In this insightful interview, a leading luxury interior designer shares their philosophy on balancing aesthetics and functionality in design. They discuss the importance of understanding client needs, the influence of culture and nature on their approach, and the collaborative efforts of their team across architecture, interior design, and landscape design. The designer highlights their signature fusion style, adapting it to various cultural contexts, particularly in the Middle East. They also address the challenges of navigating diverse market preferences and envision the future of luxury design as increasingly focused on sustainability and technological integration.
A Design Philosophy
We started the interview by asking, “How do you balance aesthetics and functionality in your designs?”
Eng. Noor Alrefai replied, “For me, aesthetics and functionality go hand in hand. Every project starts with understanding the client’s lifestyle and requirements. Once the functionality is clear, I work on incorporating elements that not only add beauty but also enhance the usability of the space. A well-designed space should be pleasing to the eyes while serving its practical purpose effectively.”
The Pillars of Inspired Luxury
The Arabia Times: What inspires your approach to luxury interior design, particularly in residential spaces?
Eng. Noor Alrefai replied, “Luxury, for me it’s about creating a sense of harmony and comfort, and not just using expensive materials. I am inspired by nature, culture, and the individual preferences of my clients. Every home I design is personalized, where attention to detail ensures that the space feels luxurious and uniquely tailored to the homeowner’s vision.”
A Designer’s Approach
The Arabia Times: How do you ensure that your designs align with clients’ visions while maintaining your design philosophy?
Eng. Noor Alrefai replied, “The key is active communication. I spend time understanding my clients’ needs and desires, translating those into a design that reflects their personality while staying true to the core principles of elegance, comfort, and functionality. My team at Bnyan and I ensure that the client’s vision is at the center of the design, while our expertise refines it to create something extraordinary.”
Interdisciplinary Teamwork
The Arabia Times: Could you elaborate on how your team collaborates across architecture, interior design, and landscape design?
Eng. Noor Alrefai replied, “Collaboration is at the heart of everything we do at Bnyan. Our architects, interior designers, and landscapers work as a cohesive unit, exchanging ideas and expertise. This integrated approach ensures that every element, from the exterior landscape to the interior layout, complements one another, creating a seamless flow throughout the project.”
Adapting to the Middle East
The Arabia Times: What is your signature style, and how do you adapt it to different cultural contexts, especially in the Middle East?
Eng. Noor Alrefai replied, “I have a deep appreciation for both modern and traditional styles. My signature approach is fusion—combining the best of both worlds, whether it’s sleek modern lines or ornate classical elements. In the Middle East, this often means blending cultural richness with contemporary elegance, ensuring the design feels authentic to the region while being relevant to modern living.”
A Designer’s Dilemma
The Arabia Times: With your projects spanning multiple countries, how do you navigate the different design preferences in markets like Jordan, KSA, UAE, and Qatar?
Eng. Noor Alrefai replied, “Every market has its own cultural nuances and preferences. In Jordan, there’s a greater emphasis on preserving historical elements, whereas in the UAE and Qatar, clients often lean towards ultra-modern and innovative designs. We take the time to research and understand the local context, then adapt our design approach to meet those expectations while still delivering unique and timeless results.”
Thinking outside the Box
The Arabia Times: Can you tell us about a challenging project that pushed your creative boundaries?
Eng. Noor Alrefai replied, “One of the most challenging yet rewarding projects was designing a cultural landmark that blended modern architecture with traditional Islamic design. The challenge was to ensure that the building honored its cultural roots while providing a modern space for the community. It required meticulous attention to detail and innovation to balance these two aspects, but the result was a space that felt both timeless and progressive.”
Regional Architectural Heritage
Lastly, we asked, “How do you see the future of luxury architecture and design evolving, especially in the Middle East?”
“The future of luxury design will continue to evolve towards sustainability and technology integration. Clients are increasingly asking for eco-friendly materials and smart-home technologies, and this trend is especially prominent in the Middle East. We’re constantly innovating at Bnyan, finding ways to incorporate these advancements without compromising on luxury or aesthetic appeal.” Eng. Noor Alrefai concluded
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