The Design Middle East Awards 2023 were held on October 26th, 2023, in Dubai, UAE, to celebrate the best in design across the region. The prestigious awards recognize and reward excellence in architecture, interior design, fit-out, retail, and other design disciplines. Discover the winners’ list, brought to you by Boca do Lobo, and be inspired by the greatest names in the Middle Eastern design industry.
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RESIDENTIAL PROJECT OF THE YEAR
WINNER: BAYVIEWS RESIDENCES, JT+PARTNERS
Bayviews Residences by JT+Partners is a stunning luxury residential development located in Ras Al Khaimah, UAE. The project is a testament to the firm’s commitment to excellence in design and architecture. The development comprises a collection of villas nestled on a hillside overlooking the city and the Arabian Sea. Each villa is designed to maximize natural light and ventilation and features spacious living areas, luxurious bedrooms, and private swimming pools.
COMMERCIAL PROJECT OF THE YEAR
WINNERS: BAIN & COMPANY, ALLEN ARCHITECTURE INTERIORS DESIGN
The Bain & Company office in One Central, Dubai, designed by Allen Architecture Interiors Design (AAID), is a vibrant and inspiring workspace that reflects the company’s culture of innovation and collaboration. Throughout the office, AAID has used a variety of materials and textures to create a rich and inviting environment. Wood, concrete, and metal are combined with soft fabrics and plants to create a space that is both stylish and comfortable.
INTERIOR FIT-OUT PROJECT OF THE YEAR
WINNER: AYA BY HYPERSPACE, DESIGN INFINITY
This project by Design Infinity was designed to create a unique and immersive experience for visitors to the Aya Hyperspace center, which is a space for people to explore and learn about the future of technology. The fit-out features a variety of interactive elements, such as a digital floor that responds to movement, and a projection wall that displays dynamic images and animations.
HOSPITALITY PROJECT OF THE YEAR (HOTELS)
WINNER: ONE&ONLY ONE ZA’ABEEL, ALEC FITOUT
ONE&ONLY ONE ZA’ABEEL is a luxurious urban resort located in the heart of Dubai, UAE. It is the first vertical urban resort in the world, and is designed to offer guests a truly unique and unforgettable experience. The resort is comprised of two towers that are connected by a stunning panoramic sky concourse, which offers breathtaking views of the city and the Arabian Gulf.
REFURBISHMENT PROJECT OF THE YEAR
WINNER: BAB AL SHAMS DESERT RESORT & SPA, KHANSAHEB INTERIORS
Khansaheb Interiors‘ refurbishment of Bab Al Shams aimed to enhance the resort’s Arabian-style aesthetic while also incorporating modern amenities and technologies. The project is part of Kerzner International’s ‘Rare Finds’ portfolio, which showcases a collection of unique and luxurious resorts around the world.
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INTERIOR DESIGN FIRM OF THE YEAR
WINNER: STUDIO BRUNO GUELAFF + BG GROUP
STUDIO BRUNO GUELAFF + BG GROUP specializes in creating bespoke designs for residential, hospitality, and commercial projects. The studio’s work is characterized by its attention to detail, its use of high-quality materials, and its commitment to creating timeless and elegant spaces. The studio’s projects have also been featured in leading design publications such as Vogue Living, Harper’s Bazaar, and Elle Décor.
Stonehenge Side Table
FIT-OUT FIRM OF THE YEAR
WINNER: ALEC FITOUT
ALEC FITOUT is a leading fit-out and refurbishment company in Dubai, UAE. It is a part of the ALEC Group, one of the largest and most respected construction companies in the region. ALEC FITOUT specializes in the fit-out and refurbishment of 5-star hotels & resorts, cinema, commercial offices, retail, cultural and luxury mixed-use developments in the UAE. The company has a team of experienced and qualified professionals who are capable of handling projects of all sizes and complexity.
Metamorphosis Dining Table
TECH-SAVVY FIRM OF THE YEAR
KEO INTERNATIONAL CONSULTANTS
KEO International Consultants is a global leader in architecture, engineering, project management, and consultancy services. With a rich heritage spanning over five decades, KEO has played a pivotal role in shaping the built and natural environments across the Middle East, Africa, Europe, and Asia. Renowned for its innovative approach and commitment to excellence, KEO delivers comprehensive solutions that seamlessly integrate design, engineering, and project management expertise.
INTERIOR DESIGNER OF THE YEAR
WINNER: FIRAS ALSAHIN, 4SPACE DESIGN
Firas Alsahin is the Co-founder and Design Director of 4Space, a multi-talented design firm in Dubai, UAE. Firas is known for his innovative and creative approach to design. He has a passion for creating spaces that are both functional and aesthetically pleasing, while also being a strong advocate for sustainability in design, and his work often incorporates sustainable materials and practices.
CEO OF THE YEAR
WINNER: TIM MARTIN, GENSLER
Tim Martin is the Managing Director of Gensler Middle East. He has over 20 years of experience in multi-disciplinary practices around the world, and is a designer, mentor, and industry leader. With an established set of technical and business skills, Tim focuses on oversight of multi-disciplinary design projects including hospitality, workplace, retail, and residential.