Read ‘Greener Perspectives’ – Note from the editor

In this issue, we look at sustainability through the lens of endurance – exploring how architecture, interior design, materials and philosophies can come together to create spaces that truly stand the test of time.

Over the summer, we hosted a roundtable of incredible Emirati women from the design and creative industries in collaboration with Casamia in honour of Emirati Women’s Day. The roundtable focused not only on celebrating them but also on what Emirati identity means in the context of their work, and explored ways to collaborate as well as identifying the unique opportunities that have helped their careers to flourish.

Our cover story shines the spotlight on Henrique Dias, Principal and Middle East Hospitality Design Director at DLR Group. A strong advocate for sustainability as more than just a checklist, Dias reflects on the firm’s growth journey in the region and its lasting impact on the built environment.

We are also happy to announce identity will be attending Feria Habitat Valencia, bringing our homegrown title global yet again this year.

Of course, this issue would not be complete with some truly stunning homes. XBD Collective’s bespoke villa in Dubai’s Hills Grove blends contemporary elegance with high-end craftsmanship, whereas the V Penthouse by Badie Architects is a bold exploration of materiality and spatial harmony. Throughout these projects, there’s a recurring theme: a renewed appreciation for craftsmanship and the idea that less, when considered deeply, truly becomes more.

We love a reimagining, so we also take you to the heart of Cairo, where an old lecture hall at Ain Shams University turns into a theatre. In India, we take you into a sustainable home in Goa, where the home’s orientation and spatial planning allow for natural ventilation and daylighting, reducing the need for artificial cooling and lighting.

There are only a few more days left for submissions for the identity Design Awards. We have an incredible jury this year that we are proud to announce. Submissions are free to enter, and close on 15 September 2025. We’re excited to receive your entries!