ELE Interior: Creating Spaces with Soul
Founder and Design Director of ELE Interior, Leali Ezzat, discusses purposeful luxury, emotional storytelling, and how Villa Alma reflects a design approach centred on identity, detail, and meaningful living. You founded ELE Interior in 2017. What inspired you to take that leap, and how did your early experience shape the studio’s vision? In 2017, I led my first independent project, and it changed my perspective. The whole journey felt very natural, right from the first conversation to the final reveal. When I saw how happy the client was, I realised how powerful design can be. It is not just about making something look beautiful; it is about creating a space that feels right for someone’s life. That experience made me understand that I did not want to simply offer a service. I wanted to build something with heart. I wanted to create spaces that people feel connected to. That is how ELE Interior started. From day one, I wanted every project to feel personal, meaningful, and layered with identity. Your philosophy for your recent project, Villa Alma, has been described as purposeful luxury. What does that mean to you? For me, purposeful luxury means that nothing is there just for show. Every detail should make sense. Materials should be chosen for their quality and longevity. The craftsmanship should be precise. Even storage should feel considered. Luxury is not about adding more. Sometimes it is about refining what is already there. It is about creating a home that feels elevated but still comfortable and authentic. With Villa Alma, we wanted the sophistication to be understated. For us, the beauty is in the details rather than in something dramatic. When you first stepped into Villa Alma, what was your initial instinct or approach? When we first walked into Villa Alma, everything looked complete but felt incomplete. The entrance was impressive, the staircase had presence, and the chandelier had scale. On paper, everything was there. But emotionally, it felt flat, almost like a showroom. The client had just renovated, so starting over was not the solution. What she needed was identity, warmth, and personality. What would you say is the most striking or memorable feature of Villa Alma? The entrance lobby is certainly one of the most memorable spaces in the villa. It sets the tone for the entire home. The staircase was functional but not special. Instead of replacing it, we redesigned it by introducing bespoke feature steps, a more elegant balustrade, and custom metal detailing to give it sculptural strength. The marble brought depth and continuity throughout the house. The chandelier was another key statement. Rather than removing it, we reworked it. We adjusted the crystal composition and refined the installation so it felt lighter and more contemporary. For me, that space represents the whole philosophy of the project. It shows that luxury is not always about something new. It is about recognising potential and enhancing it carefully. Villa Alma feels very personal. How important is emotional storytelling in your design process? Emotional storytelling is always the starting point. Before we think about materials or layouts, we think about the person. Our client is a creative mother of two. She wanted elegance but also needed comfort and practicality without losing warmth. This balance guided every decision. For instance, in the master bedroom we worked with soft neutrals and layered lighting to create a calm retreat. It feels serene but still strong and reflects her personality. I never want a home to feel like my style. It should feel like the client’s life translated into space. Finally, what do you hope Villa Alma represents for future clients? I hope it represents confidence — confidence that you do not need to tear everything down to create something beautiful. Sometimes the most meaningful transformations happen through listening and refinement. When you truly understand how a family lives, the design becomes far more powerful. Villa Alma shows that real luxury is about thoughtfulness and detail. It is about creating a home that feels authentically yours. As we celebrate International Women’s Day, how do you see the UAE supporting female entrepreneurs and designers? I feel very grateful to be building my business in the UAE. It is a place where women are encouraged to lead and grow. I have never felt limited here because I am a woman. Opportunities are based on your vision and how hard you work. Of course, balancing business and motherhood is not always easy. But the support systems here make it possible. There is a strong culture of ambition, and women are visible in leadership roles across industries. For me, that visibility matters. It gives confidence to the next generation. It shows that you can build something meaningful while still staying true to yourself. Photography by: Intelier The post ELE Interior: Creating Spaces with Soul appeared first on Design Middle East.
Lifestyle Before Luxury With H&H
Shahab Lutfi, Chairman of H&H, shares how a lifestyle-led philosophy shapes Dubai’s evolving real estate landscape What inspired H&H’s holistic approach? Our holistic approach began with a very clear ambition: to bring a level of quality, sophistication and depth to the Dubai market that did not previously exist. When H&H was established in 2008, the market was largely transactional. Very few developers focused on detail, lifestyle or the expectations of a high-end, discerning client. We believe that if you are developing for a luxury audience — whether in five-star hospitality or premium residential — you must deeply understand how the client lives. That means understanding daily rhythms and habits: how they start their day, when they train, how they relax, the level of service they expect, and the details that make them feel comfortable in a space. Design, service and management must all stem from that understanding of lifestyle. As client expectations evolve, the model must evolve too. We have seen a shift from homes designed to feel like hotels to hotels designed to feel like homes. Today, many luxury hotels want their suites to feel residential, while some residents want hotel-style services. Our role is to recognise these shifts and respond thoughtfully. In essence, this lifestyle-led mindset defines H&H’s holistic philosophy. Whether we are designing and developing an asset, managing it or delivering a service, everything begins with the client’s needs. How has your experience shaped your leadership style? I have been in real estate for over two decades, working on master-planned communities, project launches, sales strategies and investment-led developments before founding H&H. At the time, everything was driven by fundamentals: pricing, returns, target clientele, unit sizing, quality and brand alignment. However, we identified a gap in the market — the opportunity to combine commercial discipline with a more considered, lifestyle-driven approach to development. That is where H&H was born. Investment discipline remains central to how we operate today. We do not pursue projects for recognition alone; we focus on developments that are commercially sound and thoughtfully designed. Every project must make financial sense while delivering exceptional quality — in the buildings we create, the materials we use and the services we provide. To achieve this, we examine everything at both macro and micro levels. I would describe my leadership style as strategic in vision and hands-on in execution. We begin with the big picture — vision, positioning and long-term intent. But true differentiation lies in the details: the materials in a lobby, the finish of a surface, the level of service and the operational experience. Moving from macro thinking to micro execution is not easy, but it is precisely what creates distinction. My role is to guide our teams and embed that mindset across the organisation. Our objective is always to exceed expectations. If something looks good in a rendering, the finished product should look even better. What major shifts are shaping Dubai’s real estate market today? Dubai has evolved significantly, but the real shift began post-COVID. While many global cities struggled, Dubai demonstrated exceptional governance — from health and safety management to overall quality of life. Today, Dubai is not merely a regional hub. It is a true global city competing directly with major capitals and attracting talent, capital and businesses from across Europe, the United States and beyond. Where the city was once largely transient, residents are now purchasing homes with permanence in mind. Many who lived here for 10 or 15 years without buying are now committing to ownership. Initiatives such as the Golden Visa have created security and confidence. Families see Dubai as a place where their children can grow up — and eventually return. This shift from temporary residence to long-term homeownership has transformed the market. Dubai now offers everything from master-planned communities to premium branded residences. Branded residences provide familiarity, trust and service consistency. Buyers understand that established global brands protect their reputation and enforce standards. Whether it is Four Seasons or Rosewood, there is reassurance in knowing what to expect. Eden House, our flagship homegrown residential brand, represents something different. It is not a hotel, nor a conventional luxury residence. It is deeply personal. Eden House is defined by human connection and thoughtful gestures — knowing residents by name, creating meaningful experiences for children, anticipating needs before they are expressed. It is assistance offered before it is requested, or security staff who genuinely care as a child heads to school. These moments create emotional connection. Eden House is about being one step ahead of expectations without overcomplicating the experience. It is residential living with intuitive service at its core. As more Eden House developments open and residents experience them first-hand, word of mouth becomes powerful. The brand is understood through lived experience — because we are focused on residential life, not simply hotel operations. How do you maintain consistency across H&H’s diverse portfolio? The answer is simple: the devil is in the detail. We constantly assess where we can improve — whether in service, product quality or asset management. Consistency is not accidental; it is maintained daily. I communicate directly with teams at all levels, from senior leadership to on-site maintenance staff, because everyone must understand that small details matter. Often, these are things the client may not consciously notice — but they will feel the difference. And we must see them before the client does. What core principles guide H&H’s growth today? Passion is fundamental. If you are genuinely passionate about what you do — whether designing a home, managing a building or delivering a service — excellence becomes instinctive. You think about it constantly and care deeply about the outcome. What is your long-term vision for H&H in the region? We have delivered projects outside the UAE — in Qatar and Saudi Arabia — but our core business remains here. Real estate is inherently local. You must understand market dynamics, pricing, regulations, contractors and authorities. For that reason, our primary development focus will remain within the UAE. That
Hansgrohe Uncovers Counterfeit Network Targeting AXOR And Hansgrohe Brands
A copy of the AXOR MyEdition faucet was awarded second place at the Plagiarius Award at the Ambiente trade fair At the Ambiente trade fair, a copy of the “AXOR MyEdition” faucet achieved second place at the Plagiarius award ceremony. In 2025, the Hansgrohe Group worked closely with the Chinese authorities to uncover a professionally organized counterfeiting network. The counterfeiters had copied products under the internationally protected company brands “hansgrohe” and “AXOR” and sold them online at low prices. The counterfeit faucet was one of the products seized during the operation. Product Piracy: Industry Risk “Counterfeit sanitary products are a safety risk. Inferior materials can release harmful substances or heavy metals into the water. At the same time, our industry suffers considerable economic damage,” says Carmen Vetter, Team Lead Intellectual Property Rights at Hansgrohe Group. For the bathroom and kitchen specialist from the Black Forest, this damage is estimated to amount to five to ten percent of global sales. Counterfeit products appeared on a large scale as early as the launch of the successful hansgrohe Raindance shower line in the early 2000s. At that time, authorities confiscated container loads of counterfeit goods from China, and the company resorted to high-profile destruction campaigns using steamrollers and shredders. Even today, customs inspections of the trade fair booths of non-European suppliers at the ISH sanitary fair still lead to numerous seizures. “Today, counterfeiters mainly work on a small-batch, order-based basis. The goods are sold via online platforms or delivered directly to the end consumer, which makes them difficult to track,” explains Carmen Vetter. Successful Raid After Months of Investigation In China, Hansgrohe commissioned undercover partners to locate the network’s warehouses. The Kaiping Public Security Bureau then carried out a raid on two counterfeiters’ hideouts and warehouses in Jiangmen City in Guangdong Province with sufficient evidence. The authorities confiscated counterfeit goods, including those from other international sanitaryware manufacturers, arrested three key individuals, and initiated criminal proceedings. The value of the goods seized, comparable to original hansgrohe and AXOR products, was around €360,000. As a member of the Action Group Against Product and Brand Piracy (APM), the Hansgrohe Group is in regular contact with other companies in the industry. Around 95 percent of counterfeit Hansgrohe products originate in China. The market is both a place of production and a place of sale. Platforms such as Taobao and WeChat offer counterfeiters reach, ease of transaction, and anonymity. The legal situation is complex. Counterfeiters use AI tools to create marketing content that closely resembles the original, as well as their own IP registrations to block original manufacturers. Many platforms do not have sufficient mechanisms in place to prevent IP infringements or do not provide adequate support to the original manufacturer. New Anti-Counterfeiting Label for Hansgrohe Customers in China Hansgrohe now provides additional protection for its customers in China with a counterfeit-proof label in the form of a unique QR code for each individual product. Customers will be able to verify and register their purchased products via an app. Raids and investigations such as those in China are relatively rare in Germany. “Here, it’s currently more a case of patent infringements, whereby it’s often possible to reach an out-of-court settlement with the other party,” says Carmen Vetter. Ultimately, no matter where in the world, it’s about protecting the company’s innovations from counterfeiting, protecting itself from loss of revenue and reputation, and protecting its customers from potential damage. “Extremely cheap offers are always a warning sign,” advises Carmen Vetter. “Sanitary products should only be purchased from authorized dealers. We will never be able to completely prevent product piracy. But we will continue to take consistent action against it, focusing on education and new digital tools for finding suspicious online offers or for verification via QR code and app.” The post Hansgrohe Uncovers Counterfeit Network Targeting AXOR And Hansgrohe Brands appeared first on Design Middle East.
Hansgrohe Among Top 1% Globally After EcoVadis Platinum Recognition
Hansgrohe Group has improved its sustainability credentials in 2025 Hansgrohe pursues scientifically based climate targets The Hansgrohe Group has consistently improved its sustainability performance in 2025. For the second time in a row, the Black Forest-based sanitary specialist received the EcoVadis Platinum Medal and, with an increase in points from 83 to 86, ranks among the top 1 percent of companies assessed. Hansgrohe also improved its CDP climate ranking from B to A-. These awards underscore that Hansgrohe is effectively implementing its sustainability strategy and making substantial progress in climate protection, circular economy, and resource efficiency. External Ratings as a Compass EcoVadis and CDP comprehensively assess performance in the areas of environment, social issues, and responsible corporate governance. “Independent ratings create trust—among our partners, our customers, and throughout the entire value chain. They enable companies worldwide to be compared and show how consistently we are moving forward,” explains Hans-Jürgen Kalmbach, CEO of the Hansgrohe Group. “For us, they also serve as a compass – they show us where we can continue to improve as a responsible company in order to remain successful and sustainable in the long term.” Clearly on Tack with Climate Targets Hansgrohe pursues scientifically based climate targets, validated by the Science Based Targets Initiative: By 2030, direct and indirect emissions from its own sites (Scope 1 and Scope 2) are to be reduced by 77.3 percent compared to 2021. A reduction target of 25 percent applies to the upstream and downstream value chain (Scope 3). The measures to achieve this range from switching to renewable energies and innovative, resource-saving products to integrating the supply chain. “The largest emissions arise during the usage phase of our faucets and showers,” says Hans Jürgen Kalmbach. By 2030, the company therefore aims to equip all water-carrying products with water and energy-saving technologies.[1] “In this way, we are enabling millions of people to conserve resources – and thus contributing to global climate protection.” Another milestone is the complete switch to electricity from renewable sources at all production sites. In 2025, Hansgrohe also commissioned four photovoltaic systems for its own supply at its manufacturing sites in Offenburg, Schiltach West, Bad Bentheim, and Valjevo in Serbia.[2] In addition, the company is gradually converting its heating systems to heat pumps powered by green electricity. This enables Hansgrohe to reduce direct emissions and strengthen its independence from fossil fuels. Circular Economy and New Materials Hansgrohe is also making progress in packaging and material cycles: since the end of 2025, all new product packaging launched on the market has been plastic-free – saving around 312 tons of plastic annually in Germany alone. Since 2024, Hansgrohe has been operating a globally unique recycling facility for chrome-plated plastic components at its Offenburg site. It strips ABS plastics and feeds them directly into the production of new parts. Hansgrohe received the German Sustainability Project Award in 2025 for this project and its overall sustainability strategy. The post Hansgrohe Among Top 1% Globally After EcoVadis Platinum Recognition appeared first on Design Middle East.
Verve Interior Design & Build Explore The Hidden Cost Of Defects
Kevin Mashford, CEO of Verve Interior Design & Build, explains how defects start early, and why planning, design coordination, and clear communication is crucial Defects are more than an inconvenience for design and build firms. In the UAE’s competitive market, every snag, incomplete finish, or post-handover call-back can erode margins, delay payments, and damage trust. Unfortunately, these oversights are often treated as an inevitable part of project delivery, and their impact gets underestimated. Issues can range from small joinery imperfections to major things like the incorrect materials being specified, installed and ultimately failing. In the latter case, you could be looking at a full-scale rework, programme overruns, and spiralling costs. Global industry analysis suggests that rework efforts can consume around 5-12% of the total project cost. And, while the challenges are universal, the UAE faces some unique pressures that intensify the problem. High-rise towers and commercial spaces are built extremely fast, squeezing the window for design, procurement, and execution. When projects move at such speed, small oversights can creep in and soon snowball. Add communication gaps and varying international standards into the mix, and the risk multiplies. Crucially, defects aren’t limited to the completion stage. They usually begin upstream, often long before a contractor ever steps on site. If we want to improve quality, clarity and effective communication are critical, especially during the pre-construction phase. This becomes even more important in a market like the UAE, where project teams are often made up of multiple nationalities, working cultures, and communication styles. Misunderstandings can easily arise when instructions are interpreted differently, technical language doesn’t translate clearly, or quality expectations aren’t aligned. Defect prevention depends on seamless collaboration and miscommunication is a significant barrier to success. When teams work in silos, defects multiply. When they communicate clearly, problems are designed out before the effects can be felt. By acknowledging the importance of good communication then adopting tools and processes that bridge any gaps, you create a shared understanding from the outset, dramatically reducing the likelihood of defects later on. The true financial cost of defects is vast and notoriously difficult to calculate. A seemingly minor issue can trigger a chain reaction if it isn’t rectified quickly – the handover is delayed, the client may need to extend their lease, penalties are passed down to contractors and subcontractors, and resources are pulled away from active projects to address problems that persist on completed ones. What’s more, the reputational damage can be even more severe, affecting every stakeholder involved, from the PMC and consultant to the designer and contractor. While financial losses eventually settle, a bad reputation can linger long after the project is over. In my experience, the biggest cause of defects is a lack of design coordination, and as cliché as it sounds, the saying ‘proper planning prevents poor performance’ is spot on. If the design phase is rushed or fragmented, site teams are forced to make judgement calls in real-time when they should have been resolved on paper. Detailed junctions cannot rely on improvisation; they must result from a well-thought-out, collaborative design process. That’s why, designing out defects early is the most cost-effective strategy you can adopt. Ideally,defect mitigation should happen during the Employer’s Requirements (ERs) stage. When the fundamentals of the project are clearly defined, nothing gets left to chance. Some best practices include: Investing sufficient time in properly detailed and coordinated drawings. Workshopping design details with qualified vendors, contractors, and suppliers during the design phase. Establishing accountability early across the different stakeholders. Kevin Mashford, Chief Executive Officer, Verve Interior Design & Build Today, there are excellent tech tools firms can harness to iron out issues and prevent problems from arising. BIM modelling is a great starting point, enabling early coordination, clash detection, and the creation of accurate 3D building models that allow multiple specialists to work within the same model. Alongside this, video-based snagging tools and AI-powered defect detectors can now capture, document, and assign issues in real time, significantly reducing human error. That said, these tools do not replace good design coordination; they can only enhance it. The sector still needs clear processes, disciplined workflows, and well-trained teams who understand how to use technology effectively. When tools are integrated into a robust QA/QC framework, rather than relied on as shortcuts, they improve decision-making and support a culture of accountability. We all share a responsibility to push for flawless project handovers and prove that they’re not only possible, but also profitable. They protect margins, strengthen connections, and reinforce reputations in an industry where long-term trust matters more than a single project.As the UAE continues to build at pace, zero-defect delivery will be a defining feature of firms whose projects consistently perform as well as they look. The post Verve Interior Design & Build Explore The Hidden Cost Of Defects appeared first on Design Middle East.
Design Middle East March 2026
The post Design Middle East March 2026 appeared first on Design Middle East.
Inside Tramp Health By Tomèf Design
Tramp Health is more than a wellness destination — it is an immersive experience shaped by design, intention and community Tomèf Design, the architecture and interior design studio founded by Tommaso Franchi, has masterminded the design of Tramp Health, a new venture by Luca Maggiora, the hospitality visionary behind some of London’s most exclusive destinations, to create a sanctuary where meaningful connection and the art of living is at the centre. Tramp Health is London’s new destination for longevity, performance, and total wellbeing, an extension of Tramp, the iconic private members’ club. Spread across 16,000 square feet within the former US Embassy in Grosvenor Square, Tramp Health combines bold interiors with spaces for movement, restoration, and community. With dedicated areas for Pilates, diagnostics, relaxation, and IV therapy, the space balances vitality and serenity, creating an environment that feels deeply restorative. Led by a brief of nature and the idea of belonging, Tomèf has designed the interior architecture and space-planning as well as the decoration. The interiors draw on organic forms inspired by English nature, tactile surfaces, and a restrained palette of earthy tones, contrasted with references to 1970s glamour echoing the famous club on Jermyn Street. Clay rendered walls, timber detailing, stone, clever lighting, and bold decorative accents are layered throughout, balancing craftsmanship with contemporary expression. The project champions collaboration with specialist makers and suppliers, from bespoke metalwork by Cox London, clay plaster by Clay Works, timber flooring from Italian specialist Giovanni Barbieri and tiles from Mosaic factory. Tomèf has introduced decorative details reminiscent of a fine residential interior, such as draped walling by Fortuny, furniture by Marta Sala and Bonacina, and bespoke handmade rugs by Tapistelar, creating an entirely new concept for a health destination and reinforcing Tramp Health’s commitment to creating a sense of belonging. The café and outdoor terrace form the welcoming entrance of the club, immediately immersing members in the identity of Tramp Health. Natural materials such as timber and stone are paired with stainless steel cladding inspired by Tramp’s visual heritage, creating a space that feels both holistic and unmistakably connected to the club’s legacy. Leading down the sculptural stairs is a bespoke Wilton carpet in a bespoke moiré design subtly linking it to the original club and creating an illusion of depth in the floor to ceiling mirrors opposite. An undulating hallway lies at the heart of the space, defined by soft curves inspired by river paths and the dramatic cliffs of Dover. At the centre of Tramp Health sits the oval space, where a bronze-cast bespoke Tree of Life conceptualised and designed by Tomèf and crafted by Cox London stands beneath a circadian-lit Barrisol ceiling. This space anchors the project, expressing the relationship between inner balance and outward strength that underpins the Tramp Health philosophy. Nearby, lounges and mindfulness spaces foster stillness and connection, combining cotton fabric walling, curved bespoke seating, and evolving coloured light to create environments for calm, introspection, and shared experience. The gym redefines expectations of a fitness environment, conceived as warm and homely rather than clinical. Venetia Stadium lighting and Fortuny fabric upholstered wall panels sit in deliberate contrast with exposed mechanical elements, creating a dialogue between technical performance and layered comfort. Treatment rooms and spa spaces deepen the project’s relationship with nature, from massage rooms that evoke the sensation of lying in a meadow, complete with hand-painted artwork and tactile Listone Giordano timber flooring, to a grotto-inspired spa where cotto tiles guide members through sauna, steam, plunge, and ice experiences. Woven throughout Tramp Health are bespoke details like an agave-woven rug designed by Tomèf for Tapistelar and energy-release, crystal-based art installations by Sabine Roemer, highlighting Tommaso Franchi’s holistic approach to design, where material, form, and symbolism are carefully orchestrated. Through Tramp Health, Tomèf Design articulates a vision of wellness architecture that is immersive and values community and connection to nature. Tommaso Franchi, Founder of Tomèf Design says: “When Luca asked me to design Tramp Health, the intention was never to create a conventional wellness space. Led by nature and the idea of belonging, the interior architecture, space-planning, and decoration were conceived as one continuous language. Working with Luca, there was an immediate shared understanding of the importance of atmosphere, craft, and narrative to create a community space, where the physical health and inner wellbeing come together as a collective experience for all members.” The post Inside Tramp Health By Tomèf Design appeared first on Design Middle East.
Aedas Unveils Capella Diriyah In Northern Diriyah
The Capella Diriyah aims for LEED Gold and Mostadam Gold certification Capella Diriyah, designed by Aedas for Diriyah Company, stands as a landmark in Saudi hospitality Project: Capella Diriyah Hotel Location: Diriyah, SA Client: Diriyah Company Design and Project Architect: Aedas Gross Floor Area: 100 Keys; 14,168 sqm Design Directors: Ignacio Gomez, Global Design Principal Lead Consultant: WME Located in the Northern District of Diriyah, the Capella Diriyah by Aedas redefines the dialogue between heritage and contemporary hospitality. Designed for Diriyah Company, this 100-key ultra-luxury hotel embodies the spirit of Najdi architecture through a modern lens, one that celebrates community, privacy, and craftsmanship. Najdi traditions represent an important architectural narrative that conveys protection and continuity. The project transforms this legacy into a contemporary gesture that connects the timeless essence of Diriyah, “The City of Earth,” with the elegance of modern luxury. Rooted in History, Inspired by the Land Diriyah is home to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of At-Turaif, the birthplace of the Kingdom and the foundation of its architectural identity. The design of Capella Diriyah draws deeply from this legacy, echoing the solid-void rhythm, earthen palette, and spatial hierarchy of Najdi architecture. Organised around a sequence of courtyards, the hotel transitions from vibrant public zones to intimate retreats. This layered composition reflects the social fabric of the region, fostering community while preserving the serenity of private spaces. Inspired by the spirit of ancient Diriyah, this design feels deeply rooted in the land. Rather than creating a boundary, the architecture embraces the desert, framing the horizon and guiding you from the quiet, calm interiors out into the vast landscape. The patterns in the stone play with the sun, casting shifting shadows that bring the heritage of the Najd to life throughout the day. Architecture and Light The design follows the natural rhythm of the desert, from the bright sun to the glow of the evening. This transition is built into the very fabric of the hotel, its courtyards and architectural screens, allowing the atmosphere to shift naturally as day turns to night. Geometric patterns inspired by Najdi architecture bring a sense of movement to the design. These details enrich the experience both inside and out, staying true to the heritage of the region while keeping the space modern and clear. Recognising the clarity of the Saudi night sky, the project incorporates dedicated stargazing spaces. Open air terraces, balconies and select rooms with retractable roofs give guests the opportunity to connect with the stars from the comfort of their suites, adding a memorable layer to their stay. Together, these elements create an immersive environment that is rooted in the natural rhythms of the desert landscape and the cultural heritage of Diriyah. Landscape: Water and Sanctuary The landscape is influenced by the Wadi and its natural contours. A series of water features creates a sensory journey through the hotel grounds. A grid of date palms provides dappled shade, while stone sourced from the region reinforces the site’s authenticity. Intricate screens offer glimpses into shaded courtyard spaces, and native planting shapes an oasis-like atmosphere that feels calm, restorative and connected to the ecology of Diriyah. A Commitment to Sustainability The Capella Diriyah aims for LEED Gold and Mostadam Gold certification, underscoring Aedas’ dedication to environmental stewardship. These measures express the project’s balance between cultural continuity and environmental responsibility. Conclusion The design of Capella Diriyah offers a hospitality experience deeply rooted in the land, heritage and architectural traditions of Diriyah. By celebrating Najdi identity through contemporary craftsmanship, the hotel becomes a destination that redefines luxury travel in Saudi Arabia, shaped by history and designed for the future. The post Aedas Unveils Capella Diriyah In Northern Diriyah appeared first on Design Middle East.
Feria Valencia Unveils Campaign Image for Major 2026 Interiors Showcase
Feria Valencia has revealed the new visual identity for its 2026 joint fair Feria Valencia has presented the new campaign image for the joint event that will bring together from September 28 to October 1, 2026 Feria Hábitat València, Textilhogar, Espacio Cocina SICI and the new initiative 360 by Cevisama. Under the strategic concept ‘Valencia Inspires Design’, this new visual identity symbolizes the union of the four major habitat sectors into a single comprehensive experience, positioning the city as an international epicenter of inspiration in interior design and contemporary architecture. The proposal, developed by the VXLAB studio, is a clear statement of intent: to reinforce the idea of a global and connected offering in which furniture, textiles, surfaces, bathroom and kitchen engage in perfect synergy. Design is thus conceived as a coherent and complete whole, capable of responding to the needs of contemporary habitat from an integrative and high value-added vision. A unique and attractive comprehensive offering for the international buyer With this, the countdown begins for one of Feria Valencia’s most ambitious initiatives, aimed at creating a powerful commercial platform with international reach. An event that is generating very positive expectations among industry professionals, who highlight its “unique in Europe” character. It should be noted that the convergence of Feria Hábitat València (a benchmark in furniture, lighting and décor), Espacio Cocina SICI (innovation in kitchen equipment and design), Textilhogar (avant-garde in the home textile sector) and 360 by Cevisama (comprehensive material solutions) guarantees a high flow of buyers, specifiers and professionals from the contract channel, specialized retail and architecture, further reinforced by the boost of the National and International Buyers Plan, which this year will facilitate the arrival of more than 3,000 invited professionals with high decision-making and purchasing power 2026, the major comprehensive event around habitat Feria Valencia will host from September 28 to October 1, 2026 the joint celebration of Feria Hábitat València, together with Textilhogar, Espacio Cocina SICI and the new initiative 360 by Cevisama. It is a major comprehensive and multisector event around sectors related to habitat with strong international appeal among profiles such as large-scale distribution and operators in the contract sector. This initiative is expected to exceed more than 110,000 m2 of exhibition space with nearly 1,500 exhibiting firms and brands. The post Feria Valencia Unveils Campaign Image for Major 2026 Interiors Showcase appeared first on Design Middle East.
The Future Of Work Design With JLL MENA
Farah Addada, Head of Workplace & Design at JLL MENA, and Srdjan Vidakovic, Senior Interior Designer – Workplace at JLL MENA dicuss the future of work design JLL combines innovation, intelligence, and sustainability, we deliver solutions that drive meaningful impact. From AI-powered insights to forward-thinking strategies, our approach helps clients navigate the evolving property landscape while building smarter, greener, and more resilient communities. In an exclusive interview, Farah Addada, Head of Workplace & Design at JLL MENA, and Srdjan Vidakovic, Senior Interior Designer – Workplace at JLL MENA, share insights into the future of work. They explore how workplaces are being reimagined for people, the integration of ESG principles into design, the role of technology in shaping work environments, and how human experience will define offices in 2025 and beyond. Multimedia production: Joel Amparo & Eduardo Buenagua The post The Future Of Work Design With JLL MENA appeared first on Design Middle East.