Winner in the category Hotel with the project Miss Tess, Dubai – United Arab Emirates
Winner in the category Lighting with the project Brass Monkey City Walk, Dubai – United Arab Emirates
1. Can you tell us more about your Design Firm?
Founded in Dubai in 2004, Prospect Design International specializes in immersive design concepts and bespoke solutions. We have the pleasure of working with incredible clients across a diverse range of projects including restaurants, cafes, beach clubs, nightclubs, bars, rooftops, and leisure & entertainment venues. Having had the chance to work on some of the region’s most legendary projects including CÉ LA VI, Brass Monkey, Cove Beach, TABU, and Claw BBQ to name a few, we are deeply humbled to be at the forefront of the hospitality scene in the Middle East, and also, further beyond. Our comprehensive approach extends beyond typical interior design, encompassing brand creation and various design expertise crucial for establishing thriving businesses for our clients worldwide.
2. What does “design” mean to you?
For us, the act of designing is building a business. What we do goes far beyond aesthetics. This is why we always ensure the project has a strong brand from the onset. If it’s not existing, we offer to create it. Having these foundations from the beginning increases the probability of long-term success. Others may argue that the brand is not the responsibility of a designer, but I disagree. We have a responsibility as to the success of our clients businesses, right from the brand, through the operations and design.
3. Can you describe your design style and its main characteristics?
Great question. We always respond to the client brief, and we have a deep understanding of the end clientele. We start by understanding who will use the space, what they value, and what excites them. We love to push the boundaries, exploring bold uses of color, materials, and innovative Instagrammable features like quotes or standout design elements. Based in Dubai, we understand the role visual appeal plays in this region, where the “wow factor” is often integral to the success of a project. However, our designs always ensure a balance of functionality, identity, and commercial viability.
4. As the winner of the FoodInSpace Design Awards 2024, what does receiving this award mean to you, your company and your team?
It’s a great honor and privilege! Being the inaugural year for these awards makes it even more special. We’re incredibly grateful to Marco and the team for creating this platform to celebrate outstanding design in the industry. The voting element adds an exciting dimension, and we’re proud to know this recognition was truly earned—thanks to the support of a global audience and the appreciation of the international judges. It’s a testament to the hard work, creativity, and dedication of our team. Congratulations to all the nominees, and a heartfelt thank you to everyone who voted!
5. What was the biggest challenge for your winning project/projects?
For Brass Monkey in City Walk, winner in the Lighting category, we faced the unique challenge of replicating the excitement of the original venue we designed on Bluewaters Island back in 2020, while ensuring this second location offered a fresh experience. Maintaining the brand’s signature personality and quality was essential, but we also had to address new site-specific challenges. A special shoutout to our lighting partners Skyelume who have been an integral part of the lighting scope and subsequently this recognition.
For Miss Tess, winner in the Hotel category, the challenge lay in modernizing a space that already had a strong reputation, while staying true to its roots. The goal was to elevate the experience to meet modern expectations without losing its unique personality. A key feature of our renovation was the grand light installation with over 700 Edison bulbs, which brought its own set of technical challenges but became a defining element of the space.
6. In an increasingly global world, how do you balance local identity with international trends in your design work?
The United Arab Emirates recently celebrated its 53rd National Day, and when you reflect on what’s been achieved in that short time, it’s almost unbelievable. Some might say the country has little history, but that couldn’t be further from the truth.
Speaking about Dubai specifically, it grew by importing international brands, which helped the city and its hospitality scene gain global recognition. However, now the tables have turned—we’re exporting homegrown brands. A great example is Brass Monkey, a project we discussed earlier and one of our winning entries this year, which is now opening in Cairo, Bahrain, and further cities across the region.
Designing for this market has always required catering for an international clientele. Over time, we’ve established a local identity known for modernity, quality, and innovation—an identity that resonates both locally and garners worldwide attention.
7. Are there any other topics you would like to talk about that were not addressed in these questions?
Something I’ve always been rather passionate about is trusting the designer to bring in the right partners through the execution stage. Too often in our industry, a strong design is created, but too many sacrifices are made in the build process due to not having the appropriate collaborators involved. As designers, we leverage our network and expertise to connect with the best partners in the industry. Through our relationships and years of industry experience, we ensure that the design intent is upheld from concept to completion. This not only protects the creative vision but also guarantees the highest quality and success of your venue.
Thank you for the interview!
Find out more about Prospect Design International and its projects!
