In 2017 docomomo International has informed about a threat facing Al-Sawaber Complex (by Arthur Erickson, Kuwait City, 1981).

Recently docomomo has learned that the complex faces imminent demolition, despite being listed at the World Monuments Fund (website) and enjoying a growing public popularity, with groups advocating for its preservation.

Built in 1981, based on the design from 1977 by Arthur Erickson, the Al-Sawaber Complex aimed to provide numerous Kuwaiti families with private, intimate housing, within the city centre. In recent years a lack of maintenance, arson in some of the units, escalating land values in the surrounding area, and gentrification have rendered the complex vulnerable to demolition.

A petition for the preservation of the Al-Sawaber Complex has been opened by the “Save Al Sawaber” Group. You can find it here.

Docomomo International expresses full support of the actions undertaken in order to preserve this unique housing complex, either within the original function or reused. Docomomo would also like to encourage everyone to sign the petition. You can visit the group’s Instagram profile for more information.