< Previous50 commercialinteriordesign.comFebruary 2025Project: Steak on Me “Inspired by natural cooking elements, Steak on Me is a narration of smoke and fi re” W hen H2R Design took on the concept for Steak on Me, a new steakhouse in Dubai’s Wasl 51, their goal was clear: create a space that balances fi ne dining with the warmth and accessibility of a neighbourhood favourite. The result is a space warmed by salmon-pink strobe light and cut with marble and stainless steel accents. Drawing from the elemental forces of smoke and fi re, Steak on Me’s design taps into the sophisticated art of steak preparation. H2R chose a mix of marble, metal and wood as the primary materials each lending to the idea of a butchers block and the marbling of beef. For a contemporary edge these are balanced with more modern elements like acrylic and polycarbonate, giving the steakhouse a contemporary edge that feels sleek and urban. The colour palette is a visual nod to the marbling of premium cuts of meat: deep reds, warm pinks and maroons bring a subtle warmth that’s mirrored in the space’s lighting and wood tones. Stainless steel accents introduce a touch of sophistication, while coral highlights add a lively, cosmopolitan feel, a design touch inspired by Tokyo’s urban fl air, where bold shapes and lighting create a distinct, streetwise aesthetic. H2R Design ensured that the restaurant’s layout and design echo the culinary experience. The open-plan dining area, with its rich textures and balanced materials, refl ects the restaurant’s commitment to quality and detail. Each shade and texture subtly enhances the steakhouse’s central theme, creating an atmosphere where guests are immersed in the experience of dining at a high-end steakhouse. The design challenges went beyond aesthetics. Integrating new design elements into the existing kitchen layout required careful planning. Showing ambition and vision, H2R revamped the mechanical, electrical and plumbing systems to support the design while ensuring the kitchen functions smoothly during peak hours. Advanced ventilation systems were also installed to manage air quality, allowing guests to enjoy their meals in a fresh and comfortable environment. The restaurant’s corner location added a unique twist to the design process. With more room for creative layout options, H2R optimised the space to ensure a cohesive fl ow from one area to the next. The lighting design was tailored to the unusual shape of the building, blending natural and artifi cial light to create a harmonious, inviting feel throughout the day and into the evening. Founded by brothers Hasan and Husain Roomi, Hasan says that Steak on Me is “inspired by natural cooking elements and is a narration of smoke and fi re.“ With bases in London and Dubai H2R are known for their creativity, brazen attitude to design and attention to detail, and Steak on Me is yet another testament to its dedication in creating spaces that celebrate form, function and a touch of the unexpected. •51 commercialinteriordesign.comFebruary 2025Project: Steak on Me52 commercialinteriordesign.comNovember 2024Special report SURFACE MATTERS Experts discuss sustainable materials for the new age53 commercialinteriordesign.comNovember 2024Special report 54 News and stories from the world of surface design 56 Insights into the future of the surface industry 58 Championing responsible design with CoLAB 60 Among The Pillars with Emirati designer Omar Al Gurg54 commercialinteriordesign.comFebruary 2025Special Report: News SURFACE NEWS Exploring innovations and sustainability in 2025 Cevisama returns in 2025 Scheduled to take place in Valencia, this year’s edition of Cevisama runs from February 24-28 and will emphasise eco-conscious innovation, showcasing advancements in sustainable manufacturing and material applications. From high-performance porcelains to artisanal craftsmanship, Cevisama continues to highlight the intersection of technology and artistry. The fair’s highly anticipated talks will bring together industry leaders to discuss emerging challenges, including carbon neutrality and the circular economy. Attendees can also look forward to exhibitions by top brands unveiling their collections for the coming year. As always, Cevisama remains a vital hub for inspiration and networking in surface design. The AI revolution The Gulf construction sector is set for transformation in 2025, driven by AI and sustainability, according to an inaugural survey from Versatile International, the region’s fi rst natural stone project management consultancy. Key fi ndings include 57 pe rcent of professionals citing AI as the most transformative trend for revolutionising workfl ows and decision-making, while 55 percent emphasise sustainability as the top priority, fuelled by Saudi Vision 2030’s green initiatives. Challenges persist, with 56 percent identifying labour shortages as a long-term issue affecting project delivery and quality. Rising costs and project complexity, noted by 51 percent of respondents, highlight the need for smarter budgeting and resource management. Regional market expansion is a primary growth focus, with 53 percent targeting new opportunities in the UAE and Saudi Arabia. Across the region, in recent years, updated policy frameworks seek to guide the industry towards achieving sustainable goals. In the UAE, 64 percent of respondents pointed to regulatory changes as a challenge, this is a direct refl ection of the ongoing evolution of the industry as it redefi nes sustainability benchmarks in order to reach decarbonisation goals. Material innovations take centre stage at The Surface Design Show The Surface Design Show 2025, an event dedicated to surface material innovation, is underway in London’s Business Design Centre exhibiting the latest in material innovations, with an emphasis on eco-friendly and high-performance surfaces. Cutting-edge technologies, including self-healing materials, carbon-neutral fi nishes, and acoustically optimised surfaces have been on display, with live demonstrations and a series of talks exploring the future of sustainable design in commercial interiors underway. A Fusion of Art and Sustainability Polygood has launched its collaboration with designer Mario Romano bringing a new dimension to sustainable surfaces with their latest product: Polygood Designer Walls. Crafted from 100 percent recycled materials, these walls seamlessly combine sustainability with artistic fl air. Mario Romano’s signature designs feature intricate, nature-inspired patterns that elevate interiors while making a bold environmental statement. Suitable for both commercial and residential spaces, 55 commercialinteriordesign.comSpecial Report: NewsFebruary 2025 Polygood Designer Walls offer versatility in applications, from feature walls to acoustic solutions. The collaboration underscores the potential for creative innovation in sustainable design, proving that eco-conscious materials can be both functional and visually stunning. Saudi’s Stone & Surface Stone & Surface Saudi Arabia, part of Big 5 Construct Saudi, is the Kingdom’s leading event for the stone and surface industry and takes place from February 24 to 27 at Riyadh Front Exhibition & Conference Center. Now in its seventh edition, the event showcases products like stone processing machinery, wall coverings, and urban landscaping solutions. Attendees, including architects, engineers, and project managers, can access Big 5 Talks with 150 expert speakers on trends like sustainable design. Admission is free for trade professionals, offering opportunities for unmatched networking and industry insights. Stone market growth The Middle East natural stone and marble market is projected to grow at a compound annual growth rate of 9.4 percent by 2030, driven by large-scale construction projects and government incentives, according to 6W Research. High-quality materials like granite, limestone, and marble are increasingly available for structural and aesthetic applications. Sustainability is also a key focus, with policies promoting eco-friendly quarrying and processing. Major players, including Al Ajmi Marble LLC and Saudi Marble & Granite Factory Company, lead with innovation and quality, bolstering the region’s global reputation. Advances in technology, such as 3D printing and digital modelling, are expected to transform the design and use of natural stone in architecture around the world. This growth offers signifi cant opportunities for interior designers and builders to access a new range of diverse, sustainable materials for projects, helping to meet the region’s demand for luxury fi nishes and environmentally conscious construction.56 commercialinteriordesign.comFebruary 2025Special Report: Insight BEYOND THE SURFACE Pioneering sustainability in surface materials I N RECENT YEARS, the demand for sustainable and circular design solutions has rapidly evolved, with surface materials playing a pivotal role in driving this transformation. Commercial design professionals are now tasked with balancing innovation, aesthetics, and functionality with sustainability goals. Here, key innovators across the region explore how sustainable materials are reshaping the industry and the challenges and opportunities they bring. Redefi ning possibilities with local resources Sustainability starts at home, and the transformative power of local resources is paving the way for ground-breaking innovations. Materials like Datecrete exemplify this shift, providing an eco-friendly, cement- and resin-free alternative to concrete. “Datecrete was born from our participation in the Tanween by Tashkeel 2022 programme,” explains Sara Farha, architect, urban planner, and co-founder of Datecrete. “We aimed to let science and materiality guide our design choices as we explored alternatives to concrete.” Rigorous testing ensured the material balances performance with sustainability, aligning with environmental goals by reducing waste and energy use. For Nicola Trivett, general manager of Summertown Interiors, the importance of ethical sourcing in fi t-out and interiors projects is just as important as the material itself. “We ensure all materials are vetted and prequalifi ed to align with our values and ethics,” she says, pointing to certifi cations like FSC as crucial benchmarks. This diligence demonstrates how leveraging local resources and ethical practices can create a more sustainable industry. Circular economy in retail design In the pursuit of sustainability, circularity has emerged as a cornerstone of retail design. This principal rethinks how materials are sourced, used, and ultimately reused. “We often rework joinery for shop refurbishments, giving them new life with sustainable surface fi nishes,” shares Conte. Taking this approach not only reduces waste but also creates opportunities for brands to reinforce their sustainability narrative. “In the last few years, we’ve initiated genuine conversations with clients about sustainability and its alignment with their values,” she adds. Circular design principles are also evident in larger-scale projects. Farha’s work with Datecrete illustrates the potential of circular materials in signifi cant applications. “Our aim is to expand Datecrete’s applications into structural uses while maintaining ethical and sustainable practices,” she explains. The material’s upcoming use in a 600m sq. paving project at the UAE Pavilion for the Osaka Expo underscores its capacity to address environmental challenges on a global stage. Trivett brings a technological perspective to circular design, highlighting how innovation aids accountability. “Technology enables traceability and measurement of factors such as carbon effi ciency, which helps us build more responsibly,” she says. However, she acknowledges the importance of client buy-in: “When clients share our values, it’s much easier to achieve sustainable outcomes.” These insights underscore the need for 57 commercialinteriordesign.comFebruary 2025Special Report: Insight collaboration and innovation to advance circularity in retail and beyond. Taking account of ethical sourcing and technological advancements Ethical sourcing remains a cornerstone of sustainability in surface materials. Transparency in supply chains is vital, as Trivett notes: “Limitations in transparency remain a challenge, but certifi cations like Cradle to Cradle help us make informed decisions.” She further highlights the transformative role of AI and other technologies. “AI allows us to run scenarios and evaluate outcomes before real-world implementation,” she explains, showcasing how digital tools can enhance decision-making and effi ciency. For Farha, the blend of historical practices with scientifi c rigour provides valuable lessons. “We look to historical practices to guide us in balancing functionality with sustainability,” she shares, highlighting how traditional methods can be adapted to meet modern demands Conte underscores the importance of the designer’s role in infl uencing ethical sourcing decisions. “Every good designer knows that being able to have someone buy into an idea is just as important as the idea itself,” she says. By weaving sustainable fi nishes into core design concepts, designers can help clients see the value of ethical choices while maintaining aesthetic integrity. A collaborative path forward As the industry continues to evolve, collaboration and education emerge as critical drivers of sustainable innovation. Farha emphasises the importance of balancing tradition and modernity: “We aim to keep exploring ways to make Datecrete versatile and impactful,” she adds. Her approach highlights the need for scientifi c precision alongside creative adaptability. Conte offers a pragmatic perspective, reminding professionals that small decisions can lead to signifi cant impacts. “By proposing unique, sustainable fi nishes integral to the design concept, we can infl uence client decisions and drive meaningful change,” she asserts. Her work demonstrates how designers can bridge the gap between innovation and practicality. Trivett reinforces the role of transparency and technology in shaping a sustainable future. “Tools that enable traceability and accurate measurement are key to building responsibly,” she concludes. Her insights underline the necessity of leveraging technological advancements to address the challenges of ethical sourcing and circularity, by leveraging local resources and working towards a more sustainable future. •58 commercialinteriordesign.comSpecial Report: OpinionFebruary 2025 PUSHING BOUNDARIES, NOT JUST BLUEPRINTS Richard Wilson, founder of CoLAB, champions responsible design 59 commercialinteriordesign.comSpecial Report: OpinionFebruary 2025 IN A WORLD increasingly shaped by the urgent need for sustainability, the responsibility to lead change has never been more critical. Designers hold a unique position of infl uence, but the journey toward a circular future requires contributions from every stakeholder in the ecosystem - including material innovators, specifi ers, and advocates for smarter choices. As Eldridge Cleaver aptly said, “There is no more neutrality in the world. You either have to be part of the solution, or you’re going to be part of the problem.” Positive change starts within the community, and today, we are witnessing a remarkable shift in mindsets. What once began as early curiosity about sustainability has grown into genuine interest and actionable steps. This evolution is particularly seen in the UAE, where local material innovation is not only driving a paradigm shift in design and construction but also experiencing evident growth. At Colab, we have seen fi rst-hand how meaningful conversations have transitioned into tangible strides toward a more sustainable ecosystem. The number of material innovators in the region, which was once limited to a handful, has grown exponentially. The UAE has long been recognised as a global leader in innovation, achieving what once seemed impossible. Material innovation is no exception. We’ve witnessed an increasing interest among interior designers and architects to work with locally produced materials. As circularity is now at the forefront of material development, innovators are not just refi ning existing offerings but also introducing new materials that align with sustainable goals. As designers increasingly embrace these materials, it has opened the door for more innovation, which is not only being fast-tracked but also widely accepted. This movement is creating a snowball effect, driving momentum for local material innovation. The in-country value of these materials is clearly evident, offering benefi ts such as easier access, faster delivery times, and greater opportunities for customisation. Architects and designers now have the chance to incorporate these cutting- edge materials into their projects, helping to build a more sustainable future. Material innovators are also not content to rest on their laurels; they are constantly striving for improvements, aiming to reduce their carbon footprint and wastage in production processes and pushing the boundaries of their materials. However, it is important to recognise that innovation is an ongoing process. While the UAE has seen impressive growth in local material innovation, there is a critical need for widespread testing and validation. Too often, promising materials are being developed but fail to gain the confi dence of specifi ers and end-users due to a lack of clear data on performance, durability, and sustainability. At Colab, we recognise these challenges and see our role as a bridge between designers and material innovators. We provide a platform where these two worlds can meet, collaborate, and learn from each other. We see ourselves as catalysts for this change. By guiding designers and architects to embrace these innovative materials and educating them on the long-term benefi ts of circular design, we aim to demonstrate that sustainability is not a compromise but an opportunity. The next phase of this journey calls for greater collaboration and advocacy. By building partnerships and providing access to sustainable, we aim to inspire a collective commitment to sustainability. Each choice we make today brings us closer to a thriving, circular future. In the words of William Blake - “What is now proved was once only imagined.” • Next >