Sadu House is an artistic house and museum in Kuwait City, Kuwait, located near the Kuwait National Museum.
History of Al Sadu House
Constructed in 1936 by Youssef Al Marzouk, a prominent figure in Kuwait, AlSadu House stands as a testament to traditional Kuwaiti architecture. Overlooking the seafront, this distinguished residence boasts four open courtyards adorned with intricate Indian-inspired decorations. Notable features include ornate wooden doors from Karachi and iron fixtures adorning the windows, all meticulously crafted under the supervision of esteemed Kuwaiti builder Rashid Al Benai.
Renowned for its innovative construction, AlSadu House was one of the first structures in Kuwait to utilize reinforced concrete, sparking widespread interest among locals upon its completion.
In 1938, the house changed hands, coming under the ownership of Youssef Shereen Behbehani. Under his stewardship, a new floor was added, along with European-style fireplaces in the diwaniya rooms, further enhancing its grandeur.
Transitioning into the modern era, the house found new purpose in the 1970s when it was acquired by the State, initially under the Ministry of Information and later by the National Council for Culture, Arts, and Letters. In 1980, it was reborn as AlSadu House, dedicated to the preservation and promotion of Kuwait’s weaving and textile heritage.
Following a meticulous restoration in 2006, AlSadu House resumed its cultural mission, serving as a guardian of Kuwaiti heritage and social history. Today, it continues to play a vital role in preserving the country’s rich weaving traditions, bridging the gap between rural desert craftsmanship and urbanized creativity. With a steadfast commitment to cultural identity and contemporary artistic expression, AlSadu House remains a beacon of Kuwaiti heritage and creativity.