female founder

Subterms

    Latest story

    175 Shares

    How I got my job as… founder of a Dubai-born Scandinavian home decor destination

    by

    This week, we speak to Christiane Nasr, founder of The Bowery Company.
    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.
    Masterminded by the visionary entrepreneur, this go-to home decor destination is home to an exclusive portfolio of sought-after Scandinavian brands such as GUBI, Audo, &Tradition, Ferm Living, Verpan, and Louis Poulsen. With her chic curatorial eye and commitment to sustainability, Christiane has successfully filled beautiful homes and spaces with modern decor and scaled the business, including a recent opening of the Riyadh showroom.
    Here, Christiane shares her journey having embarked on a career change, her lessons learned as an entrepreneur, and her future goals.
    What was your favourite subject at school?
    Literature. I’ve always been drawn to stories, the emotion, the nuance, the perspectives. That ability to connect with ideas beyond your own reality has served me in every chapter of my life, whether I was structuring investment portfolios or curating design collections. I ended up studying at economics, mathematics and a minor in Russian Literature!
    What was your first job?
    I began my career in finance in Geneva as an investment advisor for UHNWI in the GCC and Europe and worked my way up to be an Investment Director for a leading European bank heading their investment office in Dubai, spending over 13 years in Geneva and the UAE. It was a high-pressure and high-stakes job, but it gave me discipline, resilience and the confidence to lead, take calculated risks, and trust my vision.
    What eventually brought you to Dubai?
    The bank I was working for in Geneva sent me to Dubai to head regional investments. From the moment I arrived, I was struck by the city’s energy and ambition it was in 2012. Dubai welcomes big dreams and fuels entrepreneurship, and that mindset is contagious. It sparked something in me and planted the seed for what would eventually become my next chapter.
    What inspired you to enter the interior and retail space and launch The Bowery Company?
    In 2014, I was in New York, walking down The Bowery Avenue, when I noticed a wave of industrial lighting and design shops, bold, raw and inspiring. That moment sparked something. Back in Dubai, I couldn’t find furniture that was both design-driven and accessible. So I started The Bowery Company with a mission to “Bring Design Home.” At first it was a side project, but in early 2018, I left banking entirely to pursue it full-time. It was the scariest and most liberating decision I have ever made.

    What are the key elements of your role?
    At its core, my role is rooted in vision and strategy, shaping the long-term trajectory of The Bowery Company while remaining deeply anchored in purpose. I am not just bringing design home, I am building a movement centered on timeless aesthetics, sustainability, and cultural relevance. It means making bold, forward-thinking decisions, whether it is entering new markets, as we did in Saudi Arabia, or redefining what affordable luxury looks like in the region. Above all, I lead a passionate, talented team, and my responsibility is to inspire, challenge, and foster a culture where creativity, innovation, and accountability thrive.

    Talk us through your daily routine.
    I wake up at 6am, spend quality time with my kids, then head to Barry’s Bootcamp to set the tone for the day-I train there seven days a week. After that, it’s coffee and straight into work mode. My days are a dynamic mix of strategic meetings, project development, curating new collections, and staying closely connected to our community of clients and collaborators. I work hand-in-hand with our Saudi team as we pursue major hotel, F&B, and commercial projects, while also reviewing marketing campaigns and planning our next launches. I usually head home around 7pm for dinner, homework, and bedtime routines with my kids 5 and 7 year olds then, I’m often back at my laptop for a few more hours to wrap up the day.
    I’m a hardcore entrepreneur; my workdays can stretch 12 to 16 hours. But I also believe deeply in work-life harmony. Some weeks allow space to recharge, while others demand focus and intensity. It’s all part of building a business I am a firm believer in.
    What advice do you have for anyone looking to follow in the same footsteps?
    Take risks. Don’t listen to the noise. Take a leap of faith, and don’t look back. Most importantly, embrace failure, because every setback brings you one step closer to success. Don’t be afraid to pivot, I walked away from a 13-year career in finance to start from scratch in an entirely new industry. It is never too late to follow a calling but do it with clarity. Know your why, stay consistent, and never underestimate your inner power.
    What is the best piece of advice you ever received?
    No one else will write your story for you, you have to write your own recipe for success. Mine involved courage, discipline, a relentless belief in my vision, and a willingness to start over, even when the odds weren’t in my favour. Once you realise that you don’t need permission to begin, everything shifts.
    Tell us more about the brands and styles offered.
    We are the exclusive GCC representative for some of the world’s most respected Scandinavian brands: Audo Copenhagen, Ferm Living, GUBI, &Tradition, Louis Poulsen, and more. These brands champion timeless aesthetics, ethical production, and enduring materials. The Bowery Company bring design home, offering warm minimalism with soul pieces that balance beauty, function, and sustainability.
    And what is the worst advice you ever received?
    “Play it safe. Give up. Don’t open in Saudi Arabia. You’re over 40 years old, it is not time to take risks. Think of your kids you don’t need to take bold moves now. Stay in your comfort zone.” If I had followed that advice, I’d still be in banking, comfortable, maybe, but constantly wondering “what if?”
    Playing it safe doesn’t build dreams. Growth comes from taking risks, leaning into discomfort, and saying yes to the things that scare you. That’s where real transformation begins.
    What has been the biggest challenge you had to overcome?
    The transition from banking to design was a radical shift, but the real challenge came in 2019, I faced another major challenge that pushed me completely out of my comfort zone. It was a pivotal moment where I made the conscious decision to give my last push to the business, and that was the turning point in my transformation. Since then, we have experienced double-digit growth, turning The Bowery Company into a multi-million dollar business. Today, our 10,000 square-feet flagship showroom in Riyadh stands as a symbol of that success. But none of it came easy, it came from showing up, again and again, and trusting in the magic of your dreams. Never give up. You’re stronger than you think.

    What are your goals for the future?
    To expand across Saudi Arabia and the wider GCC, deepen our collaboration with Vision 2030 projects, and keep driving the conversation around sustainability in design. I also want to mentor and support other women taking the leap into entrepreneurship. Ultimately, The Bowery Company is about more than bringing design home and beautiful interiors, it is about living courageously, consciously, and beautifully.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Supplied More

    More stories

    • 188 Shares

      in lifestyle and culture

      Founder & CEO of onezone on harnessing tech to create a curated lifestyle discovery app

      by

      Natasha Zone, founder and CEO of onezone app, on harnessing the power of tech to create the ultimate curated lifestyle discovery app.
      Natasha Zone, founder and CEO of onezone
      What was the idea and catalyst behind building onezone?
      The idea and catalyst behind onezone is rooted in the observation of existing luxury concierge services and recommendation/discovery platforms, which either target ultra-wealthy clients or are social media platforms lacking quality control and trust. This highlights a significant gap in the market for a digital hospitality marketplace that offers curated discovery for affluent individuals with high disposable income seeking out the best of hospitality in their city, who have no trusted brand or service available to them to do so. onezone fulfills the need of a trusted brand and reputable platform for this audience, as well as a new generation of digital-first consumers desiring to discover and book the best experiences. Additionally, onezone brings this valuable community, and new customers, to restaurants and hospitality brands who seek quality clientele that prioritise exceptional experiences.

      What pillars of DNA define onezone as a brand?
      The pillars of DNA that define onezone as a brand include:
      1. Curation, our USP: onezone prioritises curation on both sides of its digital hospitality marketplace, establishing a trusted brand and consistent standards that provide value to both users/ consumers and hospitality brands/businesses.
      2. Community and Brand Value: The curated element of the brand fosters a valuable community on one side, and quality experiences on the other. This specialist curation is highlighted in our bespoke imagery, intentional organ- ic growth, real-time content and intuitive app/platform.
      3. Diversity and Sustainability: onezone is committed to supporting female-founded, Black-owned and sus- tainable businesses, alongside community heroes and minorities; editorially on the app, consistently on social media and through our team in real life.
      4. Industry Support: onezone actively contributes to the hospitality industry, as recognised by industry leaders, operators and owners. The development of new features – including private dining/events to drive more incremental revenue to our partners – demonstrates one- zone’s dedication to supporting the industry as a whole.
      These pillars collectively reinforce onezone’s commitment to quality, trust, community and diversity in the digital hospitality space.

      What sets onezone apart from other city guide apps in the market?
      onezone distinguishes itself from other apps in several significant ways:
      1. Curated Discovery: Unlike many social discovery apps that rely on influencers and friends for content, leading to unreliable and outdated information, onezone focuses on curated content. This approach ensures that users receive valuable, trustworthy and real-time recommendations as soon as they open the app.
      2. Content Quality and Relevance: onezone offers bespoke content that is relevant to our specific audience/community and vetted for quality. This level of curation enhances user trust and satisfac- tion, setting us apart from com- petitors that may not prioritise these aspects.
      3. Comprehensive Aggregation: onezone integrates discovery, booking and social features into a single platform. By curating across all verticals and price points, and integrating seamlessly with all traditional reservation softwares, onezone provides a unique holistic experience that allows users to discover, plan, book and trust the outcome, all in one.
      4. Trustworthy Brand Alignment: onezone builds a brand that resonates with users, positioning itself as a trusted service in the crowded app/discovery market. This alignment fosters a loyal user base that seeks a reliable and comprehensive solution for city discovery/exploration.
      5. Addressing Distrust in Existing Platforms: Traditional discovery platforms often rely heavily on user reviews, which can lead to distrust due to the potential for negative bias. New-age discovery platforms often deliver hype and viral moments rather than authentic recommendations and trustworthy reviews. onezone’s curated approach mitigates these issues, offering a more enjoyable and reliable user experience.
      Overall, onezone’s emphasis on curated, high-quality content, along with its comprehensive features, makes it a unique and valuable tool for discovering and booking.

      How do you continuously refine the user journey experience and manage user retention?
      We’re obsessed with feedback. We see how users move through the app, where they drop off, what they save, and where they click out. Then we iterate and refine. We use hot tip hacks, curated content drops, industry insights and smart notifications to keep people coming back. We also run surveys, ask questions and trial quickly/adapt swiftly, until we get it right. Ultimately, people return because they trust us, and we work hard to earn that trust. onezone has the finger on the pulse on the coolest city hot spots.

      What does it take to curate each city?
      Curating the world requires a curated team with a unique set of skills:
      1. Deep Hospitality Knowledge/Expertise: Our team possesses extensive knowledge of the hospitality industry, enabling us to identify and evaluate the best places that align with our vision for onezone.
      2. Understanding of Audience Needs: We have a keen understanding of what our audience, community and users desire – be it the latest brands, culinary trends, ambiance or service standards. This insight helps us curate experiences and a platform that truly resonates with our users.
      3. Unmatched Work Ethic: Our team is committed to excellence; willing to rise at any time to capture the best content for the app; spending hours with our partners/industry operators to listen and understand their challenges; and constantly revising, adapting and improving to create the best product and service for our users.
      This dedication reflects our desire to curate the best platform for both users and partner brands, always striving to do our utmost and whatever it takes.
      How many people are in your team now and did you start out alone?
      I began this journey as a solo founder, with past experience making me aware that co-founders can sometimes introduce strife and turmoil in a business. Over the past three years, I have carefully built a lean team of five experts. Each team member has ownership of their respective department, allowing us to fill each other’s blind spots, and be accountable to one another, for our combined success. We passionately support each other, operate at a high level and continuously challenge each other to improve and aspire to be better. This collaborative spirit is instrumental to our growth and success.

      As a tech entrepreneur, what would you advise for those looking to follow the same path and those who are starting out?
      ∙ Be grateful and stay humble – not everyone has the opportunity to do something extraordinary.
      ∙ Prepare yourself to sacrifice the “normal” – if you see this as your life, you’ll do good. If it’s a job, if it’s “work”, you probably won’t.
      ∙ Be obsessed with your industry. I live and breathe hospitality. Be outrageously persistent, knock down every door, and always find another way forwards.
      ∙ Stay scrappy, pivot quickly and make decisions; there is no right or wrong. Be careful who you take advice from and be extra careful who you take money from.
      ∙ Find your team – they will make every day better.
      ∙ Ultimately surrender. Do everything you can and then believe it will be.
      What were the challenges you overcame and how did you tackle this?
      Being a female founder in the tech industry can be particularly challenging. Female founders often face disparities in securing funding and high valuations as males tend to favour male-led startups, leading to a significant gender gap in investment opportunities, from both angels and venture capitalists. Gender biases can also lead to stereotypes that undermine the credibility of female founders. This can affect how our ideas are received, how seriously we are taken in male-dominated environments, and it can be harder for us to establish connections, mentors and networks. Our company ethos does not allow bias and stereotypes to prevent progress. We have strengthened our business with an advisory board and strategic investors who share their expertise and experience to advance onezone’s mission.
      This is The Discovery Issue – what has been a recent game changing discovery?
      We see a unique opportunity to develop an AI product based on our curated dataset. In an industry where artificial intelligence has struggled to deliver expert recommendations due to a reliance on broad data scraping, onezone can leverage its specific, high-quality, curated content to provide meaningful insights and recommendations that truly resonate with our users. This discovery enhances our value proposition and positions us for future growth and innovation in the hospitality sector.
      Another exciting discovery has been the recent realisation that our platform is actively driving consumer trends. More users are exploring new places thanks to our app, which highlights incredible spots in their vicinity. We’ve received feedback from self-proclaimed foodies who initially downloaded the app skeptically, only to find themselves pleasantly surprised by the number of exciting restaurants they had never known existed nearby. Additionally, we’ve discovered that the next generation of consumers lacks a centralised, curated source for private dining rooms and event spaces. By building a trusted brand, onezone has the opportunity to fill this gap in the market, meeting the needs of both our users and partners. This emphasises the value of building a two-sided curated hospitality marketplace.
      “Curating the world requires a curated team with a unique set of skills”
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Images: Supplied More

    • 138 Shares

      in lifestyle and culture

      In the office with Dominique Laird, founder and CEO of Blended

      by

      Dominique Laird, Founder and CEO of Blended, Partner and Creative Director of Solutions Group shares the conception and creation of its newest location at W Dubai – Mina Seyahi.
      How long have you been in this space?
      I’ve been deeply involved in the wellness and hospitality industry for over a decade now. The journey with Blended began several years ago from something quite personal – the simple desire to enjoy massages at home, in my own space. That moment of craving comfort and calm sparked what would become a much larger vision.
      Most recently, we proudly opened the doors to our newest home at W Dubai – Mina Seyahi in Dubai Marina. This marks an incredibly exciting chapter; a full-spectrum wellness and lifestyle hub, where beauty, movement, and deep rest exist in harmony. From state-of-the-art fitness studios to elevated spa and salon experiences, and exclusive access to premium hotel amenities, it’s a 360º space that serves the mind, body, and soul. We’ve brought our signature classes and treatments, including Pilates, yoga, sound healing and massages, and introduced new elements, like Mini Blends for mums and children.
      This latest destination is more than just a wellness space; it’s experiential design in action. Every corner is intentionally crafted to evoke emotion, invite presence, and allow people to interpret the space in their own way whether that means movement, stillness, connection, or escape. For me, this evolution represents years of vision, growth, and an unwavering commitment to building a community grounded in well-being, confidence, and self-love.
      Have you custom-built any bespoke pieces?
      At Blended, we’ve always believed that design should be as healing as it is beautiful. So, the space has been carefully curated – not just styled, but intentionally built to support the wellness journey in subtle and powerful ways. We’ve custom-built many features throughout, from our signature treatment beds designed for optimal comfort and ergonomic support, to a grounding salt cave layered with three tiers of banquet seating that creates a deeply restorative atmosphere. Our multi-use suites are fitted with bespoke bi-fold doors, offering seamless transitions between individual and couple treatments, and everything from our sculptural lighting to our furniture pieces is created with intention.
      “The entire space is designed to be felt as much as seen. It’s not static; it responds to the person within it”
      The layout itself is an experience, following the natural flow of energy through the space, gently guiding guests from arrival into relaxation. Whether you’re entering from the ground-floor salon with its beauty bars and styling stations perfectly positioned by the valet or ascending to the 30th-floor spa with its panoramic views of the Dubai Marina skyline, every element works in harmony to deliver both form and function. We’ve embraced neutral tones and natural textures to bring warmth and calm, punctuated by accent features and gentle curvature; not to jar, but to intrigue, to soften, to invite. The entire space is designed to be felt as much as seen. It’s not static; it responds to the person within it. It allows guests to bring their own energy and take what they need from the space, whether it’s stillness, self-reflection, or renewal. It’s experiential design in its truest sense.
      How do you think the interiors reflect you?
      The interiors at Blended are a direct extension of my personality, my values, and how I see the world. I’ve always believed that true wellness is layered – it’s not just about what we do with our bodies or what we put on our plates. It’s about the way a space makes us feel. And, so, the design is a gentle reflection of that philosophy. It’s luxurious but never loud. Elevated yet grounded. It’s about clean lines softened by soulful details – tactile materials, soft ambient lighting, quiet corners that invite you to linger.
      It reflects my love for serene environ- ments that allow people to simply be. The neutral palette is warm, not stark. The textures are earthy, comforting. Curves and arches bring in flow and femininity – just enough to catch the eye and stir emotion, but never overwhelm. Every detail is layered with intention but leaves space for personal interpretation because I don’t believe wellness should ever feel prescriptive. It should feel open, spacious, welcoming – like an extension of home.
      At its core, the space mirrors my belief that wellness is not one-size-fits-all. It’s an ever-evolving experience. So, we created something fluid, something that moves with the individual. The interiors are part of that journey – holding space for the mind, body, and soul to reconnect, realign, and rise. That’s what Blended means to me.
      Describe your taste in three words.
      Sophisticated, serene, intentional.
      Scroll through the gallery below for a tour inside Blended’s newest address:

      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Images: Supplied More

    • 150 Shares

      in lifestyle and culture

      Founder and CEO of PRYPCO discusses bringing optimism to the housing market

      by

      Life

      by Camille Macawili
      10 mins ago

      In January Issue’s Building Blocks, Amira Sajwani, founder and CEO of PRYPCO, discusses bringing optimism to the housing market.
      What has been the vision and purpose form the outset?
      PRYPCO was founded with a clear vision: to revolutionise the real estate landscape by making property ownership accessible to everyone, as well as transparent and efficient. Our vision is to democratise real estate investment, breaking down barriers to entry and making it possible for a larger profile of individuals to engage in the market with unprecedented ease and flexibility, combining buyers, sellers, investors and brokers, in one platform.
      You think outside the box – have you always been able to do this, and how has it served you?
      Innovative thinking has been a core strength throughout my career. It’s the basis of my approach which is honed by observing market inefficiencies and identifying opportunities where others see challenges. This ability to think outside the box led to the foundational concept behind PRYPCO Blocks, or fractional ownership, recognising a target audience in the market to be tapped. This approach has allowed me to pioneer new ways of thinking, enabling the company to remain at the forefront of innovation. It has also served as a guiding principle in evaluating startups on Shark Tank, where creative thinking and resilience are key indicators of success.
      Have you ever had moments when you have been under great pressure and in those moments, what sustains your drive?
      Pressure is an inevitable part of leadership, especially when building a business from the ground up. What kept me motivated was my unwavering belief in the vision and the tangible impact we could make. My drive is sustained by the knowledge that every challenge presents an opportunity for growth and the understanding that perseverance is the bedrock of success.
      What have been your proudest achievements in your career so far?
      One of my proudest achievements has been positioning PRYPCO as a disruptor in the real estate sector, offering cutting-edge solutions that have redefined market norms, from PRYPCO Mortgage, Golden Visa Services, to PRYPCO Blocks. Another milestone was the recognition as a judge on Shark Tank, where I have had the privilege to mentor and invest in transformative ideas. On a personal level, it is gratifying seeing PRYPCO truly making a significant difference in how a large spectrum of individuals achieve their real estate investment goals.

      Alternatively, what is the greatest risk you’ve faced in growing your business?
      The greatest risk we faced in growing our business was launching PRYPCO Blocks, a concept that challenged traditional norms and beliefs in real estate ownership. When we introduced the idea, many skeptics questioned its feasibility: Who would want to own a fraction of a property? How will ownership of fractions be proven? Countless an other concerns arose. However, we believed in the power of innovation and the demand for more accessible property investment solutions. Today, we’ve proven the success of PRYPCO Blocks by fully funding nine properties, with each investor receiving a certificate of ownership. Moreover, the service is regulated by the Dubai Financial Services Authority (DFSA), ensuring transparency and trust. This bold step not only validated the concept but also demonstrated our ability to redefine real estate investment.
      Is there a particular person who you are grateful towards who helped get you to where you are?
      I am deeply grateful to my father, Hussain Sajwani, whose vision, entrepreneurial spirit, and unwavering determination have been a constant source of inspiration. Growing up, I had the unique privilege of observing his ability to overcome challenges and transform DAMAC into a global powerhouse. His mentorship instilled in me the core values of perseverance, innovation, and strategic thinking. From engaging conversations around the dining table to hands-on summer internships across various departments at DAMAC, I gained invaluable insights into leadership, management, and the intricacies of the real estate industry. These formative experiences not only sparked my passion for the field but also equipped me with a comprehensive and nuanced perspective that continues to guide my approach to business today.
      Have you seen a positive investor mindset change in the real estate space since you founded PRYPCO?
      Absolutely. You know what they say: the numbers speak for themselves. We announced the largest single retail disbursal in the history of United Arab Bank and PRYPCO’s partnership, amounting to AED 48,000,000. In addition, over AED 500,000,000 in mortgages were disbursed in the month of August alone. On top of that, we successfully raised $10 million in a seed funding round led by Shorooq Partners, Apparel Group, and other key investors. PRYPCO has proven to be a formidable force in the industry, and we will continue to build on our clients’ trust and confidence to achieve even greater milestones.
      How does PYRPCO aim to make a positive difference in the real estate market?
      PRYPCO’s mission is to transform the real estate market by making real estate investment accessible to a wider audience. Through PRYPCO Blocks, we’ve introduced fractional ownership, allowing individuals to invest in high-value properties with as little as AED 500, enabling them to generate passive income. Our platform also ensures greater transparency and trust, as PRYPCO Blocks is regulated by DESA.
      What piece of advice can you give to those looking to build a similar career path and venture on their own – and how was it relevant to you in your life?
      My advice is to embrace resilience and remain adaptable to change. Challenges are inevitable, but the key is to view them as opportunities for growth. Be bold in your vision and don’t shy away from taking calculated risks. This mindset has been PRYPCO to exploring innovative approaches in the real estate industry. Surround yourself with people who share your passion, and never stop learning.
      This is The Optimism Issue – how do you aim to have a positive influence for the future generations?
      I believe in creating a legacy that inspires innovation and empowerment through PRYPCO and beyond. Through PRYPCO, my aim is to pave the way for a more inclusive and technology-driven real estate market. Beyond that, I am passionate about mentoring the next generation of entrepreneurs and fostering a culture of resilience and creativity. By championing sustainable and innovative solutions, we can contribute to a brighter, more equitable future for everyone.
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      January’s – The Optimism Issue – Download Now 
      Image: Supplied More

    • 150 Shares

      in lifestyle and culture

      How I got my job as… Founder of a scandi-coastal furniture company

      by

      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’re giving the spotlight to Rozina Stefan, Founder of The Loom Collection – a design-led furniture company that captures the peaceful ease of the coast fused with a Scandinavian aesthetic.
      To find out more about how she got the company started, Emirates Woman talks to the female founder behind the brand to share the finer details that exemplifies the minimalist perfection of The Loom Collection.
      Scroll through to read the interview below.

      What was your favourite subject at school?
      Languages have always been my favorite, in particular, English and Italian. Growing up in a small Romanian town, I realized very young that there was more to what lay beyond our horizons. Little did I know then that this passion for languages would eventually translate into a burning curiosity to travel and explore borders and cultures.
      What was your first job?
      My journey into the working world began like many others – with a part-time job. I started tutoring English to a younger student when I was around 15 or 16. It was a humble beginning, but it taught me the value of hard work and sharing knowledge. However, my first ‘official’ job was as a flight attendant for a local airline. It’s funny how life takes unexpected turns, isn’t it? You see, I initially aspired to become an architect, but my love for travel ultimately took over.
      What eventually brought you to Dubai?
      As I began to travel, I started hearing whispers of the Middle East and the incredible opportunities it held. Naturally, Dubai emerged as the favorite destination to settle into. What captivated me most about Dubai was its unique blend of modernity and dynamic design landscape. I saw it as a place where creative innovation thrived, and I wanted to be part of that energy.
      What inspired you to enter the interior design space?
      I developed an insatiable curiosity about the way people shape their living spaces throughout the world. It was very interesting to see how people lived globally, from Copenhagen, Tokyo, Sydney, Hong King, etc… There are so many things I could tell you about it. As I settled into Dubai, making it my long-term home during my years of globetrotting, the need for a true home retreat became increasingly essential. My first apartment in the Greens was that sanctuary, a place where I could finally anchor myself after a long-haul flight and exploration.

      But amidst the comfort of my home, I yearned to contribute to the creation of living spaces that resonated deeply with individuals, homes that didn’t just follow trends but also told unique stories. I felt that the limited furniture options available in the UAE at that time did not reflect the modern, casual, and coastal vibes that the UAE has to offer. It was this realization that ignited my passion for curating exceptional designs and making them accessible to the people of the UAE through The Loom Collection.
      Talk us through the concept of The Loom Collection.
      The concept of The Loom Collection is deeply rooted in the fusion of passion, functionality, and storytelling within the realm of contemporary design. Co-founded by myself, Rozina Stefan, and Brad Wissink, our journey began with a shared fascination for modern aesthetics and a collective desire to address a unique challenge we faced when settling into our homes in Dubai – the absence of furniture that resonated with our lifestyle.
      Our vision was to create more than just a furniture brand; we aimed to establish a narrative through each piece, weaving a story that reflects the diverse inspirations drawn from our global experiences. The Loom Collection became the canvas on which we could express our love for contemporary, functional designs that not only enhance the visual appeal of a space but also encapsulate the essence of the individuals who inhabit it.

      Every piece within The Loom Collection is a result of meticulous curation, driven by a commitment to quality craftsmanship, comfort, and a keen understanding of the practical aspects of modern living. We carefully select materials that not only speak to the aesthetic vision of our brand but also cater to the unique climate of Dubai. From linen fabrics and wool fibers to solid wood like oak and teak, Italian marble, high-quality leather, New Zealand wool, and more recently, materials like Travertine stone and Tadelakt finishes – each element is chosen with purpose.
      The Loom Collection is not only about aesthetic appeal but also about embodying the dialogue between modern urban architecture and the natural, sun-kissed landscapes of Dubai. Our designs are grounded in the practicality of daily life, ensuring that every piece serves as both a work of art and a comfortable, functional addition to real homes.
      What are the key elements of your role?
      As the co-founder and design director of The Loom Collection, my role encompasses a diverse range of responsibilities, a bit like weaving the threads of creativity and business together. It’s a diverse mix of responsibilities that keeps things exciting. One of the key parts of my job is curating our furniture collections. Think of it as being a curator in an art gallery, but instead of paintings, we’re curating beautiful pieces of furniture. I need to stay in the loop with design trends, have a keen eye for quality, and make sure each piece fits into the bigger story we’re telling through our collections. I work closely with our design team, both in-house and external designers, and with our suppliers to make sure everything aligns with our commitment to contemporary, functional design.
      But it’s not just about furniture. Building and nurturing relationships with our designers and customers is at the heart of what I do. It’s all about fostering creativity and innovation while ensuring our brand stays true to our vision. In essence, my role as co-founder encapsulates a holistic approach to business—one that seamlessly blends creativity with strategy, ensuring that every piece of furniture we offer is not just an object but a reflection of our passion for design, functionality, and the art of creating spaces that tell a compelling story.
      Talk us through your daily routine.
      It usually starts off with a catch-up with our internal team, where we set the tone for the day ahead. We make sure to check in on current projects with our partners, shipments, and photography sessions for our website. Then, it’s a deep dive into the world of design. I thoroughly enjoy checking on the progress of our current and upcoming collections, ensuring they align seamlessly with our vision.
      One of the perks of my office being at the heart of our studio is the spontaneous interactions. I often run into our designers and clients, which gives me a real feel for their feedback and, of course, those welcome compliments when they see the furniture in real life. A typical day at The Loom Collection is a mix of creativity and strategy. Whether it’s brainstorming new ideas, meeting with our fantastic design partners and suppliers, or exploring the latest trends, it’s always a dynamic journey. Striking the right balance between artistry and operational excellence is key to our success.

      What advice do you have for anyone looking to follow in the same footsteps?
      Embrace curiosity and never stop learning. In the dynamic world of design, it’s easy to fall into the trap of thinking you’ve mastered it all. However, this is a field that’s constantly evolving, and there’s always something new to discover.
      Surround yourself with a network of inspiring individuals who challenge your thinking and push you to explore fresh ideas. Don’t be afraid to take calculated risks in pursuing your creative vision, but always be open to learning from your mistakes. Sometimes, our most valuable lessons come from the unexpected. Stay curious, stay humble, and keep pushing the boundaries of what you think you know.
      What is the best piece of advice you ever received?
      The best advice I received is to trust the process. In the journey of building The Loom Collection, there were challenges and uncertainties, but staying true to our vision and persevering through obstacles has been key to our success.
      And what is the worst?
      The worst advice, perhaps, is to conform too much to existing trends. While it’s essential to be aware of industry trends, staying true to your unique design perspective and taking calculated risks can set you apart in a competitive market.
      What has been the biggest challenge you had to overcome?
      The biggest challenge at The Loom Collection wasn’t defining our identity, but assembling a team to bring it to life. Our quest was to find individuals who not only had the skill but also shared our vision for contemporary design and storytelling. Building this team of creative, dedicated minds who truly understood and embodied our ethos was both challenging and rewarding. Their unique perspectives and commitment have been pivotal in transforming The Loom Collection from a concept into a vibrant entity in the design world.
      What are your future goals and plans for your career?
      In the future, The Loom Collection aims to build further on its presence in the Middle East, introducing innovative designs and forging collaborations with creative talents. Our goal is to be a hallmark of distinctive design in the region. We’re also committed to sustainability, integrating eco-conscious practices into our design philosophy. While details of our upcoming projects are under wraps, they’re set to bring fresh perspectives to contemporary interior design. Expect groundbreaking developments that will enlighten the design world.
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Images: Supplied More