An architect by trade, local interior design house SEC interiors Managing Director Arch. Kamal Elatawy specializes in architectural, fit-out and interior design. A multitalented design mogul, Kamal has honed his trades by working with teams from around the globe over the last 25 years. His different expertise in architecture and interior design is based on previous work cooperation with international firms in Egypt, GCC, U.S & Japan, which exposed him to different principals and schools of design.
Speaking on his experience on working with one of the pioneer American firms specializing in spas and health facilities: “It was great exposure to the Western culture, and its ideas for aesthetics. The notion that most of the spaces are open layouts with clean lines, the non existence of clutter and overcrowding was mesmerizing,” he continued, “For me, stripping the space from unnecessary accessories and objects to enjoy the beauty of its essence, is very different from what we practice in the Middle East, our clients are drawn to bold designs with beautifully selected accessories and artworks, making their project seem like a small museum where every corner possesses a unique identity. It’s what keeps us, as designers, on our toes.”
The wonderfully seasoned architect joined SECi when he sought out new challenges. Kamal didn’t have to look far as SEC Interiors was entering the fit-out field. As design and execution are his forte and armed with a capable team, it was only a matter of time until SECi became unstoppable. Structural Engineering Company, as a mother company, had several departments working in different fields. While each complimented the other, interior design and fit-out was taken care of as part of the construction department. So in 2014, Kamal made it his sole mission to push SECi in the market as an independent entity based on existing clients and a solid business plan to include new ones, until it grew into the design and fit-out house it is today.
“Our strategy is design and build,” he stated. Saving client’s time, energy and money – SECi can create the dream from design to reality while also involving the client in every step of the way. Utilizing their own materials and resources, SEC Interiors has created a team that provides clients with all their needs – even going beyond a project’s completion. The team handles every project as though it were their own – “It’s like we’re their partners,” he explained, “Our ethos is give them the high quality of service every client deserves and considering every aspect of any project from the initial conversation to a reality – we leave no room for error.” If a client has an idea for materials and design, SECi can advise them toward what would work best for their concept. This way, SECi saves the client time and money by pointing them in the right direction. Thus providing them with a beautiful design that won’t break down over time due to lack of compatible materials. “We offer every client a consultation to make sure there are no flaws,” Kamal continued, “We’re not doing it for the money, we do it for the integrity of the design.”
Constantly ahead of the game, SECi seeks to provide their clients with the latest innovations and best tools available. As a part of this mission, SECi has introduced virtual reality (VR) technology to their clients. “It’s much easier than tearing down a wall after it’s been built!” Kamal laughed. Photographing the space using a camera with 360 degree capturing capabilities, SECi’s team can then implement a complete design in virtual reality for the client to approve. “This way, I don’t have to take the laptop or tons of paper drawings to the client,” he went on, “I can take the VR glasses and provide my clients with a complete view of their concept, like it’s already built!” Always seeking new ideas, Kamal is also working on several other projects to provide the market with the best products and services available. So stay tuned!
For more information you can visit their website www.secikw.com or follow them on Facebook and Instagram @SECIKw. SECi can be found in Sharq, Kuwait City, St. 155 Riyadh Center, or call them on 2246 4381 or 6000 2578.
