Gulf Construction Online - Redefining urban landscape

Kuwait

The J3 Project features a mix of residential, commercial, and recreational amenities.

Redefining urban landscape

01 April 2024

Two ambitious development projects – South Sabah Al-Ahmad City, taking shape 80 km south of the capital and the mixed-use J3 Project within Jaber Al-Ahmad City – are currently under construction in Kuwait representing a transformative vision for the country’s urban landscape.

By combining innovative design and a focus on sustainability, these developments are expected to set a new standard for modern living in the country. Another common factor shared by these two projects is the consultancy services of leading multidisciplinary firm Pace, which will provide infrastructure supervision services for the South Sabah Al-Ahmad City, a monumental project which will spread over an expansive 61.5 sq km; and design services from start to finish on all disciplines as well as construction supervision services for the mixed-use J3 Project.

Speaking to Gulf Construction about these two key projects, Pace’s CEO Tarek Shuaib says: “In Kuwait, we see the beginnings of a reinvigorated construction market, as the country expands and develops to accommodate its accelerating rate of development and its growing population. New residential and commercial projects – like South Sabah Al-Ahmed City and J3 – are critical to these ambitious development plans.”

Work is under way on the J3 Project.

“At Pace, we are proud to have been partners in development for the State of Kuwait for almost six decades now. We witnessed its various booms and helped shape its landscape throughout, and we are delighted to continue to do so in this very exciting phase of the country’s development,” he adds.

South Sabah Al-Ahmad City

Infrastructure works – massive in scale – are well under way on South Sabah Al-Ahmad City, an ambitious city that is poised to redefine urban living in the country and will be home to 280,000 people eventually.

Construction work on infrastructural networks such as roads, rainwater drainage and sanitary services in progress in various sectors of the South Sabah Al-Ahmed City.

South Sabah Al-Ahmad City embodies the aspirations of the New Kuwait 2035 Vision, championed by the late Amir of Kuwait, Sheikh Sabah Al Ahmed Al Jaber Al Sabah and is projected to create 145,000 jobs across diverse sectors such as construction, medicine, manufacturing, and culture.

Over a span of 36 months, Pace will meticulously supervise a diverse array of components, including road works, stormwater management systems, sanitary infrastructure, water supply networks, electrical installations, and finishing touches, among others. This extensive scope underscores Pace’s pivotal role in guaranteeing the seamless realisation of this ambitious urban development initiative, aligning with Kuwait’s visionary objectives, says the leading consultancy.

Construction work on infrastructural networks such as roads, rainwater drainage and sanitary services in progress in various sectors of the South Sabah Al-Ahmed City.

South Sabah Al-Ahmad City is designed with 11 distinct neighbourhood clusters orbiting the central business district, accompanied by a perimeter of light industrial structures.

Within the central district lies a rich tapestry of amenities, including a sports stadium, museum, city university, and a sprawling city park that serves as the focal point of the masterplan. Central to this blueprint is an intricately designed landscape strategy, featuring verdant green spaces inspired by the gentle contours of desert sand dunes. These interconnected green corridors not only enhance the city’s aesthetic appeal but also promote environmental sustainability and community well-being. Moreover, it is located 66 km from Kuwait International Airport, providing smooth connectivity and accessibility with multi-layered public transport systems designed to enhance the quality of life for residents and visitors alike.

Construction work on infrastructural networks such as roads, rainwater drainage and sanitary services in progress in various sectors of the South Sabah Al-Ahmed City.

Pace aims to bring its signature quality delivery on projects to South Sabah Al-Ahmad City. With a focus on functionality and aesthetics, Pace says it is ensuring that every facet of the city’s infrastructure adheres to the highest standards of excellence and efficiency.

The J3 Project

Situated within the dynamic urban fabric of Jaber Al-Ahmad City, the new J3 Project epitomises a forward-looking approach to urban development and community design. A 20-minute drive from the capital and Kuwait International Airport, J3 stands out as not only a real estate venture but also a testament to progressive urban planning, addressing the needs of a growing population while nurturing a sense of connectivity and belonging, according to Pace.

At its core, J3 embodies modernity and sophistication, with a focus on creating luxurious living spaces and vibrant communal areas.

Comprising a diverse array of land uses, J3 features a mix of residential, commercial, and recreational amenities. Divided into two distinct zones, JE and JF, the project encompasses investment residential towers, commercial units, retail shops, a neighbourhood park, and essential infrastructure facilities to ensure a thriving urban ecosystem.

The J3 project’s residential architecture reflects a harmonious blend of contemporary design and functionality, with townhouses and low- to mid-rise buildings contributing to its rich skyline. The project features 21 residential complexes, characterised by contemporary aesthetics and carefully planned amenities. It offers a total of 204 spacious apartments and 72 three-level townhouses with a villa-like ambiance. Each residence is carefully designed to prioritise privacy, natural light, and ventilation, with state-of-the-art facilities and sophisticated finishes, enhancing the living experience, says Pace

Central to the design philosophy of J3 is fostering a cohesive environment, underpinned by principles of inclusivity and connectivity, it adds. The project prioritises the integration of green spaces and public amenities, including mosques and schools. A central neighbourhood park serves as a hub for various activities and gatherings, offering a myriad of recreational opportunities, from playgrounds to sports courts, catering to the diverse lifestyles of its inhabitants. A network of pedestrian pathways and bike tracks criss-crosses the development, promoting active mobility and facilitating the flow of movement throughout the area.

Complementing the residential offerings is J3’s world-class mall, imagined to be a modern icon and a focal point for the entire city. Boasting 300 retail shops, 70 gastronomic establishments, 14 cinemas, and a plethora of entertainment venues, the mall offers an engaging experience for visitors from Kuwait and beyond. A plaza enveloping the mall serves as an organic extension of the neighbourhood park, creating a sense of community, communal space, and engagement across all aspects of J3, says the designer.

In essence, the J3 project emerges as a transformative canvas for contemporary living in Kuwait’s ever-evolving urban panorama. By combining innovative design principles with a commitment to connectivity, inclusivity, and sustainability, Pace aims to set a new standard for future living in the country.