Close

identity launches new podcast – ‘In Design With’

The first episode is with architect Dariush Zandi, architect and founder of The Courtyard

In Design With | identity podcast | Editor of identity, Aneesha Rai and Architect and Founder of the Courtyard, Dariush Zandi

‘In Design With’ is a podcast series by identity focused on architecture, interiors and design from the Middle East to the world. We sit down with the visionaries shaping our spaces—architects, interior designers, and creative minds from across the globe—to uncover the stories behind their groundbreaking work. From the bold reimagination of urban landscapes to the fine details of bespoke interiors, we explore the artistry, innovation, and passion driving the design world forward. Whether you’re a seasoned professional or simply a design enthusiast, join us for inspiring conversations that redefine how we live, work, and create.

In design with by identity

In our debut episode of ‘In Design With’, we are in conversation with Dariush Zandi, an architect and founder of the cultural and artistic oasis, The Courtyard in Al Quoz. We take you down memory lane of Dariush’s incredible 40 years in Dubai. Working closely with Dubai Municipality, his work has included the restoration of historical buildings and their conversion into museums – such as the Naif Fort and Dubai Museum. Dariush is the former Chairman of The UAE Architectural Heritage Society English Chapter also created urban masterplans for Dubai and worked on projects for landmarks such as Sheikh Saeed House, Safa Park, and Mushrif Park, making him a vital part of the city’s architecture & design fabric.

Watch the full episode below:

You can subscribe to our podcast on Spotify and Youtube.

The Latest
Kiyoshi Dubai

Step inside Kiyoshi Dubai

Japanese craft meets contemporary design at Kiyoshi designed by Mahsa Gholizadeh

AlUla Design Residency

The AlUla Artist Residency Programme Returns for its Second Edition

The Design Residency programme 2025 also coincides with the Year of Handicrafts as designated by the Saudi Arabian Ministry of Culture.

For Music Lovers

The interiors of the Backstage Hotel in Stockholm, Sweden echo the feeling of being behind the scenes at a great performance – rich in texture, layered in story and always with music in the background

A Taste of Tradition

Intimate, artistic and unforgettable, The Mellah Hotel is nestled in the heart of Marrakech's ancient medina, just steps from the magnificent Bahia Palace.

A Dallas Home Where Architecture, Art, and Memory Converge

In a landmark Bud Oglesby-designed building, designer Joshua Rice crafts a warm, quietly powerful residence that honors modernist roots, personal history, and a young collector’s nuanced eye

Restraint meets richness

This apartment designed by Carl Gerges features green hues throughout

A Dose of Culture Without Losing Comfort

BLINK Design Group has drawn deeply from the well of ancient Lingnan culture to craft a design narrative that’s rooted in tradition yet thoroughly modern at Banyan Tree Dongguan Songshan Lake in China

id most wanted: MORPHO chair by Tomorrowland

Tomorrowland, the world-renowned music festival, has collaborated with designer Dieter Vander Velpen and Ethnicraft through its architecture and design studio, Great Library Studio, to create a contemporary Art Nouveau furniture collection

Armani Beach villas

First Armani Beach Villas Launched in Ras Al Khaimah

Giorgio Armani and RAK Properties launch the first Armani-branded villas in the world

6 design-led museums in the UAE

Here are the current and upcoming design-led museums in the UAE that you should know about

What are the bathroom trends in 2025?

Villeroy & Boch and Ideal Standard unveil a fresh perspective on bathroom design for 2025

identity Design Awards 2025 | Submissions open

identity Design Awards 2025 is now open for submissions

Access our submissions link, criteria, deadlines, and checklist here.