I do what they say I can’t.
Meet Asmaa Alsaleh – an architectural engineer from Kuwait. Asmaa is the first Kuwaiti to hold a Master’s degree in Building Information Modelling and is on a mission to bring awareness of BIM in Kuwait as she believes it will be the new norm in the building industry.
We enjoyed sitting with Asmaa this month for this interview and learn more about her and her passion for architecture.
Please introduce yourself to our readers.
Hello my name is Asmaa Alsaleh. I am an Architectural Engineer and the founder of Asmaa Alsaleh for Digital Construction and Consultation company.
Tell us about your education.
I hold a Bachelor’s degree in Civil and Architectural Engineering, and a Master’s degree in Building Information Modeling and Integrated Design. I am the first Kuwaiti to hold a Master’s degree in BIM.
How did you find your way into the field of architecture? Who or what inspired you?
My dream of being an Architect started when I was 8 years old. My dad always took me to the building site of our new family home and I was fascinated how a 3D designed on paper was being constructed into real life. I remember I had the 3D design printed on paper, I coloured it with colouring pencils and hid it under my bed and used to take it out from time to time to look at it. I was so sure I’d be an Architect, yet I ended up to be an Architectural Engineer. And yes, there’s a difference between them both.
What lead you choose BIM & Integrated design for your Masters degree?
I wanted to do my Masters in Architecture when I came across the course BIM and Integrated design. I read into it and immediately decided this is the future that I wanted. It will be the new norm in construction in Kuwait.
What project have you worked on so far?
The first project I worked on was The Avenues mall phase 3. After that, I worked on several military engineering projects. I also worked on the Commercial Boulevard District project Qatar, Kuwait Mall project, Capital Markets Authority Tower project, South Sabah AlAhmed residential housing and neighbourhood service buildings, and since the past year I have been working on private villa’s projects through my own firm.
When and why did you decide to open your own company?
I have a thirst for success and I felt I would do it perfectly if I was doing what I love the most. So, one day I’ll be able to give back to my country.
What kind of challenges do you face in your work and how do you overcome them?
The biggest challenge is putting myself out in the business world and building my name.
How did you get your first projects for your new firm?
Of course, my family. My sister and brother-in-law gave me the chance to design their house.
What projects are you working on now?
I am currently working on two private villas.
What misconceptions do you think people have about women working in architecture?
Well, I don’t think there’s any misconception. Actually, Kuwait has more females in Architecture than men.
What is the most important lesson you’ve learned in your career thus far and how did you learn it?
Never stop learning. No matter how old or how long l’ve been working I still get up everyday to learn something new.
What does your desk/working space look like?
Extremely tidy. I only have the items I need for the task in hand on my desk. Everything else is tucked inside the drawers.
What would you still like to achieve as an architect? What are your future plans?
I want to implement the process of BIM in Kuwait as it’s supposed to be implemented in the right way.
Do you have a mentor?
Yes, Prof. Mustafa Alshawi.
What is your motto in life?
I do what they say I can’t.
What are some of your other hobbies?
My other hobbies include reading, sketching, and painting.
How do you perceive yourself as a woman in architecture?
I think that I am on the right path.
What message do you have for other young women interested in following in your footsteps?
Go for it without thinking.
Name your favourite…
Book: Jane Eyre
Building: Sydney Opera House
Movie: The Expendables trilogy
Cuisine: Lebanese
Travel destination: Paris
Your message for us at CP magazine.
Thank you, CP magazine, for this wonderful opportunity. It’s an honour that I was chosen for the cover of the September issue.
I wish you many years of success. Keep up the good work.
