An Overview of Landscape Design in Kuwait

Landscape design in Kuwait is limited by the countrys short history and the time
of this region as an unpopulated desert in the past. In more recent years, after
the discovery of oil reserves, many old buildings were destructed to construct
modern buildings, mostly in Kuwait City. There are a number of modern
buildings in Kuwait with iconic landscape design such as the citys Water Towers
and Kuwait Towers.

Architecture in Kuwait

The current architectural situation in Kuwait is shaped by various

internal and external forces which interact with each other in
order to formalize this situation. Each stage of this movement has
its own unique characteristics such as different planning structures
and buildings to different planned areas and roads.

During the Early Years after Oil Discovery

During this stage the landscape design was characterized by low

height, one of the main features of traditional Kuwaiti
architecture. New buildings were constructed and some had
elements of architecture inherited from other parts of the world.
Circular and curvature shapes were important part of the
landscape design during this time.

The Middle Years

During the 1970s Kuwait underwent rapid economic growth and

urban development. At this stage the landscape design in Kuwait
was largely influenced by Egyptian and Lebanese architecture.
Sculptured walls and straight lines were some of the main features
of buildings constructed during this stage.

Influence of Muslim Architecture

The element of modern architecture still influenced the landscape

design in Kuwait but strong public attitudes emerged towards use
of features of Muslim architecture such as arches, arcades and
courtyards.

Revival and Liberation

During the 1990s landscape in Kuwait underwent a contemporary
transformation by adopting some of the features and elements
such as roof parapet, arches, arcades, and window openings.
There was a blend of past and traditional architecture with
modern architecture. During the war and liberation of Kuwait a lot
of landscape and infrastructure was destroyed. Due to this Kuwait
witnessed a mass reconstruction and rehabilitation. A new
architectural style emerged during this stage which emphasized
the principles of regionalism, tradition architecture and the local
identity.

Takeaway

The landscape design in Kuwait emphasizes on the use of

elements derived from traditional architecture in order to express
a cultural identity which is very common in different parts of the
world. Architecture has passed through significant
transformations due to regional, global and economic changes in
Kuwait. The climate and the environment of Kuwait have a major
influence on the architectural identity and culture of this region.

Apart from that the religion also has an influence on the architectural
identity and this is very true in the case of Kuwaiti architecture.
Elements, proportions, and materials distinguish the architecture in
Kuwait from different parts of the world.
The use of architectural elements taken from traditional architecture is
common in many Middle Eastern countries. The use of parapets, doors,
and windows is key part of Kuwaiti architecture.
The advent of globalization is also posing a threat to the distinctive
architectural identity and the use of the different elements from
traditional architecture also provides a mean to relate to the
contemporary architecture in order to create a much more meaningful
environment.

A short presentation by Prime Architects

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