Interview with Zeid Maoulawi from United Arab Emirates

Cassius Kiani | London Design Awards
Interview with Cassius Kiani from United Kingdom
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Zeid Maoulawi

Zeid Maoulawi has amassed nearly 10 years of experience in architecture design of high-end residential villas and with that, an immersive love affair for interior design as he revels in creating beautiful, functional and harmonious spaces.


Interview With The 2023 London Design Awards Winner – Zeid Maoulawi

1Please give us a brief bio of yourself and your design background.

I graduated from Bahcesehir University in Istanbul Bachelor of Architecture and went to further my studie at Berlin Bahcesehir University for PMP.

I have nearly ten years of experience in the architecture design of high-end residential villas. My passion for interior design is a deep and immersive love affair with the art of creating beautiful, functional and harmonious spaces. It's a boundless creativity that knows no limits, as every room becomes a blank canvas to express unique visions and transform ideas into reality. Whether it's a cosy living room, a serene bedroom, or a vibrant kitchen, the interior designer's passion is to breathe life into each space and make it truly special.

2What made you become/why did you choose to become a designer/artist?
Love for spaces! Some people have always been fascinated by how spaces can influence emotions and behaviours. The opportunity to shape and enhance the ambiance of a room or an entire building can be deeply rewarding for those with a love for spaces and architecture.
3Tell us more about your agency/company, job profile, and what you do.
Since 2014, VILLA & MORE serving the most remarkable design and build service around the United Arab Emirates. We are offering our client a variety of designs, as well as signature FF&E service.
4What does “design” mean to you?
Design is a broad concept that encompasses the process of creating, planning and executing the construction or composition of something with a specific purpose in mind. It goes beyond just aesthetics; design is about problem-solving, functionality and intentionality. Whether it's designing a physical object, a digital interface, a building or an experience, the core principles of design remains consistent.
5What’s your favorite kind of design and why?
Minimal design is a style that prioritises simplicity, clarity and the reduction of elements to their essential forms. It embraces the concept of "less is more" and focuses on stripping away unnecessary details, distractions, and ornamentation. Some of the reasons why minimal design is admired by many.
6To you, what makes a “good” design?

A good design is characterised by several key elements that work together harmoniously to create a successful and meaningful outcome.

Function, User-Centric, Simplicity, Aesthetics, Attention to detail.

7How did you come up with the idea for your award-winning design?
From the surrounding culture of United Arab Emirates.
8What was your main source of inspiration for this design?
The Desert!
9Do you think your country and its cultural heritage has an impact on your design process?
Yes, it very much does!
10Congratulations! As the winner of the London Design Awards, what does it mean to you and your company and team to receive this award distinction?
Winning the London Design Awards is a significant achievement and a source of great pride and validation for a design company and its team. It represents recognition and acknowledgment of their creativity, innovation and excellence in the field of design. Here are some ways in which winning the award can be meaningful.
11Can you explain a bit about the winning work you entered into the 2023 London Design Awards, and why you chose to enter this project?
The winning project is as simple as luxury. We aim to transform the area into a living space that addresses the needs of its residents while promoting environmental stewardship and social inclusivity.
12What were the main challenges you faced during the design process, and how did you overcome them?
The challenge between luxury and simple design lies in finding the right balance between opulence and understatement. Both design styles have their unique appeal and the challenge is to create a cohesive and harmonious environment that resonates with the intended audience.
13How do you think winning this award will impact your future as a designer?

Winning a prestigious design award can have several positive effects on our future career like :

Enhanced reputation.

Increased opportunities.

Expanded network.

The attraction of high-profile clients.

Career advancement.

Validation and confidence.

14What are your top three (3) favorite things about our industry?

Creativity and expression.

Problem-solving.

Impact and influence.

15What sets your design apart from others in the same category?

Unique vision and style.

Innovative solutions.

User-centric focus.

Attention to detail.

16Where do you see the evolution of design industry going over the next 5-10 years?

The design industry is constantly evolving, driven by technological advancements, changing consumer behaviours, and emerging trends. Over the next 5-10 years, several key developments are likely to shape the evolution of the design industry:

Integration of AI and Automation: Artificial Intelligence (AI) and automation will play an increasingly significant role in the design process. Design tools and software will become more sophisticated, allowing designers to streamline repetitive tasks, generate design options, and gather insights from vast data sets.

Sustainable and Eco-Friendly Design : With growing awareness of environmental issues, sustainability will become a central focus in the design industry. Designers will strive to create eco-friendly solutions that minimise environmental impact, promote circular design, and support sustainable practices.

Inclusive and Universal Design: Inclusive design, which aims to create products and spaces that are accessible to all individuals, regardless of their abilities, will gain prominence. Designers will embrace universal design principles, ensuring that their creations are usable and enjoyable for a diverse range of users.

Augmented and Virtual Reality: Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR) technologies will revolutionise the way designers present their ideas and how consumers interact with products and spaces. AR/VR will enable immersive experiences, allowing clients to visualise designs in real-world settings.

17What advice do you have for aspiring designers who want to create award-winning designs?
Master the fundamentals. Build a strong foundation by learning and mastering the fundamentals of design, including colour theory, composition, typography, and design principles. A solid understanding of these basics will form the backbone of your creative process.
18What resources would you recommend to someone who wants to improve their skills in the design industry?
There’s a lot to learn from life!

Winning Entry

Desert Living Villa | 2023

Desert Living | Zeid Maoulawi

This Villa's interior design was inspired by the surrounding culture of modern Arabic style with comfortable living space that suits the needs and preferences of the …
(Read more at London Design Awards)


Zeid Maoulawi

Zeid Maoulawi has amassed nearly 10 years of experience in architecture design of high-end residential villas and with that, an immersive love affair for interior design as he revels in creating beautiful, functional and harmonious spaces.


Read more about this interview with Cassius Kiani from United Kingdom, the Silver Winner of the 2023 London Design Awards.

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