2013 Winners & Shortlists

Brief Explanation

The major challenge was to design a unique, and distinctive book that has a dense scientific content, yet it targets the very high-level officials who are not specialists in the field. Moreover, the book deals with a remarkable project that is situated in a holy city that has a very spiritual and symbolic value for all Muslims; that is the Holy city of Makkah. Therefore, the design of the book has to present the project in an attractive, stimulating and formal manner that corresponds to the sacredness of the city of Makkah, without compromising the scientific nature of its content.

The Brief

Designing a special and distinctive book not intended for sale. It targets the VVIP audience (The king, , high level Saudi officials, local decision makers, Saudi embassies, ...). The book aims at documenting part of King Abdulla's expansion project of the Holy Mosque in Makkah, specifically the traffic and transportation plans for the Central Area of Makkah. Considering its audience (VVIP), it was requested to design a book that documents the project in a manner that reveals its importance and accords with the highly symbolic status of the Holy city of Makkah.

How the final design was conceived

The design was enhanced aesthetically through the use of several means and techniques including visual representation, color, form, type, materials and latest printing effects. This was achieved by adopting a design theme that calls attention to the holiness of Makkah through the use of some symbolic elements such as the Arabic calligraphy and the patterns of the Holy Kaa'ba curtain. Some variations of the main theme were employed so as to modulate the rigidness of its content, with the aid of latest graphic design effects and the best printing techniques available.

Indication of how successful the outcome was in the market

The book is not intended for sale, however, it will be distributed to Saudi decision makers, officials, Saudi embassies, and main local and international libraries. From the few who saw the book, it received a lot of recognition and admiration. It was stated that it is very appealing that its reader inspect each page until the last page, stopping at each page with contentment and appreciation. The success of the book lies in its capacity to capture the hearts of its readers, specifically the decision makers, and convince them with its refined design, well-presented content, and attractive visual presentation.