The White Fortress by TAEP/AAP takes inspiration from the traditional architecture of the Northern Gulf, emphasizing privacy and discretion. Surrounded by towering, thick walls, the residence offers protection from the harsh climate while concealing a serene and inviting interior. Organized around patios within a rectangular walled structure, the home reimagines timeless design principles through a contemporary lens.
Thoughtful Spatial Organization
The dwelling’s layout is situated on a single ground floor, with its spaces arranged around multiple patios. Glazed facades in the main social areas and patios improve the visual connection between indoors and outdoors. Each courtyard serves a unique function, welcoming guests, providing rest, or facilitating social gatherings.
The Central Green Oasis
At the heart of the White Fortress lies a central green “oasis,” acting as a natural divider between the service areas and the private and social spaces. The interior features generously sized rooms, each opening onto distinct oval-shaped patios and lush gardens. These spaces are connected by winding paths, creating a sense of fluidity and cohesion within the dwelling.
Engaging with the Gulf Coast
The home designed by TAEP/AAP embraces its coastal setting, offering uninterrupted views of the Gulf Sea. A semi-covered, open-air paved area frames the seascape, allowing the residence to engage in dialogue with the surrounding sand dunes and vegetation. The design extends to a private beach, ensuring a connection between the interior and its main social gathering area.
The Tower of Solitude
A standout feature of the White Fortress is a tall cylindrical tower located in the central oasis. This architectural element functions as a space for solitude and meditation, echoing the form of a lighthouse. From the tower, residents can access the roof, which doubles as a contemplative walking space. Both the tower and roof offer panoramic views of the house gardens, the coastal dunes, and the endless sea horizon.
Project Name: White Fortress
Office Name: TAEP/AAP
Firm Location: Kuwait, Portugal and France
Project Location: Al Khiran, Kuwait
Year: 2023
Built-up Area: 1045 m²
Status: Complete
Program: Residential
Team: Abdulatif Almishari, Rui Vargas, Carla Barroso, Alba Duarte, Telmo Rodrigues, Carlo Palma, Duarte Correia, Elvino Domingos, Emanuel Grave, Hassan Javed, João Costa, Lionel Estriga, Pedro Miranda
MEP: Mohammed Hassan, Rúben Rodrigues
Interior Design: Leonor Barata Feyo, Carolina Grave
Landscape: Susana Pinheiro
Graphic Design: Mariana Neves, Aquilino Sotero, Diogo Monteiro, Federica Fortugno, Nelson Ferreira, Luís Esteves
Consultants
Structure: R5 Engineers
Site Supervision: AsBuilt – Lúcio Silva, Ricardo Janeiro, Vando Beldade
Photography Credits: Fernando Guerra | FG+SG
