Our Projects
Our founder, Hina Kidwai has handled major global furniture, flooring and fit-out brands like Steelcase, Interface, Herman Miller, Dauphin Human Design Group, Wilkhahn, DVO, Diemme, Viccarbe, Bolia, Orangebox, Coalesse, Smith Systems, Muzo, Hotbox, Connection, CBS, Bisley, Arper, Boss Design, Aresline, Narbutas, Caimi, Extremis, Ergotron, Kastel, Moving, Nowy Styl, Benel, B&T and Parador.
She along with her design team in her previous role as a Senior Designer has handled global accounts such as Ford, Schlumberger, Sanofi, Lenovo, Eli Lilly, Welch Allyn, Huawei, Subway, Sidel, Willis, FedEx, Unilever, DIFC, Standard Chartered, Deutsche Bank, HSBC, Barclays, BNY Mellon, Bank of America, Bayut, SHERAA, Zayed University, American University of Sharjah, New York University and UAE University to name a few. At Design Vibes, we have worked on various projects in corporate, residential and even exhibition stand design!
Here are some of our latest projects:
Modern Mix Office Transformation - Design & Build Project Al Quoz, Dubai
A workplace shaped around performance, identity and people.
Design Vibes was appointed to transform the Modern Mix offices in Al Quoz into a contemporary workplace that better reflects the company’s operational standards, professional identity and evolving business needs.
The project encompassed a complete design and build refurbishment across the Ground and First Floors, including space planning, partitions, ceilings, flooring, lighting, furniture, MEP coordination, bathrooms, blinds and integrated branding.
The Brief
The existing workplace presented a number of challenges: ageing interiors, low ceiling zones, fixed structural elements, outdated MEP services and inefficient room layouts that restricted circulation and occupancy.
Adding to the complexity, the offices sit within an active operational facility, meaning the transformation had to be carefully phased to minimise disruption while addressing dust, access and technical constraints associated with the surrounding factory environment.
The objective was not simply to refresh the interiors, but to create a workplace that was more efficient, comfortable and representative of the Modern Mix brand.
The Design Approach
The new workplace was developed around clarity, functionality and a restrained contemporary aesthetic.
Circulation and departmental relationships were reconsidered to create a more intuitive flow between spaces, while improved zoning established a better balance between collaborative environments and areas requiring focus and privacy. Optimized workstation planning and integrated storage also allowed the available floor area to be used more effectively.
A considered material palette establishes continuity throughout the two floors. Rimless and frosted glass introduce transparency and natural light, while durable SPC flooring provides a practical foundation for areas of frequent use. Fluted wall finishes, baffle ceilings and more refined material treatments distinguish reception and executive spaces, adding warmth and visual hierarchy without compromising the overall sense of restraint.
Designing for Openness and Privacy
Transparency was used selectively rather than universally.
Glass partitions improve visual connectivity and help daylight move through the workplace, while frosted glazing and solid partitions provide privacy where required. Executive, meeting and operational spaces were treated according to their individual functional needs, creating a workplace that feels open without sacrificing concentration or confidentiality.
This balance extends into the acoustic strategy, where baffle ceilings, solid partitions and carefully selected finishes help create quieter and more focused working environments.
Brand Identity Built into the Space
One of the project’s most distinctive elements is the bespoke branding feature at reception.
Rather than treating the company identity as an applied graphic, Design Vibes incorporated Modern Mix’s own sand and aggregate materials within a custom resin panel, transforming the materials at the heart of the client’s business into a three dimensional expression of the brand.
Positioned against the fluted reception backdrop and directly within the main arrival sightline, the feature becomes both a brand statement and an architectural focal point.
Brand communication continues throughout the workplace through carefully integrated wall graphics and environmental messaging, allowing the interior to communicate Modern Mix’s identity, technical expertise and values as part of the spatial experience.
Function in the Details
Technical coordination played an equally important role in the transformation.
Existing electrical services, cabling and AC infrastructure were reorganized and concealed wherever possible to reduce visual clutter and improve safety. The exposed server area was enclosed, while integrated cable management, custom furniture and storage solutions helped maintain clean work surfaces and clearer circulation.
Lighting was redesigned across both floors using a combination of LED ceiling tiles, downlights, spotlights and linear fixtures, providing appropriate levels of task and ambient illumination according to the function of each space.
Sustainability Through Longevity
Sustainability was approached through practical, long term design decisions.
Durable and low maintenance finishes were prioritized to reduce replacement requirements, while LED lighting, daylight control and improved ventilation contribute to greater operational efficiency. Material choices were also considered with longevity in mind, including recycled content carpet tiles in executive areas.
Where appropriate, existing elements were retained and upgraded rather than unnecessarily replaced, allowing the project to balance design quality with responsible use of resources.
Final Project Outcome
The result is a cohesive, contemporary workplace where architecture, branding and operational requirements work together.
Improved zoning and circulation make the office more intuitive, while integrated storage, concealed services and optimized workstations create a calmer and more efficient working environment. The client specifically highlighted the functionality, comfort and enhanced professional character of the completed workplace.
For Design Vibes, the Modern Mix project demonstrates how an existing workplace can be reimagined rather than simply refurbished, creating a space that performs better, communicates the brand more clearly and is designed to remain relevant well into the future.
Project Documentation
This project was also documented through a detailed case study conducted by Mariam Mahmoud, Intern at Design Vibes, whose research and analysis helped capture the design thinking, technical considerations and transformation behind the Modern Mix workplace. The case study reflects the studio’s commitment not only to delivering thoughtful design, but also to encouraging learning, research and professional development within the next generation of designers. The case study itself is credited to Mariam Mahmoud.
Client Testimonial
“We are extremely satisfied with the final outcome. The renovated offices are functional, comfortable, and have significantly enhanced the professional look and feel of our workspace.”
Eng. Nedal Abu Eid
CEO, Modern Mix
Modern Mix Design & Build project
Case Study
Fomo Cousina HQ at the Anantara Business Tower in Business Bay, Dubai.
Design Vibes is proud to unveil the newly transformed Fomo Cousina Headquarters, a workspace designed to elevate productivity, brand identity, and user experience. This project seamlessly merges aesthetics with functionality, creating an environment that fosters innovation, collaboration, and efficiency. Every element has been carefully curated to enhance the user experience while reflecting the company’s ethos in a visually striking yet highly practical setting.
A key feature of the design is the baffle ceiling, which not only serves as an architectural statement but also improves acoustics by reducing noise and enhancing speech clarity. The linear arrangement of the baffles introduces depth and rhythm, creating a dynamic interplay of light and shadow that adds an element of sophistication. The walls feature elegant panelling that adds warmth and texture, breaking the monotony of flat surfaces while enhancing sound insulation for a comfortable, focused workspace. Achieving a seamless match between the panelling finish and the existing entrance door was a challenge, but it was executed flawlessly.
Flooring choices were guided by a balance of durability and aesthetics, ensuring longevity while complementing the overall design palette. The interplay of textures and colors subtly zones different functional areas, making the workspace both engaging and practical. Wall branding serves as a bold expression of identity, with strategically placed graphics reinforcing the company’s culture, vision, and values. This thoughtful integration strengthens the sense of belonging among employees and leaves a lasting impression on visitors.
Functionality extends to every corner of the office, including the pantry area, where sleek cabinetry combines efficiency with modern aesthetics. Clean lines, high-quality finishes, and smart storage solutions create a clutter-free, inviting space that enhances workplace comfort. The realization of this vision was made possible through collaborations with Caspaiou, Burmatex, Humanspace, and Space & Scale, whose expertise helped bring every design detail to life. The result is a headquarters that is more than just an office—it is a statement of innovation and modern work culture, inspiring creativity, productivity, and a dynamic sense of purpose.
Ark Real Estate Office at the Oud Metha Building in Oud Metha, Dubai
A forward-thinking property investment and management firm, Ark Real Estate, envisioned a workspace that reflects its progressive ethos. The goal was to craft a modern, dynamic, and collaborative environment that enhances productivity, fosters creativity, and promotes employee well-being. Every design element was carefully curated to ensure that the office not only functions efficiently but also embodies the company’s identity and culture.
A big challenge were the several columns on the wall. The layout was designed such that they were strategically positioned at zoning points and covered with aesthetic fluted panels using the company’s corporate colours. The ceiling was redesigned with gypsum cladding and tailored lighting solutions to enhance each zone’s functionality and ambience.
The office layout seamlessly integrates different work modes, supporting private focus, team collaboration, social engagement, and mobility. Dedicated workstations provide employees with a space to concentrate while staying connected to their teams. Acoustic enhancements and ergonomic furniture ensure comfort and efficiency, while soft partitions and smart storage solutions maintain an open, organized atmosphere. Flexibility is at the core of the design, allowing the workspace to adapt to evolving needs.
Collaboration takes center stage with a variety of meeting spaces designed for different interactions. Formal meeting rooms cater to structured discussions and client presentations, while informal breakout areas with writable walls and interactive screens encourage brainstorming and teamwork. A dedicated space for mobile workers features touchdown desks, focus pods, and lounge seating, offering a choice between deep concentration and quick connectivity. Integrated technology ensures seamless transitions between in-person and remote work, making hybrid collaboration effortless.
Beyond productivity, the design prioritizes employee engagement and well-being through inviting social spaces. A central lounge, coffee bar, and casual seating arrangements foster community, encouraging spontaneous conversations and informal networking. Biophilic elements, including natural light, indoor greenery, and sustainable materials, contribute to a refreshing, wellness-focused environment. By blending functionality with aesthetics, the new Ark Real Estate office not only enhances efficiency but also inspires creativity and strengthens workplace culture.
Design Portfolio available on request
Let’s Vibe Together
We’re always looking for new opportunities and are comfortable working internationally. Please get in touch with us and we will contact you about beginning the process.