Emirati Modernism by Lodge

Founded by Emirati designer Khadija Almazimi, Lodge reflects her design philosophy which focuses on redefining culture through a contemporary design lens. Using heritage as inspiration, the studio has a vast number of projects completed, from key pieces at the Zayed National Museum to full-fledged design projects. Driven by material exploration, sustainability, and an appreciation for craftsmanship, the studio carefully studied cultural elements and utilises innovative design thinking. Grace and intention define these spaces, which bridge tradition and the future. The studio’s scope of work extends across residential interior design, commercial projects, hospitality and reception design, the creation of bespoke art pieces, as well as material selection. Following a client consultation and project brief, the firm’s design process includes concept development, space planning, 3D visualisation, material selection, and ultimately, project execution and supervision. The studio also designs custom art pieces that reflect its contemporary vision rooted in culture and craftsmanship. Each project is shaped through a thoughtful study of cultural elements and an innovative design approach, resulting in spaces that bridge tradition and the future with elegance and intention.

Recently, the studio has completed two distinct male and female majlises in the UAE for a client. Almazimi shares, “The client was particularly interested in creating spaces that feel modern yet deeply rooted in local identity and tradition.” A dedicated space for receiving guests, a majlis is considered an important symbol of hospitality and generosity in Emirati society and culture. It is often separated from the rest of the home to maintain family privacy and is traditionally divided into a men’s majlis and a women’s majlis, each with its own distinct character. In this project, the designers approach the majlis not merely as a seating area, but as a cultural symbol that reflects the values of Emirati society – generosity, respect, and social connection. “This is expressed through a contemporary vision that blends modernity with identity, in what can best be described as ‘Emirati Modernism’,” shares Almazimi.

The men’s majlis is inspired by the agal (a traditional accessory worn by men in the Gulf to secure their headdress) and the falcon, both powerful symbols representing the dignity and strength of the Emirati man. This is expressed by using royal blue as the primary colour, inspired by the sea’s depth, with an aim to symbolise stability and composure. Curved seating arrangements enhance a sense of gathering and inclusivity, and artistic and geometric elements are abstractly inspired by the falcon, carrying forward the theme. A feature wall takes centre stage, with circular compositions reflecting structure and order, combined with materials that reinforce a contemporary aesthetic.

The women’s majlis draws inspiration from pearls and the traditional Emirati burqa, symbolising beauty and feminine identity. Almazimi used deep red tones throughout the space to create a sense of warmth and understated luxury. Soft, flowing curves in the seating and cushion arrangements enhance the atmosphere of comfort and elegance. Carefully selected textile and lighting details express delicacy and refinement, complemented by wall artworks that introduce a contemporary cultural layer celebrating feminine expression. Both majlises incorporate design elements inspired by contemporary Emirati artists such as Aljoud Lootah, Khalid Shafar, and Hajar Al Tenaiji, enriching the space with artistic depth while reinforcing a strong local identity within a modern framework. It represents a dialogue between heritage and modernity, where cultural symbols are reinterpreted as contemporary design elements that reflect the evolving spirit of the UAE today.