< Previous20 commercialinteriordesign.comFebruary 2025Big idea With AVIVA’s CEO Dara Young HOW TO DESIGN A WORKSPACE IN 100 DAYS21 commercialinteriordesign.comFebruary 2025Big idea T he challenge of designing workspaces that embody innovation, sustainability, and cultural identity is a daunting one, but AVIVA Collective has risen to the occasion. Under the leadership of CEO Dara Young, the fi rm’s latest accomplishment is a 15,000 sq ft workspace for Unique Properties in Business Bay, Dubai. More than just a feat of architecture, the project is a masterclass in balancing speed, quality and sustainability. A MASTERPIECE IN 100 DAYS The idea of completing a workspace of this magnitude in just 100 days might sound like a recipe for cutting corners, but AVIVA Collective turned this constraint into a strength. By meticulously planning every detail down to the materials sourced and the renders created, AVIVA ensured that there was no room for ambiguity. The collaboration with Design Infi nity as the build partner exemplifi es the power of synergy and trust in executing projects seamlessly. “Our team led every facet of the project,” Young explained, emphasising AVIVA’s role in overseeing everything from procurement to project management. This comprehensive approach allowed the fi rm to maintain the highest standards of quality while meeting tight deadlines. The result is a space that delivers on every promise without compromising on quality or sustainability, a rare achievement that highlights AVIVA’s commitment to excellence and agility. GLOBAL DESIGN MEETS LOCAL IDENTITY In Dubai, a city that thrives on multiculturalism, creating spaces that resonate with diverse teams while honouring local traditions is a delicate balancing act. Drawing inspiration from the desert, sea and skyline, the design integrates enduring materials that refl ect Dubai’s essence without succumbing to fl eeting trends. A prayer room and Qibla- oriented workspaces weave in cultural touchpoints, ensuring the space feels authentic to the GCC region. With projects across North America, Europe, and the GCC, the fi rm brings a global sensibility. As Young puts it, “We infuse each project with a cultural resonance that speaks to its environment and the unique story of its inhabitants.” SUSTAINABILITY AS A LIFESTYLE In an era where sustainability is often reduced to a buzzword, AVIVA Collective goes beyond the superfi cial. The project incorporates smart building technologies, biophilic elements, and energy-effi cient systems that not only reduce environmental impact but also enhance employee well-being with textures that evoke a sense of calm. 22 commercialinteriordesign.comFebruary 2025Big idea Everydetail is designed to create a workplace that feels alive and nurturing. It’s a reminder that sustainability isn’t just about reducing waste; it’s about building environments that inspire and support the people who inhabit them. INCLUSIVITY IN INNOVATION AVIVA Collective’s workspace designs are often lauded for their innovation, but this raises an important question: Do such high-end, digitally integrated spaces risk alienating smaller fi rms that can’t afford similar luxuries? Young’s response underscores AVIVA’s commitment to inclusivity. “We immerse ourselves in understanding the company’s inner workings,” she explained. This approach ensures that every design, no matter the scale, refl ects the unique needs of the client, creating spaces that are functional, adaptable and inspiring. By focusing on the human journey within a workspace, AVIVA crafts environments that foster connection, innovation and community. These principles are not exclusive to large corporations; they are universally applicable, proving that thoughtful design can benefi t companies of all sizes. THE HUMAN-CENTRIC WORKSPACE As the nature of work evolves, so too must the spaces in which we work. For AVIVA, this means designing environments that are as dynamic as the people who use them. The workspace for Unique Properties incorporates fl exible areas that cater to a range of needs, from focused work to Wellness Wellness is a central theme, with dedicated spaces for relaxation and a design palette that promotes calm and clarity. A VISION FOR DUBAI’S FUTURE Dubai’s design landscape is an exhilarating blend of ambition and innovation, and AVIVA Collective is at the forefront of this movement. Young’s journey from New York to Dubai has shaped her aesthetic, blending the best practices of two of the world’s most dynamic cities. “Dubai and the broader GCC are truly magnetic for those of us in design,” she said. The fi rm’s selective approach to projects ensures that every design not only meets but elevates the expectations of this fast-paced, multicultural market. AVIVA’s work is a reminder that great design doesn’t exist in isolation; it is a collaborative process that draws from the environment, the client, and the community it serves. EMPOWERING SMALLER FIRMS THROUGH EXCELLENCE One of the most compelling aspects of AVIVA’s philosophy is its ability to inspire other design fi rms. Young sees the success of AVIVA’s elite projects not as a threat but as an invitation for smaller fi rms to innovate. “Being a more intimate fi rm allows us agility and creates a space where clients receive undivided attention,” she said. This agility, combined with a relentless commitment to pushing creative boundaries, sets AVIVA apart in a crowded market. For smaller fi rms, this approach is a call to action: Excellence isn’t about resources; it’s about vision and precision. 23 commercialinteriordesign.comFebruary 2025Big idea AVIVA COLLECTIVE’S WORK on the Unique Properties headquarters is more than a design achievement; it’s a statement about the future of workspaces in Dubai and beyond. By seamlessly blending speed, quality, sustainability, and cultural identity, the fi rm has created a space that not only meets the demands of today but anticipates the needs of tomorrow. As Dubai continues to grow as a global hub for business and design, AVIVA’s projects serve as a guiding light for the industry. Whether it’s through their commitment to sustainability, their celebration of cultural diversity, or their focus on human-centric design, AVIVA Collective is proving that great workspaces are not just places to work, they are places to thrive. The design is not only aesthetically compelling but also enhances employee well-being, productivity, and collaboration. By integrating cutting-edge technologies and sustainable materials, AVIVA is shaping workspaces that are adaptable to evolving business needs, positioning them at the forefront of the design industry in Dubai and beyond, leading the way in creating innovative, sustainable environments. •commercialinteriordesign.comFebruary 2025Partner Content BUILT TO INSPIRE Samir Ranavaya on the soulful design and boundless innovation behind Häcker Kitchens Dubaicommercialinteriordesign.comFebruary 2025Partner Content Partner Content S tep into a häcker kitchen, and you’ll fi nd a space that whispers stories of connec- tion, ingenuity, and purpose. Much like the ancient hearths where communities once gathered, these modern kitchens repre- sent more than their function. They embody a vision of beauty, sustainability, and human connection. At the helm of Häcker Kitchens Dubai is Samir Ranavaya whose value-driven philosophy has elevated the brand to a symbol of design excellence in the UAE. With a strong commitment to innovation and purpose, Ranavaya has reshaped the role of the kitchen, turning it into a symbol of style and substance. CID sits down with the creative who shares the inspiring journey behind Häcker Kitchens Dubai, the ethos that fuels the brand, and his vision for the future of kitchen design. From pioneering sustainability initiatives to crafting spaces with emotional depth, Ranavaya reveals what makes Häcker Kitchens a true refl ection of forward-thinking design. DRIVEN BY PURPOSE “If Häcker Kitchens were a person, I would describe it as someone driven by a higher purpose beyond profi t,” says Ranavaya. “We aim to uplift industry standards, posi- tively impact the community, and serve all stakeholders while contributing to global well-being.” This ethos is woven into every decision at Häcker, from fair dealings and transparency to their steadfast commitment to sustainability. For Ranavaya, innovation isn’t merely a tool for competition but a means to empower and uplift others. “All of this makes for outstanding service,” he adds. The compa- ny’s value-driven approach resonates deeply in a city like Dubai, where excellence and innovation go hand in hand. “At Häcker, we simply don’t compromise on quality and functionality,” says Ranavaya. “It’s not about fi nding a balance but rather about integrating sustainability into luxury.” Ranavaya is quick to draw parallels between great design and great function, quoting Ferry Porsche: “Design is not simply art; it is an elegance of function.” Häcker’s approach to sustainability is built into the DNA of the brand, from carbon-neutral operations to timeless designs that reduce waste by standing the test of time. FROM HEARTH TO HAVEN “The kitchen has evolved signifi cantly over time,” explains Ranavaya. “From ancient fi re- sides where our ancestors gathered to modern open-plan spaces, kitchens have always been about more than utility. They’ve been about warmth, communication, and comfort.” This philosophy drives Häcker’s designs, creating environments that evoke the emotions of gathering around a hearth while incorporating contemporary beauty and func- tionality. With open-plan kitchens now a hall- mark of modern homes, these spaces serve as hubs for living, entertaining, and connect- ing—a true refl ection of how people live today. Technology plays a pivotal role in Häcker’s approach, streamlining both products and the customer experience. “We’ve integrated automated email notifi cations at every signif- icant milestone, from concept to completion,” Ranavaya explains. “This transparency makes clients comfortable, removing ambiguity and ensuring they know exactly what to expect.” The result is a seamless experience where commercialinteriordesign.comFebruary 2025Partner Content compromise quality and health standards,” he says. “Dubai’s young manufacturing industry lacks the regulations we see in Germany, leading to harmful materials being used.” The entrepreneur believes that the future lies in conscious consumerism. “As people become more aware of health, quality, and sustainability, they’ll prioritise these over fashion,” he predicts. One trend Ranavaya champions is volcanic stone door fronts. “Forged by nature over millions of years, they’re perfect for clients who want something truly unique,” he says. “Kitchens are becoming as much about design statements as functionality.” DESIGNING WITH HEART For Ranavaya, designing a kitchen isn’t just about creating a physical space but rather about crafting a deeply personal experience. “We listen, we read between the lines, and we uncover what truly matters to our clients,” he says. This thoughtful process ensures every detail refl ects the client’s unique lifestyle and aspirations, creating kitchens that feel like an extension of their personality. Häcker’s designers also draw inspiration from the emotional power of spaces, ensuring that every kitchen is more than just beau- tiful—it feels alive. “A kitchen is the heart of the home, and it should evoke a sense of warmth, joy, and belonging,” Ranavaya explains. Whether it’s the careful choice of materials, the interplay of light and texture, or the seamless integration of functionality and form, every element is designed to make the kitchen a place of connection and comfort. By combining cutting-edge innovation with timeless design principles, Häcker Kitchens is shaping spaces that inspire both connec- tion and creativity. Looking ahead, Ranavaya envisions kitchens that continue to blur the lines between living and entertaining spaces. “The future of kitchen design lies in creating multi-functional areas that bring people together while enhancing their well-being,” he says. • communication is proactive, and the process is clear—a perfect marriage of craftsmanship and cutting-edge technology. DESIGNING FOR DUBAI “Dubai is a kitchen designer’s dream come true,” Ranavaya says with a smile. “The culture here pushes us to the limits of our creativity while staying true to the qualities that defi ne us.” Häcker’s clientele in Dubai are fearless in their pursuit of bold design but never compromise on quality. The result is kitchens that are as enduring as they are extraordinary. This synergy between audacious design and timeless craftsmanship mirrors Dubai’s ethos, making the city a perfect muse for Häcker’s creations. “Häcker Kitchens’ German heritage represents precision craftsmanship, unmatched quality, and timeless design,” says Ranavaya. “In a culturally diverse city like Dubai, we balance honouring our roots with adapting to modern needs.” This is evident in every aspect of their work. From tailored solutions for Dubai’s multicultural clientele to innovations like carbon neutrality, Häcker continues to lead by example. “Dubai thrives on luxury,” Ranavaya notes, “but there’s a growing demand for prac- ticality and substance—something we deliver by merging German heritage with bespoke design.” PERSONALISATION WITHOUT LIMITS “Each kitchen design is as unique as our clients,” says Ranavaya. With over 9 million variations of kitchen designs possible through Häcker’s modular system, the possibilities are almost endless. “The only limits are the laws of physics and our commitment to sustainability, health, safety, and quality.” This dedication to individuality ensures that every kitchen not only meets but exceeds the expectations of Häcker’s discerning clien- tele. When asked about overhyped trends, Ranavaya is candid. “Locally produced cabi- nets may offer faster delivery, but they often commercialinteriordesign.comFebruary 2025Partner Content28 commercialinteriordesign.comSpecial Report: OpinionFebruary 2025 IS DESIGN DESTROYING THE WORLD? Tony Naqvi, founder of Rain Co., reveals how consumerism, corporate pressure and exploitation are at odds with design29 commercialinteriordesign.comFebruary 2025Special Report: Opinion D esign is a powerful tool. It shapes our homes, cities, technologies, relationships and interactions. Design is the very fabric of our society. At its best, design improves lives, solves problems and contributes to a better world. However, the profession has a troubling side: unethical practices, profi teering and unsustainable consumerism now drive much of the industry, leading to widespread environmental, social and psychological harm. The erosion of design ethics Designers, like superheroes, create things others can only dream of. Yet, the question remains, are we designing responsibly? Modern design often prioritises convenience and consumption without considering wider consequences. Transport, buildings and products are tailored to maximise ease and allure, yet this has widened societal inequalities and normalised exploitation. Consider ride-hailing services: marketed as tools for convenience, they have created a subclass of workers with poor pay, long hours and limited rights. “Design becomes a tool of manipulation, fostering superfi cial engagement at the cost of deeper connections and authenticity.” Design plays a central role in enabling such systems. Brands are created, apps developed and experiences meticulously tested by designers. At no point, it seems, did anyone ask, “Is this the right thing to do?” Designers bear the moral responsibility for what we put out into the world. Complicity in exploitation is not just a business failure, it is a design failure and one that we should seek to solve. Manipulative design: An ethical quandary In architecture and interiors, manipulative design subtly shapes behaviour and perceptions. This can be benign, enhancing functionality and beauty, but it is often exploitative and causes a chain reaction. Retail spaces offer the most overt examples. Supermarkets place essentials at the back to encourage impulse buying, while IKEA’s labyrinthine layouts expose customers to as many products as possible. High-end stores use lighting and music to manipulate emotions and spending patterns. Hospitality and corporate sectors also use manipulative design. Fast-food outlets employ uncomfortable seating to ensure quick turnover, while luxury spaces foster comfort to encourage prolonged stays. Corporate offi ces, meanwhile, incorporate “well-being” elements like plants and breakout zones, masking motives of increased productivity under a veneer of altruism. The danger lies in prioritising profi tability over human well-being. Design becomes a tool of manipulation, fostering superfi cial engagement at the cost of deeper connections and authenticity. While some argue these methods improve user experience, they often prioritise corporate goals over genuine concern for people. The commercialisation of sustainability Sustainability, once an ethical imperative, has become a marketable commodity. Green certifi cations, such as LEED, are widely sought for their branding value rather than their actual environmental impact. The result is a diluted commitment to genuine sustainability, with practices often reduced to superfi cial gestures. Greenwashing is rampant. Furniture is marketed as ‘sustainable’ without transparency about sourcing, and energy-effi cient systems ignore hidden costs in production or disposal. A call for change The world is designed to function exactly as it does, prioritising profi ts, consumerism and exploitation. Yet, design has the power to reverse these trends. Designers must reject manipulative practices in favour of transparency and inclusivity. Sustainability must shift from a marketing tactic to a core principle, focusing on durability and reparability rather than disposability. Advocacy for systemic changes in production and policy is essential. Reframing sustainability as a principle rather than a privilege is critical. Instead of marketing sustainability as an exclusive feature, the industry must integrate it into all design practices. This ensures the environmental benefi ts extend across society, reducing inequality while addressing ecological concerns. The responsibility of designers In ‘A Short History of Nearly Everything’, Bill Bryson suggests that humans are chaotic and destructive, yet we are the planet’s only hope. This sentiment resonates deeply with design. While current practices contribute to global harm, the power to reshape the world lies within the industry and I remain hopeful. The road ahead might be challenging, but the choice is clear, and the legacy of our profession will depend on whether we choose to save the world we have helped destroy. By prioritising ethical considerations, questioning harmful practices, and advocating for systemic change, design can shift from being a tool of destruction to one of restoration. Designers hold the key to crafting a better world, but only if they choose to wield their power responsibly and for the greater good. •Next >