This design proposed by AGi architects in collaboration with Bonyan Design, won the competition for the future General Department of the Information System (GDIS) to be constructed in Kuwait. With a total gross area of 135,482 square meters, the design is driven by representativeness, security, and functionality, to form a strong civil icon.
© Impresiones de Arquitectura
Courtesy of AGi architects
Conceptually the building strives to combine technology, innovation, and transparency with strength, stability, and security. These contrasting ideas are superimposed onto one another through different layers so that from afar the building appears light due to the upper glass structure, while closer up the stone plinth gives the building weight. The podium in envisioned as a thick occupiable wall that is opened to the public, but at the same time remains fairly guarded due to the minimal openings that reinforce a sense of security. This protective wall is raised to a height of 8 meters and its continuous matt stone is only interrupted in three locations to create an entrance for the various users of the building, with each opening being treated differently.
© Impresiones de Arquitectura
Courtesy of AGi architects
The monolithic stone plinth holds the upper levels defined by a lighter glass structure that houses the offices of the various departments. The various directorate buildings utilize transparency to connect with one another as they separately grow inwards and upwards from the base. The transparent facade prevents the over exposure of direct light from entering the building by using a light protective skin.
© Impresiones de Arquitectura
Courtesy of AGi architects
This system allows light to flood into the innermost sections of the building during the day to create a comfortable work environment, and then at night the interior lighting system makes the building appear to glow. Advanced technology will be used to aid in security and office operations as well as building management and regulation once the building is actually constructed. The integration of this technology coupled with a functional organization plan and formal composition results in a unique building that represents a sense of state unity, strength, and pride.
Project info :
Architects: AGi Architects + Bonyan Design
Location: Kuwait
Gross area: 135,482 square meters
Design Team: Joaquín Pérez-Goicoechea, Nasser B. Abulhasan, Salvador Cejudo
Architectural Team: Daniel Muñoz, Carmen Sagredo, Daniel Bas, Adamira Herrero, Alfredo Carrato, Ana Lopez Cerrato, Lucia Azurmendi, Javier Alonso, Nicolás Martín, Moyra Montoya, Maria Álvarez labrador, Hanan Alkouh, Robert Varghese, Sarah Al Fraih
Images: Impresiones de Arquitectura
By
Courtesy of AGi architects
Kristin Hoover is an editor at Arch2O and a proud graduate of Virginia Tech. Since joining in July 2014, she has authored over 200 insightful articles covering everything from adaptive reuse and cultural centers to eco-buildings and urban infrastructure . With a passion for architectural storytelling, Kristin skillfully curates and crafts compelling narratives that bring design innovation to life. Her editorial work reflects a broad yet finely honed interest in how architecture intersects with society, technology, and the environment—making her a key voice shaping Arch2O’s explorations of contemporary built form.