TSCK is a cultural achievement and educational facility enriched with knowledge, which portrays fascinating architectural design that reflects Islamic art and culture. The walls contain ceramic depictions of stories that tell of Kuwait’s history. The main building is comprised of three main attractions: the Aquarium, Discovery Place and IMAX Theater. It also houses supporting services such as Gift Shop, Cafe and Food court.
History
TSCK was presented to the citizens and visitors of Kuwait by Sheikh Jaber Al-Ahmed Al-Jaber Al-Sabah (God rest his soul). He was inspired to build the center while overseeing the board meetings for The Kuwait Foundation for the Advancement of Sciences in 1992. The foundation aimed to create a hub where Kuwait could demonstrate its advancement and place in modern society, in addition to confirming its leadership role in the protection of the environment in the Arabian Peninsula.
Architecture
TSCK’s exterior consists of a rich array of textured and colored precast panels, wood windows and screens, fabric canopies, and glass (to enclosure the central spaces). TSCK occupies an area of 80,000 sqm, some of which is reclaimed land. The built-up space of the center is approximately 18,000 sqm and is compromised of three major attractions: the Aquarium, Discovery Place, and the IMAX theatre. In addition, the center also houses a gift shop, cafes, and restaurants. The top floors are the premises of the administration offices, training and conference halls. The exterior walls of the center are mud colored, inspired by traditional Kuwaiti dwellings of the past. The tent and sail like structures that appear above and around the center are reminiscent of Kuwait’s maritime history. The ceramic floors of the corridors inside the center contain Islamic art patterns and the walls reveal traditional (SADU) weaving designs.