SIKKA COLLECTION
BENCH51

In 1951, King Abdulaziz Ibn Saud established the country’s first railway line, with the assistance of Aramco, to transport crude oil. For decades, the wooden railways endured the heat of the Arabian sun before being replaced by concrete. Seventy years later, we find ourselves captivated by the unique impressions and character left on the wood by its storied history. Introducing Bench 51 from the Sikka Collection, a tribute to this legacy, reimagining the life cycle of the first railway track commissioned by King Abdulaziz Al-Saud. Each bench is crafted from the original wooden sleepers, preserving the marks and textures that tell the story of their journey through time. This not only adds a rich historical dimension to the benches but also emphasizes the importance of sustainability in design.

By repurposing these forgotten wooden railways into public seating, DAHR embraces the concept of design sustainability, breathing new life into a piece of the kingdom's industrial heritage. The use of reclaimed wood reduces the demand for new materials, minimizes waste, and lowers the environmental impact associated with deforestation and processing. Each bench is a symbol of how sustainable practices can be woven into functional design, offering a unique blend of history, aesthetics, and environmental consciousness. Through Bench51, we honor the past while committing to a more sustainable future, showcasing how historical materials can be transformed into timeless, functional pieces that serve the community and the environment.

| INSPIRATION & DESIGN |