The Cube He Whare Hangai Tetahi Whare Motuhake

Press Kit

Unique Properties

Conceptual idea was to explore the architectural relation between solid and void through addition and subtraction within a cube, creating a dialogue between indoor and outdoor.
Floor plan design is based on 2 shifted masses creating an internal atrium (includes air conditioning system which will help to enjoy the garden experience throughout the year) and 2 external courts in the front and rear inspired from traditional houses. Shifting direction was chosen based on 2 aspects; Cultural, privacy obscuring the south side neighbors view & Environmental, creating more natural ventilation & providing needed shade to the front yard.

Dimensions & Packaging

-Plot Area: 25 m X 40 m
-Built Up Area: 1860 sqm
-Floors: Basement, Ground, First, Second & Roof
-Height Regulation from Street Level: 15 m
-Set Backs Regulations: 3 m from street side & 2 m from neighbors

Tags

Architecture, Villa, House, Design, Residential, Modern, Landscape, Kuwait

Production Technology

-Main Structure: Concrete
-Main Architectural Finishes: Honed Silver Travertine Stone, Black Steel, Off White Stucco, Desaturated Brown Stucco, Matt Walnut Wood, Double Glazed Glass

Design Challenge

-To create a quality living experience and redefine the image of a residential building in Kuwait while maintaining the climate requirements and privacy needs dictated by the Arab culture, were the main design challenges.
-The client requested several separate entrances with a high solid boundary wall where the plot is only accessible from the front.
-Based on the data collection the Architectural design direction is a mixture of Modern/Luxury design with traditional accents using natural materials.
-Height limitation, Setbacks & maximum Built up area was dictated by Kuwait Architecture Regulations.

Research

TYPE-OBJECTIVES-METHODOLOGY

1-Data Collection research-Client needs analysis-Client meetings
2-Cultural research-Project Zoning & Privacy needs-Social Questionnaire
3-Arch. Design Direction research-General mood board, Massing & Materials-Web based research
4-Arch. Technical research-Identify Construction methodology-Subject Matter Experts & Web based Research
5-Environmental research-Natural Ventilation & Sun light-Web based research
6-Landscape research-Hardscape & Softscape design direction-Web based Research
7-Presentation direction research-Matching Graphics to Architecture concept-Web based Research

Inspiration

The main mass was based around a primary form (Cube) & the two imposing stone walls that were inspired by ancient temples creating an approach with the moat like bridge to the house main entrance. The central black metal screen design was inspired by an Islamic pattern and external courts were inspired from Arabic traditional houses.

Project Duration

Duration: The project design Process started in December 2018 and finished in February 2019
Location: Kuwait

Operation Flow

Entrances:
- Main: For Family members & guests
- Diwaneya: For Formal Events (Male Guests)
- Front Yard: Access to Basement Front yard
- Back Yard: Direct Access to kids back yard
- Services: Direct Access for Male Staff & main Kitchen
Floors Functions:
- Ground: Reception & Dinning Spaces for Guests
- Basement: Daily Living Spaces including Pool, GYM, Kids Playroom & Green areas
- First: Kids bed rooms and living space
- Second: Master Bed room with all required facilities & private office
- Roof: Outdoor roof garden and service rooms