Excerpt: Alosami Diwaniya, an architecture project by Illuminate Design + Build features an innovative contemporary traditional vernacular design. The project, inspired by an Arabian palm grove, features columns with abstracted palm tree shapes, forming a repetitive pattern. The façade uses modern technology and construction, covered with mocha cream limestone for durability and harmony in the harsh desert landscape, addressing the environment and culture.
Project Description
[Text as submitted by architect] The diwaniya in Kuwait is a traditional space primarily used for male social gatherings. In the newly completed AlOsami diwaniya guests are welcomed with a main iconic wooden door, a minimalistic version of its traditional counterpart. The visitor then enters a reception hall which leads them to the smaller daily diwaniya room where people gather and socialize. Just opposite of the daily is the grand diwaniya hall which is usually used for both male and female weddings, funerals, and other family occasions.
The concept of this project is derived from the Arabian palm grove, which once surrounded the site. Each column shape represents an abstracted palm tree and together form a repetitive pattern creating and intriguing contemporary traditional vernacular expression.
The façade speaks to the environment and culture while using modern technology and construction. The concrete structure is covered with mocha cream limestone, chosen for its durability and harmony in the harsh desert landscape.
On the inside the design attempts to echo the façade back to the interiors creating a modern sophisticated yet warm vibrant feeling. All the walls are also covered with the same limestone and oak wooden panels of similar patterns shape the main diwaniya walls. Different cove and back lighting provide a comfortable and balanced ambience while modern chandeliers are used as a statement piece at the center of the grand reception hall.
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