, design, visionary planning, and sustainable urban development. The dialogue also shed light on the importance of nurturing talent, emphasizing the crucial role education plays in shaping the next generation of engineers and designers.

ARX expressed deep gratitude towards all speakers who contributed their wisdom, including HRH Prince Fahad Bin Naif Al Saud from the Diriyah Foundation, independent consultant Abdulmohsen Almajnouni, Hamad Aloqayli of Alayuni Investment and Contracting Company, and Aymen Cheikh Mhamed from ARX. Special thanks were also extended to the European Chamber of Commerce in Saudi Arabia, whose support added further value to the event.

As Schindhelm aptly noted, “The questions we ask today about our cities, our infrastructure, and our shared future will determine the world we inhabit tomorrow. Novalis 2029 invites us all to explore these questions collaboratively, across cultures and disciplines.” Andrea Galli, CEO of ARX, echoed this sentiment, stressing that innovation is a product shaped not just by technology, but by the societal responsibilities integral to professionals within the field.

The event in Diriyah stood as a powerful testament to the possibilities that lie in merging historical context with futuristic aspirations. Discussions revolved around how the legacies of today can serve as the foundation for the urban landscapes of tomorrow. ARX positions itself not just as a participant but as a leader in these conversations, paving the way for transformative approaches in engineering and design, always keeping a pulse on the cultural and historical dimensions that inform and inspire future innovations.

In closing, Novalis 2029 is more than just a fictional narrative; it serves as a catalyst for essential dialogues on the intersections of culture, technology, and innovative design in our ever-evolving world. The vision encapsulated within its pages challenges us to reflect on our past while boldly shaping our future, a mission beautifully realized through the efforts of ARX in Saudi Arabia.