By Faten Omar

KUWAIT: Sustainable architecture can have a significant impact on the development of countries, while innovation is a major driving force of long-term economic growth and sustainable development and can lead to higher productivity. As productivity rises, the direction of innovation bears significant social, economic and environmental development implications. Recently, creative designs went viral on social media platforms representing Kuwait in a new innovative light. Kuwait Times spoke with interior designer Abdullah Erhamah, who has been working in the design industry for 13 years to learn more about his vision for the future of Kuwait.

Kuwaiti interior designer Abdullah Erhamah

Kuwait Times: When did you start thinking about future visions for Kuwait?

Abdullah Erhamah: Recently, I noticed that unfamiliar and innovative designs are what distinguish one country from another. Such designs attract people to visit the country. With the help of technology, artificial intelligence and modern programs, I was able to combine my ideas with my designs to add a creative touch to the future of Kuwait.

Kuwait Times: What is the purpose of the designs?

Erhamah: I wanted the designs to be unique and distinguished, while proving the fact that as a Kuwaiti designer, I should not underestimate my abilities.

Airport in Al-Mutlaa area

Kuwait Zoo building

Kuwait Times: Tell us more about the designs and visualizations that were posted on social media platforms.

Erhamah: I made sure to design public places in order to be noticed by the public. The designs include innovative bus stops, a zoo, an international stadium on the seaside and an airport in Mutlaa. My favorite design is the Apple store in Subiya desert — what distinguishes it is the combination of the concept of modern technology and a primitive desert environment. The idea was to use the space in the desert, preserve the environment and enjoy the beauty of the simple design.

Kuwait Times: What distinguishes your designs from current ones?

Erhamah: The designs reflect my personal thoughts. I noticed the reaction of people on social media; they wanted distinguished, modern and beautiful designs to keep pace with international sustainable architecture.

The international stadium

Kuwait Times: Did anyone reach you from the public sector to implement one of the designs?

Erhamah: Yes, I was contacted by a governmental institution, but these designs require effort and teamwork to convert them into executable plans that suit the Kuwaiti environment. I hope to see these perceptions applied on the ground.

Kuwait Times: What are your future plans?

Erhamah: Raising awareness of the importance of interior design and the beauty of exterior designs of the building. I am seeking to work more to see Kuwait strive to become the pearl of the world. And I wish and hope to support ambitious Kuwaiti youth and adopt their ideas one day.