Cover One of the pools at this beachside chalet in Kuwait, creating a microclimate that the family enjoys
One of the pools at this beachside chalet in Kuwait, creating a microclimate that the family enjoys
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Designed by AlHumaidhi Architects, the KitKat House in Kuwait champions the use of local materials to create a weekend escape for a multi-generational family
When designing a beachside property, designers often highlight the expansive views of the sea and sky. But for this multigenerational chalet in Al Zour, Kuwait, the team behind AlHumaidhi Architects faced a unique challenge. “The property was extremely long, thin and narrow with limited seafront exposure,” says principal architect Aziz Al-Humaidhi. “This inspired the linear nature of the design, with each space breaking and shifting in relation to one another.”
The beachside chalet was home to multiple generations of one family, with a main chalet for the parents, a secondary beach house for the eldest daughter, and guest house chalets. The distinctive property features numerous private courtyards and swimming pools, allowing Kuwait’s abundant sunlight to permeate while providing ventilation and privacy to keep each space as relaxing as possible. The project takes on the name KitKat to complement its unique structure, showcasing the design team’s creativity and ingenuity.
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Above This Kuwait beach chalet that creates an inviting getaway for a multigenerational family
This Kuwait beach chalet that creates an inviting getaway for a multigenerational family
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In the main beachfront chalet, the heads of the family have unobstructed views of the sea via panoramic glass panels. The ground floor features an open plan, with a kitchen where the family creates delicious meals before serving them in the nearby dining room. A double-height space connects the lower ground to the upper floor. The seamless flow of the space extends to the back garden, courtyard and pool through a glass opening.
Above Exploring the serene interiors, which are the backdrop for intimate family gatherings
Exploring the serene interiors, which are the backdrop for intimate family gatherings
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Behind the main chalet is the daughter’s beach house, which is more vertical and intimate. Overlooking another pool courtyard, the daughter and her family can enjoy the pool’s microclimate, spending long summer afternoons by the water.
Towards the end of the property lie modular guest suits, each with a bedroom and bathroom. These suites are flexible enough to accommodate visiting family members and guests, allowing the family to accommodate both intimate gatherings and large feasts with friends.
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Above Omani stone used in the outdoor areas, balancing elegance with durability
Above Spotlighting the unique local bricks that add texture and dimension to the outdoor spaces
Omani stone used in the outdoor areas, balancing elegance with durability
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One of the key factors in designing the home was the family’s multigenerational living situation, which is typical in Kuwait. “These accommodations often happen in relatively restricted land parcels,” shares Al-Humaidhi. “But the KitKat House has a balanced approach to individual privacy within the extended family without compromising the quality of the overall architecture and their accessibility of the shared spaces.”
Aside from adapting the designs to the family’s living situation, the AlHumaidhi team wanted to push the boundaries of sustainable design with the KitKat House. The house features a neutral, soothing palette that highlights the textures of different materials. Locally sourced Omani stone was used in the flooring and wet areas, ensuring their durability despite exposure to different elements.
Above Locally sourced bricks that alternate between standard and rough split-faced textures
Above One of the pools on the property, creating a microclimate that the family enjoys
Locally sourced bricks that alternate between standard and rough split-faced textures
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In other areas of the ground floor, the locally sourced bricks alternate between standard and rough split-faced textures, adding dynamism to the space. “These evoke the natural strata and layering of earth, rock and stone,” says Al-Humaidhi. “Since it’s used on the ground floor, the material can be seen, touched and appreciated from up close.” The bricks are also weatherproof, allowing the property to stand the test of both time and the Kuwait beach’s humid, salty environment. Above the ground floor, the elevated spaces are finished in white stucco paint that reflects the light, minimising the heat from Kuwait’s summer sunlight.
Above Walkways between the different beach houses, immersing the family members in well-ventilated and bright areas
Walkways between the different beach houses, immersing the family members in well-ventilated and bright areas
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To navigate the property, family members traverse circulation corridors and narrow spaces, which take inspiration from the old regional towns of Kuwait. “These towns had tall walls and shaded walkways, which allowed for natural ventilation and the movement of wind.” This creates a cool, reflective space to walk through no matter the time of year. Overall, the property exudes tranquillity, making for a restful retreat from the bustling city.
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Credits
Photography: Nelson Garrido
About
Celine first read Charlotte’s Web at the age of five–and she hasn’t stopped turning pages since. Her favourite authors are Mona Awad and Nat Cassidy. Besides writing for Tatler, she listens to BTS and spends time with her family.
Work
Celine took up secondary education with a major in English, graduating from De La Salle University in 2023. She advocates for female empowerment through creative expression by writing for Tatler Homes.
For story leads or inquiries, you may reach out to her via celine.dabao@tatlerasia.com.
