Hareth Al-Marsumi stands at the helm of Echo Architecture as its founding member and CEO, leading the firm to prominence in the global architectural landscape. Based in Saudi Arabia, with offices in London and Riyadh, Echo Architecture is an international design studio renowned for its innovative and sustainable approach to architecture. Under Hareth’s leadership, the firm has delivered high-profile projects that blend functionality, aesthetics, and cultural resonance, earning a reputation for excellence and client satisfaction.
Hareth Al-Marsumi: A Visionary Leader
Hareth Al-Marsumi brings a wealth of expertise to Echo Architecture, shaped by his education and professional experience. He studied at the MIT School of Architecture and Planning from 2018 to 2019, where he likely deepened his understanding of architectural theory, urban planning, and innovative design practices. Before founding Echo Architecture, Hareth worked at Benoy, a globally recognised architectural firm, where he developed his skills in design and project management. His time at Benoy provided him with insights into delivering high-quality projects for major clients, which he has carried forward into his leadership at Echo Architecture.
As CEO, Hareth Al-Marsumi emphasizes a collaborative and pragmatic approach to design. His vision is to create spaces that meet the functional needs of clients and enhance the quality of life for users and contribute positively to the environment. This philosophy has guided Echo Architecture to establish long-standing partnerships with leading clients, resulting in sustained repeat business and a strong reputation in the industry.
Echo Architecture: A Global Design Powerhouse
Founded in 1988, Echo Architecture operates as an international design studio with offices in London and Riyadh, and reportedly additional locations in Milan and Cairo. The firm specializes in a diverse range of services, including:
- Retail and Leisure: Designing vibrant commercial spaces that attract visitors and enhance brand experiences.
- Hospitality: Creating luxurious and functional hotels that cater to global travelers.
- Master Planning: Developing comprehensive plans for mixed-use developments and business parks.
- Residential: Crafting commercial and luxury residential compounds that prioritize comfort and aesthetics.
- Interior Design: Delivering bespoke interiors that reflect cultural and functional needs.
- Workplace Design: Creating innovative office spaces that foster productivity and collaboration.
Echo Architecture’s multidisciplinary team comprises creative, strategic, and business-oriented professionals who work together to deliver tailored solutions. The firm’s collaborative approach, combined with a deep understanding of project objectives, has enabled it to attract high-profile clients, including major retailers and real estate developers in the Middle East. According to industry sources, Echo Architecture has worked on over 80 projects in Saudi Arabia alone, showcasing its significant presence in the region.
Notable Projects
Echo Architecture’s portfolio includes a variety of high-profile projects, with the Ritz Carlton Tower in Riyadh standing out as a flagship achievement. Below is an overview of this project, along with insights into other reported projects.
Ritz-Carlton Tower, Riyadh
The Ritz-Carlton Tower in Riyadh is one of Echo Architecture’s most celebrated projects, reflecting the firm’s ability to deliver iconic and luxurious designs. Commissioned by Fas Real Estate in 2008, the project was conceptualised as a hospitality landmark with 250 rooms and 80 residences, spanning an impressive 106,356 square meters. Described as the world’s fifth-tallest tower, the Ritz-Carlton Tower combines modern architectural innovation with traditional Arabian elements, creating a visually striking and culturally resonant structure.
The design draws inspiration from the region’s heritage, incorporating arched doorways, marble hallways, and textures that reflect Arabian aesthetics. The tower is set within 213,500 square meters of exquisitely landscaped gardens, featuring native palms, olive trees from Lebanon, and water fountains, creating an oasis-like environment in the heart of Riyadh. The project’s significance extends beyond its architectural grandeur, as it has hosted high-profile events, including the 2017 Riyadh Summit and the Future Investment Initiative, and has welcomed notable guests such as former U.S. Presidents Barack Obama and Donald Trump.
| Project Details | Ritz Carlton Tower, Riyadh |
| Client | Fas Real Estate |
| Appointment Year | 2008 |
| Status | Concept |
| Area | 106,356 sqm |
| Capacity | 250 rooms, 80 residences |
| Project Type | Hospitality |
| Location | Riyadh, Saudi Arabia |
Other Projects
While detailed information on other projects is less readily available, Echo Architecture’s website highlights several additional endeavors, including Burjfas, Aloft Riyadh, and Courtyard by Marriott Olaya, all located in Riyadh. These projects are part of the firm’s extensive portfolio, which also includes:
- Burjfas, Riyadh: Likely a significant architectural project, possibly a tower or commercial development, though specific details are not publicly documented.
- Aloft Riyadh: A modern hotel in the Al Olaya District, known for its hip, loft-inspired design. While Echo Architecture is associated with this project, its exact role (e.g., design, master planning, or interiors) remains unclear from available sources.
- Courtyard by Marriott Olaya, Riyadh: A 4-star hotel offering 231 rooms with panoramic city views. Echo Architecture’s involvement is noted, but specific contributions are not detailed in public records.
Beyond these, Echo Architecture has masterplanned over 12 million square meters across five projects in Saudi Arabia, creating and evolving towns and communities. The firm has also designed two of the most successful shopping and leisure destinations in the region: The Mall of Dhahran and Mall of Arabia in Jeddah. These projects underscore Echo Architecture’s expertise in retail and leisure design, catering to the ambitious plans of major Middle Eastern retailers and developers.
Hareth’s Leadership and Impact
Hareth Al-Marsumi’s leadership has been instrumental in positioning Echo Architecture as a leader in the architectural design industry. His background in business strategy, research, and strategic planning, as noted in professional profiles, complements his architectural expertise, enabling him to guide the firm through complex, large-scale projects. Hareth’s focus on sustainability and user-centric design aligns with global trends in architecture, ensuring that Echo Architecture’s projects are both forward-thinking and environmentally responsible.
The firm’s success is also attributed to its collaborative culture, which Hareth Al-Marsumi fosters. By assembling a team of diverse professionals with complementary skills, Echo Architecture delivers holistic solutions that address both aesthetic and practical needs. This approach has led to sustained client relationships, with the firm earning repeat business from major commercial partners.
Industry Recognition and Future Outlook
Echo Architecture’s work has garnered attention for its quality and innovation, particularly in the Middle East, where it has become one of the largest design centers. The firm’s ability to attract leading brands and deliver projects like the Ritz Carlton Tower highlights its competitive edge. Industry sources, such as e-architect, note that Echo Architecture’s interior design team specializes in hotel and hospitality projects worldwide, further expanding its global influence.
Looking ahead, Echo Architecture is poised to continue its growth under Hareth Al-Marsumi’s leadership. The firm’s focus on mixed-use developments, business parks, and luxury residential projects aligns with the rapid urban development in Saudi Arabia and beyond. As cities like Riyadh embrace modernity while preserving cultural heritage, Echo Architecture’s ability to blend these elements positions it as a key player in shaping the future of urban landscapes.
Hareth Al-Marsumi and Echo Architecture represent a dynamic force in the architectural design industry. Through Hareth’s visionary leadership, the firm has delivered iconic projects like the Ritz Carlton Tower in Riyadh, showcasing its ability to create spaces that are both luxurious and culturally significant. With a diverse portfolio spanning retail, hospitality, and master planning, Echo Architecture continues to set new standards for innovation and excellence. As the firm expands its global footprint, Hareth Al-Marsumi’s commitment to sustainable, user-focused design ensures that Echo Architecture will remain a leader in the construction and design industry for years to come.
