Although Santa Fe architecture is commonly associated with the Pueblo traditions of the American South-West, it is also rooted in the Islamic architecture found in Spain, and thus also shares many of its characteristics with the mud-brick architecture of Saudi Arabia, and its flat roofs and soft-edged parapets fit comfortably into the Riyadh skyline.

In Shams ArRiyadh, stylistic authenticity is achieved by using exterior details that can be found in the dusty towns of New Mexico: Rubble stone bases, terra cotta pavers and decorative Spanish tiles root the villas to the earth; robust doors and shuttered windows are designed as the originals were; porches, pergolas, roof beams and gargoyles (made of painted metal, not wood, to respond to local climatic conditions) cast welcome shadows against thick plastered walls with rounded cornices; and color selections and accents, as well as dry landscaping, capture the relaxed atmosphere of the South-West.