Four alumnae from Virginia Commonwealth University School of the Arts in Qatar (VCUarts Qatar) – a Qatar Foundation (QF) partner university – have earned spots in Architectural Digest Middle East magazine’s list of top 100 designers who have made an impact in the fields of top design, decor and architecture talent, in the region.
Aisha Al Sowaidi (MFA in Design and BFA in Graphic Design from VCUarts Qatar), Maryam Al-Homaid (MFA in Design and BFA in Graphic Design from VCUarts Qatar), Rabah Saeid (BFA in Interior Design from VCUarts Qatar) and Shaikha Al-Sulaiti (BFA in Interior Design from VCUarts Qatar) are the four graduates who made the cut.
According to the Architectural Digest’s website, the magazine, a part of the Condé Nast portfolio, is recognised as the foremost authority on design, culture, and luxury lifestyle in the region. Since its inception in March 2015, the bi-monthly publication has showcased outstanding designs by both Middle Eastern and international talents. Originating in the US in 1920, Architectural Digest now boasts nine global editions, collectively reaching a highly engaged audience of millions.
Rabah Saeid, Founder and Creative Director of Styled Habitat, in Dubai, UAE, reflected on her journey from being a student at VCUarts Qatar to being selected to the AD 100 2024 list. She mentioned: ‘I guess back then and having studied in Qatar, for me it was about understanding the context of this region, its history, and how that can inform design true to its culture. Twelve years forward, the same design ethos applies. I am constantly seeking originality that relishes in the appreciation of genuine character remaining true to context. Every space we shape should echo the distinct soul of its inhabitants. Through our designs, we aspire to infuse an atmosphere of individuality that sets each creation apart, evoking a sentiment that is as distinct as it is calming.’
Expressing gratitude for the acknowledgment, she shared, ‘I owe it to my team, family and comrades in the industry to have attained this acknowledgment. This only keeps me wanting to do more of what it is that I truly love to do – design.’
Aisha Al Sowaidi, presently serving as the Director of Qatar Museums’ Liwan Design Studios and Labs, is a multidisciplinary designer located in Qatar. Her design work and research delve into subjects such as home, nostalgia, childhood, memory, heritage, and the rapid growth of Doha. These themes are evident in her design collection Bear with Me, featuring a range of bear-shaped items like candles, mirrors, and screen panels, evoking memories of the past and serving as a metaphor for Qatar’s present rapid urbanization. Aisha’s reflective installation, The State of You, was included in the 2018 London Design Biennale, and her Central Midkhan design is currently on show at the National Museum of Qatar.
Al Sowaidi said that she was honoured to be part of AD Middle East’s 2024 AD100 – the ultimate list of today’s top talents in interior decoration, architecture, and product design.
View this post on Instagram
Maryam Al-Homaid, who is a faculty member at VCUarts Qatar, is an interdisciplinary artist who uses textile design to creatively depict change and transformation, especially the change associated with a rapidly evolving Qatar. Her eye-catching designs are a visual snapshot of the nation’s culture, exploring changing dialects, technologies and styles, including typography.
Shaikha Al Sulaiti is dedicated to preserving Qatar’s traditions by championing a ‘more sustainable, ethical luxury movement’ and expressing cultural heritage through design. Involved in the establishment and growth of the Doha Design District in Msheireb Downtown Doha, she remains committed to exploring the realm of interior design. ‘The intent is to use recycled materials as much as possible. I believe that designers have a huge responsibility to create beauty whilst not being wasteful.’
Check out Marhaba’s FREE e-Guides for everything you need to know about Qatar.