Kai Wertel studied architecture and urban design at the University of Stuttgart, Germany, graduating in 2007 and qualifying as a registered architect in 2009. Together with Amna AlSager, Kai founded AlSager Wertel Architects (AWA) in 2020.

Starting as an intern and later as a graduate architect, Kai went on to have a 12-year career at Foster + Partners, where his projects included the Dolder Grand Hotel in Zurich, Switzerland; Apple Campus in Cupertino, USA; and the National Bank of Kuwait Headquarters Tower in Kuwait City. On the latter, he was the Associate Partner and Team Leader responsible for design from inception to completion, relocating to Kuwait for the construction supervision phase in 2014. On this project, Kai was able to apply his interest and knowledge in specialist 3D modelling on the tower design, combining sculptural form, structural innovation and environmental integration to create an architectural landmark for Kuwait City. The NBK Tower is the first in Kuwait to achieve LEED Gold.

Kai‘s approach to architecture-informed through the experience in innovative design studios as well as on construction sites – is to unite an aesthetic driven by clear visual ideas with functionality, efficiency, analysis of the built and cultural context, as well as constructability.

Kai and Amna met at Foster + Partners in London and worked closely as part of the site team on the NBK Tower. Following its successful completion, Kai and Amna decided to commit their shared architectural vision to a new office with its base between Kuwait and Berlin, and collaborating with world-class talent around the globe.