• EA Residence, NAO
• Verdigris, WANDERS WAGNER ARCHITECTS
• Jungle Moon Villa, Vahid Joudi Studio
• Al Khawaneej Villa, BMA Studio
• Mr. Yogesh’s Private Villa, MEMAR Architecture
• Villa Gaia, VSHD Design
• Shell House, AlHumaidhi Architects
• Naia Residences, NIU

Commercial

• Zest Café, Vahid Joudi Studio
• Green Coast, Rqitects
• Facade Reimagined, Free Line Engineering Consultants
• Al Bustan Ladies Beach, BIVA Design

Public building

• Rashid And Latifa School, Kidzink Office of Design and Architecture – KODA
• AlUla South Gas Station, SAL Architects
• The Royal Stables Redevelopment, A.D.D CONSULTANT
• Masdar Mosque & Food Hub, X Architects
• Saddling Boxes & Private Deck, Studio D04
• Al Fanar School, EMKAAN
• King Abdullah Financial District Metro Station, Zaha Hadid Architects
• Nad Al Sheba Mall, Gensler

Hotel

• The Red Sea EDITION, Rockwell Group
• The St. Regis Al Mouj Muscat Resort, Ibrahim Jaidah Architects & Engineers
• Mandarin Oriental Downtown, UNStudio with Werner Sobek
• Shebara Resort, Killa Design
• Jumeirah Marsa Al Arab, Killa Design

Cultural building

• Saddling Boxes & Private Deck, Studio D04
• St Marron Church, mb design studios
• Bassam Freiha Art Foundation, A.D.D CONSULTANT
• Bait Elowal, MADA 360

Featured above: Bassam Freiha Art Foundation by A.D.D CONSULTANT and Mandarin Oriental Downtown, UNStudio with Werner Sobek

The post identity Design Awards 2025 shortlist: Architecture appeared first on identity.

• Peas In A Pod, Kidzink
• Bee Hotel, Datecrete
• The Formula, Agata Kurzela studio
• Al-Mu’azzi Chair, In Detail Design Center
• Ze+Met, Studio Aya Moug
• Telad, One Third Studio
• Divine Connection, Kahhal 1871 X Shaikha Al-Sulaiti
• Interfered Table, High Sense Studio

Outdoor space

• Marsa Boulevard Trio Pop Up, Metric Interior design
• Abrahamic Family House Pop-Up, Metric Interior design
• Covebeach, Prospect Design International
• Layali Diriyah 2025, Designlab Experience
• Shifting Sands, UT-R Studio
• Satwa Beautification Project, E+A Studio
• Abu Dhabi Maritime’s ‘Community Activation Programme’ Pilot Projects, LWK + PARTNERS
• MountainTop – PoolSide, studiolibani

Project of the future (Big Scale)

• NH Collection, B8 Architecture
• 140, IDA
• Burj Azizi, AE7
• Verve City Walk, U+A
• Phase 1 Landscape Of Sultan Haitham City, LWK + PARTNERS
• Canopy By Hilton The Point, DLR Group
• La Mer By Elie Saab, Dewan Architects + Engineers
• Satwa Wave Residences, EMKAAN

Project of the future (Small Scale)

• Retail Showroom, BMA Studio
• Karl Lagerfeld Villas, RSP
• Waldorf Astoria Residences Dubai Business Bay By NABNI Developers, Carlos Ott/ Hirsch Bedner Associates
• Highgrove, XYZ Designers
• Villa Mila, Nellis Architecture
• Z Majlis, NIU
• Creative House, Rumah Interiors
• Bayt Al Nakhl, WOLFGANG REGNER ARCHITECTS

Featured above; Karl Lagerfeld Villas by RSP and Satwa Wave Residences by EMKAAN

You can now reserve your seats and tables here.

For more information on the awards, click here.

The post identity Design Awards 2025 shortlist: Innovations in Design appeared first on identity.

What prompted the decision to shift from design-and-build to focusing purely on build?

Mihir: It really came down to one word: specialisation. The kind of work now being envisioned in the UAE—especially in the high-end space—is something that hasn’t been seen before. Clients are coming in with bigger budgets, bolder visions, and higher expectations. But the delivery side hasn’t kept pace. It’s often messy. Contractors overpromise. Quality doesn’t match aspiration. That’s where we saw an opportunity. We already had the facility, the team, and the technical know-how. So we decided to double down. We’re not trying to do everything anymore—we’re focused on becoming super-specialists who can actually bring these ambitious visions to life, locally and reliably.

How has Designsmith evolved over the last decade?

Mihir: We started out as a general contractor and fit-out company. As the market shifted, we pivoted into design-and-build—mostly because we felt like the design being delivered across the board was getting repetitive and generic. There was a creative gap that needed filling, so we stepped in. But over time, we realised our true edge was in execution. Today, we’ve split into two independent verticals: a fully specialised joinery division led by my brother and co-founder Dhaval, and a construction division under me. Both are geared toward one thing—delivering top-tier build quality with zero compromise.

What are Designsmith’s biggest strengths today?

Mihir: Our biggest strength is scale, paired with depth. We operate out of a 200,000 sq ft facility in Al Quoz, with nearly a thousand people in-house. But beyond the numbers, it’s our direct involvement as founders that sets us apart. My background is in architecture. My brother is a civil engineer. We’re not developers. We’re here to obsess over detail, chase perfection, and build things that genuinely last.

The Designsmith Headquarters

Why should architects or designers choose to work with Designsmith?

Mihir: It’s about trust, and it’s about delivery. We’re aiming to offer what we call the “Designsmith Experience.” We’re bridging the gap between what’s available globally and what’s actually accessible locally. We’ve all seen those projects in Europe and thought—why can’t we have that here? We’re saying: you can. And we’ll build it for you. We want collaborators to come to us not just because we can execute a plan, but because we can elevate it. We speak the design language. We understand intent. And we’re just as invested in the outcome as they are.

How has this business model shift impacted the way your team works—internally and with external collaborators?

Mihir: It’s been transformational. The biggest advantage is that our engineering and project management teams have a design foundation—so they’re able to translate design vision into built reality much faster. Our exposure has also increased. Instead of largely working on in-house designs, we’re now collaborating with multiple design firms. That’s fast-tracked our learning in a big way. We’re constantly tweaking our processes, sharpening our detail work, and pushing ourselves to deliver better every time. There’s a strong, collective clarity in the team — on the direction, the ambition, and the market we’re set to lead. And that is energising.

What kind of projects are you most excited to take on in this new phase?

Mihir: High-stakes build projects where quality is everything, and there’s zero room for error. We’ve delivered this level of precision at smaller scales — now we’re scaling up to entire buildings with the same attention to detail. Our focus is currently on ultra-luxury residential and hospitality.

How do you approach quality, timelines, and delivery on a project?

Mihir: We start with the end in mind. Every project begins with a clear vision of the final product. Once that’s locked, everything flows backward from there. Every decision is intentional. Every handover, every tolerance, every step is defined. It’s not a matter of just meeting deadlines—it’s about protecting quality at every single phase. And while we’re constantly evolving, we’ve built a strong internal rhythm: learn, improve, move. Then repeat. That’s how we stay sharp.

Any learnings or pivotal moments that helped shape the direction of the business?

Mihir: Deepening our focus — choosing one thing and going all in, instead of constantly reinventing the wheel. We realised we didn’t want to be generalists. We wanted to become specialists — really good at what we do, and intentional about how we do it. That clarity has shaped everything, from how we work to how we grow.

What sets your build approach apart in a market that’s increasingly competitive?

Mihir: Relationship-building. We don’t treat clients as transactions — the goal is to build genuine, long-term connections. That kind of trust creates work that lasts, and relationships that do too.

What’s been the most rewarding part of this journey so far?

Mihir: When a client picks up the phone and tells someone else they should work with us — that’s a real win. Or when you walk into a room and someone’s already saying good things about your work without you even being there. That word-of-mouth is what keeps us going.

Images: Supplied 

The post Designsmith’s new direction in the market appeared first on identity.

Below, we explore how you can use the fragrances to create a genuinely calming environment, featuring some of our most loved products, including Mark Des Vince Citrus Home Fragrance, Nue Home Freshener Meadow, and Holy Oud Mubhakar Al Rouh Al Emarat.

The Role of Fragrance in Relaxation

When setting the mood in a room, the last thing anyone might consider is the scent they’re using. But whether you’re creating a cozy reading nook or a distraction-free workspace, the atmosphere can shift with just a hint of the right fragrance. Many think scents are only about aroma, but they do more than just smell nice.

Choosing and applying relaxing fragrances can help reduce stress, promote mindfulness, and enhance overall well-being.

Choose the Right Fragrance for Your Space

Different scents inspire different emotions and suit various settings. To create a relaxing atmosphere, consider soft, natural, and not overly overwhelming fragrances. Here are some of the V Perfumes’ signature picks and how they can impact your space.

1. Mark Des Vince Citrus Home Fragrance

The Mark Des Vince Citrus Home Fragrance is an excellent choice if you’re looking for an uplifting yet calming aroma. Its fresh citrus notes add energy while maintaining a clean and comforting essence. Use this fragrance in the living room or kitchen to balance vibrancy and relaxation. 

Tips for Use:

• Lightly spray the fragrance throughout your room to keep the scent subtle and inviting.

• Pair it with soft lighting to enhance the uplifting yet soothing vibe.

• Use it mid-morning to keep your mood balanced throughout your day.

2. Nue Home Freshener Meadow

Bring the beauty of nature into your home with Nue Home Freshener Meadow. Reminiscent of lush meadows and blooming greenery, this fragrance promotes relaxation and grounding your space. Its gentle floral and earthy undertones are ideal for bedrooms or meditation areas. 

Tips for Use: 

• Spray the scent onto fabric surfaces such as curtains or cushions to let the fragrance linger subtly. 

• Use it in the evening to wind down after a long day. 

• Add to your self-care routine by incorporating this fragrance into moments of relaxation, such as reading or practicing yoga.

3. Holy Oud Mubhakar Al Rouh Al Emarat

For a more luxurious and profoundly soothing aroma, Holy Oud Mubhakar Al Rouh Al Emarat offers the richness of oud. This fragrance is perfect for creating a sophisticated and peaceful atmosphere, particularly in spaces where you want to retreat and reflect.

Tips for Use:

• Place the fragrance in a diffuser for a continuous and even scent throughout a larger space.

• Pair it with plush textures like soft blankets or silky cushions to heighten the experience.

• Use this fragrance during quiet evenings for its profoundly relaxing effect.

Practical Tips for Enhancing Relaxation with Fragrance

Once you’ve selected the perfect scents for your home, it’s time to integrate them thoughtfully into your environment. Here are some practical tips to get the most out of your home fragrances.

1. Utilise Layers of Fragrance

Layering fragrances can create an immersive, multi-dimensional atmosphere instead of relying on a single scent source. For example, spray your desired home fragrance around the room, use scented candles, and incorporate reed diffusers or potpourri in smaller spaces. 

2. Refresh at the Right Time 

Timing matters when using fragrances to influence your mood. Use energizing scents like the Mark Des Vince Citrus Home Fragrance in the morning to start your day positively, while calming fragrances like Nue Home Freshener Meadow are best for evening wind-down routines.

3. Enhance with Sensory Elements 

Pair your fragrances with other sensory elements such as dim lighting, soft music, or soothing textures for complete relaxation. These combinations can dramatically amplify the calming effect and simultaneously engage multiple senses, creating a tranquil atmosphere. 

4. Don’t Overdo It 

When using home fragrances, subtlety is key. A heavy or overpowering scent may cause discomfort, while a light, evenly distributed aroma creates a pleasant environment. Experiment with small amounts of fragrance at first before increasing as needed.

Fragrance Zones in Your Home

Dedicate specific zones to different scents to get the most out of your home fragrances. This can enhance functionality and relaxation throughout your space. 

• Living Room: Use energizing, fresh scents, like Mark Des Vince Citrus Home Fragrance, to keep the area lively yet comfortable. 

• Bedroom: To prepare your mind and body for rest, opt for soothing and tranquil aromas like Nue Home Freshener Meadow. 

• Study/Workspace: Utilise Holy Oud Mubhakar Al Rouh Al Emarat for a calming yet focused environment, helping you focus on your tasks.

A relaxing home or workspace is essential in a fast-paced world, and home fragrances make it achievable without significant time or effort. Whether you’re drawn to the refreshing zest of Mark Des Vince Citrus, the natural serenity of Nue Home Freshener Meadow, or the luxurious calm of Holy Oud Mubhakar Al Rouh Al Emarat, finding the right scent will transform your environment into a haven of relaxation. A fragrance guide can help you find your signature perfume.

The post How to Create a Relaxing Atmosphere with Our Home Fragrances appeared first on identity.