1. When you began developing the FF&E concept for Sobha One, what feeling or lifestyle did you want residents to experience the moment they entered the space?
The first feeling I aim to create is to “feel good”. It might sound simplistic, but it is actually one of the most complex feelings to achieve, particularly in multifunctional public spaces that are used throughout the day by a highly diverse demographic.
“Feeling good” is the result of multiple layers of impressions, emotions, sensations and thoughts experienced by the user. It stems from a positive sensory experience shaped by light, sound, colour palettes, textures, materiality and an intuitive understanding of the space and its zoning.
In the case of Sobha One, this became even more complicated because it is a LEED Platinum-certified project. The challenge was to demonstrate how sustainable solutions can be seamlessly integrated into the DNA of a space that delivers wellbeing, distinctive design and technical excellence.
2. Luxury today is also expected to be responsible. Was there a moment where aesthetics, durability and sustainability were competing priorities? How did you make that decision?
Durability is sustainability. A project that does not last cannot be considered sustainable — it is as simple as that.
As for aesthetics, we have long moved beyond the time when sustainable materials and solutions looked or felt uninspiring, ordinary or lacking in design appeal. The level of research, experimentation and commitment across the industry is significant today, and there is always an opportunity to find the right solution without compromising aesthetics, durability or sustainability.
3. Is there a particular piece of furniture, material or bespoke detail at Sobha One that most residents may never consciously notice, but that you’re especially proud of?
From a material perspective, I would say paint. Across both the apartments and amenities, paint is applied to walls, ceilings and a variety of surfaces, including MDF and metal. Most of the paints I specify are bespoke colour mixes. Together with my contractor team, I ensure that each colour appears seamless and consistent in both tone and texture, regardless of the surface to which it is applied.
In fairness, this is something I pay close attention to across all the projects I lead.
4. Every interior project comes with unexpected challenges. Was there a design or procurement issue that forced you to rethink part of the FF&E scheme, and what was the solution?
The beginning of the regional conflict had a significant impact on projects. However, delivery deadlines still had to be met, regardless of the circumstances.
As a result, parts of the FF&E scheme had to be redesigned without affecting the overall structure, as the site was already largely complete. It was a collective effort that required strong collaboration and coordination between the interior design team, contractors, suppliers and procurement specialists.
Everyone remained laser-focused on achieving the highest quality outcome, and together we successfully delivered it.
5. What’s one design decision within the interiors that you felt strongly about and would defend even if someone questioned it?
All of them.
I am a strong advocate for what I believe in. My design recommendations are guided by specific criteria that focus on the needs of the end users, enhancing the living experience and supporting the objectives of the company I represent.
Recently, I initiated a specialised collaboration with an art supplier because I believed the visual experience within our projects could be elevated further. Art accompanies residents throughout their daily journey in a building — from the moment they begin their day to when they return home. It therefore has a subtle yet powerful psychological and emotional influence on the overall living experience.
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