ID50 2025 – The Debuts

THE DEBUTS

Reem Al Qamzi, R.qitects

As founder and lead architect of her firm, Dubai-based R.qitects, Reem Al Qamzi’s design philosophy focuses on meaningful, timeless spaces that reflect cultural authenticity. “We believe in creating spaces that resonate with their users, blending local traditions with global influences to craft environments that are both personal and enduring,” she says.

As an Emirati architect growing up in a city that is constantly changing, Al Qamzi is excited for the future. “I feel like architecture in the UAE over the past few years has been greatly focused on the modern and the contemporary and on creating something very ‘different’,” she says. “But nowadays I find that a lot of the designs are going back to the fundamentals, back to contextualising architecture to the city’s heritage and culture but with a contemporary/modern aesthetic and in a manner that suits our times.”

While celebrating 10 years of design, R.qitects also won a highly commended award at the identity Design Awards 2024 for Villa OL – a villa where the paradigm of the traditional Arabic courtyard is explored and where climate and context ensure the courtyard plays a vital role, modulating internal private space and evoking the memory of ancient Arabic architecture.

Another standout project by Al Qamzi is the HMS Mirdif Hospital, completed in December 2021. This project was meticulously designed to meet international quality and safety standards, as well as global hospital regulations. At its heart, the design reflects a deep understanding of Emirati culture, emphasising hospitality and privacy.

When asked about a dream project she would like to pursue, Al Qamzi said she would like to design a nursery, school or hotel. Currently, she and her team are working on diverse projects to kick off the year, including a new hospital, a mosque that will begin construction soon and a new F&B outlet, as well as a luxury residence due to be handed over shortly. On being asked her what empowers her, the architect shares, “The ability to transform abstract ideas into tangible, meaningful designs empower me by giving me a deep sense of purpose and fulfilment. Knowing that through our work we impact and shape people’s lives – whether it’s through creating beautiful, meaningful spaces or inspiring designs – empowers me to keep going. I find empowerment in overcoming challenges with resilience and learning from every experience, as each hurdle strengthens my perspective and adaptability.”

Marwan AlBalushi, Abdulrahim AlKendi and Najd AlBalushi, Altqadum

From top: Najd AlBalushi, Abdulrahim AlKendi, and Marwan AlBalushi

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.

Jassim AlSaddah, Founding Partner and Creative Director at Babnimnim Design Studio

After garnering attention and recognition for the Mamluki Lancet Mosque, AlSaddah and his Kuwait-based studio have announced the commencement of construction for the Arch Mosque in Bahrain and a newly completed Padra Hair Clinic. AlSaddah cites the Kuwait-based Dar Hamad restaurant as another of the studio’s cherished projects – and one that embodies authentic Kuwaiti hospitality. Babnimnim is also overseeing the construction of residential projects. The Founding Partner describes its design philosophy as one that emphasises the seamless integration of interior and exterior elements. “We adopt a comprehensive approach that merges colour and context to reflect the unique lifestyle of each homeowner. Our designs are distinguished by their ability to enhance the living space with vibrant colours and thoughtful architectural continuity, ensuring each one is not only functional but also a vivid expression of personal style,” he says. On being asked what drives him and his team, AlSaddah shares, “Our drive at Babnimnim Design Studio stems from a mix of persistence and consistency, anchored by loyalty and an unyielding curiosity about our craft. Transparent communication is key, both within our team and with our clients. This openness fuels our ability to realise the vision of each project, enabling us to deliver designs that are not only unique but also narratively rich, revealing stories woven into the very DNA of our creations.”

Marco Mangili, Dorotea De Simone, and Alessandro Vaghi, MMA Projects

From left: Alessandro Vaghi, Dorotea De Simone and Marco Mangili

An architecture and interior design firm founded in Italy in 1999 by Marco Mangili, MMA Projects has consistently embarked on some spectacular projects in both the Middle East and China. Their multicultural team made up of architects, designers, engineers, and researchers provide integrated solutions to clients, ranging from residential complexes to commercial spaces, headquarters, and hotels. Marco Mangili handles the Middle Eastern projects, Architect Alessandro Vaghi oversees the Italian and Chinese markets. Interior Designer Dorotea De Simone oversees the interior design projects and communications aspect of the business.  The studio works closely with a carefully selected network of established Italian professionals and artisans with whom they collaborate on project development and execution.

With a focus on contemporary design and expressions, the design philosophy of MMA projects seeks the dialogue between design and scenography, as well as architecture and technology. They then apply this to the context and needs of the client to create both functional and poetic spaces. Harmony and balance are the foundation of the creative code that characterises the minds at MMA Projects – a high visual and aesthetic approach that blends with practicality, functionality, precision, and attention to detail.

Some of the firm’s most notable projects include the soon to be open Mama Shelter hotel in Business Bay for which they worked on the façade design, a contemporary villa in Ajman, the 198,877 sqm Sci-Tech Innovation Prism Park in Shanghai, Hotel Radisson Collection Lingang Shanghai which draws inspiration from the ocean and the galaxy, and a residential stone-clad villa in Pearl Jumeirah that is cantilevered above the water to reveal a stunning sea view. The firm has also notably designed the Axiom headquarters in Dubai – an iconic building divided into three key zones with a central garden by melding sustainability, greenery and technology. The project uses three key materials – cement, black glass and corten steel to give a strong visual impact akin to a large stone viewed from afar.

The studio is currently working on the Ritz Carlton Residences in Business Bay in Dubai; a tower in Shanghai aptly named ‘The Flow of Music’ because of its fluid façade design, and several high-end residential villas in Dubai for local ultra-high net worth families.

Kate Instone, Founder of Blush International

Founder and Creative Director of Blush International, Kate Instone has had a packed year. As well as designing Blush’s new design studio in Al Barari in collaboration with De Gournay, the designer has also designed a large multigenerational home in Al Barari, which involved a global journey in in sourcing the finest finishes, furniture and lighting. Instone has also collaborated with local celebrity Caroline Stanbury on her exciting new portfolio of apartments called Stanbury Towers, where each apartment is designed with a dynamic energy, reflecting Stanbury’s vibrant vision and fashion-forward style. At the core of Instone’s design philosophy is that design matters. “Thoughtful design has the power to make a genuine difference in people’s lives, enhancing how they live and experience their spaces,” she shares. Instone is currently focused on a deeply personal space – her very own home in Dubai. “I see this space as my laboratory, my creative playground. It’s an evolving experiment, and I’m not sure it will ever truly feel ‘finished’,” she shares. When Instone is asked what empowers her and her team, she replies, “We’re incredibly fortunate to have a powerful, dynamic team – that alone is a huge source of inspiration. The collaboration, creativity and energy within our team drive everything we do. Each person brings their own unique perspective, and together we push boundaries, challenge ideas, and elevate every project we take on.”

Waleed Arafa, Founder of Dar Arafa Architecture

Founded in 2006, Dar Arafa Architecture has been creating waves across the world of architecture. This design-build studio, focused on tracing and reviving the Egyptian, Arab and Islamic chains of transmission in the field of architecture and building guilds, is writing an original chapter without negating its rich and successful architectural heritage. In 2024, the studio completed La Maison d’Égypte – a students’ residence in the International University City, Paris, France, while its ‘Seat of Design Power’ pavilion, installed at the historic Cairo Citadel, has received kudos worldwide. The firm has been awarded, shortlisted for and nominated for a total of 20 international architectural awards for its design and build work on Basuna Mosque and Community Center.

The firm has quite a few projects in progress, such as: the first project in Historic Cairo, the Darb al-Labanna Cultural Center; a masterplan and architectural design for an indoors and outdoors art gallery overlooking the pyramid of Sakkara and the pyramids of Abu Sir; a resort in Siwa; a social and sporting club for a multi-national in the west of Cairo; and a private resort to the south of Riyadh, near al-Muzahimyya. They are also in the design phase with a couple of mosques in Bahrain, an Islamic Cultural Complex in the east of Cairo, an educational/administrative building in Aswan and a high-rise overlooking the Nile in Cairo, as well as a housing project in Sohag, in the south of Egypt – among others. When asked what empowers him and his team, Arafa shares, “Observing our designs, after having been constructed and in-use, [and] finding out that our design research, assumptions and decisions were generally accurate and are now efficiently and pleasantly serving the people and communities they were design and built for. We are also empowered by our mistakes; they make us eager to further improve with every new project.”

Claire Craig, Design Director WA International

WA International is a Dubai-based award-winning interior design studio of luxury hotels and resort properties worldwide, with over 20 years of experience in the hospitality market. Established in 1993, the firm has worked with top hotel and resort brands in Dubai, London, Abu Dhabi, Bahrain, Riyadh, Luxor, Mumbai, Buenos Aires, Addis Ababa and Zanzibar to name a few. With a focus on timeless interiors, the firm has built a reputation of innovation, originality, and exceptional style. The talented team brings diversity of experience, fresh perspectives, and excellent technical expertise.

Noteworthy projects include the Park Hyatt Zanzibar, where the firm undertook the restoration of a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the Park Chalet Autograph Collection and Pik Palace Autograph Collection in Azerbaijan, drawing inspiration from the majestic Caucasus Mountains for both resorts. Among the firm’s latest projects is the Ngorongoro Lodge Meliá Collection in Tanzania, which is particularly exciting as it lies on the edge of a crater.  “Due to its remote location on the edge of the Ngorongoro Crater, restoring and refining existing features was our conscious decision.” shares Craig.  “Considerable replanning of all the interiors also exposed the unique qualities of the existing structure.” The firm has also completed over 20 hotels, resorts and branded apartments in Dubai including One&Only The Palm, The St. Regis Downtown Dubai and Sofitel Dubai The Obelisk.

Looking ahead, 2025 promises to be another fascinating year for WA International, with several projects underway. “We always love working on projects in locations with clients who share our view of designing destinations which celebrate the local culture and complements its natural environment. We have several exciting projects we are working on at the moment which includes properties in Luxor, Jaipur, Lusaka, Saudi Arabia and Dubai,” shares Craig. On being asked what empowers Craig and her team, she shares, “The embodiment of enthusiasm, energy and inspiration provided by our clients and their trust and confidence in us to deliver their vision.” When being asked what the firm’s house style is, Craig shares, “It’s always been about respecting our clients’ brief and creating spaces that people love to visit and spend time in.”

Charlie Wu, Founder of Ecru Elements

Guided by a design philosophy that involves working with nature, Charlie Wu and her team at Dubai-based Ecru Elements are currently crafting visionary master developments that aim to redefine how communities experience space, particularly for Gen Z – a demographic with a unique perspective on urban living. “With a focus on cities that boast a young and dynamic population, we’re exploring how this generation responds to new approaches in home and community design,” shares Wu.

Some of Ecru Elements’ significant projects include Dubai-based entrepreneur Mona Kattan’s Kayali headquarters, where Wu and her team translated Kattan’s spiritual vision into a high-energy workspace. The studio also designed Keturah, a luxury residential master development by MAG developers in District 7, MBR City. Drawing from the harmony of nature and the essence of wellbeing, Keturah reimagines modern living with a transformative approach that resonates deeply with today’s lifestyle needs. Conceived during the Covid-19 pandemic, the Regalia tower by local-based developer Deyaar responds to the evolving needs of modern lifestyles by emphasising adaptable and multi-purpose spaces. The design recognises the importance of creating homes where residents can live, work and thrive comfortably. “From co-working spaces and wellness areas to recreational zones and communal gathering spots, Regalia provides a holistic environment that fosters well-being and flexibility,” shares Wu.

When asked what the studio’s design philosophy is, Wu shares that it revolves around creating spaces that shape how people feel, interact and grow. “From fostering spiritual connection to driving economic success, every project is a journey that begins with understanding and ends with meaningful impact,” she states. By putting people at the heart of everything the studio does, Wu says that adaptability is the studio’s greatest strength.

David Lessard, Design Director and Stas Louca, Managing Director at H+A

From left: Stas Louca and David Lessard

After winning both ‘Design of the Year: Architecture’ and the ‘Architecture Hotel of the Year’ at the 2024 identity Design awards, H+A’s star is on the rise. The firm is working across a variety of projects across the hospitality, healthcare and wellness sectors. “In 2025 we are breaking ground on some very exciting projects: a new build for a 12,000-square metre outpatient cancer treatment centre referred to as ‘The Advanced Oncology Centre’; a 5-star 300-key beach resort in Fujairah; and the Kings College Hospital London expansion in Dubai Hills,” shares David Lessard, Design Director at H+A.

The firm is also working on several projects under design, including a state-of-the-art wellness project that combines luxury accommodation with world-class clinical services; an interior design project for a new super-tall signature tower on Sheikh Zayed Road that includes ultra-luxury branded and non-branded residences; as well as carrying out ongoing architectural and interior design work for the Ritz Carlton Ras al Khaimah where H+A is designing 35 new branded residences.

Lessard terms H+A as a human-centric practice. The firm works predominantly on healthcare, hospitality and residential projects, with a design philosophy that is focused on the user’s experience of the space. “Our projects tend to manifest as a collection of intimate moments that eventually create an overall project vision – from the bottom-up rather than the top-down. We have very few preconceived ideas about style and allow our designs to evolve organically as a direct response to the project brief, site location and cultural context. Our guiding principles encourage restraint over excess, with a minimalist ethos that strives to achieve more by doing less – exploring all opportunities to promote health and well-being in our projects,” Lessard shares.

When asked what empowers him and his team, Lessard shares, “A deep knowledge and passion for our subject matter. Our specialisation in healthcare, hospitality and wellness empowers us to pursue larger and more complex briefs that demand a verified interest and expertise in how to deliver projects that exceed client expectations and promote wellbeing for every human.”

Fady Chams, Owner of Prospect Design International

Focused on creating immersive design concepts that centre around the F&B industry, Prospect Design International – the firm behind the design of the well-loved Brass Monkey in Dubai – has many exciting new projects in the works, including Elaia, a Greek-dining concept at Pier 7 in Dubai Marina, Ce La Vie’s first European outpost in West London, and an immersive cricket and hospitality pop-up that’s set to open later this year. Now in its 21st year, the firm takes pride on being involved with some of Dubai’s most loved homegrown brands. “Dubai is our home, so for us to be involved in these local concepts and see them thrive means a lot to us,” shares Fady Chams, owner of Prospect Design International.

On the firm’s wish list is a more international footprint, not just in Saudi Arabia but also Europe. In terms of their house style and design philosophy, Chams shares, “When talking about aesthetics, we really enjoy being bold and colourful, creating spaces that are full of energy! Photo-worthy spots are gold dust in today’s day and age – we consider these a Prospect Design signature!” Chams says he and his team are empowered by seeing people in the venues they designed, which are now some of Dubai’s busiest establishments. “A space can be incredibly beautiful but unsuccessful, but we know that our spaces welcome thousands of guests every year. We take great pride in the role we have to play there,” he shares.

Olga Melnikova, Founder of OL Interior

The founder both of OL Interior and Russian Design Forum, Olga Melnikova is well-known amongst the Russian interior design community. She works with and fosters a sense of belonging in Dubai and the UAE, holding regular sessions throughout the year that connect designers, suppliers and the wider interior design community. With more than 350 projects running simultaneously across nine countries, the entrepreneur takes pride in her latest undertaking – an apartment conceived in calm beige tones, but with textured art objects, custom art, fur chairs handmade in France and a Courbes Alléchantes floor lamp by Axel Chay. The result is a fantastic bold interior with exclusive furniture, decor and lighting. With a design philosophy that is centred around harmony, Melnikova shares that she feels empowered by making the world more beautiful, one space at a time.

Abdulla Al-Shamsi, Founder of Shape Architecture Practice + Research

Shape has become an award-winning firm under the tutelage of founder Abdulla Al-Shamsi. Founded in 2006, the company’s approach is rooted in creating something unique for every project – whether that’s through innovative spatial design, the thoughtful use of materials, or the way a building interacts with its surroundings. “Our work leans toward a contemporary aesthetic – but at its core, it’s about designing spaces that excite, are practical and are deeply rooted in their context,” shares Al-Shamsi. The firm is currently working on a diverse range of projects, including residential and commercial developments, urban regeneration initiatives, an iconic mosque, a vibrant public park, and a sustainable village in Africa. When asked about a dream project that he would like to execute, Al-Shamsi replies, “Rather than focusing on a specific type or scale of a project, we’d love to collaborate with a visionary client – someone who shares our ambition to create something extraordinary and is open to exploring innovative ideas together. The synergy between the client and the design team can elevate a project far beyond what either imagined.” On being asked what empowers Al-Shamsi and his team, he shares, “Seeing our designs come to life: completed projects that are not just occupied but genuinely loved by the people who use them. It’s incredibly fulfilling to achieve the goals we set as a team, especially when the path to get there is full of challenges.”

Ghida Chehab, Founder of Studio Baab

Studio Baab is currently immersed in a range of exciting projects, each offering its own distinct narrative and design approach. Among them, two that stand out are: a Qatari-based café called OBLO, which is a celebration of wood in all its forms and its versatility through a minimalist design; and TWLV, an interconnection of concrete warehouses integrated with selective greenery, merging raw industrial elements with the contemporary. This past year, the studio has expanded into the Middle East, with projects across Qatar, Saudi Arabia and Oman.

On founder Ghida Chehab’s wish-list is to create a boutique hotel and to explore a furniture and product design collection. Chehab’s design philosophy is centred on creating warm, inviting spaces that reflect personal identity through thoughtful material choices. “I particularly love using wood in its various forms, as it adds both warmth and timeless beauty. Ultimately, a home should be a sanctuary – grounded, yet inspiring, where every detail fosters a sense of ease and individuality,” she shares.

On being asked what empowers her and her team, Chehab states, “What truly empowers us is the strong, supportive bond we’ve built as a team. This shared understanding and mutual respect allow us to navigate the complexities of design with confidence. We also believe in the power of balance between work and play. This harmony fuels not only our creativity but also the joy we find in the process. When work feels fun, it’s always refreshing, and that energy translates into every project we take on.”

Tariq Khayyat and Xiaosheng Li, Co-founders of tkdp

From left: Xiaosheng Li and Tariq Khayyat

With a design philosophy that revolves around continuous research and innovation, tkdp focuses on developing visionary architectural solutions that respond to the ever-changing demands of the market and the evolving lifestyles of communities. “Our approach prioritises functionality, cultural relevance and sustainability, ensuring our designs are both meaningful and impactful,” share Khayyat and Li. The firm’s most significant projects include: The Fold and The H Residence in Dubai; a luxury private residence in the prestigious Meydan area of Dubai; and a luxury residential project in the south of Spain. tkdp is currently working on a lifestyle mall in Al Ain, a high-end residential development in Dubai and a residential master plan in Abu Dhabi. On being asked what empowers the team, the duo shares, “Our empowerment comes from an unwavering passion for design, relentless research and a dedication to creating human-centric projects. This drive inspires us to enhance the experiences both of our clients and the communities we design for, ensuring that every project contributes meaningfully to its environment and users.”

Noora Al Awar, Fatima Al Zaabi and Afnan Amin, Studio d04

From left: Afnan Amin, Noora Al Awar, and Fatima Al Zaabi

Over the past year, Studio d04’s star has been on the rise. The trio has been featured on HH Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed’s social media as reputable architects and designers in the region and recently took on the challenge of designing saddling boxes for JARC [Jebel Ali Race Course] under A.R.M. Holding. They are currently working on creating a secluded private getaway that reimagines traditional design elements through a modern lens. “It’s all about weaving timeless patterns and techniques into contemporary spaces, creating an environment that feels both nostalgic and innovative,” the three designers share.

Their dream project would be to design a public building that embodies Emirati culture and heritage, reimagined through a contemporary lens from end to end. Their design philosophy is deeply rooted in a client-centric approach, where the narrative and vision of each client define the style and direction of their work. “We are highly design-oriented, drawing inspiration from our surroundings and cultural heritage, which we reimagine and translate into contemporary forms. For us, it’s about creating spaces that are not only aesthetically pleasing but also meaningful, and creating functional spaces that seamlessly blend practicality with luxury, ensuring every design exudes sophistication and purpose,” the team shares.

Read the whole id50 list here.