Read ‘The Influential Issue’ – Note from the editor - March 2025

For The Influential Issue, we wanted to explore the power of place – rather than people – as an influence, as it’s so often within spaces that we find community, creativity and sanctuary. From a breathtaking hotel carved into granite massifs and mythic desertscapes to a solar-powered, zero-energy overwater resort whose villas glow like ethereal orbs, these projects are designed to truly exist in harmony with nature. Another resort, perched on the edge of the world’s largest caldera, further proves that architecture can enhance rather than take away from the landscapes that inspire it.

With Maison&Objet behind us, we bring you the highlights from its January edition and give you a sneak peek into Salone del Mobile in Milan, taking place between 8 and 13 April. With the theme of ‘Thought for Humans’, it’s clear that while sustainability, technology and inventiveness are still front and centre of the fair, it’s the refocus towards the ‘why’ that makes it compelling to attend.

In our cover story, we take you behind the scenes into the design story of Gerbou – the much-awaited Emirati hospitality concept which blends culture, sustainability and collab-orative design. What I love most about this project is the depth of storytelling, thought and intention that forms it, embracing the concept of collaboration in all forms. If you prefer to hear rather than read the story, you can listen to our podcast episode with Sheikha Lateefa bint Maktoum and Kristina Zanic on our YouTube or Spotify channels: @identityae.

From futuristic 3D-printed restaurants to remarkable log homes, this issue also explores the full spectrum of design’s relationship with the environment; working in a cycle that flows from place to people. Don’t miss the feature on E+A Studio’s incredible work in Satwa, where their urban interventions are bringing the community closer together. In The Spaces that Shape Us, we also examine how certain environments influence human behaviour, creativity and cultural identity.

This month, our design focus turns to bathrooms – spaces that have evolved beyond their basic function into wellness sanctuaries. Long considered a place for ‘aah’ moments, bathrooms today are designed as havens for reflection and self-care. We hope you always find time for these moments.