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Roar has recently designed a new office for a global consulting firm that boldly reimagines the UAE's landscapes and cultural heritage into a workplace
Spanning 2,320 sqm, the consulting firm designed by Roar embodies Dubai’s spirit of innovation and connection, weaving the UAE’s natural phenomena – mangroves, coral reefs, dunes, and wadis – into colour-coded zones that foster intuitive navigation and functionality. This design creates a sensory journey, blending the region’s landscapes with the firm’s forward-looking vision for the future of work. From custom furniture by brands like Herman Miller and Vitra to finishes such as Mirodec coloured mirrors and Kaprel partitions, the interior scheme demonstrates meticulous attention to detail.
Pallavi Dean, Founder and Creative Director at Roar, comments, “We wanted to create a workplace that makes people feel something – a connection to this city, this culture, and the work they do here. This isn’t a cookie-cutter office; it’s a celebration of identity and purpose.”
The office is split into various zones – a green zone representative of the mangroves, a blue zone representative of the sea, a pink zone reminiscent of coral, a terracotta zone representing the wadis, and a beige zone representative of the dunes. Beyond its zones, the office is packed with thoughtful touches. Arabic cultural motifs punctuate the space, with installations utilising innovative materials such as mirrors, LED tubes, and bronze.
Here’s a breakdown of the areas:
The journey begins with The Oasis, a striking entrance lounge that captures the tranquillity of the UAE’s mangroves. A tree grows through a custom-designed collaboration table that serves as both a visual centrepiece and a symbol of growth. Green acrylic accents highlight the space, complemented by bronze exhibition pillars, a mosaic floor, and a mirrored ceiling that amplifies light and movement. From casual conversations to focused work, every element encourages interaction while grounding visitors in the natural world.
The calm of the Arabian Gulf informs the open-plan workspaces in the Blue Zone. Overhead, gradient acoustic baffles mimic gentle ocean waves, softening sound and creating a sense of fluidity. Secluded phone booths and private focus rooms provide spaces for deep work, while flexible single offices are outfitted with standing desks, lounge seating, and custom finishes. Even areas without natural light have been transformed using mirrored stretch ceilings, creating a sense of openness and continuity that feels organic and unobtrusive.
Playful yet sophisticated, the Coral section energises collaborative spaces and features hidden printer stations that combine functionality with artistry. The café area stands out with ribbed and gradient mirrors, vibrant shades of pink, and a ceiling that layers bronze, green, and pink mirrored elements. It’s a space for both informal gatherings and larger events, offering a mix of seating options, including bench niches and bar tables, all designed for flexibility and comfort.
A floating staircase defines this zone, its bronze base and glass balustrade creating a dramatic focal point. The surrounding lounge spaces offer various setups for relaxation and collaboration, mirroring the winding paths and layered textures of the UAE’s wadis. Adjacent to the staircase is a staff lounge designed for privacy, featuring a pantry, lockers, and a focus nook. Thoughtful details like pantry joinery and sand-inspired finishes bring a tactile dimension to the design.
Taking cues from the serenity of the desert, the Dunes zone is a haven for focused work and quiet reflection. Acoustic baffles overhead mimic the rolling contours of sand dunes, while the colour palette – soft beige with subtle gradients – invites calm and clarity. Workspaces here are adaptable, designed to meet individual needs with standing desks, custom finishes, and furniture that merges form with function.
Wellbeing is a cornerstone of the design. Amenities include dedicated wellness rooms, a Majlis room honouring Emirati hospitality, and multipurpose spaces that adapt to diverse work styles. Each area is designed to inspire and engage.
This project reinforces Roar’s reputation for creating spaces that are as innovative as they are culturally resonant.
Photography by Yasser Ibrahim
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