Wafra Living: Redefining Residential Complexes in Kuwait

A Unique Blend of Privacy, Natural Light, and Communal Spaces

One of the key objectives of the design is to maximize privacy for the tenant community while creating a sense of openness and connection to the surrounding neighborhood. The L-shaped building, which follows the edge of the street, and the high-rise block at the rear, create a harmonious blend of private and public spaces. The front facade features strategically placed openings that provide better views for the lower-level apartments, while the facades adjacent to neighboring buildings are closed off to ensure privacy for the tenants.

To enhance public/private relationships, the ground floor of Wafra Living is open to the surrounding neighborhood, featuring a commercial zone that adds vibrancy to the community. The necessary security controls are seamlessly integrated, with access points strategically located throughout the building. Vehicle access is also carefully planned, with three entry points to reduce traffic congestion during peak hours.

The design of Wafra Living incorporates various communal spaces that cater to the diverse needs and preferences of its residents. The mezzanine level, known as the High Square, serves as an elevated ground floor community space, offering amenities such as swimming pools, a gymnasium, and sporting facilities. This elevated space acts as a buffer from the busy street, providing a safe and private communal area for families to gather and socialize.

In addition to the High Square, Wafra Living features various gardens, vertical open spaces, and viewing points that provide ample opportunities for relaxation and social interaction. The Sky Deck, an open-air roof garden with a mini golf course, offers stunning views and can be enjoyed year-round. The Gym Terrace, on the other hand, provides a more private space for residents to exercise and unwind.

A distinctive feature of Wafra Living is the "veil" that wraps around the building, serving both functional and aesthetic purposes. This unifying element defines the entire complex, starting from the first floor and spreading vertically and horizontally. The veil not only provides privacy and better views for the rear apartments but also acts as a constructed space with various uses, rather than a mere facade cladding.

The facade of Wafra Living is made using Glass Reinforced Concrete (GRC), which offers durability and low maintenance. Perforated panels are used to create the effect of the veil, blending seamlessly with the desert context. The GRC facade also incorporates insulation, reducing heat gain and energy costs in the long term.

With its innovative design, Wafra Living has received numerous accolades, including the Bronze A' Design Award in 2012. This prestigious award recognizes the outstanding creativity and ingenuity of the design, which combines art, science, and technology to create a world-class residential complex that enhances the quality of life for its residents.

Wafra Living is not just a residential complex; it is a testament to AGi Architects' commitment to creating unique and exceptional living spaces that redefine the concept of luxury living in Kuwait. By prioritizing privacy, natural light, and communal spaces, Wafra Living sets a new benchmark for residential developments in the region.