Read ‘Bold Design’ – Note from the editor

What does being bold mean to you?

In this issue, we journey across various disciplines, from interior design to architecture and various design practices that are bold not only in their final outputs, but through their inspirations and processes too. As you flip the pages, you will find different iterations of these ideas – like how Natalia Ortega from Spain is seeking Emirati materials to use in her practice, or how Gio Bressana brings ancient fresco techniques to modern living.

On our cover, we are thrilled to spotlight Rim Guirari and Thomas Castagnet, the founders of Mustard & Linen for this issue as they commemorate the 10th anniversary of their brand. The duo brings a perfect blend of bold and earthy to their projects; creating spaces that are as functional as they are aesthetically striking. We also celebrate the unveiling of their new headquarters on Saadiyat Island. This space not only exemplifies the brand’s design ethos but also sets a new benchmark for creative work environments.

In our interiors section, we delve into Onda, a unique ‘replenishment bar’ by Bone Studio, a luxurious Burj Khalifa penthouse by Etereo Design that plays with a variety of eclectic colours and textures, a coastal luxury penthouse by Abboud Malak of Studio M, and Eliza House by WALA, where black is truly, bold.

Our design focus this month is on walls, floors and surfaces. These elements are often the unsung heroes of design, providing the foundation and context for our living and working environments. We explore the latest brands, trends, materials and techniques that are transforming these essential aspects of interior design.

We are also excited to announce that in early August, we will be opening submissions for the identity Design Awards 2024. The criteria for the design awards will seek to reward design excellence, originality, sustainability and aesthetics in the MENA region. We look forward to receiving your entries!