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    How The Rug Company Bungalow weaves an experience for human and brand connection

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    Kate Judd, Managing Director at The Rug Company, and Rabah Saeid, founder and creative director of Dubai-based design studio, Styled Habitat, on the business of craftsmanship and weaving an experience beyond retail for human and brand connection.

    Kate Judd, Managing Director at The Rug Company, and Rabah Saeid, founder and creative director of Styled Habitat

    What do the first 30 minutes of your day look like, your morning routine?
    Kate Judd (KJ): My morning routine is my time to ground myself for the day ahead. I start with a coffee and love sitting on my balcony, taking in the view of Zabeel Palace. The Arabian light never gets old for me, especially since moving from New York. Lately, I’ve been listening to business and fashion podcasts as I ease into the morning. I use this time to reflect on the person I want to be that day – and how I should dress to match that energy. Do I need to channel power in a BOUGUESSA blazer with statement jewellery, or am I dressing for a beautiful day hosting guests in The Bungalow’s garden? This routine is sacred to me, especially as my schedule becomes more demanding.
    Rabah Saeid (RS): I love a slow morning. I intentionally wake up early, around sunrise, to savour my ritual. To awaken my senses, I light Palo Santo wood or a candle and practise deep breathing to cultivate calmness and ground myself. Then, I settle into a chair with a cup of tea – my only opportunity for stillness throughout the day. As an interior designer, my days are filled with varied tasks and constant interaction. From collaborating with my team to meeting clients, overseeing contractors, and visiting project sites, there is never a dull moment. The demands are endless, the pace relentless. My morning routine is a deliberate act of self-preservation in the face of a demanding day. The stillness of the early morning hours offers a sanctuary of peace, allowing me to navigate my work with greater presence and intention.

    How did you start off in this industry? Talk to us through your career journey.
    KJ: I started my career working for an antiques store that supplied pieces to Ralph Lauren stores, which is where I first discovered my passion for curating unique pieces to shape immersive experiences. In 2012, I joined The Rug Company in London to help launch a new concept for the Chelsea Flagship showroom. Over time, my passion for visual merchandising and showroom design led me to take on the role of Visual Merchandising Director. I then went on to create over 15 showrooms globally, from London to New York, Cape Town to Moscow, and more. Each project allowed me to blend local cultures with our brand’s identity. Naturally, I transitioned to managing The Rug Company’s franchise and distribution network, overseeing over 20 partners worldwide. This role combined my love for travel, business development, and relationship-building. In the past two years, I’ve focused on repositioning The Rug Company in the Middle East, helping shape our presence in this incredible market.
    RS: Growing up, I was surrounded by intellectual conversations and diverse perspectives, fostered by eclectic dinner parties and a home filled with an appreciation for beauty and travel. This instilled in me a deep love for design. Despite this, I was on track to pursue a degree in medicine until I moved to the U.S. and discovered my passion for interior design while decorating my own space. Curating tablescapes and hosting gatherings ignited a creative spark I had never considered as a career. This realisation led me to pivot. I returned to school and earned a degree in interior architecture. My design career began in Houston, Texas, working on high-end residential projects, historical homes, and multi-family developments in Houston, Dallas, Aspen, and New York. In 2012, I moved to Dubai, where my regional journey continued to evolve – from workspace solutions to hospitality design in Marrakech, Morocco – ultimately leading to the founding of Styled Habitat in 2016.

    What is the design DNA and core philosophy of the brand and how does it differ from the rest?
    KJ: At its heart, The Rug Company is about artistry, craftsmanship, and storytelling. Our in-house studios in New York and London create pieces that transcend trends – each rug is meticulously handcrafted by killed artisans, taking months to perfect. It’s the antithesis of mass production. But a rug is more than just a decorative piece – it symbolises warmth, hospitality, and tradition. We understand that our creations become treasured parts of our clients’ lives, enriching the spaces where meaningful moments unfold.
    RS: Design is deeply personal – at Styled Habitat, our design philosophy centres on creating spaces that are both emotionally resonant and enduring. We believe that the interplay between understated elegance, sensual allure, and a feeling of belonging is key to achieving this. Our approach is rooted in an appreciation for the richness of history, the significance of context, and the transformative power of storytelling. We create environments where people can expand their experiences and feel truly at home.
    Tell us more about the concept behind The Rug Company Bungalow.
    RS: Nestled in the heart of Jumeirah, The Rug Company Bungalow marks a milestone as the brand’s first standalone store in the Middle East. This enchanting boutique is a masterclass in nostalgic elegance, seamlessly blending vintage charm with contemporary sophistica- tion. Paying homage to the mid-century villas on Al Wasl Street, built in the 1980s, the design amplifies the villa’s distinct architectural characteristics. The iconic pitched roof and the connection to the outdoors are celebrated, revitalising the bohemian and eclectic style reminiscent of old-school Palm Springs glamour. This design approach gives the Bungalow a timeless and stylish charm.

    “The Bungalow is a space designed to be more than just a showroom – it’s a place for conversations, collaborations, and creative exchange”

    KJ: The Bungalow is a space designed to be more than just a showroom – it’s a place for conversations, collaborations, and creative exchange. We wanted to move away from the traditional retail model and create an environment that feels more like a beautifully designed home, where people can experience our rugs in a more personal way. The space also doubles as a cultural hub, hosting talks, installations, and intimate gatherings for our discern- ing clientele and the region’s design and art community. Since launching in late November, the events we’ve hosted have surpassed even our highest expectations for The Rug Company’s new home in Dubai.

    How did you know it was the right time to launch this and what was the catalyst?
    KJ: For many years, we were fortunate to have the amazing Arwa Hafiz from The ODD Piece representing us. When she decided to move on to her next chapter, it gave us the perfect opportunity to officially bring The Rug Company into the UAE, a market that has shown us so much love over time. It was the perfect time to establish our official presence. The UAE is such an exciting place to be, especially in the design world. The talent here is incredible – visionaries like Rabah are shaping the region’s design landscape – and we’re already seeing how much we can grow by collaborating in this inspiring space.
    The space evokes the charm of 1970s architecture blended with the bohemian glamour of Palm Springs. Did you envision this aesthetic from the outset?
    RS: Styled Habitat’s thoughtful design transforms the Bungalow into a warm and inviting retreat, evoking the quintessential retro lifestyle of the 1950s and ’60s. A design alchemy allowing design to unfold piece by piece material by material. Earthy tones, rich textures, and natural materials harmoniously blend, paying homage to the mid-century villas lining Al Wasl Road. The design studio me- ticulously incorporated the villa’s history and context, highlighting its distinctive architectural features. The pitched roof, a hallmark of mid-century design, is reimagined with cleverly integrated air vents. Meanwhile, arched windows frame breathtaking views of Moroccan- inspired gardens, blurring the lines between indoors and outdoors.
    The space puts craftsmanship at the forefront. What are some of the design touches that make it unique?
    RS: The Rug Company Bungalow transcends traditional retail, serving as a haven for design enthusiasts. This meticulously curated space invites exploration, inspiration and connection. As a beacon of style and sophistication, it brings a fresh perspective while maximising the potential of the space, further solidifying Jumeirah as a hub for luxury and design innovation. Upon entering, visitors are greeted by a sun-drenched conversation pit, a nostalgic centrepiece that embodies the essence of retro chic. The adjacent Cushion Display Room showcases an exquisite collection of hand-woven wool and silk cushions, crafted by renowned designers. Each piece reflects an unwavering commitment to quality and artistry. Creating tangible moods and moments that speak to the notion that we can all transcend the ordinary simply by stepping through a well-designed space.
    KJ: Aside from our jewel-box Cushion Room and 70s-inspired sunken lounge Rabah has mentioned, my favourite design moment is the enclosed palm tree that we have. It’s viewed from most points inside the Bungalow, and it’s a testament to Rabah’s visionary yet playful design sensibility. It has become symbolic of The Bungalow and always reminds us of the Dubai beyond whenever we’re spending our day there.
    How challenging was it to implement this and how did you achieve this in such a location?
    KJ: The Rug Company Bungalow was definitely a labour of love. This was one of the most challenging yet deeply reward- ing projects of my career. Collaborating with Rabah’s vision was key in creating a space that feels like home – a sentiment our guests often share upon arrival. We couldn’t have asked for a more inspiring environment to showcase our rugs, helping people envision how they could elevate their own personal spaces.
    RS: Renovating a space always comes with unforeseen challenges. In the case of the Bungalow, the tight timeline was the main hurdle. Thankfully, our client Kate, with her extensive experience opening showrooms internationally was very understanding and supportive. The developer, Huna Living, provided incredible support and believed in our vision and championed the project from the start. Lastly, the tireless efforts of Hannah Bower-Brooks and her team at Cherwell Interior were instrumental in transforming the dilapidated space into a stunning space. The end result is something truly unique – when you step into the Bungalow, you feel both fully immersed in the environment and transported to another time and place.
    The Rug Company Bungalow is designed to be a showroom and modular creative hub. What are the services being offered?
    KJ: From the moment guests walk through the door, they’re met with the highest standard of service – something Dubai expects, and we deliver. Our team takes the time to understand each client’s space or project, offering thoughtful suggestions tailored to their needs. We offer personalised consultations, a white-glove service with at-home rug approvals, and the opportunity for clients to be fully involved in creating a bespoke rug – from concept to completion. Hospitality is just as important to us as design and ensuring that every guest feels at home has been a priority from the very beginning.
    This is The Design Issue – what is the first design that has left an impression on you?
    RS: I have such a passion for everything under the design umbrella – art, fashion, landscaping, travel, nature, architecture, and graphic design. There are so many facets to explore. One of the most profound design impressions I’ve had was seeing the early experimental works of Charles & Ray Eames at MoMA in New York City. Their approach – that design is primarily about process rather than a final product – serves as a great reminder to stay curious and never stop questioning the design journey.

    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
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      Heading to Dubai Design Week? Director Natasha Carella shares 5 exhibitions not to miss

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      Life

      by Camille Macawili
      2 seconds ago

      The region’s leading design festival, Dubai Design Week, launches today, November 5, 2024 until November 10, 2024.
      On its 10th edition, the annual festival reflects on a decade of design and its wider influence in the region through an outstanding cultural lineup of exhibitions, exclusive commissions, and events staged across Dubai Design District (d3).
      The 2024 programme will honour the local community, creative talent and regional design vernacular it has aimed to nurture over the past 10 years, while celebrating the city’s evolution as a global design hub. Dubai Design Week 2024 brings together over 500 established and emerging designers and brands from more than 40 countries to showcase new design thinking in the form of installations, exhibitions and experiential mediums.

      “Marking this milestone 10th edition, Dubai Design Week has become an essential date on the global design calendar, offering an unparalleled platform for designers, brands, cultural and educational institutions, and the wider industry. It’s a key moment to launch new products, unveil prototypes and connect with the community. From immersive installations to family-friendly experiences, Dubai Design Week brings together local and international creativity, sparking vital conversations on topics ranging from sustainable design to vernacular architecture. It’s a space where ideas take form and the creative community flourishes,” says Natasha Carella, Director of Dubai Design Week.
      What to see and do on this 5-day festival? Here, Natasha shares the highlights not to be missed so you can plan your visit accordingly – we don’t want you to miss a thing.
      The Luxury of Less by AB+AC Architects

      Dubai Design Week’s Automotive Partner, BMW Middle East, returns with a new commission. The pavilion is designed to stimulate the senses and reflect the company’s design and circularity ethos, encapsulating the essence of comfort and encouraging audiences to explore luxury from a fresh perspective, emphasizing a minimalist and conscious approach to sustainable living.
      STOOT by Oxara and MULA Design Studio

      Invited by Prototypes for Humanity to showcase at Dubai Design Week, STOOT showcases the future of sustainable construction. Oxara is a cement-free, low-carbon binder and a pioneering alternative to conventional building materials, using construction waste. Designed by Dubai-based architect Abdalla Almulla, STOOT proposes a path towards decarbonization through sustainable construction, blending modernist principles with material experimentation.
      SINFONIA by Iris Ceramica Group

      Iris Ceramica Group’s SINFONIA installation invites audiences to step into the role of conductor, using simple gestures to control a symphony of sound, light and material. Blending advanced ceramic technology with human creativity, this interactive experience lets each visitor explore how movement shapes a unique composition.
      Hind Al Oud Immersive Experience by Mohamed Hilal Group

      Hind Al-Oud invites audiences on a multi-sensory journey that connects the art of fragrance with poetic expression, rooted in the rich heritage of Arabian perfumery. In collaboration with poet Faisal Al-Adwani, the installation features the launch of two signature perfumes, Alifi and Ya’E, inspired by the poem ‘Kibriya’E’, which delves into themes of ambition, certainty and singularity.
      Iwan Pavilion presented by King Abdulaziz Center for World Culture (Ithra)

      Iwan is a pavilion inspired by Islamic architecture, in particular ‘Iwan’, a distinctive transitional space, and ‘Muqarnas’, a form of ornamental decoration. Designed by four emerging Saudi architects, Abdulqader Alsuwaidan, Nawaf Alghamdi, Hayat Almousa and Lama Dardas, Iwan was the winning proposal of the Tanween Foldable Pavilion Challenge, a collaboration between the King Abdulaziz Center for World Culture (Ithra), Mamou Mani Studio and ABYWAT.
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
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      The Tastemaker’s Take: Nat Morcos’ guide to exploring Mexico City in style

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      Creative and entrepreneur, Nat Morcos, shares her quick-fire recommendations for architecture, culture, and gastronomy that showcase Mexico City at its best and finest.

      For a stylish stay“Soho House Mexico City – a newly opened outpost is absolutely breathtaking. It has only four rooms so if you are a member and are lucky, you can spend a couple of nights there. It’s fantastic for people watching by the pool on weekends or evening cocktails with friends around its multiple indoor and outdoor bars.”
      Soho House Mexico CIty (Image: Supplied / Fernando Marroquin)

      For a lavish stay
      “Four Seasons Mexico City is the epitome of classic 5-star luxury, the hacienda-style property has a beautiful garden and excellent spa. It is located right in the busiest part of Reforma and in front of magical Chapultepec Park, where all major museums are located.”
      Four Seasons Mexico City (Image: Supplied)
      For an authentic stay
      “For design-oriented boutique style hospitality institutions choose La Valise Hotel, Brick Hotel, Pug Seal Anatole France, Nima Local House, or my favourite Casa Izeba.”
      La Valise (Image: Supplied / Nolan Burger)
      WHERE TO EXPLORE
      For once-in-a-life- time experiences
      Museo Frida Kahlo, Floating Gardens of Xochimilco, and Pyramids of Teotihuacan
      “The best way to see and experience the Pyramid of Teotihuacan is via hot air balloon.”
      Teotihuacan Pyramids (Image: Unsplash); Museo Casa Estudio Diego Rivera y Frida Kahlo (Image: La Valise / Leandro Bulzzano)

      For the culture mavens
      Roma Condesa and Polanco art galleries, Soumaya, Tamayo, Museo Jumex and Anthropology Museum, Fundacion Casa Wabi Sabino, and Casa Gilardi
      “Casa Gilardi is the last house designed by Louis Barragan – book an appointment in advance!”
      Casa Gilardi (Image: Supplied / Nat Morcos)
      For hidden city gems
      Kurimanzutto Gallery, Tlacuilo Library, Jamaica Flower Market, Pastelería Ideal, Tetetlan, and Chic by Accident
      “Make sure to book an appointment before you visit Chic by Accident – it’s an incredible shoppable design gallery.”
      Chic by Accident Gallery (Image: Supplied / Marie Taillefer)
      WHERE TO DINE

      For Mexican delicatessen
      Orinoco Taqueria, Passilo de Humo, Churreria El Moro, Pujol
      “You need to book a few weeks ahead to secure a reservation at Michelin-Star restaurant Pujol – the hottest table in CDMX.”

      For design-led Mexican fusion
      Rosetta, Meroma, Maximo Bistrot, and Taverna
      “Taverna is a must on the agenda for its breathtaking design.”

      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      July/August’s – The Summer Escape Issue with MAISWIM – Download Now
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      In the office with Nat Morcos, co-founder of SKOONI Arts Foundation & Residence

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      Lifeby Camille Macawili2 hours ago VIEW GALLERY/ 6 IMAGESIn the office with Nat Morcos, creative, entrepreneur, and co-founder of multidisciplinary luxury brand Goshá and SKOONI Arts Foundation & Residence.How long have you been in this space?SKOONI was renovated within five months and opened its door in October 2023.Have you custom-built any bespoke pieces?We completely redesigned an old villa.How do you think the interior reflects you?I love minimalism with focus on proportions, material and symmetry… I dress the same way.Describe your taste in three words.Elegant, luxurious with a touch of unexpected artistic exploration.– For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and InstagramMay’s – The Creativity Issue with Tiffany & Co. – Download NowPhotography by Ahmed Abdelwahab More

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      Nat Morcos on how SKOONI is shaping the artistic and aesthetical landscape in the region

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      Lifeby Camille Macawili2 hours ago Nat Morcos, creative, entrepreneur, and co-founder of multidisciplinary luxury brand Goshá and SKOONI Arts Foundation & Residence, on her new business endeavour, the power of aesthetics, and how SKOONI is shaping the artistic landscape in the region and UAE.What do the first 30 minutes of your day look like, your morning routine?My daily morning routine is a very important part of my life, it’s more of a religious, sacred ritual and I often feel if one element of my routine is missing, the day is not going in the right direction. I am up at 6:30am. I start with a two-minute ice cold shower, five minutes of somatic movement and a self-lymphatic massage with an LED mask on my face. Then five minutes of grounding where I stand bare feet on the grass facing the sun in my garden, followed by a self-made “magic potion” of three salts of water with lemon juice. Then dog walking with my favourite music or podcast on and coffee after and then off to a morning 45-minute workout or class – usually Reformer Pilates or cycling followed by an hour of beach time. That’s my church.What was the catalyst to launch SKOONI?Since we launched our interdisciplinary creative studio/agency/collective Goshá Buro back in 2021, we often thought it would be great to create our own space too where we can host people, brands and talents we love, within a set-up we created. Together with my husband Michael Morcos, we have a passion for architecture and design and transforming spaces into something completely new and exciting. We are also very passionate about performing arts and always wanted to have our own “say” in supporting talent in the arts field, so SKOONI combines all of it under one roof.Tell us more about the concept and the inspiration behind it, and how has it been received?SKOONI is an arts foundation and residence with event spaces for showcase and intimate performances, as well as three independent residences for international artists to reside with us and showcase their talent as well as get inspired by the Middle East and bringing their vision and interpretation of our culture, traditions and mentality back to the parts of the world where they are based and practiced.SKOONI is part of a global artistic exchange and it’s absolutely a dream come true for me and Michael. We got tremendous love from the community and our partners from luxury fashion and lifestyle brands, and we are yet to tell and shape our story and mature in our vision of how SKOONI could be a valuable cultural institution with a global voice.The place is very transportive. Where does it take you?SKOONI was dreamed, envisioned, designed and built by myself and my husband, Michael. SKOONI is our vision of what Dubai contemporary architecture could be. We want our visitors to feel they are in Dubai… they are in the Middle East but it’s yet to get familiar for them as a look and feel. So, it’s Dubai as you get to fall in love. It’s its own universe.Who do you look up to when it comes to those aesthetics?Art, poetry, cinema, theatre, and my dreams.How has your love of travel influenced your creative process and overall brand aesthetic?I am inspired by nature, human creativity, and expression in the form of art, architecture, design, cityscapes as well as history. I travel to stop my mind from the day-to-day routine and open my eyes for new.How do you balance the creative and commercial sides of the business, and do you feel more drawn to one than the other?As our business grows and expands, my husband started to play the role where he oversees business operations and I am mainly focus- ing on the creative process, vision for our businesses and strategy for growth and the direction we take.You’ve always been able to think outside the box. Have you always been a creative soul in this way?You have to train your eyes and brain to travel. I often need to put myself into a “pain” state, where I bring the most tragic parts of my life experience forward and face them over again to be in creative mode. When my soul cries, the most beautiful things are born. I read sad poems, watch sad movies and overall make myself “feel’’. Often creativity takes me two days of silence – not talking to anyone and not seeing anything. Silence and solitude bring beautiful ideas out to the world. In general, I can never describe my creative process. It just comes out of nowhere with “Hello, that’s the one you need”.How do you consistently innovate as a business?You have to progress, reinvent and stay relevant. It’s important to educate yourself and collect information from different industries and individuals to understand and spot trends to know what will be the next need and collective obsession. Constant innovation from minimal to drastic in every business is essential. The secret is to bring new talent into your team and let them bring a little revolution into how things worked before them.This is The Creativity Issue – what do you associate with that term?Creativity means innovation and change to me… Things and dreamers who are not stuck and have no fear and in constant search of what’s new, different and beautiful.– For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and InstagramMay’s – The Creativity Issue with Tiffany & Co. – Download Now More

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      How One&Only One Za’abeel brings urban energy and experiences to the city

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      Life

      by Camille Macawili
      2 hours ago

      This dual-tower vertical resort masterpiece, a collaboration between acclaimed architects and luxury hospitality leader Kerzner International, stands gleamingly tall at the crossroads of DIFC, World Trade Centre and Downtown Dubai.
      A breathtaking addition to the ever-evolving Dubai skyline, One&Only One Za’abeel’s towering presence sets a spectacular stage for exceptional experiences.

      THE STAY
      Masterminded by Jean-Michel Gathy, the interior touches draw inspiration from the desert landscape, creating a thoughtfully curated ambiance and overall, a cohesive and immersive experience. Upon arrival, guests are welcomed by a seamless display of artistry that blends culture and creativity – from the mesmerising geometric masterpiece by American artist Steven Naifeh to an eclectic array of international and regional works.

      One&Only One Za’abeel offers a collection of immaculately designed rooms and suites as well as curated corner suites for business, wellness, and creative pursuits, with exceptional privileges and amenities for discerning travellers amidst the bustling cityscape. The Villa One is a re-imagined signature villa taken to lofty new heights. The 755 square-meter expanse includes two bedrooms, a majlis, an outdoor infinity pool, cinema, gym, and comes with exclusive benefits such as a dedicated host, in-villa personal trainers, spa treatments and private chef access.

      THE DINING
      Dramatically perched between the two towers, The Link is a futuristic boulevard floating 100 metres above the city. The world’s longest cantilever building, this culinary haven gathers immersive gastronomic experiences and the UAE’s longest suspended infinity pool, in one architectural marvel. Expect Michelin-starred French cuisine at La Dame De Pic by Anne-Sophie Pic, contemporary Moorish delights at Qabu by Paco Morales, refined modern Japanese fare at Sagetsu by Tetsuya Wakuda, and more.

      THE WELLNESS
      The first of its kind in Dubai, the Longevity Hub by Clinique La Prairie is where wellness takes centre stage. Dedicated to unlocking longevity and lasting vitality, the pioneering treatments combine the latest in transformative health science, cutting-edge aesthetics, and tailored wellness solutions. This three-storey advanced wellness space combines evidence-based medicine and pioneering aesthetics to deliver ultra-personalised wellness solutions to address the daily stressors of urban living.

      Spread over three floors, The Hub comprises of 29 treatment rooms for wellbeing and clinical therapies; a Movement Studio with state-of-the-art gym facilities; a Longevity Bar; and the region’s first Longevity Index Lounge, which boasts cutting-edge solutions including the Neuro Wave Stimulation – a tech-guided acoustic and vibrational therapy that enables even the busiest of minds to enter a deep state of relaxation.
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      April’s – The Abundance Issue with Louis Vuitton – Download Now
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      Discover outdoor sophistication: Al Huzaifa Furniture launches outdoor living collection

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      News

      by Team Emirates Woman
      18 mins ago

      IN PARTNERSHIP: In a striking move that redefines outdoor living, Al Huzaifa Furniture, an iconic name with five decades of furniture expertise, introduces a dazzling range of outdoor furniture.
      With a strong presence in the UAE and an unwavering commitment to quality, Al Huzaifa Furniture is now setting new standards for outdoor living, inspired by the region’s natural elements and breathtaking landscapes.

      The Outdoor Living ‘Naturally’ collection is a testament to Al Huzaifa’s dedication to craftsmanship and style. It infuses sophistication into your outdoor spaces, transforming them into chic alfresco spaces that complement the elegance of your home’s interiors.

      Al Huzaifa Furniture’s outdoor collection caters to all outdoor furniture needs, whether it’s hosting guests, relaxing by yourself, or spending quality time with family. With its nature-emulating shapes, earthy palette, and sontemporary designs, this collection encapsulates the essence of outdoor living in the UAE.

      Featuring six distinct styles named Ohlala, Diva, Loop, Curl, Cuddle, and Hug, this collection offers everything from outdoor seating to living area furnishings, dining sets, and poolside relaxation. Whether you have a cozy apartment balcony or a vast villa garden, there’s an option to suit every outdoor space.

      Mr. Saif Nensey, CEO at Al Huzaifa Furniture, expresses his enthusiasm for this new venture, stating, “At Al Huzaifa Furniture, we’ve always been dedicated to delivering a complete shopping experience. With our new outdoor furniture collection, we aim to extend the same level of quality, luxury, and sophistication our customers expect. The Outdoor Living ‘Naturally’ collection embodies the spirit of the great outdoors and offers a wide range of choices to elevate any outdoor space.”

      Discover the art of outdoor living in an entirely new light with Al Huzaifa Furniture’s Outdoor Living ‘Naturally’ collection.
      For more details visit www.alhuzaifa.com.
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
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      How I got my job as… Founder of Dubai design firm Concept Me

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      Welcome to the Emirates Woman weekly series ‘How I got my job as…’ where we speak to some incredible entrepreneurs and businesswomen both based in the UAE and globally to find out about their career paths that led them to where they are now; what their daily routines look like; the advice they’d give to those starting out; and the hurdles they’ve had to overcome.
      This week we chat with French entrepreneur and architect Nina Parvaresh, founder of Concept Me. The Dubai design firm first launched in 2008, branding itself as a “multi-disciplinary boutique studio” in the emirate. “Creativity is at the core of what we do, being able to bring life and soul to high-end residential projects,” the founder says.
      Emirates Woman sat down with Parvaresh to discuss the making of Concept Me and all of the ups and downs in between.
      What was your favourite subject at school?
      In short, my favourite subject was History/Geography. The way we studied those in France was as one subject. Maps really stunned me I remember. I was fascinated by the layout of cities, the visuals that showcased their constant development and changes. I would go through those plans and feel an obsessive need to know more about them, trace my hands across the different areas and automatically start visualizing how the little, intricate details in those cities of the past actually looked like. I had a tendency for the obsessive! So, I remember very vividly how much I loved that class and the stories I would make up about the maps and plans we were given.

      What was your first job?
      I was a teenager when I decided to get a job! I started tutoring other students when I was 15. I always liked explaining concepts and seeing how people understood ideas in their own ways. So, I continued tutoring different kids my age and younger to make some side money. Tutoring always made me happy because it’s a two-way interaction and because it involves two of my favourite elements: people and concepts! Following that, my first official job was a brief stint teaching Architecture in Saudi which didn’t last very long as I kicked off Concept Me around the same time. I don’t think I would make a very good employee, between you and I.
      What brought you to Dubai?
      I moved to the Middle East (to Jeddah particularly) in 2008, a month after graduating. A couple of years after living there, I believe I wanted to be living somewhere with more flexibility, more openness and somewhere that would ease my way of doing business. I spent some time going back and forth to Dubai, it being the hub that it became during that phase and I found it quite easy to do business, set up the company and most importantly to source and recruit amazing talents. So, yeah, it was about remaining in the Middle East but in a place that I felt more at ease with.
      What inspired you to enter the architecture/interior space?
      I am not sure there was a specific inspiration for me to go into the field. For as far back as I remember, I was busy sketching houses as a child. I learned to draw before I could speak fluently! Even at home as a child, I had opinions on how we should lay out our furniture, how the elements in our space should be, and how decorative items should line up. Most importantly, I was always sensitive to the spaces around me, which unconsciously is why I was always drawn to the field. More so, I have always loved the human scale of architecture. I am not invested in creating landmark skyscrapers, but rather spaces for real people that can leave an impact on them. My love of maps, cities and the way urban grids dictated peoples’ livelihoods is also a contributing factor. As a child, my parents took me travelling frequently which fostered my obsession with cities like New York, Paris, Milan, etc.. The Middle Eastern heritage in me also goes to see the beauty of cities like Tehran, Beirut, Istanbul… So, I guess that’s what curated my directed love for this field.
      Talk us through the inspiration of what Concept Me does.
      As a boutique scale firm, my vision for Concept Me was to handle projects in a very holistic manner that takes the project from A to Z. Whatever we do is always focused on creating a unique personality for any space. Creativity is at the core of what we do, being able to bring life and soul to high-end residential projects. However, we also have a mission to be ‘client-centric’. My aim is to have clients that trust us blindly, tell us what they want and then get peace of mind until we hand over the project they had seen in their mind’s eye. We’ve made this possible at Concept Me with our multi-disciplinary team, their international talent and our empathetic intellect.
      What are the key elements of your role?
      Essentially, I think I am juggling a bit too many roles at the moment, which is maybe natural in a boutique-scale company environment. However, I am working on this, gradually! Primarily, however, one of the key elements of my role is client management. I take it upon myself to understand my client’s mindstate, to reassure them, to direct their vision and to inform them of the rationale behind our design choices and how we can bring their space to life in the best way possible. The second key element is to be the final decision-maker on all design choices. As part of a multi-disciplinary team, one that is driven by creative input, it can become challenging to keep all the creative choices from different people consistent, so that’s where I come in so we can have a final, polished, cohesive space instead of a pastiche. And finally, one of the hats I wear is the business development hat, whereby I keep signing deals while heading the design department! As I said, I am juggling a couple of roles…
      Talk us through your daily routine.
      This is a great topic haha! My calendar is usually locked from 7:30 am to 8:30 pm. I aim to get a workout in as soon as I get up, which is contrary to my nature since I am not a great morning person! Luckily, I live close to the office and I am trying to maximize my steps count, so I manage to walk to the office where I sift through my emails. I then get to the essential part of catching up with the team, organizing what each one’s day looks like. And then it’s a non-stop rollercoaster of meetings between operations, logistics and design meetings. Of course, there are days when I am on site, days when I am at showrooms, galleries and supplier warehouses! In between those, I try to always make time for meetings with my marketing team and my financial team. It sounds much more organized on paper, but it doesn’t feel that organized when I am cramming my healthy lunch in between Zoom calls at the office! I eventually get home, feed my furry babies, get through some more emails, take a good walk, do my stretches and get to my pillow before I get back up, drink my hot water and lemon and do it all over again gladly!

      What advice do you have for anyone looking to follow in the same footsteps?
      The first piece of advice I would have for someone in the field is, ‘Find balance.’ I am someone who sacrificed her 20s for work. I took on quite a big load of stress early on in life. This took away from my health at some point. So, my advice is to prioritize your health, prioritize your personal life at some points, prioritize your best friends’ birthdays or weddings, etc. Keep in mind that sacrifice will come at every step. So, you might miss your trip with the people you love, you might not be there for family reunions and more. So, please, hustle all you can for the business, but find some balance so you don’t look back in retrospect and wish you had done it differently.
      What is the best piece of advice you ever received?
      I will keep this short so it resonates with whoever is reading it, ‘The universe has a lag time, so always be patient to see the result of what you’re planting.’ Now, repeat that to yourself.
      And what is the worst?
      ‘You cannot get this done, just give it up.’ Being the stubborn person that I am, I found strength in challenging all the people (and they were many) that told me to give up what I was doing.
      What has been the biggest challenge you had to overcome?
      This answer is split two ways. The first massive challenge I had to get over professionally came when I was 30. Due to a couple of bad decisions and partnerships, I was left with a business that was bankrupt with 25 people dependent on me. I was abandoned by my business partners with a negative company balance. This was a real defining moment because I had to rebuild the business and grow it better than it was before. The burnout in the aftermath really hit me, but you know, we made it! The second part presents itself as going through a really powerful personal problem and having to live with it, get over it and heal from it whilst handling the complex and overwhelming operations that I run at Concept Me. Thankfully, I was able to get through these difficult situations through patience, self-reflection and a fantastic team.
      What are the future plans for your brand?
      In summary, the future is to work with clients that are connoisseurs of the craft! I want to work with people who inspire me, who understand the powerful value of high-end design, to penetrate a market that appreciates what we do and push the limits of how spaces can really impact the ways we live. The plan is already underway, we have expanded our repertoire into the kind of markets we want to work on and we are taking the company international with aims to find the quality clients that will allow us to leave our design imprint globally! The future looks bright, thankfully.
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Images: Supplied More

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      in lifestyle and culture

      In pictures: Futuristic new project transforms the Downtown Dubai skyline

      by

      Lifestyle

      by Sarah Joseph
      3 hours ago

      When it comes to record-worthy structures Dubai has undoubtedly made its mark on the global map.
      Now a new futuristic project designed by a Dubai-based architecture firm has been unveiled with a radical plan to transform the emirate’s skyline.
      Znera Space, Najmus Chowdry and Nils Remess, released a series of photos on Instagram outlining the project which features a circular megastructure surrounding the Burj Khalifa, suspended half a kilometre above the ground level of Downtown Dubai.

      The architects have proposed a giant 550-metre tall ring that will have a three-kilometre circumference supported by five massive pillars. The span of the circle will consist of two rings that will be held together by a continuous green belt named the Skypark.
      The project was coined by the architects during the COVID-19 pandemic in a bid to combat the density of Dubai living, championing the notion of “vertical urbanism”.

      “As a response to the dilemma of how to build densely while retaining liveability, the downtown circle project establishes a sustainable and a self-sufficient vertical urbanism,” the founders said on Instagram.
      With sustainability as its main requisite, the mega-complex “aims to create a hyper-efficient urban centre that gives back to the environment”.
      Skypark will act as a support to this impressive structure by bringing nature to life. Featuring swamps, waterfalls, tropical vegetation, and more, the concept will focus on sustainability through rainwater harvesting, solar power and filtering pollutants for clean air.

      With 360-degree views of the city, a tram on the outer perimeter ring is also part of the concept with twenty spacious pods travelling up to 100 kilometres per hour, conceptualised in collaboration with Pictown.
      If the project does ever get the green light, would this be a place where you’d consider living?
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Images: Instagram @znera.space, @pictown.co More