Villa Al Bahar

Architect: Kenneth E Hobgood, architects ()

Location: Kuwait City, Kuwait

100 Word Description: The project is a villa of 1600 square meters on four levels for a family 7.  The complexity of the program is a result of the strict separation of public formal spaces, private family spaces and servant spaces.  All parking and mechanical spaces are located in an underground garage.  The villa reverses the stragedy of central mass houses and the house wraps around a central courtyard.The glass walls of the house are designed as a series of screens or veils using a variety of glass types from clear to semi opaque.  Coupled with a series of operable louvers it is possible to change the light in the villa and the levels of privacy.

Architect’s Statement: There is intended a quality of lightness and openness to the villa while preserving privacy and tradition.  The vertical division of spaces from the below garage to the roof level is intended to provide a sequence of movement and experience that supports a modern living experience respectful of traditional values and customs.The design of screen walls and operable louvers creates a house with energy efficient performance.

Type of Construction: The primary materials are poured in place concrete, travertine, stainless steel structure and glass technologies using clear glass, laminated screen glass, insulated opaque glass, glass rods and cast glass.  Exterior louvers are teac and flooring is wood concrete and travertine.

Photography: 2014, Hufton + Crow, Photography