Program // Restaurant
Location // Kuwait City, Sheikh Jaber Al Ahmad Cultural Centre
Area // 270 m2
Year // 2016
Status // Completed
The project is a local restaurant chain that was established 4 years ago in Kuwait. Within a few years, they have opened 4 branches and now a fifth one in the Sheikh Jaber Al Ahmad Cultural Center in the heart of Kuwait City.
However, because of the upscale location, this branch was required to be unique than its predecessors. The client stressed the preservation of the essence of the previous locations while still showcasing an upscale dining experience. It was a tough challenge to create a fine dining experience while maintaining the grass-root essence of the brand.
Our approach is inspired by traditional Kuwaiti design principles. We used the idea of the "Hosh" (central courtyard) and the "Liwan" (shaded walkway) to create a contemporary dining space.
The ceiling is the centerpiece of the design. It is composed of an art installation that spans across the central 60m2 courtyard. The piece responds to the regional landscape by abstracting the topography lines of sand dune formations to create a unique ripple effect that diffuses light through the use of linen.
The materials were a mixture of elements from the other branches as well as the introduction of new materials. The walls. floor and some of the seating are composed of concrete while the ceiling is primarily brushed brass sheets. The south wall has hints of wood in the form of five wooden gates, which is another smaller art installation that refers to the history of Kuwait.