Gomez’s tipping point came when he didn’t really know what architecture was. “I was seven or eight years old in my hometown of La Línea de la Concepción, Cádiz, Spain. My father was involved in small real estate developments and often took me with him to meetings, municipality offices, lawyers and notaries. As a child, all those places felt grey, dark and incredibly boring. I could never understand what people were doing or why it mattered. Then one day he took me to an architect’s studio.

Everything changed. The drawing boards, pencils, rulers, markers and models felt magical. I was fascinated that people could make a living, actually make money creating drawings. It seemed almost unbelievable to me. Until then, work had looked administrative, bureaucratic and distant. Here, ideas were becoming reality through imagination, skill and craft.

Looking back, what stayed with me was something deeper than drawing itself. Architecture seemed to possess a profound order. Materials, proportion, light and geometry could transform ideas into something tangible and lasting. Great architecture has the ability to freeze time and energy into physical form.

More importantly, it taught me a lesson that has stayed with me throughout my life: follow what fascinates you. As a child, drawing was what I loved most. The architect’s studio was the first place where I saw that passion could become a profession. That visit did not lead to a dramatic decision. It created a quiet obsession that never left me.”

With over 21 years of experience in architecture and nearly two decades of practice in the Middle East, Gomez has contributed to one of the most significant periods of urban transformation in the Gulf, leading design across hospitality, residential, cultural, transport, leisure, and master planning projects.

His work is shaped by a clear belief: architecture must respond to people, place, climate, culture, and time. This approach has guided projects that engage with the evolving identity of the region, from contemporary hospitality destinations and transport infrastructure to adaptive reuse and culturally rooted developments. Alongside practice, Gomez contributes to the wider architectural community as a speaker, critic, and mentor. He is frequently invited as a guest critic at universities and has spoken at leading architecture and design platforms across the MENA region. Through his role at Aedas, he continues to shape design thinking with a focus on contextual architecture, cultural identity, urban transformation, and the development of the next generation of architects.

Adriana Graur, Creative Director – Middle East, dwp

Graur is widely recognised as one of the region’s most influential interior designers, celebrated for creating spaces that balance conceptual clarity, emotional resonance, and functionality. Her work is shaped by a deep understanding of culture, context, and human behaviour, resulting in environments that are both meaningful and enduring. Her career reflects a journey of creative excellence and strategic leadership. At dwp Dubai, under global guidance and her local direction, the studio has grown from a team of two into a thriving collective of more than 30 designers. Together, they have delivered a diverse portfolio spanning hospitality, residential, workplace, and mixed-use projects across the Middle East and beyond, helping redefine contemporary interior environments.

Graur approaches every project as an opportunity to create meaningful experiences. Through thoughtful storytelling, materiality, and spatial planning, she crafts interiors that respond to the aspirations of their users while remaining timeless in their appeal. Her leadership extends beyond design delivery, fostering a culture of collaboration, innovation, and continuous learning. She has also championed the integration of emerging technologies, including AI-driven design tools, alongside sustainable practices that support the future of the industry.

Her passion for design began unexpectedly. As a teenager, she dreamed of becoming an astronaut, captivated by the mysteries of the universe. Encouraged by her father to attend a single architecture class, she discovered a different way of understanding the world. “That afternoon I understood architecture is the cosmology of the human-sized. What I thought I would find in the stars, I began to find in the line of a wall, the way a doorway asks the body to slow, the small involuntary smile when a floor plan is right. Design, the way I have understood it since that first class at 15, is not about decoration. It is about emotion, creative thinking, and a life well lived. The room is where life happens. Life is what the room is for,” she shares.

Jason Burnside, Managing Director, Godwin Austen Johnson (GAJ)

Burnside’s path into architecture began in his teenage years, driven by a fascination with the way buildings shape human experience. Growing up in Donegal, Ireland, where traditional career paths often gravitated towards the trades, his interest in design was sparked by the striking St Aengus Chapel by architect Liam McCormick. Inspired by its powerful sense of place and architectural expression, he pursued his studies at the University of Dundee, graduating in 1996. He began his professional career in London with a small urban design practice, where he spent five years working across architecture and planning. This formative experience instilled a broader understanding of the built environment, teaching him to view buildings not as isolated objects but as integral components of the wider urban fabric. In 2001, Burnside relocated to Dubai to join Godwin Austen Johnson, arriving at a pivotal moment in the city’s evolution.

Specialising in residential, hospitality, leisure, education, and mixed-use developments, he has played a key role in designing over 30 schools across the region, establishing Godwin Austen Johnson as a leader in educational architecture. Promoted to Managing Director in 2023, Burnside has shaped GAJ’s strategic direction, driving its financial performance and business growth. His leadership has seen the firm consistently deliver award-winning projects, further strengthening its position as one of the region’s leading architectural practices.

Known for balancing design quality with technical rigour and practical delivery, Burnside brings a thoughtful and commercially grounded approach to architecture. His focus on team leadership and project excellence ensures Godwin Austen Johnson continues to evolve while maintaining its reputation for contextual, sustainable, and innovative design. Recent projects include the Saudi Arabia Museum of Contemporary Art (SAMoCA) in Diriyah, Serenia Living, which was recently handed over, and the Jafar Centre at Dubai College.

Bruno Gomes, Director, Concept Design Department, Dewan Architects + Engineers

Bruno Gomes is an accomplished architect with 23 years of international experience across Europe, the Middle East, and Asia, including more than 18 years in the region. Educated in Portugal and Italy, he has worked on a wide range of projects, from cultural institutions and pavilions to large-scale urban developments. His portfolio includes landmark projects such as The Mukaab and The Line in Saudi Arabia, as well as the Opportunity Pavilion at Expo 2020 Dubai, demonstrating his ability to balance visionary concepts with context-driven design.

Proficient across all stages of the architectural process, from concept development to detailed delivery, Bruno combines creative thinking with technical expertise. His multidisciplinary background and global perspective inform an architectural approach that bridges cultures, embraces innovation, and creates meaningful, enduring environments. “The tipping point that led me to become an architect comes from my roots, growing up between the countryside and the city,” shares Gomes. “Experiencing both worlds gave me an appreciation for the beauty of natural landscapes, but also an awareness of how quickly they can disappear through development. From a young age, I was curious about how we could improve the way people live without losing the places that make a location special. Architecture felt like a way to contribute to that balance, creating spaces that enhance quality of life while respecting the environment and the memories attached to it,” he shares. “For me, architecture is about people and their experiences. It is about shaping places that create lasting memories, connect us to our surroundings, and help us build a better future without forgetting what is already valuable.”

Samer Charara, Director and Studio Chair, Woods Bagot

With over 25 years of continuous presence in the Middle East, Woods Bagot has developed a diverse portfolio across mixed-use, residential, hospitality and workplace sectors, contributing to the shaping of some of the region’s most recognisable urban environments. Working closely with ambitious clients and long-term partners, the studio’s work reflects a shared commitment to delivering places that are both commercially successful and meaningful to the communities they serve, grounded in a consistent focus on quality, collaboration and local understanding.

Among its recent projects, Woods Bagot has worked closely with Dubai Holding to evolve Dubai Design District (d3), expanding its role as a creative hub through a masterplan that brings together culture, business and public life within a walkable, connected environment. The project reinforces the district’s position within Dubai’s creative economy, supporting the vision of its stakeholders through a mix of residential, commercial and cultural spaces anchored by a strong public realm. In parallel, Six Senses Residences Dubai Marina for Select Group reflects a shift toward more considered living, shaping a high-rise residential tower around wellbeing, aligning with the operator’s ambition to deliver a lifestyle centred on longevity, sustainability and everyday quality of life. Director Samer Charara says, “For us reaching 25 years in the Middle East reflects more than longevity, it represents a deep understanding of the region, its ambitions and the pace at which its cities continue to evolve. That perspective allows us to work closely with our clients to create places that are enduring, relevant and connected to the people and communities they serve, while helping shape the future of the regions built environment.”

Kerem Cengiz, Managing Director, LWK+ PARTNERS, Middle East

Cengiz plays a pivotal role in shaping the future of urbanism across the region. With over 25 years of experience spanning Europe, Asia, and the GCC, he brings a refined, context-driven approach to architecture, master planning, and placemaking. His work focuses on aligning commercial objectives with cultural depth and spatial intelligence to create environments that are not only functional, but enduring and meaningful. Rather than approaching projects solely through design, Cengiz operates at the intersection of strategy, stakeholder alignment, and urban foresight. He translates complex ambitions whether from investors, civic leaders, or developers into frameworks that empower creative teams to deliver lasting impact. His leadership style is collaborative and systems-oriented, fostering multidisciplinary teams that integrate architecture, interior design, landscape, and urban strategy into a cohesive ecosystem. “I don’t think it was one single, dramatic moment,” says Cengiz when asked about his tipping point. “It was more a gradual realisation that I was already reading the world architecturally; through streets, thresholds, movement, light, memory and the way people occupy space. Coming from a multi-cultural background, I have always been interested in the “in-between”: between cultures, disciplines, scales, the imagined and the real. Architecture became the place where those tensions could be made productive,” he shares.

“The tipping point was understanding that architecture is not simply about buildings. It is a way of translating human aspiration, culture, economics, climate, technology and responsibility into environments that can genuinely improve daily life. Once I understood that, the discipline became impossible to switch off. It gave me a language wide enough for curiosity and serious enough for consequence: a way to turn ideas into places, and places into meaningful human experience.” The firm is currently pursuing projects in Phase 1 Sultan Haitham City and a development called Nine Collective.

Pooja Shah-Mulani, Managing Partner – Creative, LW

An award-winning creative force and strategic leader with a global perspective, Shah-Mulani has been with LW Design since 2012 and today serves as the firm’s Creative Managing Partner. With over a decade of experience and an instinct for crafting spaces that resonate emotionally, Shah-Mulani has played a key role in LW’s transformation from a regional studio into a global hospitality design powerhouse. Her strength lies in blending narrative, strategy, and authenticity, translating deep human insight into spaces that connect with guests and reflect the soul of their locations. “Design is like theatre,” she says, “Every element must perform in harmony to create lasting emotion.” Her approach is immersive and intuitive, yet firmly grounded in commercial reality.

Shah-Mulani’s unique ability to bridge client aspirations with operational goals and guest expectations has made her a trusted partner to global brands like Marriott, Four Seasons, Hilton, and many more. Guiding the studio into a dynamic era of global expansion, she leads LW’s strategic footprint across Africa, Europe, Asia, and North America while breaking boundaries across new sectors and typologies. In addition to her creative leadership, Shah-Mulani champions mentorship, culture, and cross-disciplinary collaboration within LW and the broader design community. Her work and influence have been widely recognised through numerous accolades and industry honours.

In 2026, Shah-Mulani centers on a fundamental shift toward diversified experience design, where holistic well-being, fluid hybrid spaces, and timeless, culturally rooted narratives take center stage. Under her leadership, the studio’s portfolio has seamlessly integrated luxury hospitality with an evolving philosophy of wellness that honours local heritage while dissolving traditional design boundaries.

This approach is exemplified at the Mandarin Oriental Downtown Dubai, where Shah-Mulani led the design of two distinctive signature venues on the 36th floor. The double-height Sky Lobby offers a tranquil garden-in-the-sky experience. Another is a restaurant called Yù & Mì, which draws inspiration from 1930s Shanghai, blending theatrical glamour with urban sophisticcatoin

Expanding beyond urban destinations, Shah-Mulani has strengthened the firm’s presence in luxury wilderness hospitality. Following the success of The Ritz-Carlton Masai Mara Safari Camp in Kenya, the upcoming JW Marriott Mount Kenya Rhino Reserve Safari Camp in Solio will merge contemporary refinement with the spirit of a conservation retreat.

Her global portfolio also includes the avant-garde W KAFD in Riyadh, the cultural revitalisation of InterContinental Table Bay in Cape Town, and Verdala in Malta, a heritage-led wellness destination. Together with projects such as Netsu, these openings reflect her ability to craft immersive, place-driven experiences across diverse geographies and scales.

“Milan was my tipping point,” shares Shah-Mulani. She had moved to Milan to pursue a master’s degree. “Until then, I thought design was simply a creative career. Once I arrived, I realised it was an entire world with endless possibilities. That realisation completely changed the trajectory of my life.”

Marco Maximus, Design Director, KEANE

Maximus leads the creative direction for hospitality, lifestyle, and cultural projects across the region at KEANE. His approach focuses on designing experiences and creating interiors that carry identity, emotion, atmosphere, and a strong sense of place.

His work often begins with a story: a cultural reference, a forgotten ritual, a material memory, or a moment of human behaviour. From there, the design develops into layered hospitality environments that feel distinctive, commercially relevant, and emotionally memorable.

Recent projects include ERTH at Zayed National Museum in Abu Dhabi, Club 71 in Dubai, Attaché 2.0 in Riyadh’s Diplomatic Quarter, and several hospitality and lifestyle destinations across the region. Alongside his work at Keane, Maximus is also the co-founder and creative director of Lazza, a Dubai-based bakery concept, and recently designed Tala, a cordless table lamp created in collaboration with Duni Lighting that debuted at 3 days of design.

Maximus was educated as an architect at Cairo University, where he was exposed to architecture, interiors, urban thinking, technical detailing, history, and the wider industry. “That gave me a very holistic way of looking at design from the beginning,” he shares. “But even then, I was never only interested in the building as an object. I was always drawn to what happens inside it: the atmosphere, the identity, the story, the materials, the way people move, and the way a space makes you feel.” Maximus also developed interests in branding, cinema, and storytelling. “The actual tipping point came when I moved to Abu Dhabi as an architect,” he shares. “I was asked to help with an interior design submission on the first day, and something immediately clicked. It felt natural, almost like I had been trying to get there all along. Soon after, I moved into the interior design team, and from that point, the direction became clear.”

Michael Magill, Global Design LeaD, RSP and Managing Director, RSP Dubai

Magill oversees design strategy across an international network of studios while leading the firm’s operations in the Middle East. He was drawn to architecture through a fascination with how places influence the way people live. Magill has built his career on the belief that the most successful projects emerge from a deep understanding of people, culture, and place. This philosophy continues to shape both his work and his leadership at RSP. Under his leadership, RSP’s Dubai studio combines the capabilities of an international practice with the agility of focused design teams, enabling close client collaboration and a nuanced understanding of the people, culture, and place that shape each project.

With a career spanning Europe, Asia, and the Middle East, Magill is known for his ability to translate vision into impactful architecture, he has led the delivery of award-winning hospitality, residential, mixed-use, and master planning projects that balance design excellence with commercial success.

Under Magill’s leadership, RSP Dubai has evolved into a leading design hub, delivering projects that range from luxury hospitality destinations and branded residences to large-scale urban regeneration and master planning developments. Recent projects by the studio include the enhanced design of Keturah Resort on Dubai Creek, The Wilds master community by Aldar, and the interior design of Aldar’s wellness-focused Rise by Athlon community.

Shazad Azam, Founder and Chief Operating Officer, International Design Associates (IDA)

In 2013, Azam founded IDA as a small studio in Manama, Bahrain, with a clear vision to deliver thoughtful, people-centric design. Today, that vision has grown into an international multidisciplinary practice of more than 100 professionals, with offices spanning Bahrain, Saudi Arabia, Egypt, Pakistan, Thailand and London.

Under Azam’s leadership, IDA has become one of the region’s fastest-growing design firms, delivering luxury hospitality destinations, branded residences and mixed-use developments that combine strong commercial performance with memorable user experiences. The firm’s portfolio includes high-profile projects such as Sofitel Al Khobar, Curio Branded Residences in Riyadh, Gulf Hotel Autograph Collection in Bahrain, and Kempinski Marina Residences in Dubai.

Central to Azam’s approach is a belief in clarity, functionality and purpose. By removing unnecessary complexity, he creates environments that feel intuitive, emotionally engaging and deeply connected to the people who use them.

“As a child, I was convinced I was destined to become a fashion designer,” shares Azam. “My mother, however, had other ideas. She politely – but firmly – suggested I find something else to design, so I turned my attention from clothing to the world around me. Over time, that curiosity evolved into a passion. I became fascinated by how the built environment influences the way we think, feel, and connect with one another.”

Diane Thorsen, Design Principal, Global Hospitality lead, Gensler

Thorsen believes that great design begins with understanding a client’s vision, their culture and designing from the inside out. Her extensive experience spanning over 30 years coupled with leadership ability has resulted in an award-winning design studio of thought leaders. Thorsen relocated to the Middle East in 2008, where she embraced the region’s nuances and responded with sensitivity to appropriate design solutions. Most notably, her designs for international hospitality and mixed-use developments display attention to detail, a love of local art, and quality of craftsmanship. Her award-winning work and design approach is informed by human centric design, creativity, collaboration, and a forward-thinking approach with a structured, detailed process.

A graduate of the Faculty of Art, Design and Architecture from the University of Johannesburg South Africa, Thorsen furthered her studies to include sustainability and is a LEED Accredited Professional and a WELL Building Accredited Professional. She is a Registered Interior Designer within the IIDA and serves on the advisory board of the American University in Dubai.

“My tipping point came from an early fascination with both art and the natural world,” she shares. “Growing up in South Africa, surrounded by extraordinary landscapes, I developed a deep appreciation for texture, pattern, color, and the way environments shape how people feel. I realised that design sits at the intersection of creativity and human experience, it has the power to influence emotions, behaviors, and memories. What drew me to architecture and interior design was the opportunity to create spaces that are not only beautiful, but also meaningful and impactful. That belief has stayed with me throughout my career and continues to inspire my work today.”

Recent projects in Dubai, UAE include Alaya Villas at Tilal Al Ghaf, and the The Nikki Beach Resort and Spa Ras Al Khaimah.

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Ignacio Gomez, Global Design Principal, Aedas

Gomez’s tipping point came when he didn’t really know what architecture was. “I was seven or eight years old in my hometown of La Línea de la Concepción, Cádiz, Spain. My father was involved in small real estate developments and often took me with him to meetings, municipality offices, lawyers and notaries. As a child, all those places felt grey, dark and incredibly boring. I could never understand what people were doing or why it mattered. Then one day he took me to an architect’s studio.

Everything changed. The drawing boards, pencils, rulers, markers and models felt magical. I was fascinated that people could make a living, actually make money creating drawings. It seemed almost unbelievable to me. Until then, work had looked administrative, bureaucratic and distant. Here, ideas were becoming reality through imagination, skill and craft.

Looking back, what stayed with me was something deeper than drawing itself. Architecture seemed to possess a profound order. Materials, proportion, light and geometry could transform ideas into something tangible and lasting. Great architecture has the ability to freeze time and energy into physical form.

More importantly, it taught me a lesson that has stayed with me throughout my life: follow what fascinates you. As a child, drawing was what I loved most. The architect’s studio was the first place where I saw that passion could become a profession. That visit did not lead to a dramatic decision. It created a quiet obsession that never left me.”

With over 21 years of experience in architecture and nearly two decades of practice in the Middle East, Gomez has contributed to one of the most significant periods of urban transformation in the Gulf, leading design across hospitality, residential, cultural, transport, leisure, and master planning projects.

His work is shaped by a clear belief: architecture must respond to people, place, climate, culture, and time. This approach has guided projects that engage with the evolving identity of the region, from contemporary hospitality destinations and transport infrastructure to adaptive reuse and culturally rooted developments. Alongside practice, Gomez contributes to the wider architectural community as a speaker, critic, and mentor. He is frequently invited as a guest critic at universities and has spoken at leading architecture and design platforms across the MENA region. Through his role at Aedas, he continues to shape design thinking with a focus on contextual architecture, cultural identity, urban transformation, and the development of the next generation of architects.

Adriana Graur, Creative Director – Middle East, dwp

Graur is widely recognised as one of the region’s most influential interior designers, celebrated for creating spaces that balance conceptual clarity, emotional resonance, and functionality. Her work is shaped by a deep understanding of culture, context, and human behaviour, resulting in environments that are both meaningful and enduring. Her career reflects a journey of creative excellence and strategic leadership. At dwp Dubai, under global guidance and her local direction, the studio has grown from a team of two into a thriving collective of more than 30 designers. Together, they have delivered a diverse portfolio spanning hospitality, residential, workplace, and mixed-use projects across the Middle East and beyond, helping redefine contemporary interior environments.

Graur approaches every project as an opportunity to create meaningful experiences. Through thoughtful storytelling, materiality, and spatial planning, she crafts interiors that respond to the aspirations of their users while remaining timeless in their appeal. Her leadership extends beyond design delivery, fostering a culture of collaboration, innovation, and continuous learning. She has also championed the integration of emerging technologies, including AI-driven design tools, alongside sustainable practices that support the future of the industry.

Her passion for design began unexpectedly. As a teenager, she dreamed of becoming an astronaut, captivated by the mysteries of the universe. Encouraged by her father to attend a single architecture class, she discovered a different way of understanding the world. “That afternoon I understood architecture is the cosmology of the human-sized. What I thought I would find in the stars, I began to find in the line of a wall, the way a doorway asks the body to slow, the small involuntary smile when a floor plan is right. Design, the way I have understood it since that first class at 15, is not about decoration. It is about emotion, creative thinking, and a life well lived. The room is where life happens. Life is what the room is for,” she shares.

Jason Burnside, Managing Director, Godwin Austen Johnson (GAJ)

Burnside’s path into architecture began in his teenage years, driven by a fascination with the way buildings shape human experience. Growing up in Donegal, Ireland, where traditional career paths often gravitated towards the trades, his interest in design was sparked by the striking St Aengus Chapel by architect Liam McCormick. Inspired by its powerful sense of place and architectural expression, he pursued his studies at the University of Dundee, graduating in 1996. He began his professional career in London with a small urban design practice, where he spent five years working across architecture and planning. This formative experience instilled a broader understanding of the built environment, teaching him to view buildings not as isolated objects but as integral components of the wider urban fabric. In 2001, Burnside relocated to Dubai to join Godwin Austen Johnson, arriving at a pivotal moment in the city’s evolution.

Specialising in residential, hospitality, leisure, education, and mixed-use developments, he has played a key role in designing over 30 schools across the region, establishing Godwin Austen Johnson as a leader in educational architecture. Promoted to Managing Director in 2023, Burnside has shaped GAJ’s strategic direction, driving its financial performance and business growth. His leadership has seen the firm consistently deliver award-winning projects, further strengthening its position as one of the region’s leading architectural practices. 

Known for balancing design quality with technical rigour and practical delivery, Burnside brings a thoughtful and commercially grounded approach to architecture. His focus on team leadership and project excellence ensures Godwin Austen Johnson continues to evolve while maintaining its reputation for contextual, sustainable, and innovative design. Recent projects include the Saudi Arabia Museum of Contemporary Art (SAMoCA) in Diriyah, Serenia Living, which was recently handed over, and the Jafar Centre at Dubai College.

Bruno Gomes, Director, Concept Design Department, Dewan Architects + Engineers

Bruno Gomes is an accomplished architect with 23 years of international experience across Europe, the Middle East, and Asia, including more than 18 years in the region. Educated in Portugal and Italy, he has worked on a wide range of projects, from cultural institutions and pavilions to large-scale urban developments. His portfolio includes landmark projects such as The Mukaab and The Line in Saudi Arabia, as well as the Opportunity Pavilion at Expo 2020 Dubai, demonstrating his ability to balance visionary concepts with context-driven design.

Proficient across all stages of the architectural process, from concept development to detailed delivery, Bruno combines creative thinking with technical expertise. His multidisciplinary background and global perspective inform an architectural approach that bridges cultures, embraces innovation, and creates meaningful, enduring environments. “The tipping point that led me to become an architect comes from my roots, growing up between the countryside and the city,” shares Gomes. “Experiencing both worlds gave me an appreciation for the beauty of natural landscapes, but also an awareness of how quickly they can disappear through development. From a young age, I was curious about how we could improve the way people live without losing the places that make a location special. Architecture felt like a way to contribute to that balance, creating spaces that enhance quality of life while respecting the environment and the memories attached to it,” he shares. “For me, architecture is about people and their experiences. It is about shaping places that create lasting memories, connect us to our surroundings, and help us build a better future without forgetting what is already valuable.”

Samer Charara, Director and Studio Chair, Woods Bagot

With over 25 years of continuous presence in the Middle East, Woods Bagot has developed a diverse portfolio across mixed-use, residential, hospitality and workplace sectors, contributing to the shaping of some of the region’s most recognisable urban environments. Working closely with ambitious clients and long-term partners, the studio’s work reflects a shared commitment to delivering places that are both commercially successful and meaningful to the communities they serve, grounded in a consistent focus on quality, collaboration and local understanding.

Among its recent projects, Woods Bagot has worked closely with Dubai Holding to evolve Dubai Design District (d3), expanding its role as a creative hub through a masterplan that brings together culture, business and public life within a walkable, connected environment. The project reinforces the district’s position within Dubai’s creative economy, supporting the vision of its stakeholders through a mix of residential, commercial and cultural spaces anchored by a strong public realm. In parallel, Six Senses Residences Dubai Marina for Select Group reflects a shift toward more considered living, shaping a high-rise residential tower around wellbeing, aligning with the operator’s ambition to deliver a lifestyle centred on longevity, sustainability and everyday quality of life. Director Samer Charara says, “For us reaching 25 years in the Middle East reflects more than longevity, it represents a deep understanding of the region, its ambitions and the pace at which its cities continue to evolve. That perspective allows us to work closely with our clients to create places that are enduring, relevant and connected to the people and communities they serve, while helping shape the future of the regions built environment.”

Kerem Cengiz, Managing Director, LWK+ PARTNERS, Middle East

Cengiz plays a pivotal role in shaping the future of urbanism across the region. With over 25 years of experience spanning Europe, Asia, and the GCC, he brings a refined, context-driven approach to architecture, master planning, and placemaking. His work focuses on aligning commercial objectives with cultural depth and spatial intelligence to create environments that are not only functional, but enduring and meaningful. Rather than approaching projects solely through design, Cengiz operates at the intersection of strategy, stakeholder alignment, and urban foresight. He translates complex ambitions whether from investors, civic leaders, or developers into frameworks that empower creative teams to deliver lasting impact. His leadership style is collaborative and systems-oriented, fostering multidisciplinary teams that integrate architecture, interior design, landscape, and urban strategy into a cohesive ecosystem. “I don’t think it was one single, dramatic moment,” says Cengiz when asked about his tipping point. “It was more a gradual realisation that I was already reading the world architecturally; through streets, thresholds, movement, light, memory and the way people occupy space. Coming from a multi-cultural background, I have always been interested in the “in-between”: between cultures, disciplines, scales, the imagined and the real. Architecture became the place where those tensions could be made productive,” he shares.

“The tipping point was understanding that architecture is not simply about buildings. It is a way of translating human aspiration, culture, economics, climate, technology and responsibility into environments that can genuinely improve daily life. Once I understood that, the discipline became impossible to switch off. It gave me a language wide enough for curiosity and serious enough for consequence: a way to turn ideas into places, and places into meaningful human experience.” The firm is currently pursuing projects in Phase 1 Sultan Haitham City and a development called Nine Collective.

Pooja Shah-Mulani, Managing Partner – Creative, LW

An award-winning creative force and strategic leader with a global perspective, Shah-Mulani has been with LW Design since 2012 and today serves as the firm’s Creative Managing Partner. With over a decade of experience and an instinct for crafting spaces that resonate emotionally, Shah-Mulani has played a key role in LW’s transformation from a regional studio into a global hospitality design powerhouse. Her strength lies in blending narrative, strategy, and authenticity, translating deep human insight into spaces that connect with guests and reflect the soul of their locations. “Design is like theatre,” she says, “Every element must perform in harmony to create lasting emotion.” Her approach is immersive and intuitive, yet firmly grounded in commercial reality.

Shah-Mulani’s unique ability to bridge client aspirations with operational goals and guest expectations has made her a trusted partner to global brands like Marriott, Four Seasons, Hilton, and many more. Guiding the studio into a dynamic era of global expansion, she leads LW’s strategic footprint across Africa, Europe, Asia, and North America while breaking boundaries across new sectors and typologies. In addition to her creative leadership, Shah-Mulani champions mentorship, culture, and cross-disciplinary collaboration within LW and the broader design community. Her work and influence have been widely recognised through numerous accolades and industry honours.

In 2026, Shah-Mulani centers on a fundamental shift toward diversified experience design, where holistic well-being, fluid hybrid spaces, and timeless, culturally rooted narratives take center stage. Under her leadership, the studio’s portfolio has seamlessly integrated luxury hospitality with an evolving philosophy of wellness that honours local heritage while dissolving traditional design boundaries.

This approach is exemplified at the Mandarin Oriental Downtown Dubai, where Shah-Mulani led the design of two distinctive signature venues on the 36th floor. The double-height Sky Lobby offers a tranquil garden-in-the-sky experience. Another is a restaurant called Yù & Mì, which draws inspiration from 1930s Shanghai, blending theatrical glamour with urban sophisticcatoin

Expanding beyond urban destinations, Shah-Mulani has strengthened the firm’s presence in luxury wilderness hospitality. Following the success of The Ritz-Carlton Masai Mara Safari Camp in Kenya, the upcoming JW Marriott Mount Kenya Rhino Reserve Safari Camp in Solio will merge contemporary refinement with the spirit of a conservation retreat.

Her global portfolio also includes the avant-garde W KAFD in Riyadh, the cultural revitalisation of InterContinental Table Bay in Cape Town, and Verdala in Malta, a heritage-led wellness destination. Together with projects such as Netsu, these openings reflect her ability to craft immersive, place-driven experiences across diverse geographies and scales.

“Milan was my tipping point,” shares Shah-Mulani. She had moved to Milan to pursue a master’s degree. “Until then, I thought design was simply a creative career. Once I arrived, I realised it was an entire world with endless possibilities. That realisation completely changed the trajectory of my life.”

Marco Maximus, Design Director, KEANE

Maximus leads the creative direction for hospitality, lifestyle, and cultural projects across the region at KEANE. His approach focuses on designing experiences and creating interiors that carry identity, emotion, atmosphere, and a strong sense of place.

His work often begins with a story: a cultural reference, a forgotten ritual, a material memory, or a moment of human behaviour. From there, the design develops into layered hospitality environments that feel distinctive, commercially relevant, and emotionally memorable.

Recent projects include ERTH at Zayed National Museum in Abu Dhabi, Club 71 in Dubai, Attaché 2.0 in Riyadh’s Diplomatic Quarter, and several hospitality and lifestyle destinations across the region. Alongside his work at Keane, Maximus is also the co-founder and creative director of Lazza, a Dubai-based bakery concept, and recently designed Tala, a cordless table lamp created in collaboration with Duni Lighting that debuted at 3 days of design.

Maximus was educated as an architect at Cairo University, where he was exposed to architecture, interiors, urban thinking, technical detailing, history, and the wider industry. “That gave me a very holistic way of looking at design from the beginning,” he shares. “But even then, I was never only interested in the building as an object. I was always drawn to what happens inside it: the atmosphere, the identity, the story, the materials, the way people move, and the way a space makes you feel.” Maximus also developed interests in branding, cinema, and storytelling. “The actual tipping point came when I moved to Abu Dhabi as an architect,” he shares. “I was asked to help with an interior design submission on the first day, and something immediately clicked. It felt natural, almost like I had been trying to get there all along. Soon after, I moved into the interior design team, and from that point, the direction became clear.”

Michael Magill, Global Design LeaD, RSP and Managing Director, RSP Dubai

Magill oversees design strategy across an international network of studios while leading the firm’s operations in the Middle East. He was drawn to architecture through a fascination with how places influence the way people live. Magill has built his career on the belief that the most successful projects emerge from a deep understanding of people, culture, and place. This philosophy continues to shape both his work and his leadership at RSP. Under his leadership, RSP’s Dubai studio combines the capabilities of an international practice with the agility of focused design teams, enabling close client collaboration and a nuanced understanding of the people, culture, and place that shape each project.

With a career spanning Europe, Asia, and the Middle East, Magill is known for his ability to translate vision into impactful architecture, he has led the delivery of award-winning hospitality, residential, mixed-use, and master planning projects that balance design excellence with commercial success.

Under Magill’s leadership, RSP Dubai has evolved into a leading design hub, delivering projects that range from luxury hospitality destinations and branded residences to large-scale urban regeneration and master planning developments. Recent projects by the studio include the enhanced design of Keturah Resort on Dubai Creek, The Wilds master community by Aldar, and the interior design of Aldar’s wellness-focused Rise by Athlon community.

Shazad Azam, Founder and Chief Operating Officer, International Design Associates (IDA)

In 2013, Azam founded IDA as a small studio in Manama, Bahrain, with a clear vision to deliver thoughtful, people-centric design. Today, that vision has grown into an international multidisciplinary practice of more than 100 professionals, with offices spanning Bahrain, Saudi Arabia, Egypt, Pakistan, Thailand and London.

Under Azam’s leadership, IDA has become one of the region’s fastest-growing design firms, delivering luxury hospitality destinations, branded residences and mixed-use developments that combine strong commercial performance with memorable user experiences. The firm’s portfolio includes high-profile projects such as Sofitel Al Khobar, Curio Branded Residences in Riyadh, Gulf Hotel Autograph Collection in Bahrain, and Kempinski Marina Residences in Dubai.

Central to Azam’s approach is a belief in clarity, functionality and purpose. By removing unnecessary complexity, he creates environments that feel intuitive, emotionally engaging and deeply connected to the people who use them. 

“As a child, I was convinced I was destined to become a fashion designer,” shares Azam. “My mother, however, had other ideas. She politely – but firmly – suggested I find something else to design, so I turned my attention from clothing to the world around me. Over time, that curiosity evolved into a passion. I became fascinated by how the built environment influences the way we think, feel, and connect with one another.”

Diane Thorsen, Design Principal, Global Hospitality lead, Gensler

Thorsen believes that great design begins with understanding a client’s vision, their culture and designing from the inside out. Her extensive experience spanning over 30 years coupled with leadership ability has resulted in an award-winning design studio of thought leaders. Thorsen relocated to the Middle East in 2008, where she embraced the region’s nuances and responded with sensitivity to appropriate design solutions. Most notably, her designs for international hospitality and mixed-use developments display attention to detail, a love of local art, and quality of craftsmanship. Her award-winning work and design approach is informed by human centric design, creativity, collaboration, and a forward-thinking approach with a structured, detailed process.

A graduate of the Faculty of Art, Design and Architecture from the University of Johannesburg South Africa, Thorsen furthered her studies to include sustainability and is a LEED Accredited Professional and a WELL Building Accredited Professional. She is a Registered Interior Designer within the IIDA and serves on the advisory board of the American University in Dubai. 

“My tipping point came from an early fascination with both art and the natural world,” she shares. “Growing up in South Africa, surrounded by extraordinary landscapes, I developed a deep appreciation for texture, pattern, color, and the way environments shape how people feel. I realised that design sits at the intersection of creativity and human experience, it has the power to influence emotions, behaviors, and memories. What drew me to architecture and interior design was the opportunity to create spaces that are not only beautiful, but also meaningful and impactful. That belief has stayed with me throughout my career and continues to inspire my work today.”

Recent projects in Dubai, UAE include Alaya Villas at Tilal Al Ghaf, and the The Nikki Beach Resort and Spa Ras Al Khaimah.

VISIONARIES

Shahira Fahmy, Founder, Shahira Fahmy Architects (SFA)

Fahmy embarked on a career in architecture after discovering it early in life. “Since I was always drawn to both art and mathematics, architecture felt like the perfect combination of the two,” she shares. “A key turning point came during my university years, when inspiring mentors encouraged me to develop my skills and pursue the profession seriously.” Fahmy established her eponymous practice in Cairo, Egypt in 2005 and expanded to Dubai, UAE in 2024. A graduate of Cairo University, she taught there for a decade and has lectured internationally, including at Columbia GSAPP and The American University in Cairo. Her award-winning work has earned multiple honours, including three fellowships at Harvard University.

As an award-winning architectural and design consultancy, SFA has built a strong reputation in heritage restoration and rehabilitation, particularly in mudbrick architecture through its work in AlUla Old Town, a 12th-century heritage site nominated for the Aga Khan Award for Architecture (2025). Guided by the ethos “a language discovered rather than designed,” the practice has extensive experience across architectural design, master planning, urban planning, interior design consultancy, and FF&E. Its portfolio spans projects in London, Saudi Arabia, Switzerland, New York, and the wider Middle East, grounded in a historically sensitive approach that promotes inclusivity within the built environment.

Key projects include the restoration and rehabilitation of Zone 1 in AlUla Old Town, including Dar Tantora The House Hotel and the first private residence in AlUla Old Town, Beit Bin Nouh, for the Royal Commission for AlUla (2024); the expansion of the Delfina Foundation (London, 2011); the winning scheme for the “100 Architects 100 Houses” competition in AlUla (2022); and finalist recognition in the invited international competition for the master planning of the historical city centre of Badr, Al Madinah (2024). SFA is also currently shortlisted in a confidential invited international competition for a cultural asset project in Diriyah.

Shaun Killa, Design Director and Founder, Killa Design

Shaun Killa is an award-winning architect, Design Director & Founder of Killa Design, with international experience spanning over 30 years. “My journey into architecture began in childhood. I was always drawn to both mathematics and art, and my stepfather, an architect with his own practice specialising in residential developments, exposed me to the field early on,” shares Killa. “At around 12 or 13, I started spending weekends at his office, where I became immersed in the design process, drafting plans, elevations, and sections. As I became more involved, I started building models for some of his developments and hospitality projects. There was something incredibly rewarding about translating a design into a physical model, and the fact that I was being paid for it only reinforced my passion. By my later years in high school, I was certain that architecture was my calling, despite my stepfather’s attempts to persuade me otherwise. I researched universities and ultimately pursued my degree in architecture, determined to push the boundaries of design.”

Killa’s career began in Dubai in 1998, after moving from South Africa to join Atkins as an architect. Over 16 years, he progressed to Regional and then Global Director of Architecture, contributing to some of the region’s most recognisable landmarks, including the Burj Al Arab and Bahrain World Trade Centre, the world’s first building to integrate wind turbines. 

In 2015, Shaun founded Killa Design, winning two major competitions within the studio’s first few weeks, the Museum of the Future and Address Beach Resort. Since then, he has led the practice in delivering some of the world’s most forward-thinking projects, including the Museum of the Future, Shebara Resort, Jumeirah Marsa Al Arab and Address Beach Resort.

Killa’s work is defined by a belief that architecture should go beyond image. It should respond to context, create meaning and improve the way people experience the world around them. Under his leadership, Killa Design has grown into a global studio with work across the UAE, Saudi Arabia, the Maldives, Angola, the United States, Iceland and beyond, continuing to push the boundaries of design, sustainability and human-centred architecture.

Lina Ghotmeh, Founder, Lina Ghotmeh – Architecture

Ghotmeh is a Lebanese-born Paris based architect. Her internationally acclaimed firm is renowned for her award-winning, sustainable, and ecologically sensitive designs. Raised in Beirut, Ghotmeh’s work explores themes of rebirth, natural materials, and traditional craftsmanship, seamlessly blending history with sustainability to shape a visionary and inclusive approach to architecture.

At the heart of the firm’s philosophy is what Ghotmeh calls the “Archaeology of the Future” – a design ethos that fosters a deep connection between architecture, history, nature, and materials. Each project reflects this approach, creating built environments that are both contextually rooted and forward-thinking.

Among the firm’s most notable works is Stone Garden in Beirut, and exhibited at the Venice Biennale, MAXXI in Rome, and the Cooper Hewitt Museum in New York. Other significant projects include the 22nd Serpentine Pavilion (2023) in London, Ateliers Hermès – France’s first low-carbon, energy-positive building – the Estonian National Museum and the Bahrain Pavilion for Expo 2025 in Osaka, which has been awarded the Gold Award for Best Architecture and Landscape in the self-built pavilions under 1,500 square meters category.

Ghotmeh’s practice is also behind the upcoming redesign of the Western Range galleries of the British Museum ; the Qatar’s permanent pavilion of La Biennale di Venezia and the AlUla Contemporary Art Museum in Saudi Arabia.

Beyond practice, Ghotmeh is engaged in architectural education. She has held prestigious academic positions, including the Louis I. Kahn Professorship at Yale, the Gehry Chair at the University of Toronto (2021 – 2022), and the Kenzo Tange Professorship at Harvard GSD (2024).

Her work has earned numerous accolades. What drew Ghotmeh to architecture was archaeology, and surprisingly – medicine. “What fascinated me was understanding human beings, their histories, and the traces they leave behind,” she shares. “Archaeology taught me to read layers of memory and identity, especially growing up in Beirut. The turning point was realizing that I wanted not only to uncover stories from the past, but also to create new ones. Architecture offered that possibility: it combines research, care for people, and the act of building. In many ways, I still approach architecture with the curiosity of an archaeologist, but with the opportunity to shape spaces for the future.”

A sought-after speaker at conferences and workshops worldwide, Ghotmeh brings a unique, cross-cultural perspective to contemporary architectural challenges. Her practice spans a diverse range of projects – from small-scale objects to landmark cultural institutions – continuously pushing the boundaries of architecture with a humanist and forward-thinking approach.

Vera Dieckmann, Founder and Creative Director, XO Atelier

Dieckmann is the founder and creative director of XO Atelier, a Dubai-based boutique interior architecture and design studio founded in 2021. With an international background in hospitality, luxury residential, commercial, and product design, her work is defined by a refined minimalism focused on atmosphere, emotion, and timeless spatial experiences rather than decorative storytelling.

A key turning point in Dieckmann’s journey towards architecture came at the age of 17. Initially drawn to fashion design, she realised her deeper passion was the ability to create something lasting – transforming an idea or vision into a physical reality that people can experience over time. This desire to shape spaces, emotions, and environments ultimately led her to pursue architecture and interior architecture instead of fashion.

Her educational and professional background in hospitality and luxury residential design strongly shaped the philosophy of XO Atelier, where materiality, lighting, proportion, and emotional atmosphere are central to every project. The studio’s recent works include Cartel Marina in Abu Dhabi, Cartel Al Ain, Kneaded Bakery, Aura Café Dubai, as well as several private residences and commercial office projects across the UAE.

In December 2025, XO Atelier further expanded its creative direction into product design through a collaboration with Lasvit, reinforcing the studio’s focus on craftsmanship, sculptural design, and contemporary collectible pieces.

Laila Al-Yousuf, Design Director and Partner, SAY Studio

Al-Yousuf has led the SAY Studio team to successfully deliver projects for global clients such as PwC, Facebook, LinkedIn, Google, Pepsi, Uber, and Hewlett Packard Enterprise. An Emirati designer, Al-Yousuf is a LEED AP that is passionate about sustainability and wellness in design. She conceptualised the ‘Surge for Water’ design competition, attracting other designers to design for a cause. Surge has brought access to clean water to over 1 million people in 11 countries.

SAY’s studio’s latest projects include the new regional headquarters for IFF in Dubai Science Park. Recent projects include the transformation of a three-storey villa in Motor City into a modern family home. In Saudi Arabia, the team successfully completed Deloitte’s headquarters in the heart of the King Abdullah Financial District. One of the most meaningful projects of Al-Yousuf’s career is a pro bono design project for a high-risk pregnancy clinic, which came after her own miscarriage. Despite the emotional challenges involved, she felt her personal journey could make a difference in designing a warm and comfortable space for the women who would use the space. This experience inspired the studio so much that earlier this year, it launched an open call to find an individual or initiative where pro bono design could make a difference once again. 

“My fascination with interiors began long before it became a professional career,” Al-Yousuf shares. “As a child, I was endlessly curious about the spaces around me – constantly asking why certain environments felt inspiring or memorable, and how design could shape the way people think and feel. Whether it was repainting walls, or moving furniture around, I’d love experimenting with how small changes could completely transform an experience. Looking back now, I have always been drawn to the powerful relationship between people and place, and it continues to drive the work I do today.” 

Pallavi Dean, Founder and Creative Director, Roar

This is a big year for Roar. The studio is currently working on a great mix of projects globally and locally. Internationally, that includes an office in Boston, a luxury private villa in Mumbai, and the fit-out for two corporate buildings in Frankfurt. Closer to home, they have projects across Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Sharjah, including a school, a hotel refurbishment, several workplace projects and a longevity clinic. Most of these are currently on the drawing boards, so 2027 is shaping up to be a very exciting year for the firm.

Spearheaded by Dean, she shares, “I’ve always felt like an interior designer living in an architect’s body. At university, I started out in visual communications program, but my professors pulled me into the world of architecture and three-dimensional design. After practicing architecture for five years, I realised my passion was really interiors and how people emotionally experience space. Since then, I’ve explored set design and product design too. Honestly, there was never one defining “tipping point.” I’m quite fluid creatively. At my core, I simply see myself as a designer, regardless of the discipline.”

Rabah Saeid, Founder, Styled Habitat

“I had not grown up around anyone in the creative field,” shares Saeid. “No one had shown me that was a world I could belong to. Yet looking back, moving around from a young age had exposed me to diversity in style, architecture, and aesthetics. So much shaped my viewpoint before I ever realised it. With the purchase of our first home, I was confronted with decisions about finishes and fixtures. Daunting at first, and then a creative act I enjoyed and was completely absorbed by. I did not have the language for what I was doing yet. I only knew that something was fully engaged during those hours in a way it wasn’t engaged anywhere else. I enrolled in interior architecture. The path was long and crowded with life, but the direction was clear.” An American-Sudanese designer, Saeid is a member of the American Society of Interior Designers. She is renowned for her approach to crafting immersive residential, commercial, and cultural spaces that captivate the senses and tell compelling stories where spaces and emotions harmonise. Her work, defined by expressive narratives and a distinctive point of view, has been widely recognised across the region through reputable design awards and widespread editorial features.

Saeid’s design philosophy is designing to the tension that plays out between restrained, understated, sensual attraction, and the warmth of belonging. Saeid’s work not only garners recognition but also challenges conventions. Her belief in the importance of respecting historical context, local nuances, and architectural integrity underscores her commitment to demonstrating that thoughtful design is not just an aesthetic endeavour but a profound journey that respects and transcends the constraints of time and tradition.

Paul Nulty, Founder, Nulty

Nulty is an award-winning lighting design consultancy working with leading developers, architects and interior designers across the globe. Launched in London in 2011, Nulty’s mission is to be more than a lighting design practice. The team is committed to redefining architectural lighting design by pushing design boundaries and leading the industry towards more creative ways of working with light. What began as a guiding philosophy has evolved into a global movement. Today, Nulty is one of the largest independent lighting design consultancies in the world, with studios in Europe, the Middle East, Asia and North America. 

Under Nulty’s leadership, Nulty Dubai has expanded its reach across MENA, delivering lighting design at every scale – from city-wide lighting masterplans, public realm schemes, mixed-use developments and hospitality resorts to independent boutiques, F&B outlets and private residences. Celebrating ten years in the region this year, the team’s diverse portfolio of work includes award-winning schemes for DIFC Gate Village, The Chedi Hegra in AlUla, Atmosphere Burj Khalifa, 25hours Hotel Dubai One Central, the Waldorf Astoria Lusail and Marina Mall in Abu Dhabi.

Alongside Nulty’s project work, Nulty champions the importance of light both within and outside of the lighting industry. He studied for a BTEC in Performing Arts before progressing to a BA in Performance Design at the Liverpool Institute for Performing Arts. While training as a set designer, he discovered his passion for architectural lighting design, inspired by how a theatre designer can create atmosphere and drama through light alone. These principles shaped his career as a lighting designer, giving him a unique understanding of the relationship between space and light, and the power to use light to create an emotional connection.

Agata Kurzela, Creative Director, Agata Kurzela Studio

Kurzela launched her practice in 2020. A blend of contemporary creativity, technological insight, and contextual awareness distinguishes her studio’s work. Her niche is trandforming functional, poetically engaging spaces across various disciplines, including product design, installations, interior design, and architecture. Kurzela supports her clients from concept to completion with projects of differing scales throughout the Middle East, Europe, and beyond. 

She holds a Master of Science in Engineering, specializing in Architecture and Urban Planning, from Gdańsk University of Technology, and has studied Sustainable Community Development through a collaboration between Uppsala Technical University and the Technical University of Gdansk. Among her recent projects is the interiors of the Zayed National Museum. The project was achieved through a curatorial, research-led process; integrating architectural scale with material intimacy, bringing together established and emerging regional voices through extensive collaborations with local designers, artisans, and makers. Earlier projects include a Government Office and a Royal Lounge for Formula One in Abu Dhabi. 

Architecture for Kurzela was something she describes as a convergence of two separate pursuits. “As a child, I would happily spend hours with my nose buried in mathematics books, fascinated by logic, patterns, and problem-solving. In quite a contrast, some of my fondest memories are of sitting with my grandfather on his sunlit patio; a paint palette in hand, painting together for hours,” she shares. “A fascination with space itself came later – its depth, proportions, and the way we experience it.”

Mustafa Khamash, Creative Director, Kart Group

Mustafa Khamash is an award-winning Emirati architect. Kart Group is a multidisciplinary practice with a legacy spanning more than two decades. The firm has become recognised for delivering sophisticated, award-winning environments for government, royal, and corporate clients across the region. Khamash is distinguished by his unique role as a trusted advisor to senior leadership and public entities across the GCC.

His architectural approach was developed during his formative years at the Istituto Universitario di Architettura di Venezia. Khamash’s early career was shaped by working alongside the legendary Paolo Piva, followed by high-level international collaborations with Zaha Hadid Architects and Philippe Starck. 

Recent projects include the Al Maktoum Archives, a vital institutional project dedicated to preserving and celebrating the historical and cultural heritage of Dubai’s ruling family. Another project is the Government Experience Exchange Office (GEEO.) The residential portfolio features exclusive luxury residential projects spanning the UAE and North Africa, including bespoke high-end villas in Al Khawaneej, a penthouse on Palm Jumeirah, and a project in Dar Mira in Rabat, Morocco. Khamash is also involved in the creation of public art installations that operate at the intersection of architecture, sculpture, and national identity. Significant public contributions to the UAE’s urban fabric includes Haddad at the Dubai International Financial Centre, The Vision in Dubai Design District, and Frontliner at Dubai Science Park. 

Beyond his private practice, Khamash is a pivotal figure in the UAE’s design ecosystem, dedicated to fostering the next generation of regional talent. Through a strategic collaboration with Dubai Holding, Kart Group established a comprehensive scholarship program with the Dubai Institute of Design and Innovation. Khamash describes his tipping point as realising architecture is one of the few professions where art, innovation, business, and human impact come together. “What started as a passion for creativity evolved into a mission to create spaces and artworks that inspire people, elevate communities, and leave a lasting legacy,” he shares.

Ghida Chehab, Founder, Studio Baab

Growing up in Lebanon, Chehab was naturally drawn to the richness of her surroundings; from the layered character of Beirut’s streets to the diversity of its architecture and built environments. “I always admired the craftsmanship found in traditional Lebanese spaces, where detail, material, and proportion come together,” she shares. “Over time, I became fascinated by how spaces can quietly shape experience, how they can hold memory, evoke emotion, and influence the way we move and feel within them. My path into architecture and interior design came from this curiosity. It felt like a way to explore the relationship between culture, materiality, and everyday life, and to translate that into something tangible. Today, that early inspiration continues to guide my work, with a focus on creating spaces that have their own character: where material, light, and form come together in a balanced and thoughtful way.”

Chehab founded Studio Baab as a “progressive interdisciplinary architecture and design practice based in Dubai, crafting spaces that are thoughtful, immersive, and enduring.” The studio’s portfolio spans hospitality, retail, and commercial environments, including projects such as Trio Cafés and Ganache Chocolatier. Each project is approached with a distinct vision, balancing contemporary expression with timeless design principles to create spaces that are both functional and memorable.

“Our methodology begins with a story,” shares Chehab. “We curate design through the lens of dynamism, authenticity, and materiality, balancing functionality with aesthetics to create spaces that are fresh, timeless, and emotionally resonant.”

Kristina Zanic, Founder, Kristina Zanic Consultants

Zanic is an internationally acclaimed interior designer and entrepreneur with more than four decades of experience shaping exceptional interiors in over 20 countries. She founded Kristina Zanic Consultants in 2012 and has since grown the studio into a leading multinational design practice. Throughout her career, Zanic has been recognised for her creative vision, leadership, and contribution to the design industry, earning numerous accolades and a place among the region’s most influential designers. She has also served as a speaker at leading industry events and as a judge for international design competitions.

Under Zanic’s leadership, Kristina Zanic Consultants has grown into a leading global interior design studio with creative hubs in Dubai, London, Riyadh, Bangkok, and Clark. Since 2012, the firm has delivered projects across Europe, the Middle East, Asia, and Africa, earning a reputation for thoughtful design and a strong international perspective. Today, KZC is known for creating exceptional hospitality, residential, commercial, and branded environments worldwide. The studio’s most recent projects include Intercontinental The Red Sea on Shura island, Saudi Arabia, whose “Natural Maze” concept transforms circulation into fluid, organic spaces that encourage exploration and connection to the landscape. Another project is SO/ Ras Al Khaimah. Originally designed as a wellness retreat, the property was reimagined as a fashion-led, ultra-all-inclusive destination. Inspired by the “concept store” narrative, the design blends local art, fashion-forward thinking, and storytelling to guide guests through curated environments that merge hospitality, art, fashion, and culture.

“A defining moment in my career was realising that great design is not simply about how a space looks, but about how it is experienced and remembered,” shares Zanic. “Early hospitality projects played a key role in shaping that perspective. Working on projects where every detail contributed to the guest journey showed me how thoughtfully designed environments can shape human connection and interaction. That experience gave me the confidence to pursue this path and the motivation to continually push creative boundaries. As my career progressed, working on large-scale destination developments and collaborating with internationally recognised hospitality brands deepened my understanding of luxury, guest experience, and the importance of creating a strong sense of place. These opportunities reinforced my belief that the most successful projects are rooted in authenticity and storytelling. Exposure to diverse regions and cultures has further strengthened my appreciation for contextual design and the role local identity plays in shaping memorable destinations.

Today, I see design as a balance between creativity, functionality, cultural understanding, and commercial purpose. The opportunity to bring those elements together in a way that resonates with people and reflects the character of a place remains one of the most rewarding aspects of this profession.”

Omar Nakkash, Founder, Nakkash Design Studio

‘A concept-driven, human-centered studio where the whole is greater than the sum of its parts.’ That’s how Nakkash describes his studio that he founded in 2015. Nakkash Design Studio is a multidisciplinary architecture and design practice based in Dubai, UAE. The studio takes a holistic approach to design, placing the occupants and their individual needs at the center of every decision. The result is a portfolio of harmonious spaces that balance function and aesthetics with quiet precision. The practice works across residential and commercial sectors, with projects spanning interior, graphic, and product design. Recent projects include the Dubai Chamber of Commerce, Parlour at One Central DIFC and Villa Traversa, a 6-bedroom residence in Meadows, Dubai. 

Nakkash received his bachelor’s degree in Design and Management from Parsons School of Design, New York, before moving to Milan to complete graduate studies in Interior Design at Scuola Politecnica di Design. He returned to the UAE in 2012 and founded Nakkash Design Studio in 2015. “I always knew I would end up in the arts or architecture,” he shares. “Art class was where I felt most at ease, most myself. The real tipping point came around the age of eight, when I came home with a painting of Van Gogh’s Sunflowers. My father, who is an architect, saw it and something shifted. That moment quietly confirmed the direction I was already heading in.”

Firas Alsahin, Co-Founder and Design Director, 4SPACE Design

Alsahin established 4SPACE Design in Dubai, UAE in 2012 with Amjad Hourieh. Over the years, Alsahin has shaped 4SPACE into one of the region’s most prolific design practices, with over 300 completed projects spanning F&B, hospitality, retail, and large-scale entertainment destinations.

Alsahin is well-known in the space for the integration of AI into the design process, exploring how emerging technology and craft can coexist in spatial storytelling. Recent projects include MEI – a contemporary Japanese dining concept where restraint becomes the design language and BE Club Headquarters, which Alsahin describes as a space where workplace, hospitality, and identity share one continuous choreography.

“As a kid I was obsessed with sci-fi, with technology, with Lego – I was always building worlds. But my parents had a different plan: my father is a surgeon, and I was supposed to follow him. The tipping point came when I rebelled and entered the fine arts faculty drawing competition in Damascus – with only three days to prepare. I passed with one of the highest grades, and in that moment I knew this wasn’t a hobby, it was who I am,” shares Alsahin. “Looking back, nothing really changed – I’m still that kid building futuristic worlds, just at full scale now, and with AI instead of Lego bricks.”

Reem Al Qamzi, Founder, Rqitects

Driven by a lifelong fascination with design and an unwavering passion for reimagining spaces, Al Qamzi approaches every project with intention and depth. Her work goes beyond function and aesthetics. Al Qamzi aims to create environments that evoke emotion, inspire genuine connection, and deliver memorable experiences that leave a lasting impression on all who encounter them. 

“I’ve always been fascinated by creating and design. From a young age, I was drawn to reimagining spaces and objects, constantly thinking about how they could be improved, transformed, or experienced differently. As I grew older, I realized that architecture was the perfect blend of creativity and purpose. It allowed me to create something meaningful while positively impacting the way people live, work, and connect,” she shares. “It sparked a journey that eventually led me to establish my own practice and create spaces that resonate with the people who use them.”

Waleed Arafa, Founder and Principal, Dar Arafa Architecture

“As a high school fresh grad, I was obliged to make choices for a university major. I was in fear of having to part with my different and sometimes seemingly opposed interests in order to pursue just one of them. I did a casual placement with an architectural studio in Cairo and it was there where I realised that architecture is a unique profession where excellence is strongly related to maintaining and growing your knowledge in various fields. I did not have to leave one of my interests for the sake of another. Architecture brought all of my interests in one place. I jumped into the rabbit-hole and ever since I have been enjoying and exploring architecture’s wonderland,” shares Arafa. 

Arafa leads a team of young Egyptian architects at Dar Arafa Architecture, which he founded in Cairo, 2006. Arafa earned a B.Sc. in Architecture, Ain Shams University, Cairo, 2001, a post-graduate degree in the Conservation of Historical Buildings, from the Architectural Association School of Architecture in London, UK, 2015. His thesis was titled: ‘The Mosque in Britain: British Heritage’. Waleed is currently an MA Researcher, History of Islamic Art & Architecture, at the American University in Cairo. His work attained global recognition having been awarded, shortlisted and nominated for many international awards. Arafa thinks that Islam may provide new perspectives on architecture and help the world overcome its current creative, intellectual, and spiritual impasse. His approach is based on finding ways to continuing the discontinued architectural past of countries with an established legacy in the architecture of Islam, such as and especially Egypt.

Henrique Dias, Principal AND Middle East Hospitality and Mixed-Use Design Leader, DLR Group

Dias approaches every project with curiosity and a respect for local culture. He’s helped guide DLR Group’s growth in Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Iraq, and Egypt, leading teams that create places people remember, his projects reflect a balance between ambition and authenticity, always grounded in the needs of each community.

Dias’s portfolio includes some of the region’s most ambitious hospitality, mixed-use and experiential developments. Among them is the Dubai Kartdrome, Entertainment Center & Offices project in Dubai, where architecture is shaped by the geometry and movement of motorsport culture. The development integrates karting, entertainment, F&B, and corporate spaces into a unified destination defined by fluid circulation, operational efficiency, and immersive spatial experiences.

In Saudi Arabia, Dias also leads the design of SUMOU, a large-scale mixed-use development that brings together residential, retail, office, and public realm experiences into a connected urban environment. Designed around walkability, shaded public spaces, and activated ground levels, the project reflects his integrated approach to placemaking and city-building, combining architecture, landscape, interiors, and master planning into one cohesive vision.

Dias is widely respected for his hands-on approach and willingness to try new things. At DLR Group, he encourages the use of new technologies to help teams imagine, test, and refine their ideas in real time. Instead of relying on abstract concepts, Dias is known for bringing creativity and practicality together, ensuring that his projects not only stand out but also work well for the people who use them. As the Middle East continues its rapid urban transformation, Dias remains focused on creating architecture that balances heritage, sustainability, technology, and human experience. His work reflects a belief that architecture should create long-term cultural and social value while remaining grounded in the realities of place, climate, and community. Through this approach, he continues to shape some of the region’s most forward-looking developments and reinforce DLR Group’s position as a leader in integrated design.

When asked what made Dias decide to become an architect, he says, “For me, I don’t think there was ever a real “tipping point.” I honestly feel architecture was always there somehow. My grandmother used to tell me that when I was around three years old, it was already the first thing I said I wanted to be. Not a firefighter, not a police officer, not an astronaut. I wanted to build a house for her, with a garden and a dog.

From that moment on, I never really stopped imagining and designing spaces in my head. Of course, at that age they were just very basic sketches and floor plans, but they were always my idea of what a family home should feel like. Looking back now, I think that says a lot about how I still see architecture today. For me, it was never just about buildings – it was always about people, emotions, and creating spaces that become part of someone’s life.”

Sumaya Dabbagh, Founder, Dabbagh Architects

Dabbagh Architects is a RIBA Chartered architectural practice based in Dubai, UAE. Under Dabbagh’s leadership, the firm has become a pioneering force in Gulf architecture. Founded in 2008, the practice is dedicated to creating contemporary architecture that is deeply rooted in cultural and environmental sensitivity. Their work explores themes of place, memory, and belonging, shaping built environments that are meaningful, enduring, and responsive to their context.

Recently completed projects include the Al Ain Museum, (Oct 2025) and the Ali Bin Abdulla Gargash Mosque (Feb 2026). The firm has earned global recognition for its pioneering designs. The Mleiha Archaeological Centre (2016) and Gargash Mosque (2021) exemplify a new architectural language in the Gulf, blending tradition with contemporary expression. Both projects were nominated for the Aga Khan Award for Architecture and have won multiple international accolades, including the Architecture MasterPrize.

Beyond built projects, Dabbagh Architects’ exploration of materials and meaning is showcased in their ‘Earth to Earth’ installation, presented at the Sharjah Architecture Triennial (2023-24). This work further amplifies their philosophy of architecture as an evolving dialogue between place, materiality, and human experience. Beyond her architectural contributions, Dabbagh is dedicated to breaking stereotypes and challenging limitations for women in the profession. By demonstrating the influence and impact women can have in shaping the built environment, she has become an inspiring role model for future generations of architects.

Her tipping point in deciding to follow architecture as a profession was a book called ‘Poetics of Space’ by Gaston Bachelard “His articulation of the emotional response to buildings demonstrated in literary works such as prose and poetry, had ignited my curiosity to understand and study how the tangible forms can influence intangible feelings through architecture,” she shares. 

Dina Murali, Co-founder and Design Director, DZ Design

DZ Design is a Dubai-based architecture and interior design studio recognised for redefining luxury living across hospitality and multi-residential developments in the MENA and African regions.

DZ Design has secured several prestigious hospitality project wins, including Chadun Living in Riyadh, KSA. A frequent speaker on hospitality design panels, Murali brings a thoughtful perspective to the industry, blending creativity, comfort, and refined sophistication in every project. Her design philosophy is rooted in people-centric thinking that spaces must not only function seamlessly and look beautiful but also embody the brand’s narrative and create meaningful experiences. Murali is originally an architect and finds herself working on more interior design projects. “While working in architecture, the speed with which decisions were made in interiors really inspired me. Starting from flooring, wiring, HVAC to final finishing – all had to be planned swiftly in comparison to architecture of a building which would take years to build. Interior design literally took just months.”

Completed projects by DZ Design include the newly refurbished Pullman JLT, Gobi restaurant in The Ritz-Carlton RAK, a five-star ski resort in Azerbaijan, the Mövenpick Hotel in Dubai Healthcare City, and multiple residential towers in Business Bay and Mohammed Bin Rashid City. The studio’s award-winning work spans the hospitality and wellness sectors, including Amaseena at The Ritz-Carlton JBR, Sunny Wellness Spa in Sharjah Healthcare City, VEO gyms by Emaar, Semi-Sweet in Sharjah, and a series of high-end private villas, alongside large-scale commercial developments.

Chris Barnes, Founder, Broadway Interiors

Barnes founded Broadway Interiors, a multi award-winning design consultancy established in 1999. As the creative force behind the studio, Barnes leads with a hands-on, client-focused approach, remaining actively involved in all aspects of the business – from concept design and tender strategy through to design guardianship and project delivery.

Barnes and his firm have built a diverse portfolio spanning hospitality and commercial sectors. Notable projects include award-winning F&B destinations such as CRANK Fit, Asia Asia and Ula, alongside major commercial developments for organisations including the Mohammed Bin Rashid Space Centre and Dubai Integrated Economic Zones Authority. Another recent project is VNTG Wine & Cheese Bar at the JW Marriott Marquis Hotel. The firm transformed the venue into a sophisticated wine-led dining experience centred around a modern interpretation of the wine cellar.

Beyond project delivery, Barnes is passionate about nurturing emerging talent and supporting the wider industry through student programmes and design initiatives. A member of the Chartered Institute of Building (MCIOB), he continues to push creative boundaries. 

When asked for his tipping point to start Broadway Interiors, Barnes shared, “Arriving in Dubai, seeing the abundance of opportunity in interiors, the fast-track nature of the work and the shortage of skilled professionals to conduct those services. These all acted as drivers to push me to dive deep into the industry and ‘live the dream’ of working alongside my passion for creating spaces. Then soon after starting that actually not only was there a lot of work to undertake but significant creative freedom was available to challenge yourself and help push boundaries for the greater benefit of the end user experiences across all market sectors. As an interior designer, there is no greater buzz than seeing your spaces come alive and be appreciated and used by the masses.”

Sawsan Chammas Haber, Founder and Creative Director, Dipiugi

Chammas Haber is an interior architect and design influencer. With over 30 years of experience, she has handled luxury projects from Lebanon to Dubai. She set up her firm in Dubai in 2003 and has an exemplary portfolio of luxury homes in addition to corporate and commercial projects across the region.

Chammas Haber has also launched different furniture brands in Dubai, starting with K-Kids in 2003, Giovanni Sforza in 2008, and Estetik Decor in 2016. She was a weekly guest on MBC’s morning show for more than two years by showcasing her work through home makeovers, and sharing interior design tips with viewers. Her current projects include a mansion for a Lebanese family in Oman, and villas in Meydan and Jumeirah islands in Dubai, UAE. 

“At a very young age, I learned to introduce myself by saying, “Sawsan Chammas, interior designer,”” she shares. “It was my mother’s dream, and she lovingly taught me to say it long before I truly understood what it meant. Years later, as a teenager searching for my own identity and questioning everything around me, I found myself drawn back to that profession that had been planted in my mind so early in life. I began exploring it with curiosity and discovered a magical world where creativity, architecture, emotion, and beauty come together to transform the way people live. I fell in love with the idea of creating spaces that inspire, comfort, and tell stories. What started as my mother’s dream slowly became my own passion. That was the moment I realised it wasn’t just a career path – it was my calling. I understood that interior architecture was not something I had chosen; it was something I was born to do,” she shares. 

Paul Bishop, Founder and Design Principal, Bishop Design

Bishop’s journey into interior design began with a deep fascination for art, film, culture, and storytelling from an early age. Growing up in the U.K., he developed a passion for design during his teenage years, which led him to pursue formal studies in Interior Design, Furniture & Product Design, and ultimately a master’s degree in interior architecture.

Inspired by a diverse mix of creatives, designers, architects, and filmmakers, Bishop was drawn to the power of design to shape emotions, behaviours, and experiences. This fascination with creating immersive environments ultimately led him to specialise in hospitality design, where he has spent more than two decades crafting memorable destinations across the globe.

He founded internationally recognised, multi-award-winning studio Bishop Design in 2004 and since then, the studio has shaped some of the world’s most distinctive hospitality environments. His work is characterised by a layered, eclectic approach, sometimes provocative, and always intentional, where contrasting elements are brought together with precision to create environments that are both visually striking and commercially intelligent.

Working across the Middle East, Europe, Africa, and the Americas, Bishop has collaborated with leading hospitality brands, operators, and developers including Rosewood Hotel Group, IHG Hotels & Resorts, Marriott International, SLS Hotel & Residences, Major Food Group, Ennismore, Groot Hospitality, and Sunset Hospitality. He has also partnered with Michelin-starred chefs such as Massimo Bottura, Henrique Sá Pessoa, and Björn Frantzén. Recent projects in the GCC include two concepts for Rosewood Doha – Koo Madame, an elevated Chinese dining destination that reinterprets the glamour of 1920s Shanghai through a contemporary lens, and Stoke & Stoker, a bar destination inspired by the romance and glamour of the historic Orient Express.

Neydine Bak and Dewald Struwig, founders and creative directors, Verhaal

Neydine Bak and Dewald Struwig are the founders and creative directors of Verhaal, an award-winning interior architecture and design studio specialising in luxury, story-driven hospitality for discerning food and beverage operators. Established in 2016 in Australia and now based in Dubai since 2022, Verhaal is built on the belief that spaces should be experienced as narratives – where art, emotion and memory are woven into every detail.

Originally from South Africa, Bak and Struwig bring over 30 years of combined experience across hospitality and the built environment. Their work is informed by a warm, intuitive sense of South African hospitality paired with a refined, global understanding of luxury, which they translate into distinctive environments across the GCC and internationally.

At the heart of their practice is a merging of interior architecture, art and storytelling. They craft immersive spaces defined by atmosphere, concept and material poetry, expressed through a refined yet playful use of colour, texture, pattern and bespoke craftsmanship. Working closely with a global network of artisans and makers, their interiors are layered, tactile and richly expressive.

Balanced perfection is the Verhaal standard, delivering impeccable, tailored service from concept to completion. Obsessed with texture, pattern and colour, Verhaal is synonymous with artistic and artisanal embellishment – each project conceived as a beautifully told story in spatial form.

Stuart Allen, Founder and Managing Director, Allen Architecture Interiors Design (AAID)

With more than 30 years of international design experience, Allen has built a career defined by instinct, integrity, and a commitment to creating spaces that are both intelligent and deeply human. As Founder and Managing Director of AAID, he leads a Dubai-based studio whose work spans workplace, hospitality, residential, F&B and lifestyle environments across the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Qatar and the wider GCC.

Born in the U.K., educated in Texas, and professionally shaped in New York, Allen brings a global perspective to a practice firmly rooted in the Middle East. After relocating to Dubai in 2010 to lead a newly established design and architectural firm, he acquired and rebranded the studio in 2015 as Allen Architecture Interiors Design (AAID). Since then, he has guided its growth while fostering long-term partnerships with international brands, regional clients, and leading developers.

Today, AAID’s portfolio spans private villas in Saudi Arabia, exclusive members’ clubs in Dubai and Abu Dhabi, and corporate headquarters for OFC, Qiddiya, Eaton, and ADA. Allen remains closely involved in both the creative and technical direction of every project, ensuring each responds thoughtfully to its context, budget, programme, and end-user. His design philosophy rejects formulaic solutions in favour of a tailored approach that reflects client ambitions, cultural context, and operational realities. Equally passionate about mentorship, Allen is committed to elevating design standards across the region, nurturing talent at every stage of their careers. 

“It was really by accident, or coincidence – maybe destiny,” he shares. “My interest in art, combined with my curiosity for mathematics and technical design, started to point very clearly towards architecture. The design side made me want to do more, but I was equally interested in understanding the engineering of architecture – how things worked, how they stood, and how they came together,” he shares. “Looking back now, it feels obvious that this was always my path. The way I would unknowingly observe details when entering a space, my need to touch textures and materials, my sometimes-unwanted opinions on how something should look or be presented, and even my instinctive nesting qualities – all of it was quietly leading me here.”

Noora Al Awar, Fatima Al Zaabi and Afnan Amin, Founders, Studio D04

Studio D04 is an award-winning multidisciplinary practice based in Dubai, working across architecture, interior design and product design. Led by partners Fatima Al Zaabi, Noora Al Awar and Afnan Amin, the studio creates work that is both functional and poetic, exploring space and light, context and place, materials and craft, environment and region. Built on the belief that design here should be authored rather than imported, Studio D04 shapes spaces that are unique to their users, responsive to place, and timeless yet functional. The studio’s recent projects include AR Residence and a renovation of an old villa in Al Safa in Dubai, UAE.

“We shared the same desire to create architecture that resonates with the local context, one that speaks to Dubai’s story through an authentic lens,” shares Al Awar. “It was a realisation that design in this region was often imported, not authored. We wanted to challenge that. We had conversations about architecture and identity and we a common vision: to redefine what “local” design could be. The studio was born out of that conviction, that design should provoke, question, and expand our cultural imagination, and pursuing it stopped feeling like a choice and started feeling like a responsibility.”

DEBUTS

Abdulla Kunhi (AK), Founder and Managing Director, AKDESIGNO

Having grown up in Dubai, AK’s fascination with architecture began early. At 13 years old, he was introduced to architect NM Salim who was designing their family home in Kasargod, Kerala. AK got involved in the design ideas which then influenced his decision to become an architect. The experience offered him an early understanding of how design shapes the way people live. His family paved the way by supporting him in pursuing his passion.

Determined to carry out his dream, AK studied Architecture at the American University of Sharjah. Following graduation, he took the bold step of founding AKDESIGNO, alongside two of his friends from university. Together they learned every aspect of entrepreneurship on the go from administration, business development to project delivery.

Over the past 20 years, AKDESIGNO completed projects across more than 14 countries and over 700 projects in different scales. The portfolio spans residential, hospitality, restaurants, healthcare facilities, commercial developments, corporate offices and large-scale mixed-use projects.

AK’s influence extends beyond his own business through his role as Chairman of the Interior Design and Decorations Business Group under Dubai Chambers. Under his leadership, AKDESIGNO welcomes interns and provides them with practical industry experience. Driven by the belief that knowledge is meant to be shared and that investing in people is fundamental to building a stronger practice, AK is committed to empowering his team. He credits AKDESIGNO’s close-knit work environment as the strength of the company. AK considers his leadership style as leading through encouragement. Those who work alongside him often speak of his willingness to help others succeed. As AKDESIGNO celebrates its 20th year, the company continues to expand its footprint. Current projects include several property developments with some of Dubai’s leading developers, in emerging communities such as Arjan, Dubai South and Dubai Islands. Additionally, AKDESIGNO is working on various large-scale commercial spaces by helping brands redefine their image, and supporting its long-standing client relationships.

AK’s vision remains to have a firm that runs independently on a global scale, and that continues to deliver beautiful spaces to clients.

Mai Elhossiny and Tamer Alnazer, Co-founders, Spaces Architects

Spaces Architects are an architecture and interior design studio established in 2018 and operating across Egypt, the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and Europe. Together, Elhossiny and Alnazer have built the practice around a shared vision of creating spaces with a strong sense of identity, where architecture, interiors, materials, and human experience come together to tell meaningful stories. Over the years, the studio has delivered more than 300 projects across residential, hospitality, workplace, commercial, and mixed-use sectors, ranging from private residences and boutique hospitality concepts to corporate headquarters and large-scale developments.

“My tipping point was realising that architecture gave me a way to combine everything I was naturally drawn to creativity, problem solving, and understanding how people live. What started as a love for beautiful spaces quickly became an obsession with the impact those spaces have on people’s daily lives,” shares Elhossiny. “Early in my career, I found myself paying attention not just to buildings, but to how people interacted with them. I was fascinated by how materials, light, proportions, and spatial planning could influence emotions, behaviours, and even memories. I realised that great design is never just about aesthetics, it is about creating environments that people genuinely connect with. That understanding transformed architecture from a profession into a purpose. It ultimately led me to co-found Spaces Architects, where we approach every project as an opportunity to create spaces with a strong sense of identity.

Maryam Karji and Raha Milani, Co-Founders, archiSENSE

While studying at American University of Sharjah (AUS), Karji and Milani developed a shared passion for architecture, interior architecture, and the transformative impact of design on everyday life. Following graduation, both gained professional experience working on residential and architectural projects across the UAE, refining their expertise across design, technical development, and project delivery.

In 2018, the duo founded archiSENSE with the ambition of creating timeless homes defined by architectural clarity, refined detailing, and a holistic approach to living. Today, the studio continues to shape distinctive residential environments that balance functionality, beauty, and longevity. Emerging from a shared belief that architecture, interiors, and landscape should not be approached as separate disciplines, but as interconnected parts of a unified design vision. Karji and Milani recognised an opportunity to create a practice capable of delivering highly cohesive and deeply personalised environments where every element contributes to a singular narrative. 

Today, archiSENSE studio is an award-winning architecture, interior architecture, and landscape design practice. The studio is recognized for its holistic approach to residential design, creating timeless and highly personalised environments through the seamless integration of architecture, interiors, and landscape. Among the studio’s current works are a contemporary majlis house in Umm Al Sheif, a large private family residence, and a collection of bespoke villas and renovation projects across Dubai. 

Monica Arango, Founder and Creative Director, C’est ici Design

C’est ici Design⁠ is an award-winning international design studio celebrated for its refined approach to interior architecture, bespoke design, and spatial storytelling. Since establishing the practice in 2017, Arango has transformed C’est ici Design from a boutique studio into an internationally recognised creative practice, delivering residential, hospitality, retail, workplace, and lifestyle projects across the Middle East, Europe, and the Americas.

Guided by a philosophy rooted in authenticity, craftsmanship, and longevity, Arango believes that true luxury lies in creating spaces that transcend trends and establish meaningful connections between people, place, and design. Her work is distinguished by a sophisticated balance of architecture, interiors, materiality, and storytelling, resulting in environments that are both timeless and deeply personal.

Under her leadership, C’est ici Design has become known for its highly curated and multidisciplinary approach, collaborating with leading developers, luxury brands, hospitality operators, and private clients to deliver projects of exceptional quality and character. From landmark residences and hospitality destinations to flagship retail concepts and corporate environments, the studio has earned a reputation for creating distinctive spaces that seamlessly unite creativity, functionality, and commercial value.

A defining pillar of Arango’s work is her commitment to bespoke design and craftsmanship. Beyond interiors, she has expanded the studio’s creative practice through custom furniture, lighting, joinery, decorative objects, and one-of-a-kind pieces developed exclusively for each project. This dedication to originality has naturally evolved into capsule collections and collaborations with internationally renowned brands and makers, reinforcing her belief that design should be experienced holistically – from the spaces we inhabit to the objects we live with.

Leila Sobek, Founder, BMA Studio

Founded in Dubai in 2015 by architect, engineer and entrepreneur Sobek, BMA Studio is an award-winning multidisciplinary architecture and interior design consultancy. The practice works across residential, commercial and mixed-use developments, combining architectural vision, technical expertise and a deep understanding of place, culture and lifestyle.

Over the past decade, BMA Studio has delivered more than 40 architectural projects and 30 interior design projects across the Middle East, Europe and beyond. The studio has earned recognition for its award-winning residential architecture, bespoke luxury interiors and carefully crafted design solutions that balance aesthetics, functionality and sustainability.

Among its notable projects is the award-winning Nareel Beach House in Abu Dhabi, alongside a portfolio of award-winning private villas across Dubai and the UAE that showcase the studio’s expertise in bespoke residential design, technical excellence and attention to detail. The practice has also designed an upcoming luxury branded furniture showroom on Jumeirah Beach Road, creating a sophisticated retail environment that defines the brand’s identity through a distinctive and forward-looking architectural language. Defined by a futuristic spatial concept and carefully curated customer journey, the project aims to deliver an immersive experience that seamlessly blends design, craftsmanship and innovation. In addition, BMA Studio has successfully delivered multiple residential buildings across Dubai, combining architectural vision, construction expertise and commercial viability.

The studio has contributed to some of Dubai’s most prestigious developments. As lead consultant for Oasis Mansions and Lavita by Emaar, BMA Studio has overseen the design and coordination of luxury residential communities, ensuring the highest standards of quality and execution. The studio has also served as the interior technical consultant for the delivery of COMO Residences and Solara Fairmont Downtown Dubai, working in collaboration with London-based Carlisle Design Studio to translate design concepts into fully realised, high-quality living environments.

Most recently, BMA Studio has been engaged in the design of a new luxury villa community within the new phase of Jumeirah Golf Estates, further reinforcing its reputation for creating refined, context-driven developments that balance architectural character, functionality and contemporary lifestyles.

With more than 25 years of professional experience, Sobek is the creative force behind BMA Studio. A graduate of the Architectural Association School of Architecture (AA) in London, she has built a reputation for combining design excellence with technical precision and a hands-on approach to project delivery. Sobek remains closely involved in every stage of the design process, from concept development and client engagement to construction supervision and final handover. She views architecture as the seamless integration of creativity, engineering and human experience, believing that successful projects are defined not only by their visual impact but also by their functionality, longevity and connection to place.

Under her leadership, BMA Studio has grown into an internationally recognised consultancy known for delivering refined, context-driven architecture and interiors. Her philosophy positions the architect as a master orchestrator, guiding complex multidisciplinary processes while balancing aesthetics, technical performance and the aspirations of each client.

Leali Ezzat, founder and design director, ELE Interior

ELE Interior was founded in 2018 by interior architect Ezzat operating in private homes, hospitality and retail. Originally from Valencia in Spain, Ezzat studied technical interior design at Interior Design Barriera Arte, graduating in 2012. “Growing up in Spain I was always observing spaces and how people lived within them. Even as a child, I was constantly rearranging rooms and experimenting with combinations of colours and textures,” she shares. “I think the real tipping point came when I realised that interior design wasn’t just a hobby, it was a passion. When I was studying, I became obsessed with beautiful houses, with light and understanding how every detail contributes to the experience of a home. I understood that design isn’t only about decoration, it’s also about creating functional, livable spaces that are designed around people’s lives. That realisation pushed me to focus on my studies and commit fully to this career. And what motivates me now is seeing the result, when a client is living in their home, completely happy with what we have designed and their space is organised and beautiful, exactly as they imagined it.”

Ezzat’s career highlights include an intensive four-month internship with Gandia Blasco S.A. Before starting ELE Interior, Ezzat worked as a designer in Orsal for a year, followed by five years working with Porcelanosa Grupo Kitchens, where she specialised in bathrooms and wardrobes, where she honed her skills and learned from the best in the industry.

Ezzat and her team work holistically with their clients and starts each project by building an empathetic connection that accompanies her throughout the design process Ezzat merges humanistic, technological and social approaches to her design thinking and enjoys finding surprising connections between the unexplored and familiar. Her extraordinary understanding of European and Middle Eastern cultures allows her to bridge two unique design aesthetics and present distinctive interiors that are now synonymous with the design studio. Since the conception of ELE Interior, she’s worked with clients who have trusted her with their prestige properties spanning the Emirates Hills, Khawaneej, Jumeirah Bay Island Villa and Al Barari.

Kelly Hand, Co-Founder, West One

After qualifying as an architect, Hand spent a decade refining her craft within some of the U.K.’s most prestigious residential developments and design environments. Working across prime Central London and Surrey, she developed a deep understanding of what defines exceptional luxury residential projects – not simply beautiful design, but meticulous execution, attention to detail, and an instinctive understanding of the expectations of high-net-worth clients.

During this period, Hand worked alongside some of the industry’s most respected names, including Candy & Candy and Finchatton. These formative experiences shaped her approach to design and project delivery, teaching her that true luxury is often found in the details that go unnoticed – the precision of a junction, the quality of a finish, and the seamless coordination required to bring complex visions to life.

As many of her London-based clients expanded their property portfolios internationally, an increasing number sought the same level of service and quality for their residences in the Middle East. Recognising a gap in the market for a company that could bridge exceptional design with equally exceptional delivery, Kelly founded West One in Dubai alongside her husband and business partner, Phil Hand.

From its inception, West One was built on a simple principle: outstanding architecture and interior design deserve execution of the same calibre. Rather than operating within the traditional boundaries of design or construction alone, Hand envisioned West One as the benchmark for luxury residential design and build, renowned for quality, craftsmanship, innovation and an uncompromising client experience.

Today, West One has established itself as a boutique design and build company specialising in some of Dubai’s most ambitious private residences. Combining architecture, interior design, engineering coordination and construction delivery under one roof, the company offers clients a streamlined, accountable approach, ensuring design intent is protected throughout every stage of a project. Currently, West One is pursuing luxury residential villa projects across Dubai, including Jumeirah Golf Estates, Palm Jumeirah, Al Barari, Polo Homes and Emirates Hills, ranging from major renovations to new-build homes between 2,000 sqm and 5,000 sqm.

Hand’s passion has always extended beyond aesthetics. With a strong focus on buildability, technical excellence and craftsmanship, she believes the most successful projects are those where design ambition and construction expertise work in harmony.  This philosophy led to the establishment of West One Joinery, enabling a more detailed, hands-on approach and greater control over the quality and execution of every project. Hand’s distinctive approach to design has earned her recognition, including the ‘Best in Design Innovation’ Award, reflecting her commitment to exceptional design, supported by intelligent planning, knowledge, technical precision and impeccable craftmanship. 

“Luxury is not simply about how a space looks,” she shares. “It is about how thoughtfully it is conceived, how intuitively it functions, how carefully it is delivered, and the confidence a client feels throughout the entire journey. I have always been as passionate about the ‘how’ as I am the ‘why’. That belief has guided me throughout my career and continues to define everything we do at West One today.”

Vijay Nambiar, Founder and Creative Director, The Soch Collective

With nearly two decades of experience, including more than 13 years in the Middle East, Nambiar has built a reputation for delivering impactful projects across the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Oman and India. Before establishing The Soch Collective, he held leadership roles at prominent regional design firms. Nambiar founded The Soch Collective with a simple belief: meaningful spaces begin with meaningful thought.

Derived from the Hindi word for “thought,” Soch was created to bring together thinkers, makers and doers who believe that the most impactful ideas rarely come from one mind alone. “At The Soch Collective, we combine design thinking, storytelling and business insight to create architecture, interiors and experiential spaces that are culturally relevant, emotionally resonant and grounded in human experience,” shares Nambiar. “For me, great design is not about making the loudest statement; it is about thought, intention and the quiet moments that transform a space into a lasting memory.”

Under Nambiar’s leadership, the studio has developed a diverse portfolio spanning luxury residential, workplace, wellness, hospitality and retail sectors. Latest projects include Menovivre, the region’s first dedicated menopause wellness clinic; the flagship store for APE Grupo and headquarters for organisations including United Bank Limited, Perridon Holdings, Vulcan International and the Jindal Group. The studio’s current work includes a selection of bespoke private residences across Dubai, including homes in Keturah Reserve, Jumeirah Islands and Al Barsha, alongside premium apartment projects in Manchester, U.K. Its portfolio also features multiple workplace environments including the Dubai headquarters and a flagship retail branch for a leading regional bank, a workplace project for a global technology company and the latest branch of a leading Pilates academy.

“My journey into interior design began long before I chose it as a profession,” shares Nambiar. “Growing up, I was fascinated by how certain spaces made me feel and how the details within them became intertwined with some of my most vivid memories. I found myself wondering why some places lingered long after I had left them, and how design could shape emotions, behaviours and human connections. That curiosity, combined with a deep interest in art and craft during my school years, naturally evolved into a career in interior design.”

XBD Collective, Insights by Mostafa El Gizawi and Luca Vigliero, Directors, XBD Collective

Driving XBD Collective’s continued growth across the Middle East, Mostafa El Gizawi and Luca Vigliero bring a combined wealth of international expertise spanning architecture, interiors, hospitality, and large-scale mixed-use developments. XBD Collective is now expanding to Cairo.

As Director of Projects, El Gizawi draws on more than 14 years of experience delivering residential, hospitality, waterfront, and heritage-led projects across the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Egypt, Italy, and Kuwait. His design philosophy balances European design sensibilities with a deep understanding of regional culture, resulting in spaces that are timeless, emotionally engaging, and highly contextual. His portfolio includes landmark projects such as the Grand Egyptian Museum and the revitalisation of historic architecture in Florence. “My love for art has always been a constant source of inspiration, shaping the way I see creativity, design, and the built environment. I have always been fascinated by architecture’s ability to bring together artistic expression and technical problem-solving, transforming ideas into spaces that are not only functional, but meaningful,” he shares. 

With more than two decades of international leadership experience, Vigliero has overseen some of the region’s most ambitious developments across Europe, Asia, and the Middle East. As Executive Director, he guides XBD Collective’s strategic vision, leading multidisciplinary teams across architecture, interiors, hospitality, and master planning while driving the firm’s growing international presence.

 “I knew I wanted to become an architect from a very young age,” shares Vigliero. “What excites me most is not a single project, but the diversity of challenges and opportunities within the portfolio. Each sector requires a different design response, yet all share a common objective: creating meaningful experiences that balance design quality, commercial value, and long-term relevance for clients and investors.”

On what made Vigliero decide to become an architect, he says “I was fascinated by the tall skyscrapers of American cities. They represented ambition, innovation, and the power of design to shape the way people live and experience the world. This passion led me to study architecture in Genoa and later in Vienna, while exploring personal research projects focused on computational and parametric design. Even at that stage, I was interested in how creativity and technology could work together to generate new possibilities for architecture. My career truly began in Rotterdam, where I joined one of the most international design studios in the world as an intern. At a young age, I was exposed not only to creative thinking, but also to the discipline, operational rigour, and management structures that support great design. That experience fundamentally shaped the way I approach architecture today. In many ways, it was the spark that led me to where I am now at XBD Collective, working at an executive level across creative direction, operational development, and the long-term international vision of the studio.”

Looking ahead, the studio also expanding their design and management capabilities, bringing new expertise and international perspectives into the studio. To support this ambition, XBD Collective has established an internal ‘Design Leadership Group’ that meets weekly to review projects, challenge ideas, and ensure the highest standards of design quality across the portfolio. “This collaborative approach not only strengthens the development of our teams but also reinforces our commitment to delivering exceptional outcomes for our clients at every stage of the design journey,” shares Vigliero. 

Abdulaziz AlHumaidhi, Principal, AlHumaidhi Architects

AlHumaidhi Architects is a Kuwait-based, full-service architectural design firm rooted in culture, empathy, and meaning. Founded in 1992, the firm is celebrated for its thoughtful, problem-solving approach to design, ensuring that architecture resonates with its users both functionally and emotionally.

With over 21 years of experience, AlHumaidhi has introduced a fresh perspective to modern design while honoring tradition. With dual degrees in Architecture and Fine Arts from the Rhode Island School of Design (RISD), he is renowned for creating bespoke residential designs that seamlessly blend modernity with Kuwait’s rich cultural heritage and environmental context. The firm’s distinguished portfolio includes luxury residential and commercial projects that merge aesthetic diversity with timeless functionality. The firm is currently exploring the idea of the garden and the courtyard as a central theme across several projects, each approaching it from a different relationship to the house. 

“My path to architecture wasn’t obvious at first,” shares AlHumaidhi. “I was drawn to the arts, yet uncertain whether a purely creative pursuit could be a sustainable one, while more conventional paths never resonated with me the same way – I found myself looking for something that married artistic sensibility with a more logic-based, all-encompassing approach to problem-solving. Architecture revealed itself as the discipline where that instinct could meet rigour and purpose, and it was through my education that I came to see architecture as a discipline lived within the language of art itself. Through architecture, ideas, culture, and human needs can be translated into places that evoke emotion, express identity, and deepen our connection to our surroundings. Its unique ability to combine artistic expression with a tangible impact on people’s lives is what continues to inspire me today. It was this balance between creativity, problem-solving, and the opportunity to shape meaningful experiences that made me realise architecture was the right path for me.”

Masoomeh Hilal, Founder and Creative Director, Masoomeh Hilal Design

Hilal’s design journey is shaped by places, cultures, and the stories she holds. Having called Dubai home for over 20 years, both her personal and professional life are rooted in a city that thrives on diversity, ambition, and creative evolution. Living and working in such a dynamic, multicultural environment has given her a global perspective that continues to inform her work, along with a deep appreciation for authenticity and the belief that meaningful design should carry a sense of time, place, and soul. Recent projects include a villa in Muhaisnah and an apartment in Taj Residences in Dubai, UAE.

With a background in textile design, Hilal developed a strong appreciation for materiality and craftsmanship; later expanding into interior design to create more cohesive, considered spaces. After years of experience collaborating with respected designers, Masoomeh Hilal Design was founded in 2018. “Design has always been a part of who I am,” she shares. “I’ve always been drawn to art, textiles, interiors, and the way spaces can make people feel. After studying Textile Design and further Interior Design, I started my career in the industry and quickly realised this was what I loved doing. There wasn’t one defining moment, but a natural progression from a lifelong passion that eventually led me to start my own design studio.”

Noura Alsorougi, Founder and Creative Director, Noon Design Studio

Noura Alsorougi is the Founder and Creative Director of Dubai-based interior design practice Noon Design Studio. After designing her own home, Alsorougi fell in love with the profession after designing her own home. ‘I had always found myself mentally reimagining spaces, but creating a home of my own made me realise how much I enjoyed the process,” she shares. “What started as a personal passion soon led to helping friends with their homes, and before long, word-of-mouth referrals began to grow. That was the moment I realised interior design was not just something I loved doing – it was what I wanted to do professionally.” Alsorougi’s instinct was right. Her recently completed projects include a villa in Arabian Ranches, a house for an Emirati family and Palm Hills in Dubai. Her work is distinguished by a nuanced understanding of how space shapes experience, bringing together clarity of design with a strong sense of atmosphere and intent.

Alsorougi approaches design as a process of interpretation, translating how people live, what they value, and how they want to feel into spatial form. Her design language draws subtly from nature, informed by organic compositions, tonal restraint, and an emphasis on texture and material honesty. This results in interiors that feel grounded and composed, with a quiet confidence that resists excess and avoids trend-driven gestures. At the core of her philosophy is the pursuit of spaces that feel authentic and deeply personal. Through a careful and intuitive process, she is able to move beyond the brief, identifying unspoken needs and translating them into environments that are considered, balanced, and enduring. With a strong foundation in spatial planning and technical execution, Alsorougi ensures that each project is resolved with precision. Proportion, circulation, and materiality are treated as essential design tools, resulting in interiors that are cohesive, functional, and intentional. Projects in the pipeline is a villa in Al Khawaneej and an apartment in Downtown Dubai. 

PRODUCT DESIGN

KAMEH, Designer

In a world where visibility is constant and privacy increasingly elusive, KAMEH values anonymity as the ultimate form of expression. They remain faceless as a gesture of liberation, to allow the focus to rest fully on the pieces, their story, and the emotions they evoke. By removing the markers of identity, KAMEH invites viewers to encounter each object without bias, free to interpret its form and meaning on their own terms. This anonymity preserves the purity of the vision and ensures the work remains faithful to the artist’s mission: to create timeless, functional art that speaks universally, beyond the face of its maker. 

Their latest collection, KAMEH 0.6 transforms a mineral flower of the desert, the desert into furniture that is both sculptural and contemplative. The collection bridges the distance between landscape and domestic space. My tipping point came quietly – in 2021, while I was working on my own apartment,” shares the artist. “I thought I was creating a home, but in reality, something was being awakened in me. I began to understand that an object could be more than a function, more than a surface, more than something placed in a room. It could hold a feeling. It could carry silence. It could become a memory in physical form. That was the moment I stopped seeing furniture as furniture. I began to see it as a language – a way to speak without words, to translate emotion into material, to give shape to something invisible. I realised I wanted to create pieces that did not simply serve the body but stayed with the soul.”

Nada Debs, Designer and Creative Director

Nada Debs is an award-winning designer of Levantine origin, based between Beirut, Dubai, and Kobe. Trained in interior architecture at the Rhode Island School of Design, she works across disciplines, creating spaces and objects that merge craftsmanship with emotional resonance.

Raised in Japan and shaped by a life across cultures, she approaches craft as a way to reconnect with her Arab heritage while fostering dialog between traditions. Her practice is guided by the belief that geometry and the human hand act as universal languages, carrying memory and meaning across time and place.

As Creative Director of her eponymous studio, Debs advances a philosophy she calls ‘Handmade & Heartmade,’ where design balances precision and intuition, and objects are shaped as much by emotion as by form. She collaborates with cultural institutions and global brands alike, positioning craft within a contemporary, international context. 

“The turning point came when I moved to the Levant after living abroad for most of my life,” shares Debs. “I was searching for a connection to my roots, and craft became the bridge. As I visited workshops and met artisans across Lebanon and Syria, I was struck by the pride, skill, and passion embedded in their work. Coming from Japan, I naturally viewed these traditions through a different lens, and I became fascinated by the possibility of creating a dialogue between Japanese minimalism and Middle Eastern craftsmanship. That exploration has shaped my work ever since.”

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Designed by Dewan Architects + Engineers, the residences are interconnected by what the architects call a “green spine” – a continuous forested corridor running through the community, planted with 70,000 trees. This massive afforestation makes Masaar among the greenest residential projects in the United Arab Emirates offering a lush, natural backdrop for everyday life and reinforcing the development’s commitment to wellness and sustainability.

The first three phases of Masaar – Sendian, Kaya, and Robinia, are now complete and were designed by Dewan Architects + Engineers, who also acted as a supervision consultant, focusing on wellness and integration with nature. Sendian, part of phase 1, included 431 homes, and introduced smart home technology in every unit, alongside immediate access to green parks. Kaya, Phase 2, included 421 homes and was planned according to the principles of Vastu Shastra, the ancient Indian science of architecture and design, aligning homes with natural elements to offer greater wellness, balance and positivity in residents’ lives. Robinia, Phase 3, included 565 homes and continues this approach, blending architecture effortlessly with the surrounding landscape to optimise healthy living. 

Each phase offered additional green parks, walking trails and sports facilities, encouraging residents to get out in nature through physical activities such as forest walks, jogging, cycling and even outdoor meditation amid a verdant environment while staying close to home.

Subsequent phases, include Azalea, Sequoia, Saro, and the ultra-luxury Sarai mansions, will further expand the community while maintaining the same ethos of smart, nature-centric design. Each new phase introduces additional parks, community facilities, and housing options to further create a vibrant, self-contained township that contributes to the sustainable growth of the emirate of Sharjah. Masaar Central, the retail and lifestyle hub at the heart of the development, is currently under construction and scheduled for completion later in 2026, alongside the final three residential phases.

The unique design of Masaar, with its alluring verdant environment, aims to foster a strong sense of community while encouraging a healthy lifestyle. Education is also of importance for the area. The project will be home to Reigate Grammar School Masaar, a branch of one of the UK’s top private schools, due to open in 2027. 

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Agata Kurzela, founder of her eponymous studio in Dubai, agrees, adding that technology will be integrated into design thinking, production and everyday use. “AI, automation and data-driven tools will become part of common workflows, from concept generation to documentation and fabrication. This integration will be largely invisible and taken for granted. For many, the challenge will no longer be access to technology but judgement in its application.”

The idea that technology is most beneficial when it forms an invisible layer is shared by Bani Singh, founder of Dubai-based Grounded Design, who says: “Technology continues to accelerate, but the best design hides the complexity. AI, parametric tools and digital modelling are everywhere, yet the most sophisticated outcomes feel tactile, human and restrained. Designers should interpret technology, not celebrate it. In the next five years, AI should evolve into a collaborator, with designers curating, editing and applying judgment rather than generating endlessly. Two decades from now, design briefs will be informed by data analysing social mood and environmental pressure, while spaces can respond dynamically to human behaviour through light, sound and temperature.” There is a flip-side to technology, says Singh: “Clients increasingly conduct their own research. Platforms and generative tools make discovery faster while shaping preferences at the same time. This makes education harder rather than easier. Designers now work against pre-formed opinions driven by algorithms. Their role shifts toward editing, filtering and applying judgement where technology accelerates choice but does not evaluate quality. Clients expect designers to interpret technology, not worship it.”

Sustainability and substance

The short-lived nature of trends often places them in opposition to long-term value, says Kurzela, who believes the design industry needs to make bigger steps forward, noting, “The industry faces a credibility gap. Highly visible failures, such as ‘sustainable structures’ dismantled shortly after completion of the recent Expo, and destined for firewood, expose the distance between narrative and lifecycle reality. In the Middle East, where long-term operational costs are often passed to tenants, climate-responsive and circular design are still not embedded as standard practice. Sustainability must move from intention to implementation, with shared accountability between designers and clients – and perhaps a more prescriptive regulatory framework.”

 “I truly hope that sustainability, circularity and ethics become norms – we need stringent legislation – and not guidelines in the near future,” says Adib. “We are way past the expiry date of our planet and the construction sector is still doing what is has always done, while being one of the main carbon-guzzling industries.” Singh echoes this sentiment, adding, “Designers must move from material selection to system design. Logistics, repair, afterlife and responsibility should become core to the brief, and ethics should become operational rather than aspirational. I hope that within the next five years sustainability stops being a differentiator and becomes assumed.”

Authenticity is something else Singh hopes to see more of in 2026, with design that’s reassuring rather than spectacular, and “less about impact and more about confidence. After years of volatility, clients are seeking spaces and objects that feel steady, trustworthy and emotionally grounding. Loud gestures are giving way to quiet assurance. In the Middle East, this shift is particularly evident. Ambition remains high, but there is a growing preference for work that feels timeless rather than attention-seeking. Calm is becoming a luxury.” She also believes that behaviour will become more important than storytelling: “Brands are increasingly judged by what they do, not what they say. Traceable materials, ethical labour, longevity, repairability and carbon awareness are no longer optional. Design becomes the visible proof of brand behaviour. Here, luxury is moving away from excess and toward intelligence. Clients are asking for things that last, not things that shout. In the future, I hope to see objects that evolve over time, with forms that subtly change and finishes that patinate by design, coupled to a backlash against constant ‘optimisation’.”

From here to the world

Kurzela notes that a stronger cultural scene across the GCC is emerging as a parallel generator of relevance: “Biennales, museums, art fairs and new institutions increasingly shape taste and legitimacy, providing slower, more credible reference points than social platforms.” This means that “cultural exchange now flows outward as much as inward. The global spread of phenomena such as Dubai chocolate and the adoption of Middle Eastern flavours across breakfast buffets at international hotel chains reflect a broader normalisation of regional culture. Food, recipes and spices travel easily; materials and cultural codes less so.” Singh concurs, adding, “The Middle East increasingly exports rather than imports culture. There is a confident blend of heritage, futurism and hospitality, with a clear preference for timelessness over trend-chasing. Global brands are being asked to localise deeply, not cosmetically. The region is becoming a testing ground for climate-responsive architecture, luxury sustainability and new public space typologies.”

Meaningful collaborations

The popularity of collaborations looks set to continue, but Singh and Kurzela agree that they will evolve and mature. Singh: “I expect to see fewer hype-driven pairings and more long-term partnerships based on shared values. Cross-disciplinary teams should become the norm, bringing together designers, scientists, technologists and sociologists.” Kurzela: “The focus is shifting from headline international partnerships to locally rooted, knowledge-driven alliances. Depth and long-term relevance are replacing visibility as the primary value.” As Adib notes, “Any collaboration is a healthy exercise, and can augment specialisation in certain aspects of design, as no one firm can cover all fields, which should further encourage specialisation.”

Opportunities in a changing world

Even in turbulent times, opportunities will present themselves – especially in this region, says Kurzela, where its “density of capital, ambition and returning talent creates rare conditions for experimentation. The opportunity lies not in scale and capital accumulation alone, but in aligning scale with cultural intelligence.” Singh believes that budget pressure and risk awareness are sharpening design rather than diluting it. “Modular systems, adaptable spaces and fewer but better resolved elements are becoming standard. There is a renewed respect for function and clarity, almost a warmer form of modern pragmatism. In a region known for scale, this realism is encouraging smarter briefs and more disciplined outcomes.”

As has always been the case, good design will triumph, now and in the long-term. Adib states, “Design cannot be a trend; it should serve the user it is destined for or the culture it is intended to be placed in.” Singh agrees, adding, “Trends are not invented. They surface where pressure builds, through social anxiety, technological shifts, economic constraint and cultural aspiration. If you understand why things are changing, you can respond intelligently without chasing trends.” Kurzela takes a similar approach: “Rather than predicting aesthetics, it’s more reliable approach to observe values – what is being cherished and valued, what is being questioned or no longer acceptable. In the GCC, these signals tend to surface early, often making the region a preview of what is to come, if not an incubator of new ideas.”

Perhaps the last word should go to Singh, who wisely states, “Good designers do not predict the future. They design things that still make sense when it arrives.”

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Watch the video below:

The post Building Spaces That Endure appeared first on identity.

We spoke with architects and designers across the region, and they voiced that designing to last is less about chasing what is new and more about embedding resilience, honesty and adaptability into the very bones of a project.

Breakout area of an office designed by SAY Studio

When asked how they balance timelessness with evolving trends, the designers all pointed to the same starting point: fundamentals. “We don’t treat trends as design inputs. We design from programme, climate, site and culture,” explains Mohammed Adib, Chief Design Officer at Dewan Architects + Engineers. For him, technology can evolve around strong foundations, but “it never replaces sound proportion, clarity of plan, and material honesty.” Bani Singh, Founder at Grounded Design, takes a similar stance: “Timelessness starts with first principles: proportion, light, flow and an authentic response to context. Trends are useful as accents, not anchors.” For Nemanja Ribic, Senior Interior Designer at SAY Studio, it’s people who ground design: “We therefore anchor spaces in human centric principles: circulation, light and ergonomics. These things are timeless because they will always matter.”

Maysa Saccal, Co-founder

But timeless doesn’t necessarily mean static. Khaled AlShamaa, Co-founder and Director, XYZ Designers, calls it a foundation on which innovation can be layered. “We don’t follow trends; instead, we distil ideas into design elements that can endure and remain relevant well beyond the moment.” For Maysa Saccal, Co-founder, Saccal Design House, timelessness is a balance between adaptation and identity: “As trends evolve, we are always looking for new ideas and opportunities to evolve our designs as well. However, as designers we do have our own aesthetic in design, and honour it through the years to stay true to ourselves and our brand.”

Material Language

If design is to endure, materials must speak of permanence, grace and honesty. “The most sustainable move is an efficient building – orientation, shading, massing and services that work hard,” says Adib. Materials, then, are the inner layer of this efficiency. Adib cites dense stone where appropriate, fired clay products, responsibly sourced timber, lime-based plasters and well-finished metals. “Longevity is the brief,” he declares. Singh favours materials that wear in, not out. She names natural stone, porcelain/sintered slabs, terrazzo with recycled aggregates, responsibly sourced timber, lime-based plasters, and powder-coated metals as some of the materials being used. “In our climate, stability matters – engineered substrates and high-quality composites often outperform softer stones and keep maintenance low. I also look for low-VOC finishes, formaldehyde-free resins, verified EPDs and parts that can be repaired or refinished. Longevity is both physical and emotional: the material should still be wanted in 20 years,” she shares. 

In commercial, residential and hospitality design, Ribic sees different material priorities but insists that durability and responsibility go hand in hand: “We’re seeing a lot of really exciting new materials such as terrazzos incorporating more recycled content, textiles derived from recycled PET or natural wool blends, and bio-based leathers.” For AlShamaa, materiality is as much about experience as endurance: “I don’t shy away from using glass when it allows us to capture natural light and frame views – because creating healthier, more connected environments is also part of building sustainably.” Saccal takes a pragmatic approach: “Reclaimed wood and recycled steel are the most used materials in our projects/designs.”

La Mer by Elie Saab and Dewan Architects + Engineers

Designing for Change

If permanence is one pillar of longevity, adaptability is the other. The designers all affirm the need for flexibility. “We plan for ‘loose fit, long life’,” notes Adib. Ribic stresses the role of adaptability in the workplace: “Easily adaptable environments, multipurpose zones and plug-and-play infrastructure are just some of the non-negotiables for us.” Saccal cautions, however, that adaptability doesn’t erase the challenge: “It definitely helps to be able to come up with a flexible design, yet with the rate that design is evolving, I believe trying to achieve timelessness is getting harder,” she says.

The Case for Building Well

Every ideal collides with reality – tight schedules, budget constraints and shifting priorities. The designers interviewed share that the best way is to weave sustainability and durability into the process from the very beginning. “We make sustainability part of the baseline brief, not an add-on,” shares Adib. “Pre-vetted specifications, early contractor input, clear performance criteria in tender documents, and parallel procurement for long-lead items keep programmes intact.” 

“Decision ‘gates’ stop last-minute swaps that undermine performance,” states Singh. “We keep a pre-vetted library of durable, available materials, bring contractors in early, and run design and procurement in parallel where possible.” For Saccal, coordination is key. “Clear documentation and coordination between architects, engineers, sustainability consultants and contractors avoids rework and often speed up the process,” she says.

Khaled AlShamaa, Co-founder and Director, XYZ Designers

The conversation with clients, too, is shifting. Adib shares, “We frame it as total cost of ownership: fewer replacements, lower energy and maintenance, and higher residual value. We also show how good planning reduces non-lettable/wasted area and optimises structure – savings that fund better envelopes and systems. Most clients accept the logic when the numbers and the comfort outcomes are clear.” Singh connects it to wellbeing and cost of ownership: “We show simple payback models, warranty lengths and maintenance intervals, then highlight the human returns – healthier air, better light, thermal comfort and a calmer, more grounded home. Most clients connect with the idea of building once, building well and leaving something of value to the next generation.” AlShamaa expands the value proposition. “Beyond economics, we emphasise brand value – tenants and buyers increasingly choose projects aligned with sustainability and long-term thinking.”

In an age of speed and disposability, the act of building well and building once, with care and foresight, is perhaps the most radical gesture of all.

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We are currently working on multiple hospitality, residential, and entertainment projects across the UAE, Saudi Arabia, and Southeast Asia. Recently, one of our luxury residential projects, La Mazzoni on Al Marjan Island in Ras Al Khaimah, was launched to the public. This follows another luxury residential development at the same destination, La Mer by Elie Saab, which has garnered significant attention due to its collaboration with renowned Lebanese couture designer Elie Saab. 

Meanwhile, we are proud to serve as the lead design consultant for Aquarabia Water Park in Qiddiya City, Saudi Arabia. This landmark project, the largest of its kind in the Middle East, is on track for inauguration this year. 

FlyDubai HQ

Could you mention some of your latest projects or achievements as a firm (Top 3)? 

– Launching our in-house landscape design department was a significant achievement, enabling us to offer a wider range of services to our clients at competitive prices. 

– Winning the Commercial Architecture award for our design of the flydubai Campus at the Identity Design Awards 2024 was a well-deserved recognition of the efforts of our design teams. 

– Witnessing the opening of two landmark resorts in the Red Sea last year—The St. Regis Red Sea Resort and Nujuma, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve—was a proud moment for us. Serving as the lead design consultant for these projects, we are delighted to have contributed to their successful completion. 

– Expanding our expertise to include theme and water parks, further diversifying our portfolio. 

– Presenting our latest innovations in AI-augmented BIM and automation alongside some of the world’s leading technology innovators at the Autodesk University (AU) 2024 in San Diego, USA. 

– Acquiring a majority stake in DesignLab, a renowned Singapore-based hospitality design firm, marked a key milestone in strengthening our capabilities in the hospitality sector. 

How would you describe your design philosophy? 

We are a leading multidisciplinary architectural design firm dedicated to creating unique, sustainable projects that deliver long-term value to our clients and the communities they serve. 

As this is the Power Issue, what empowers you and your team? 

We pride ourselves on consistently going the extra mile to exceed our clients’ expectations and requirements. We also see significant opportunities in empowering our teams through the adoption of emerging technologies, such as AI—a commitment demonstrated by our participation in the 2024 Autodesk University Conference in San Diego. 

We are also deeply committed to investing in young talent. By fostering a sense of ownership and providing growth opportunities, we aim to empower our younger employees to gain the confidence and experience needed to become future leaders within the company.

View more global firms with local presence.

Read the full id50 list here.

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Aedas, Insights by Ignacio Gomez, Global Design Principal

Aedas has undertaken some of the most ambitious projects worldwide, including a transformative project in Egypt. “We are collaborating with MODON Holdings on the visionary Ras El-Hekma project, which is redefining coastal living through transformative design,” Gomez shares. Another standout project is the prestigious Rixos Branded Residences in Dubai’s Financial Centre Road, which Gomez describes as “setting new standards for luxury and functionality.”

The firm has also built a legacy of impactful work that Gomez reflects on with pride. “Recent highlights include reimagining The Red Palace Boutique Hotel, where we seamlessly blended historic preservation with modern functionality,” he says. Another hallmark is Trojena, the revolutionary ski village envisioned as part of NEOM’s futuristic landscape. Additionally, the SLS Dubai Hotel and Residences exemplifies the firm’s expertise in creating vibrant urban spaces.

Aedas’ design philosophy is deeply rooted in research, with a focus on architecture’s power to shape cultural and environmental contexts. “In the Middle East, we focus on integrating historical influences into forward-thinking designs. We view each project as equally significant, prioritising emotional connections between people and spaces,” the Global Design Principal explains.

For Gomez and his team, empowerment is a cornerstone of Aedas’ culture, owing to knowledge-sharing and a hands-on leadership approach. “We are committed to continuously raising the bar through agility, innovation and proactive adaptation. Senior leaders, including myself, remain deeply involved in every project, ensuring accessibility and collaboration at every level,” he says. “Empowering our teams means fostering an environment of trust, creativity and growth.”

Dewan Architects + Engineers , Insights by Ammar Al Assam, CEO

With a strong portfolio spanning hospitality, residential and entertainment sectors across the UAE, Saudi Arabia and Southeast Asia, Dewan Architects + Engineers is at the forefront of delivering innovative and sustainable projects that leave a lasting impact.

Among the firm’s latest projects, Dewan has unveiled La Mazzoni, a luxury residential development on Al Marjan Island, Ras Al Khaimah, following the success of La Mer by Elie Saab. The latter, in collaboration with the renowned Lebanese couturier, reflects Dewan’s commitment to blending high-end design with cultural sophistication. In Saudi Arabia, the firm is the lead design consultant for the Aquarabia water park in Qiddiya City, set to be the largest water park in the Middle East upon its launch this year.

“Witnessing the opening of two landmark resorts in the Red Sea last year – The St. Regis Red Sea Resort and Nujuma, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve – was a proud moment for us,” shares Ammar Al Asam, CEO of Dewan Architects + Engineers. Beyond project delivery, Dewan continues to innovate and diversify. The firm has expanded into landscape design and theme park developments, showcased its advancements in AI-augmented BIM and automation at Autodesk University 2024, and acquired a majority stake in Singapore’s DesignLab, bolstering its expertise in hospitality design. Dewan’s design for the flydubai Campus also earned it the best Architecture – Commercial award at the 2024 identity Design Awards.

At its core, Dewan’s philosophy is rooted in creating sustainable, community-focused spaces that resonate with the people they serve. Empowerment drives the firm’s team – whether through adopting emerging technologies, nurturing young talent or fostering a collaborative environment where future leaders can thrive. “By going the extra mile for our clients and investing in innovation and people, we aim to continue setting benchmarks in the industry,” shares Al Assam.

Arquitectonica, Insights by Philip Gillard, Managing Director

Arquitectonica is now paced to work on the newly announced Mr. C Residences in Downtown Dubai in collaboration with ALTA Real Estate and Cipriani. The firm is also working on a luxury branded residential tower on Palm Jumeirah. “We love designing for this sector and it’s one Arquitectonica has made a name for itself in across the globe. We deeply value and understand the unique experience that branded residences offer to both developers and owners, blending the finest aspects of a luxury resort with the comfort and intimacy of home, all within a single, spectacular destination,” shares Gillard. The firm is also shaping skylines and cities in Saudi Arabia through ambitious architecture and master-planning projects.

The firm has also significantly grown its Dubai team in the past 12 months and have already won three property and construction awards. On being asked about what’s on their project wishlist, Gillard reveals that it is already unfolding. “Our dream projects involve holistic partnerships where designers, operators, architects, and creatives all bring their expertise to the table. When everyone’s contributions are truly valued, we create something exceptional together. As cliché as it might sound, we consider the projects we are already working on to be manifest-worthy! I’m very excited, both as I reflect and look ahead towards the future,” he says. The design culture at Arquitectonica is driven by the energy of the firm’s global experience and the collective process. “I’m a huge believer in the importance of culture. Our people are our success,” shares Gillard. When it comes to the firm’s design philosophy, Gillard shares, that Arquitectonica is, quite simply human-first. “Our Founding Principal Bernardo Fort-Brescia is very much at the helm of our global network of offices, driving our collective design philosophy and vision for the future,” he says.

The firm focuses on ecologically sensitive, yet commercially viable design and have a profound impact on their clients ROI and economic success. “When we talk about ‘house style,’ Arquitectonica is well-known for a bold modernism that redefined Miami’s urban landscape following its inception in 1977. We continue building on this legacy, with a liberated use of shape and form, creating iconic landmarks across the world,” says Gillard.

Godwin Austen Johnson (GAJ), Insights by Jason Burnside, Managing Director – Partner

Godwin Austen Johnson (GAJ) is a renowned architectural practice that has been shaping the UAE’s skyline for over three decades. Founded in 1989, the firm has a rich history of pioneering designs, with a commitment to innovation, sustainability and community engagement. One of its proudest achievements is celebrating 35 years in the UAE, marking a significant milestone in a region that has undergone tremendous growth. “Our journey began with the iconic Dubai Creek Golf & Yacht Club project, which set the foundation for everything that followed,” Burnside reflects. Another landmark project is the Sharjah Art Museum, which earned the prestigious Aga Khan Award for Architecture. “Receiving this award shows our commitment to designing while addressing the needs of communities and responding to their cultural expectations,” he adds. Looking ahead, GAJ is excited about several ongoing projects. “This year, we will be handing over the Serenia Living Residences, while also developing a new residential project in Jumeirah Islands,” shares Burnside. The firm is also focused on luxury boutique hotels and an art museum project, further expanding its diverse portfolio.

In 2025, the firm plans to continue exploring the intersection of tradition and innovation. “My team and I aim to focus on projects that do more than preserve history – they should inspire movement, progress and exploration. We want to create spaces that honour traditional designs while embracing contemporary elements, enabling people to experience a narrative that spans from the past, through the present and into the future,” Burnside explains.

Gensler Middle East

Nikki Beach Resort & Spa Ras Al Khaimah

Gensler Middle East, a regional arm of the global design powerhouse, continues to make waves with its groundbreaking projects across diverse geographies. Rooted in a collaborative, human-centred philosophy, the firm consistently delivers innovative solutions that balance functionality, sustainability and cultural relevance.

Among its most notable ongoing projects is the Nikki Beach Resort & Spa in Ras Al Khaimah, UAE. Situated on Hayat Island within the Mina waterfront development, the resort reflects Ras Al Khaimah’s natural and cultural heritage through fluid, organic forms and maritime-inspired design elements. With 156 accommodations, including luxurious sky villas boasting private plunge pools, the resort promises to elevate the emirate’s hospitality offerings, seamlessly blending relaxation with RAK’s distinctive landscape. In the commercial realm, Gensler is leading the design of RAK Central, an ambitious premium business hub slated for 2025. This mixed-use development will feature 288,000 square metres of office space, 4,000 residential units and three hotels. Anchored by a community-focused approach, the project integrates sustainability, wellness and flexibility, with design elements like elevated plazas, modular interiors and future-proofed infrastructure aiming to position Ras Al Khaimah as a leading business destination.

On a larger scale, Gensler’s Turkana Spatial Plan in Kenya exemplifies its commitment to regenerative design. Covering 77,000 square kilometres, the project tackles environmental restoration, water security and economic revitalisation through nature-based solutions. By healing the land, the firm aims to heal the people, creating a sustainable future for Turkana County. Gensler’s guiding principle, “designing for impact,” is evident in its diverse portfolio. Empowered by a collaborative culture, the firm focuses on transforming human experiences and fostering communities.

International Design Associates (IDA), Insights by Shahzad Azam, Founder

International Design Associates (IDA) has firmly established itself as a leader in luxury hospitality design and is known for its storytelling approach and human-centric design philosophy. The firm’s commitment to crafting meaningful, context-driven spaces is evident in its latest projects. Among the standout ventures are Durrakah Island – Autograph Collection in the Red Sea, KSA, Kempinski Marina Residences in Dubai, UAE, and Hyatt Place Hotel in Diriyah, KSA, alongside international projects like Kempinski Hotel Resorts in Marrakesh and Tangier, Morocco.

Shazad Azam, Founder of IDA, reflects on the firm’s philosophy: “Our design philosophy is deeply rooted in storytelling, context and human connection. We believe that every project should tell a story – a narrative that speaks to the culture, environment and aspirations of its users.” This ethos has translated into some of the firm’s most significant achievements, including the Raffles Al Areen Palace in Bahrain, which opened in December 2023. The resort has already become a renowned luxury destination and has been nominated for several prestigious global awards.

Other notable projects include Jumeirah Al Sahel Resort, Bahrain, which combines modern elegance with traditional Bahraini craftsmanship, and the upcoming Accor-Mantis Collection, Hawar Island Hotel & Resort, Bahrain. IDA’s success is also reflected in its impressive growth, having secured over 60 projects in the last two years and expanded its global team to over 100 professionals across Bahrain, Pakistan and Thailand.

Azam emphasises that what empowers IDA is the team’s diversity, creativity and shared commitment to designing spaces that leave a lasting impact. “Empowerment at IDA comes from a fusion of passion, people and purpose, allowing us to create impactful designs that stand the test of time,” he shares.

LWK + PARTNERS, Insights by Kerem Cengiz, Managing Director – MENA

LWK + PARTNERS is at the forefront of transformative architecture that balances cultural heritage, modern innovation and sustainability. The firm is committed to creating spaces that inspire and endure, grounded in a design philosophy that prioritises contextual sensitivity, human-centricity and innovation.

Among the firm’s most exciting current projects is a cultural exhibition space in Saudi Arabia that redefines biophilic design, integrating greenery and architecture to create a seamless ecosystem for learning and leisure. LWK + PARTNERS is also pioneering a smart city initiative, marrying AI-driven infrastructure with urban design to demonstrate how technology can harmonise with cultural heritage. Another standout project is a sculptural hospitality tower, drawing on the intricate geometry of Hejazi art and merging craftsmanship with functionality.

The key milestones that define the firm’s success highlighted by Cengiz include the groundbreaking Pulse Wadi mixed-use development in Riyadh, which embodies a contemporary reinterpretation of the Salmani Code, and the Agri Oasis Resort Project in Saudi Arabia, a perfect blend of traditional and modern design celebrating cultural heritage.

Looking ahead, Cengiz envisions a “holistic urban wellness hub” as a dream project – a self-sustaining community integrating biophilic design, smart city technologies and advanced healthcare infrastructure. “This project would serve as a beacon for sustainable and regenerative design, demonstrating how architecture can be a catalyst for human well-being. It’s something we have been dipping in and out of over the last five years but has never quite come to fruition; however, it feels like the time if we can find the right development team to work with us,” he shares.

For Cengiz and his team, empowerment stems from collaboration, innovation and the opportunity to address pressing challenges like sustainability and urbanisation in the dynamic MENA region.

RSP, Insights by Michael Magill, Managing Director – RSP Dubai & Global Design Lead

“We believe that architecture is more than just design. Collaborating with some of the world’s most prestigious brands means understanding that it’s not just about creating something visually striking, it’s about capturing the brand DNA,” says Michael Magill, Managing Director – RSP Dubai & Global Design Lead.

The firm’s latest projects exemplify this philosophy, with works like the Nobu Hotel and Residences in Abu Dhabi, UAE, where RSP is involved from concept through to construction, ensuring every detail aligns with the luxurious brand’s identity. Another standout is the Armani Hotel and luxury Branded Residences in Diriyah Gate, Saudi Arabia, where RSP was appointed as the design architect after winning a competitive design bid. Additionally, the Karl Lagerfeld Villas project merges architectural and interior design expertise, creating luxurious living spaces that reflect Lagerfeld’s iconic legacy. The Palm Tower and Nakheel Mall stand as symbols of RSP’s design and delivery excellence, marking key moments in the Dubai skyline.

“Power comes from collaboration and a shared vision. What empowers us is the diversity of our team and the trust we build with our clients,” Magill reflects. The firm celebrated its 15th anniversary recently, a testament to its growth from a team of four to 100, emerging as a regional powerhouse in addition to establishing a new Global Design Studio in Dubai late last year.

Zaha Hadid Architects (ZHA), Insights by Melodie Leung, Director

KAFD Metro Station Photography by Hufton+Crow

ZHA continues to push the boundaries of architectural innovation, staying true to its late founder’s legacy of fluid geometries and groundbreaking design. Among the firm’s latest projects is The Henderson in Hong Kong, set to be completed soon. The 36-storey tower redefines urban design by integrating technology such as a smart management system and air-quality monitoring, while also featuring a Sky Garden with aquaponic planting to purify the air. Its striking double-laminated glass façade not only enhances thermal efficiency but also can withstand the region’s intense summer typhoons.

Recent achievements underscore ZHA’s global influence. The Romeo Roma hotel in Italy exemplifies its expertise in blending historic preservation with modern design. While transforming the 16th-century Palazzo Capponi, ZHA collaborated with Italian craftsmen to create interiors that harmonise tradition and innovation. In Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, ZHA’s King Abdullah Financial District Metro Station has become a symbol of sustainable urban connectivity. Opened in late 2024, the LEED Gold-certified station optimises energy use with passive design and renewable-powered cooling systems while managing high passenger volumes seamlessly. Another standout is the Zhuhai Jinwan Civic Art Centre in southern China. This multipurpose cultural hub features a performing arts centre, a science centre and an art museum unified under latticed steel canopies. The design prioritises sustainability through thermal optimisation, solar shading and integration with Zhuhai’s rainwater management initiative.With a bold vision and dedication to innovation, ZHA continues to shape the architectural landscape worldwide through working on transformative spaces that work in synchronicity with their surroundings.

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IDA bakery and bistro, designed by 4Space Design

“AI is no longer just a buzzword, it’s fundamentally transforming how architects conceptualise, iterate and execute projects. It has evolved far beyond simple text-to-image capabilities; we are now interacting with our data, asking for insights and receiving actionable recommendations,” shares Mohammed Adib, Chief Design Officer (CDO) at Dewan Architects + Engineers. The company, through MAD, has now successfully developed an in-house AI solution called Quible which enables direct communication with Dewan’s Business Information Modelling (BIM) models and automates repetitive and time-consuming tasks, leaving designers to focus on creative problem-solving.

Akabeko at voco the Palm, designed by 4Space Design

Firas Alsahin, co-founder of 4Space Design, is also a fan of capitalising on the AI boom, citing Midjourney and Finch3D, which are revolutionising design ideation and optimisation. He also is a proponent for generative design and BIM. “By integrating BIM with emerging technologies like IoT [Internet of Things] and AR/VR [augmented reality/virtual reality], we’re now able to visualise and simulate entire projects before construction even begins,” he says. 

Parametric Architecture

Parametric architecture continues to be heavily used. “Over time, its [parametric architecture’s] capabilities have grown more sophisticated, but today, with the advent of AI and machine learning, parametric design has reached an entirely new level of potential,” Abid shares. “Take, for example, the design of a high-performance building façade. Traditionally, parametric tools allowed architects to model intricate patterns that optimise light, shade and airflow. With AI, this process becomes dynamic. Machine learning algorithms can simulate how sunlight interacts with the façade across seasons and generate louvres or shading systems that adjust in real-time to changing conditions. This ensures optimal energy efficiency and comfort for occupants while maintaining the visual integrity of the design. Here, form becomes a direct response to functional needs, creating a symbiosis where one enhances the other,” he adds.

Oceano’s in-house spa, designed by Dewan Architects+Engineers

Smart Cities

From an urban development perspective, smart cities are on the rise. “Smart cities will leverage IoT to collect and analyse real-time data, enabling adaptive traffic management, efficient energy grids, and better resource allocation. This real-time feedback loop will improve the quality of life while reducing environmental impact,” says Alsahin. He also predicts that smart cities will prioritise environmental harmony, ensuring that technology enhances rather than detracts from natural ecosystems. Meanwhile, hybrid physical-virtual spaces driven by AR and VR will transform public areas into immersive, interactive hubs, enriching cultural and social experiences. “The concept of smart cities is no longer a distant vision but an emerging reality where technology and urban design converge to redefine how we live and interact with our environment,” says Adib.

Disruptive Technologies on the Horizon

Alsahin cites technologies such as generative design which uses AI to create optimised, innovative solutions, as well as bioengineered materials like self-healing concrete and algae bioreactors that foster symbiotic structures. Advanced robotics enable intricate construction tasks, enhancing efficiency and safety, while 3D printing accelerates large-scale building fabrication, reducing costs and waste. Additionally, he says hybrid-virtual spaces are here to stay: “AR/VR immersive design tools allow architects and clients to virtually explore and refine projects pre-construction, ensuring alignment and reducing rework.” 

“Looking ahead, the horizon is filled with transformative innovations such as robotics, 3D printing, artificial intelligence and extended reality technologies that are not merely tools but catalysts for a fundamental reimagining of how we design and build,” says Adib, who adds that machine learning is emerging as a creative force, helping enhance design decisions and create smarter workflows. 

Hai Phong Tower in Vietnam, designed by Dewan Architects+Engineers

Materials Mastery

From a materials perspective, Richard Wilson, founder of Colab, Dubai’s first materials library remains positive. “In the early days of Colab the curiosity was certainly there, and this has since flourished into genuine interest. More specifiers are keen to work with local materials and as a result there is greater innovation, and the cycle continues,” he shares. Material development continues to thrive, with innovators evolving existing products or introducing new ones. Wilson notes that over 15 locally and regionally made materials are now available for the design and build community – including materials from Dateform, Byblos and Karim+Elias. “We realise the importance of testing and closer collaboration with creatives and government entities. Testing is posing a challenge to creatives. There’s a concerning lack of information out there, and the costs are prohibitive. More needs to be done to break down these barriers,” he says. Colab has recently also collaborated with The King Abdulaziz Center for World Culture (Ithra), which will soon house a new purpose-built materials library in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

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Cosmo café in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia designed by 4Space Design

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On the cover is the remarkable Pallavi Dean, founder of Dubai-based Roar, which has made a significant contribution to the industry for more than 12 years. Born and raised in Sharjah, UAE, Pallavi has recently expanded her studio’s presence to Saudi Arabia. For the cover shoot, we knew we wanted to pay homage to Pallavi’s connection with Sharjah. Dean suggested Mleiha, reflecting her love for the desert. Inspired by themes of flow and reflections, we sought to capture the designer’s dynamic essence. In our feature on page 22, she opens up about her journey, sharing insights into how financial acumen fuels creative freedom and revealing her cleverly coined ‘10 C’s’ of success.

identity is also thrilled to be a media partner at this year’s highly anticipated Maison&Objet in Paris, France. With its theme of Sur/Reality, the event promises new design innovation and discoveries. From 16 to 20 January 2025, we’ll bring you highlights from the fair, sharing stories that connect the Middle East’s design narrative with a global audience, and vice versa. Follow our social media on @identityae for updates.

In this issue we also explore what’s new in home décor and spotlight the technological innovations shaping the industry, with Gensler’s insightful design forecast offering a fascinating glimpse into the latest trends and innovations.

Here’s to designing a future full of possibilities.

Read the January edition on ISSUU.

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