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This month, we celebrate the interior designers, architects and product designers from the region on our radar; from emerging talent to the visionaries and the global firms with local presence.
When I set out to curate the id50 this year for our milestone 250th issue, my goal was not to merely shine a spotlight on the most influential figures in the A+D industry but to delve into the philosophies that drive them. In speaking with these accomplished individuals whose work has already garnered widespread acclaim, I was interested in their past accolades, but more curious about their aspirations. What dream projects still spark their imagination? What challenges would they embrace if given the chance to shape their ideal vision?
This inquiry was driven by a dual purpose. First, I wanted identity to play its role in celebrating the incredible talent thriving in this region. Second, I wanted to highlight the foresight it takes to be a designer in today’s ever-evolving world. By capturing these dreams on paper, I hope they might resonate with the right entities who could help bring them to life. After all, designers aren’t just shaping spaces; they’re shaping societies, responding to the complexities of our time with ideas that are as thoughtful as they are transformative.
In this context, ‘power’ takes on a different meaning. It’s not about dominance or individual gain, which so often accompany the word, but about the ability to serve communities and create meaningful, enduring connections. This issue is special for this reason as well. On our website throughout this month, you’ll find candid conversations with the individuals on this year’s id50 list – leaders who are not only creative powerhouses but also mentors and role models for the next generation of design professionals. These insights reveal what drives them, what challenges them and what keeps their passion alive.
Beyond the id50, this issue also brings you a curated selection of great projects, from a stunning Palm Jumeirah home to a characterful apartment in Beirut. We also dive into the growing trend of nostalgia in design and explore luxury design as a focus.
In a world overwhelmed with information, perhaps this issue can help make sense of it all – offering you a curated look at the people, ideas and projects that truly matter. Together, we celebrate those that dare to dream.
Read our February 2025 issue here.
On the cover: Citadel of Cairo: Seat of Design Power for Gemma Ceramics designed by Dar Arafa Architecture as part of Cairo Design Week. Photo Credit: Nour El Refai
Here’s a recap of the new and notable novelties and exhibits at Salone del Mobile.Milano and Fuorisalone
Here’s what to look out for at the Kingdom’s first fair for original and high-quality contemporary design, running from 20 to 23 May 2025
The dinner was the first of its kind in the Middle East that connected female industry professionals
Inside the Foster + Partners designed Kingdom of Saudi Arabia pavilion at Expo2025 Osaka
Efie Gallery relocates to Alserkal Avenue and hosts the Middle Eastern debut of María Magdalena Campos-Pon’s solo exhibition
This month, we shed light on innovation and what propels the industry in terms of creativity.
These internationally and locally renowned architecture firms will bring to life 10 distinct villas
Designed by Antoine Grulier and crafted by 13Desserts, Byblos is a versatile aluminium piece that seamlessly blends functionality and aesthetics.
Understated Luxury Meets Urban Heritage at the Hari Kong Kong
Marcantonio’s Terra pouf for Natuzzi Italia is a statement of conscious craftsmanship
Not to be underestimated, here’s where side tables take centre stage
The project combines both commercial office spaces and industrial warehouses