id50 2025 – Altqadum
Meet Altqadum, the debut entrant on our id50 power list for 2025, consisting of the region's best architects, interior designers, firms and product designers.
Marwan AlBalushi, Abdulrahim AlKendi and Najd AlBalushi, Altqadum
With a research-driven approach, Altqadum led by Marwan AlBalushi was the recipient of the 2024 Dubai Design Week Urban commissions for ‘TukTukDum’, which received city-wide acclaim for its playful take on the table and Omani musical culture. The firm this year also launched ‘DumTukTuk’ at Oman Design Week. The interactive installation brought the joy of playing traditional Omani Mesendu drums, which were created with the help of local drum-makers.
The firm’s meticulous archival skills and cultural insights became the cornerstone of the studio’s approach, leading the firm to explore Omani identity, documenting the nuances of traditional architecture. The striking Bab Al Salam Mosque, also designed by the studio, continues to draw international acclaim. As Altqadum expands its portfolio, the trio is currently working on projects across the UAE, including a mosque in Sharjah, the redesign of an office building in Dubai Media City, homes in Jumeirah and Abu Dhabi, and a new restaurant in Dar Al Wasl.
Read their cover story in our October 2024 issue
View the complete id50 list.
The Latest
Saving Our Planet Through Regenerative Architecture
Eywa Tree of Life is designed to harmonise with nature, restore surrounding ecosystems, and support human health and longevity.
A Home Away from Home
This home, designed by Blush International at the Atlantis The Royal Residences, perfectly balances practicality and beauty
Design Take: China Tang Dubai
Heritage aesthetics redefined through scale, texture, and vision.
Dubai Design Week: A Retrospective
The identity team were actively involved in Dubai Design Week and Downtown Design, capturing collaborations and taking part in key dialogues with the industry. Here’s an overview.
Highlights of Cairo Design Week 2025
Art, architecture, and culture shaped up this year's Cairo Design Week.
A Modern Haven
Sophie Paterson Interiors brings a refined, contemporary sensibility to a family home in Oman, blending soft luxury with subtle nods to local heritage
Past Reveals Future
Maison&Objet Paris returns from 15 to 19 January 2026 under the banner of excellence and savoir-faire
Sensory Design
Designed by Wangan Studio, this avant-garde space, dedicated to care, feels like a contemporary art gallery
Winner’s Panel with IF Hub
identity gathered for a conversation on 'The Art of Design - Curation and Storytelling'.
Building Spaces That Endure
identity hosted a panel in collaboration with GROHE.
Asterite by Roula Salamoun
Capturing a moment of natural order, Asterite gathers elemental fragments into a grounded formation.
Maison Aimée Opens Its New Flagship Showroom
The Dubai-based design house opens its new showroom at the Kia building in Al Quoz.