Kuwait, 17 July 2024: Pace is pleased to announce that three of its projects have made it to the final shortlist for the World Architecture Festival (WAF) Awards 2024. The festival is set to take place from November 6 to 8, 2024, in Singapore.
The largest architectural awards program of its kind in the world, WAF features live judging of shortlisted projects and brings together elite architects and designers from around the globe to exchange expertise and showcase the latest innovations in design and construction. This year, a jury of 140 industry experts selected finalists across 41 categories, celebrating over 477 innovative architectural projects.
Pace’s Beautification of Shuwaikh Waterfront project has been shortlisted in the WAF Future Project: Masterplanning category; the Imam Abdulrahman Al Faisal-Al Saud Museum project has been shortlisted in the WAF Future Project: Culture category; and the Retal Mosque project has been shortlisted in the WAF Future Project: Competition Entries category.
The Beautification of Shuwaikh Waterfront project spans 1.7 kilometres and comprises several key areas. The first area features sports fields, recreational zones, and expansive green spaces for outdoor activities. The second area offers a sandy beach with centrally located wooden benches, creating a serene and relaxing atmosphere. The third area is an enclosed garden with extensive green spaces and trees, providing a lush and tranquil environment.
Part of the Mubarakiya development projects, the Imam Abdulrahman Al Faisal-Al Saud Museum narrates the story of the Al Saud family and the history of Souk Al Mubarakiya. It also highlights events that reflect the deep-rooted historical ties between the ruling families and the strong, enduring relationship between Kuwait and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and their people. The museum’s design draws inspiration from traditional Sadu patterns and earthy, terracotta-coloured materials, adhering to the architectural footprint of the ancient urban fabric.
As for the Retal Mosque project, it is distinguished for being a sculpted gem, equipped with harmonious prayer halls and corridors. It serves as a serene oasis that blends the spirit of tradition with modern innovation in a unique manner, with a strong emphasis on sustainability elements. The project is also a previous winner of the first place in the Abdul Latif Al Fozan Award for Mosque Architecture.
Commenting on the occasion, Pace CEO Tarek Shuaib said: “We are honoured to have three of our projects nominated for the finals at WAF. This is a monumental achievement for us at Pace, showcasing the relentless dedication and innovative spirit that drive us to create exceptional designs adhering to the highest standards of quality and excellence.”
While Shuaib expressed Pace’s excitement to present these three remarkable projects directly before a distinguished panel of judges at this year’s WAF, he also emphasised his belief that architectural design “is a creative process aimed at improving people’s quality of life and creating spaces that enhance social and cultural connections.” He added, “Therefore, we always strive to deliver outstanding projects that reflect this philosophy and meet the needs of the communities we serve.”