Nafece Khan, Head of Projects at 4SPACE, has given his insights into the industry.
In the chaotic and competitive design and architecture world, project management is often overshadowed by the allure of creative genius. Yet, precisely this underrated discipline determines whether bold visions succeed or collapse. Often caught in the crossfire of ambition and reality, project management stands at the center of every transformative space, silently holding it all together. While many consider it a necessary function, project management is not just a support system but the heart of our industry. The lack of respect for this discipline is astonishing, especially given its vital role in turning ambitious visions into concrete realities.
Let’s face it: many design firms still treat project management as an afterthought, relegating it to junior staff or outsourcing it entirely. This is a grave mistake. Effective project management is not just about timelines and budgets; it’s about fostering a culture of collaboration and accountability that can make or break a project. Without it, creativity becomes chaotic, and the dreams we aspire to build crumble under the weight of miscommunication and misaligned expectations.
Consider project planning, which should be the foundation of any design venture. Too often, firms dive headfirst into projects without a clear scope, leading to disastrous scope creep and budget overruns. How can we expect clients to trust us when we can't define what we deliver? It's time to prioritise meticulous planning and realistic timelines over wishful thinking.
Moreover, communication—or the alarming lack thereof—remains a pervasive issue in our industry. Establishing clear communication channels is not just a best practice; it’s essential for survival. How many projects have failed due to information bottlenecks or team members working in silos? The arrogance of assuming everyone is on the same page is the biggest downfall of many projects. Regular updates, thorough documentation, and visual aids are not just optional tools; they are lifelines that can keep projects afloat.
Now let’s talk about client expectations. Too many firms gloss over this aspect, thinking that a one-time conversation suffices. Setting clear expectations at the project's outset is not just a courtesy; it is an obligation. Clients deserve to know what to expect, and frequent check-ins are not a sign of weakness but a testament to a firm’s commitment to responsiveness. Why do we often wait for clients to voice their concerns instead of proactively engaging with them?
The elephant in the room is complexity. Complex projects often sink firms, yet many professionals cling to outdated methodologies that can’t handle the intricacies of today’s demands. Agile project management isn’t just a buzzword; it’s a necessary mindset shift. Flexibility and adaptability should be baked into every project lifecycle, not treated as an afterthought. Firms that fail to embrace this will find themselves increasingly irrelevant in a rapidly changing landscape.
Finally, let’s address the proverbial “project management office” (PMO). While often viewed as bureaucratic overhead, a well-structured PMO can be a powerhouse of innovation and efficiency. Rather than seeing it as a roadblock, firms should leverage PMOs to establish best practices, streamline processes, and facilitate knowledge sharing. A strong PMO can elevate project management from a mundane task to a strategic advantage.
In conclusion, project management is not merely a function; it is the cornerstone of successful design and architecture. It’s time for the industry to give project management the respect it deserves. By embracing strong project management principles and cultivating a culture of collaboration, accountability, and innovation, we can redefine the standards of excellence in our field. Those who resist this evolution may find themselves left behind as the industry moves forward. The choice is clear: adapt or be rendered obsolete.
About 4SPACE
4SPACE is committed to high quality of work and superior care in all aspects of our business. One of the Top 20 interior design firms in the Middle East in reference to the Commercial Interior Design Magazine published last February 2019. Led by major partners Amjad Hourieh and Firas Alsahin, our company has become one of the region’s most respected firms, with more than 20 years of industry experience. We have helped create environments that inspire and impact users by providing the local industry with our extensive practical knowledge, be it for retail, hospitality and commercial spaces, or residential and living spaces. Our mission is to achieve success through delivering quality service steered by our passion for excellence, to define the region’s industry practices and to create market benchmarks of international standards.
If you’d like to feature your news or stories on SBID.org, get in touch to find out more.
If you’d like to become SBID Accredited, click here for more information.
Designed by 4SPACE, Moli by SHI tells a tale as old as time, weaving traditional Chinese architecture with modern extravagance. The name “Moli” meaning "jasmine" in Chinese, carries profound symbolism associated with purity, grace, and elegance, immersing visitors in a feeling of opulence and sophistication right from arrival.
Upon entering the restaurant, guests encounter traditional architectural elements reminiscent of a Chinese temple. Greeted by two guardian lion statues right at the reception, the statues set the tone for the immersive cultural experience that awaits.
Walls adorned with classic carvings create a mesmerising backdrop, while plush banquettes featuring intricate Chinese artwork set the stage for a lavish dining experience. The central floor illuminates with a subtle glow as night descends, creating a magical atmosphere for refined dinners.
The interior of the space showcases a captivating architectural feature deeply rooted in Chinese tradition—the Dougong system. Originating from ancient Chinese construction techniques, Dougong represents a distinctive method of interlocking wooden brackets that provide structural support within a building's framework. This intricate and time-honoured element is prominently featured in the columns, contributing to the structural integrity of the space and its aesthetic appeal.
The restaurant’s wall cladding is a testament to the meticulous artistry and cultural richness inherent in Chinese craftsmanship. Adorned with wood engravings, the surface becomes a canvas that elegantly tells a visual narrative, with each intricately carved detail capturing the essence of tradition and the enduring legacy of Chinese culture.
Above, the ceiling features prominently hanging light features shaped in jasmine flowers, providing gentle and ambient lighting, further emphasising the essence of Moli.
A metallic bead curtain flows into the space, merging the walls with the ceiling, gracefully mimicking the fluid movements of a dragon, as it weaves through the restaurant space and around the columns, starting from the entrance toward the end and grinding the guest gracefully through the space.
In crafting the design concept, careful consideration was given to the selection of furniture; each piece was crafted to the small. The chosen furniture complements but actively implicates and portrays the underlying concept, seamlessly blending functionality with the rich cultural narrative.
The seating arrangements and furniture are expertly crafted with a nod to traditional Chinese woodworking techniques. They are adorned with jacquard velvet fabric that presents an interpretation midway between a figurative depiction of magical tigers and the Chinese mythological realms.
Akabeko, the latest creation from award-winning design studio 4SPACE, introduces a fresh take on traditional Japanese yakiniku dining. Located in Dubai, Akabeko blends the elegance of Japanese heritage with modern design, offering an immersive and captivating dining experience that appeals to both design aficionados and culinary enthusiasts alike.
Akabeko is inspired by the iconic Akabeko cow, a symbol of strength and endurance in Aizu folklore. The restaurant’s name and central design element – the striking Akabeko statue – celebrate this cultural symbol while anchoring the restaurant’s identity. The Akabeko cow, with its deep red hue, infuses the space with cultural significance and establishes a connection between Japanese tradition and modern dining aesthetics.
The design of Akabeko is guided by the Japanese philosophy of wabi-sabi, which finds beauty in imperfection and the transient nature of life. This philosophy is reflected in the choice of natural materials, subtle textures, and organic forms that permeate the restaurant’s interior. The design seamlessly fuses Japanese tradition with contemporary elements, making Akabeko a visually compelling space where diners can connect with both the past and present.
The interior of Akabeko showcases meticulous craftsmanship and attention to detail. The contrast of textured black walls against warm wood tones creates a welcoming yet sophisticated atmosphere, while strategically placed, indirect lighting adds depth and warmth to the space. These carefully considered design elements contribute to a sense of tranquility, allowing guests to fully immerse themselves in the dining experience.
Cultural storytelling is a key component of Akabeko’s design. The restaurant’s layout and décor are inspired by traditional Japanese architecture, from the use of bonsai trees as living art pieces to the intricate light patterns that play on walls and surfaces. The Akabeko statue serves as a focal point, imbuing the space with a narrative that ties the restaurant’s design to its cultural roots. The integration of these symbolic elements goes beyond aesthetics, offering diners an enriched experience that resonates with Japanese heritage.
Akabeko reimagines the yakiniku dining experience by combining the finest Japanese wagyu with state-of-the-art culinary technology. At each table, smokeless grills are seamlessly integrated, allowing guests to enjoy an interactive and intimate cooking experience. The presence of highly skilled chefs adds a personal touch, guiding diners in preparing their meal while showcasing the art of yakiniku.
Akabeko’s menu emphasises quality and authenticity, with a focus on premium cuts of wagyu, celebrated for its marbling and flavor. The combination of traditional Japanese culinary methods and cutting-edge technology ensures that each dish is prepared to perfection, offering diners a taste of Japanese gastronomy at its finest.
The spatial layout of Akabeko is designed with the diner in mind. Carefully arranged booths and tables provide a balance between privacy and connection, allowing guests to enjoy an intimate meal while remaining engaged with the restaurant’s overall ambiance. This thoughtful design creates a welcoming environment where diners can savor their meal while feeling connected to the cultural and social energy of the space.
In addition to its design and culinary achievements, Akabeko emphasizes sustainability through the use of natural materials and energy-efficient technologies. 4SPACE’s commitment to sustainable practices aligns with contemporary global values, making Akabeko not only a celebration of Japanese tradition but also a model for responsible design and consumption in the hospitality industry.
Akabeko by 4SPACE is more than just a restaurant - it’s a journey into the heart of Japanese culture, redefined for modern times. With its thoughtful integration of tradition, craftsmanship, and innovation, Akabeko offers a one-of-a-kind dining experience that resonates on both sensory and cultural levels. Whether through its design that celebrates wabi-sabi, its menu of world-class wagyu, or its commitment to sustainability, Akabeko invites guests to enjoy a truly immersive dining experience.
– Size: 240 sqm – Location: Dubai, United Arab Emirates – Contractor: Laads Contracting LLC – Design: 4SPACE
Collaborators: – Furniture by Interior 360 and Al Huzaifa – Lighting by Huda Lighting and Folio Lighting – Marble Granule Flooring by Colortek – Facade covering solution by I-Mesh – Wood flooring by Lignum – 3D printed Akabeko cow by Proto 21
This week’s instalment of the Project of the Week series features a colourful, Armenian-inspired restaurant design by 2023 SBID Awards Finalist, 4SPACE Design.
The name “VAGA” comes from the word “vagabond,” which means “nomad” and serves as the inspiration behind the concept. 4SPACE created a world-fresh time-traveler vibe that takes you on a journey through traditional Arabic cuisine and colorful Armenian culture – a lifestyle destination that embodies the wandering, explorative nature of the vagabond. The restaurant offers exceptional views of Ain Dubai and a contemporary design that takes your dining experience to the next level. Revelers looking for secrecy can enjoy the private room that offers a world of speakeasy fantasy, perfect for those looking for a little adventure to their dining experience.
SBID Awards Category: Club & Bar Design
Practice: 4SPACE Design
Project: VAGA
Location: Dubai, United Arab Emirates
The client's brief for VAGA Restaurant and Bar, designed by 4SPACE, was to create a contemporary dining destination that harmoniously blends Arabic and Armenian cultures. The restaurant was envisioned as a space where diners could embark on a captivating journey, experiencing the fusion of these two vibrant traditions. The goal was to design a restaurant that pays homage to both cultures while providing extraordinary views of Ain Dubai, the world's biggest and tallest Ferris wheel, on Bluewaters Island.
The design of VAGA was inspired by the concept of a magical vagabond, a time traveler who traverses different eras and worlds, experiencing grand adventures along the way. This inspiration led to the creation of a space that beautifully weaves together Arabic and Armenian elements, with a focus on kitchen drama, textures, and reflective surfaces. The design represents the wanderlust and explorative nature of the vagabond, capturing the essence of discovery and wonder.
The toughest challenge that 4SPACE overcame during the VAGA project was designing and connecting two distinct spaces that represent Armenian and Arabic cultures, while still maintaining a sense of harmony and unity. Creating a seamless transition between the ground floor, which reflects Armenian influences, and the first floor, which is inspired by Arabic aesthetics, required careful design and meticulous execution.
The highlight of the VAGA project for the 4SPACE team was the creation of the impressive chandelier on the ground floor. Comprising large metallic rings intricately adorned with the Vannic alphabet, this chandelier is a stunning focal point that captures the essence of the restaurant's concept. Additionally, the unique DJ booth, which becomes the center of attention for diners and late-night revellers, added a dynamic and interactive element to the space.
4SPACE entered the SBID Awards to showcase the innovative and culturally rich design of VAGA. The project's successful fusion of Arabic and Armenian influences, along with its captivating design elements and attention to detail, made it a compelling contender for recognition within the design industry.
Being an Award Finalist in the SBID Awards held significant meaning for 4SPACE and their design business. It affirmed their ability to merge diverse cultural influences into a harmonious and visually striking space. The recognition from the awards highlighted their expertise in creating immersive and experiential environments, enhancing their reputation in the design community and among potential clients.
Questions answered by Firas Alsahin, Co-Founder and Design Director at 4SPACE.
We hope you feel inspired by this week's design!
If you missed the last instalment of Project of the Week, featuring an retro styled residential design by Harmony World Consultant & Design, click here to read it.
This week’s instalment of the Project of the Week series features a rustic and sleek restaurant design by 2023 SBID Awards Finalist, 4SPACE Design.
Jun’s is the brainchild of eminent chef Kelvin Cheung. 4SPACE Design created Jun’s concept to celebrate community. The inspiration is drawn from horse stables, and the vibe reflects the natural materials that are simple, sleek, rustic, and refined. The soothing interiors are of a sand-colored palette with natural materials and various interesting textures, including timber, marble and white bricks.
SBID Awards Category: Restaurant Design
Project: Jun’s Restaurant
The client's brief for JUN's, designed by 4SPACE, was to create a bold, modern, and inviting restaurant that harmoniously blends Asian and North American flavors. Chef Kelvin Cheung and Kings Group Ventures sought a contemporary venue that would capture the essence of community and connection over food. The restaurant was envisioned as a warm and welcoming environment, reflecting the culinary expertise of Chef Cheung and inviting guests to gather and celebrate.
The design of JUN's was inspired by the concept of community and coming together. 4SPACE created a space that celebrated the importance of life, drawing inspiration from the imagery of horse stables. The design concept embraces natural materials, reflecting simplicity, rustic elegance, and modern refinement. The sand-colored palette, textured surfaces, and use of timber, marble, and white bricks contribute to a soothing and inviting ambiance.
The main challenge overcome during the JUN's project was merging two separate units to create a cohesive space, while respecting the residential condominium above and minimizing disturbances to residents. Additionally, the challenge of seamlessly blending the different design elements, such as the incorporation of the unique I-mesh material and the suspended installations, required careful planning and execution.
The highlight of the JUN's project for the 4SPACE team was the successful creation of an environment that celebrates community and culinary excellence. The innovative use of I-mesh installations and the integration of various design accents throughout the interior added vibrancy and dimension to the space. The elevated dining experience at the chef's table, where special menus are prepared under invitation from Chef Cheung, stood out as a unique and exclusive feature.
The decision to participate in the SBID Awards was driven by the desire to spotlight the innovative and cohesive design of JUN's. The project's seamless fusion of both rustic and refined elements, its emphasis on fostering a sense of community, and its capacity to provide an exceptional dining experience positioned it as a candidate for acknowledgement and acclaim within the design realm.
Being an Award Finalist in the SBID Awards held special significance for 4SPACE and their business. The recognition affirmed their ability to translate Chef Cheung's vision into a captivating reality, merging different design influences into a cohesive and inviting dining space. The acknowledgement from the awards highlighted their expertise in creating immersive environments that enhance the dining experience.
If you missed the last instalment of Project of the Week, featuring an Italian styled, modern residential design by Harmony World Consultant & Design, click here to read it.
This week’s instalment of the Project of the Week series features a minimalist laundry service design by 2023 SBID Awards Finalist, 4SPACE Design.
Whites sets the benchmark as a next-generation premium dry-cleaning and laundry service, known for its unwavering commitment to the highest standards of garment care. The design of the shop is pivotal in attracting customers and providing a comfortable and functional space. It plays a crucial role in creating an inviting atmosphere that reflects Whites’ commitment to excellence while ensuring customers feel at ease during their visits. The design embodies a refined and thoughtful approach creating Whites a modern and functional space that is both inviting and inspiring.
SBID Awards Category: Retail Design
Project: Whites
The client's brief for Whites was to create a distinctive dry-cleaning and laundry service located within Dubai Hills Mall that defies conventional expectations. The aim was to design an environment that encourages visitors to embark on a conceptual exploration while utilizing garment care services.
The design of Whites was inspired by a fusion of modernity, tranquility, and sustainability. The carefully curated color palette of pristine white and serene sky blue imparts a harmonious and open ambiance. The mesmerising epoxy flooring, with its gradient of blue, mirrors the transformative nature of Whites' services. Sustainability was a driving inspiration, evident in the selection of state-of-the-art equipment and a commitment to minimising environmental impact.
The toughest hurdle our team overcame during the project was achieving the delicate balance between minimalism and functionality. Ensuring that every chosen element held significance and purpose while maintaining a clean and uncluttered space required meticulous design and planning.
The highlight of our team's journey with Whites was the creation of the main counter, a sophisticated blend of Corian and acrylic accents. This elegant centerpiece, illuminated by gentle, indirect lighting, symbolises the intimate connection between our knowledgeable staff and valued patrons.
We entered the SBID Awards driven by the exceptional standout of Whites' design. The project's unique combination of conceptual exploration, sustainability, and its transformative impact on the garment care experience we believe in the project’s unique standout.
Being chosen as an Award Finalist in the SBID Awards is a testament to the remarkable standout of Whites' design. It reaffirms our commitment to innovative and purposeful design that leaves a lasting impression. This recognition elevates our reputation in the design community and underscores our dedication to sustainability and excellence, enhancing our appeal to potential clients and partners.
Questions answered by Firas Alsahin, Co-Founder and Design Director at 4SPACE Design.
If you missed the last instalment of Project of the Week, featuring an urban jungle club design by Harmony World Consultant & Design, click here to read it.
Agora, a unique cocktail bar and social club situated in the Edition Hotel in downtown Dubai, is quietly making its mark by offering a serene blend of sophistication and comfort. Designed by 4SPACE, a respected architecture and interior design firm, Agora takes inspiration from the ancient Greek concept of a gathering place and marketplace.
Agora represents a noteworthy transformation, drawing influence from the charm of the Gatsby era and the timeless allure of ancient Greece. The primary aim was to create an atmosphere of depth, luxury, and tranquillity, resulting in a venue that is truly exceptional while remaining warmly inviting.
Agora's concept seamlessly integrates two sources of inspiration: the extravagant world of F. Scott Fitzgerald's "The Great Gatsby" and the classical elegance of ancient Greek architecture. It offers a haven where guests can momentarily escape their daily lives and immerse themselves in a world of sophistication and opulence, promising a sensory experience with a difference.
Each detail of Agora's interior design has been carefully considered to ensure both aesthetics and comfort. The space features bespoke furniture, meticulously crafted to provide the utmost comfort for our guests.
Agora's colour palette is thoughtfully curated to evoke a sense of luxury and timelessness. It includes forest green fabrics for a touch of mystery and richness, subtle copper accents to add warmth and elegance, and Indian green marble tabletops that infuse the space with classical beauty and timeless grandeur.
Agora's ceiling is adorned with captivating wallpaper cladding, adding a contemporary and artistic touch to the space. The existing floor, embellished with a striking black marble mosaic, exudes timeless elegance, perfectly complementing the dark colour palette and preserving a sense of luxury.
Agora's standout feature is the stunning bead curtain hanging from the ceiling. These carefully arranged and suspended beads serve as a dynamic visual centrepiece, adding an element of intrigue and movement to the space and encouraging patrons to engage with the design on a sensory level.
Bespoke pendant lights throughout the space create a warm and inviting ambiance, ideal for relaxation and socialisation.
Agora is defined by its exceptional use of custom-made furniture, including cylindrical chairs and elegant bar chairs. These pieces elevate the ambiance, enhancing sophistication and luxury without ostentation.
In the outdoor area, Agora introduces delicate curtain beads to infuse playfulness and intrigue. Suspended pampas grass arrangements from the open-air ceiling add texture, softness, and a soothing ambiance to the outdoor space.
About 4SPACE Design
From humble beginnings, 4SPACE has grown from a small, humble office and a team of two to a buzzing design entity with over 20 employees with an expansive and vibrant office in the heart of Dubai.
Founders Firas Alsahin and Amjad Hourieh always dreamed big. They understand that dreams without goals are merely dreams. They set appropriate goals and put in place a comprehensive 10-year plan to provide a roadmap for the necessary steps to achieve success. By the tenth anniversary, Design Middle East Awards bestowed 4SPACE the prestigious boutique firm of the year award in 2022. 4SPACE continues to grow, and the team aims to be the top international architectural and interior design firm by 2032, with branches across Europe and Asia. They have various projects in the pipeline, including hype entertainment venues, government commercial spaces, unique food and beverage concepts and a hospitality project.
Within the next five years, 4SPACE intends to transform from a boutique design studio to a much larger design firm with at least 50 employees by 2027 and over 140 by 2032. They aspire to be one of the top five design firms within the region by 2027. They aim to have a sustainable business model and dynamic company structure so that the company can expand into new areas of business, clients and markets. 4SPACE targets companies and private clients seeking a one-of-a-kind design and superior service. They are adopting a new company structure, systems, workflow, techniques and a sophisticated hiring strategy to achieve these changes. They anticipate that 4SPACE will promote much of their team to take on additional responsibilities and be involved in managing this vision and development.
Client expectations and requirements vary depending on market trends. Pre-pandemic, clients wanted open and shared spaces for a collaborative environment. During the pandemic, privacy and partition-closed spaces became necessary, with the online market and cloud kitchen prevalent. Post-pandemic, clients want innovative and sustainable designs. 4SPACE created many mind-blowing ideas from various techniques and 3D software programmes. Because of these changes, the team at 4SPACE has adapted, followed trends, learned new softwares and techniques and explored a host of different materials and designs.
The Metaverse is having an impressive impact on the design industry. Alsahin explains, "Brands and businesses will be more and more willing to be a part of the next big thing; they will need to exist where their customers exist and in order to achieve that, they need to invest in the virtual world”.
Alsahin believes that the Metaverse is a stepping stone to cultural evolution and a limitless capacity for art. There are many more opportunities for designers inclined to use 3D software programmes. They used to quote, "From sketch to reality" with the formation of Meta4SPACE, the mantra has changed to "From sketch to metaverse world". Alsahin continues, “In the near future, users will be able to use augmented reality smart glasses, which are wearable computer-capable glasses that add extra information; ideally 3D images and information such as animations and videos, to the user's real-world scenes by overlaying the computer-generated or digital information over the user's real-world". Now that everything is limitless and with the advent of various Metaverse environments, the industry will need skilled designers and architects who can master future virtual and AI technology. “Virtual, augmented, and mixed reality technology will become important not just to present a designed space as a visualization method, but rather to be a designed form of space itself”.
It takes many years to create something special. Over the last decade, 4SPACE has created a great team, has access to better technology and creating new goals. The team has received numerous awards and recognitions from internationally acclaimed award-winning bodies, including the SBID overall winner in 2018 and Design Middle East Awards boutique firm of the year 2022. With project requirements increasing, there is a new wave of employment opportunities post-pandemic. The new office space is fully automated and includes a new architecture company and Meta4SPACE and increasing staff levels. Power 50 nominated Alsahin for fourth place in this coveted award.
As the old saying goes, "no man is an island". Building a company in a foreign land has its challenges. Success requires sound finances, and self and team trust are hugely important. 4SPACE has created a great team, ensures that no one is self-sufficient and encourages the team to rely on and support each other. Together, the team has various goals, ensuring they achieve them no matter what. Alsahin and Hourieh encourage their teams to succeed, be inspired, share insights and do better each day. They understand that physical and mental health is important and inspire their teams to have a healthy work-life balance, enjoy the fruits of their labour and pay it forward.
Questions answered by Firas Alsahin, Co-Founder, 4SPACE.
About 4Space Design
Originally established in Damascus in 2001, founders, Firas Alsahin and Amjad Hourieh, moved their practice to Dubai to be at the centre of this vibrant market. The emirate’s booming growth in the commercial sector was an impetus for the firm to explore all the opportunities in the design industry. Eschewing quantity for quality, profile of the project and relationship with clients, the studio credit its people’s distinct ideas strategic business development.
If you’d like to feature your news or stories with SBID, get in touch to find out more.
This week’s instalment of Project of the Week series features a dual café design by 2021 SBID Awards Finalist, 4SPACE Design.
Project: Coffeetea
The client wants to elevate the interiors of Coffeetea's new branch in Dubai International Financial Center (DIFC) that will reflect its branding identity and the story behind the name “Coffeetea”.
Coffee, tea, or both? Give it a gentle stir and get ready to indulge your taste buds in a unique blend of taste and flavors. This unique perspective gave 4SPACE an idea on how to elevate the interiors of the new branch of Coffeetea located at the financial hub of Dubai, DIFC.
This 200 sqm café has a split concept that is derived from having a split personality between a coffee lover or a tea lover. The green represents tea and the brown represents coffee. It’s a very literal translation but the result is outstanding. A distinctive visual style that creates an inviting destination and international appeal. This café is designed to offer an experience that disconnects customers from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. The ceiling design was inspired by the coffee bean in its original form while it’s on the Arabica Tree; the green preserved moss replicates the leaves while the red glass characterizes raw coffee beans. On the floor, we used a German Technology called Stein Art, an exclusive sandstone that gives the space a distinctive mood.
Aside from the tight deadline, the client has a tight budget as well. As designers, it is our responsibility to look for alternative solutions that will suit the client's budget but are still aesthetically appealing and functional.
We sourced materials which are available locally and are sustainable (with low VOC). We made sure that all the materials being installed are durable and as per the original design intent.
The symmetrical pattern of arches on the wall and the floor provides layers and design features that are very minimalist and refreshing. The façade projects a sense of grandeur welcoming the customers with a vivid and nostalgic color palette. There’s a feature for brick walls with recessed plants in the shape of a tree that promotes a biophilic approach. To add the feeling of an outdoor backyard, a window with droplets was created to deliver a cozy ambiance. The contrasting hard and soft colors and design details reflect the characters enhanced by the branding integrated into the café through the signage.
We’ve been participating SBID awards for 7 years, and our Co-founders are both SBID Members. We believe on its vision and so we are always proud to share our projects to the SBID audience, this time it is “Coffeetea”. 4SPACE have designed and created an imaginative and evocative space that has a relaxed and indulgent atmosphere; a hospitality experience infused with local café culture.
Questions answered by Firas Alsahin, Co-Founder, 4SPACE Design.
If you missed the last instalment of Project of the Week, featuring a residential home design by The Furniture Union, click here to read it.
Kactus is a contemporary café in the heart of Saudi Arabia’s energetic capital, Riyadh. 4SPACE has designed this eatery in highly Instagrammable colours of vintage pinks and greens. The textures and fabrics used to create interest are oak, steel, leather, terrazzo, bold curved mirrors, a wall full of letters, and plenty of cacti. The café is an expression of international and contemporary lifestyles that celebrate youthfulness and culinary abundance. Kactus is an impressive 230 square metres of glorious space that nods to the 1950s and cleverly blended with industrial touches with corrugated wooden walls and clever pipe lighting.
The client’s brief was simple. They wanted Kactus to look bright, fun, lively, quirky, inviting and comfortable. The use of various textures allows a sense of depth and discovery to keep diners coming back to their favourite city spot. Cactus plants are used throughout the design and are the central focus of desert biophilic living.
Kactus has a modern, chic, tasteful, and contemporary design and was wholly inspired by the fascinating xerophytes. The cactus is a collection of interesting plants that have adapted to live in extreme conditions and harsh environments. Cacti are found in arid, hot deserts across the world. Xerophytes have curious, almost animated features to prevent water loss, including thick, fleshy leaves covered in waxy, spiky and hairy coatings. Kactus allows patrons to connect to nature within a city environment. 4SPACE has paid attention to the unique requirements of desert biophilic design to create a refreshing atmosphere. Think baby-boomer years in Saguaro National Park and towering green desert sentinels that pepper endless landscapes under flushed pink skies.
4SPACE has highlighted an open ceiling concept with beams, hanging plants, and linear lighting at the mezzanine level. The walls and ceiling are kept clean and white and provide an unadorned backdrop for strong accent colours. A seemingly haphazardly placed lens mirror installation provides a central focus. Clever placement of a pink vending machine door, the expansive crossword wall and cacti of various heights, shapes and sizes provide a beautifully screwball vibe.
4SPACE carefully selected expert artisans to fit out Kactus; they communicated frequently with their contractors to ensure a snag-free delivery.
The design is bright, fun, lively, quirky, inviting, comfy and minimalist.
The pandemic gave 4SPACE various challenges to overcome. Long-distance communication was necessary to manage contractors in Saudi Arabia. International product deliveries were also a challenge due to reduced shipping and logistics.
Various fun features throughout Kactus encourage interaction and provide clever illusions and photographic opportunities for social media platforms. The mirror-clad ceilings create playful reflections whilst the crossword wall allows patrons to find their names in the pools of letters on the walls. Neon cacti lights adorn the walls of the café. The café entrance is designed as a pink vending machine door that provides an element of excitement and joy upon arrival.
4SPACE has chosen multi-texture materials and used polished oakwood, steel, leather, and terrazzo throughout. The colours chosen are calm vintage hues of pink and green. Various complementary-coloured neon signs adorn the walls, and verdant plans hang fluidly from the beamed ceilings.
Furniture is minimalistic, and much has been taken from the 'interiors 360' collection. Two hand-crafted banquette seating arrangements are shaped like oversized bunny-ears cacti in pink leather.
Kactus provides an inclusive and fun setting for people from diverse, multicultural backgrounds. The contemporary and ultra-modern design encourages interaction between people and on social media. The eye-catching façade and retro branding which was designed by the 4SPACE branding team is a significant statement on a busy sand-coloured Riyadh street.
Originally established in Damascus in 2001, founders, Firas Alsahin and Amjad Hourieh, moved their practice to Dubai to be at the centre of this vibrant market. The emirate’s booming growth in the commercial sector was an impetus for the firm to explore all the opportunities in the design industry. Overcoming an uphill battle, 4Space Design has gone on to create noteworthy projects in the UAE. Eschewing quantity for quality, profile of the project and relationship with clients, the studio credit its people’s distinct ideas strategic business development.
If you’d like to feature your product news here, get in touch to find out more.
Join SBID
Find out more about our flexible membership structure.
By subscribing, you agree to be added to SBID’s mailing list. As an industry’s standard bearer organisation, we strive to bring you the most up to date news and access to exclusive industry content through our various newsletters.
First Name
Last Name
Email Address
I accept the SBID Terms of Use