Read ‘New Generations’ – Note from the editor – June 2025

This month, our theme of New Generations stems from a desire to explore fresh perspectives in design; particularly, how the spaces we shape today are influencing the wellbeing and experiences of tomorrow’s users. How are we designing environments that cater meaningfully to the youth of today? What does Gen Z expect from the modern workplace, their residences and surroundings, and how is contemporary design bridging that gap? How can architecture transcend its traditional role to shape new and unexpected fields? We answer all this and more in this issue. 

In our cover story, we speak to Karine Obegi, CEO of OBEGI Home about the brand’s journey from its beginnings in Lebanon to becoming a regional authority in luxury furniture. Karine discusses how curation, creativity and client service drive the company’s enduring success. Now expanding into Saudi Arabia with a series of monobrand showrooms and growing its multi-unit business in the UAE, OBEGI Home continues to lead with entrepreneurial spirit and family-rooted values.

Last month, we hosted a thought-provoking panel discussion with Glaze and several industry experts from award-winning firms where we discussed how materials influence the context and wellbeing of the space.  With walls, floors and surfaces as our design focus of this issue, we also showcase innovative material launches and exciting new product offerings. 

In Interiors, we discover a bold new design studio that embraces maximalism, visit a home inspired by the owner’s passion for cinema, and dive into projects that blur the lines between narrative and space.

Following the successful debut of Downtown Design Riyadh, where identity was proud to be a headline media partner, we turn our attention to its next exciting landmark: Asaan, the Misk Heritage Museum in Diriyah, designed by Zaha Hadid Architects and now officially under construction.

We also spotlight some of the most compelling pavilions from the Arab world at the Biennale Architettura 2025 in Venice, Italy. A shared thread runs through many of them: deep contextuality, rooted in climate, heritage, identity, sustainability and a profound connection to the earth. 

We hope this issue offers inspiration, insight and a sense of optimism for the future of design.

Happy reading!

Read the June 2025 issue.