Interview with Mai Wahdan

Mai Wahdan ("MW") interviewed on Monday, 26 May.

Could you please tell us about your experience as a designer, artist, architect or creator?

MW : Since I started my journey in design, I’ve worked on multiple projects ranging from interior architecture to furniture. I’ve led various projects that reflect a deep appreciation for materiality, culture, and form. Over the years, I’ve collaborated with diverse clients across the Gulf region, particularly in Oman and Saudi Arabia. I transitioned from a high-level role in education to pursue my true passion—design—which I studied academically and practiced professionally through my design house, Luxentti. My work has been internationally recognized, including winning the Golden A’ Design Award for the Tura Table in 2025.

How did you become a designer?

MW : Design has always been at the core of who I am. I studied architecture academically, which gave me a strong foundation in spatial thinking, material understanding, and conceptual development. Although I initially pursued a successful career in education, I felt a strong internal pull back to design—the field I originally studied and loved. This wasn’t a sudden decision but a return to my roots. My transition was driven by a passion to create meaningful, soulful spaces and objects that blend natural materials, cultural depth, and modern craftsmanship. My husband, who is also an architect, has been a major source of support and inspiration throughout this journey.

What are your priorities, technique and style when designing?

MW : My top priorities in design are: (1) emotional connection—each space or piece should evoke feeling; (2) timeless materiality—I emphasize natural elements like wood, stone, and metal; and (3) narrative-driven concepts—every project tells a story. My style blends luxury with nature, often incorporating biophilic elements and earthy tones. I begin with hand sketches and mood boards before moving to digital tools for precise development. Depending on the project, I may also use physical mockups or explore materials through prototyping, especially in furniture design.

Which emotions do you feel when designing?

MW : Designing fills me with a mix of excitement, curiosity, and deep focus. The most thrilling phase is the initial spark—translating an abstract idea into a tangible concept. I also find great joy in the development journey, especially when materials and forms begin to align with the vision. There’s a quiet satisfaction in finalizing a project and seeing it come to life. For me, design is both a personal escape and a professional calling—it gives me purpose, creative freedom, and a continuous sense of fulfillment.

What particular aspects of your background shaped you as a designer?

MW : My academic background in architecture laid a strong foundation for my design thinking—combining structure, creativity, and functionality. Studying architecture trained me to approach each project holistically, balancing form, space, and emotion. Beyond academics, growing up in a culturally rich environment surrounded by art and heritage deeply influenced my sensitivity to aesthetics and storytelling. One of the biggest influences on my work has been the connection between people and their spaces—how thoughtful design can shape experience, evoke emotion, and leave a lasting impression.

What is your growth path? What are your future plans? What is your dream design project?

MW : My growth path is centered around expanding the reach and impact of Luxentti—both creatively and geographically. I aim to design more culturally rooted, globally recognized spaces and products that merge tradition with innovation. I’m particularly excited about showcasing our work in international exhibitions like Milan Design Week. A dream project for me would be to design a boutique cultural retreat or museum that celebrates regional identity through architecture, interior design, and custom furniture. I want to be remembered as a designer who told meaningful stories through material and form.

What are your advices to designers who are at the beginning of their career?

MW : Trust your instincts, but be open to learning from every experience—whether success or challenge. Design is not just about beauty; it’s about intention, context, and clarity. Surround yourself with people who elevate your thinking, and never stop exploring. Don’t rush to find a style—let it emerge naturally through practice. One of the best pieces of advice I’ve received is: “Design with purpose, not trend.” Stay curious, stay humble, and most importantly, stay passionate.

You are truly successful as a designer, what do you suggest to fellow designers, artists and architects?

MW : Stay grounded in your values, and let your design philosophy evolve through experience. Always design with intent—each line, material, and decision should serve a purpose. Avoid falling into trends without questioning their relevance. Collaboration is key, but so is protecting your creative integrity. Push boundaries, but respect context. And finally, don’t underestimate the power of storytelling in design—it’s what makes your work resonate.

What is your day to day look like?

MW : My day usually starts with reviewing project updates, sketches, or team discussions. I balance creative work—like conceptual development or design reviews—with strategic planning for Luxentti. Depending on the phase, I might be immersed in material selections, overseeing 3D models, or collaborating with clients. Throughout the day, small things like a good playlist, a spontaneous idea, or a beautiful texture sample often bring me joy. Even on the busiest days, there’s always a moment that reconnects me with why I love what I do.

How do you keep up with latest design trends? To what extent do design trends matter?

MW : I stay aware of design trends, but I don’t let them dictate my work. I believe in creating timeless designs that are rooted in material, culture, and emotion. I follow trends through exhibitions, publications, and global design movements, but I filter them through my own lens. My inspiration comes more from history, architecture, nature, and human experience than from what’s trending at the moment. Trends may inform, but they never define my work.

How do you know if a product or project is well designed? How do you define good design?

MW : Good design is intuitive—it feels right even before you analyze it. For me, it’s defined by clarity, purpose, emotional resonance, and timelessness. A well-designed space or object should connect with its user, respect its context, and age gracefully. I look for coherence in form, material, and function. If something can communicate a story or evoke a feeling without explanation, then it’s a success. On the other hand, overcomplication and unnecessary gestures are common pitfalls I always avoid.

How do you decide if your design is ready?

MW : A design is ready when it balances function, emotion, and intention—when each element feels resolved and aligned with the original vision. I’m a perfectionist by nature, so I tend to refine until there’s nothing left to adjust meaningfully. But I’ve also learned to trust the moment when a design stops asking questions and starts offering answers. While I believe every design can be improved endlessly, knowing when to stop is a crucial skill. Once a design carries clarity and confidence, I know it’s ready to move forward.

What is your biggest design work?

MW : One of my proudest works is the Tura Table, which won the Golden A’ Design Award in 2025. It was inspired by the Tura stone used in the ancient Egyptian pyramids, translated into a modern, lightweight form using fiberglass. The table combines three monumental stone-like bases with a tempered glass top, merging history with innovation. It represents years of research into materials, usability, and aesthetics. Tura Table is more than just furniture—it’s a story carved in contemporary form. I’m also excited about current projects that explore cultural identity through interior and architectural storytelling.

Who is your favourite designer?

MW : I admire many designers, but one who deeply resonates with me is Thomas Heatherwick—his ability to merge architecture, art, and engineering into emotionally engaging forms is truly inspiring. I also find inspiration in the work of Kelly Wearstler for her bold layering and fearless creativity. Each of these figures has influenced my appreciation for balance between innovation, elegance, and emotional impact.

Would you tell us a bit about your lifestyle and culture?

MW : I live between cultures, drawing inspiration from both my Egyptian roots and the places I’ve worked in gulf . My lifestyle is a mix of quiet observation and creative exploration. I’m often inspired by traditional crafts, regional textures, and architectural heritage. Music is part of my process—it sets the mood while I conceptualize. I believe good design elevates daily life, and my aim is to reflect that belief in every project. My culture taught me to honor beauty in detail and to value the stories behind forms.

Would you tell us more about your work culture and business philosophy?

MW : At Luxentti, our work culture is grounded in collaboration, respect, and design integrity. I work closely with my partner—my husband—who is also an architect. We lead with a shared vision but from different strengths. When selecting partners or team members, I look for curiosity, accountability, and passion for detail. I value open-mindedness and strong ethics just as much as creativity. We approach each project with care, balancing innovation with cultural sensitivity. The core of our business philosophy is to design with meaning, not just aesthetics.

What are your philanthropic contributions to society as a designer, artist and architect?

MW : I believe design has a responsibility beyond aesthetics—it can uplift communities and create meaningful change. Whenever possible, I contribute by mentoring young designers, sharing knowledge, and participating in initiatives that support creative growth. I’m open to pro bono collaborations, especially when the project aligns with values of sustainability, education, or cultural preservation. I also engage in design events and talks that aim to make design more accessible and inspiring to the next generation. Giving back, for me, means using design as a tool for impact—whether big or small.

What positive experiences you had when you attend the A’ Design Award?

MW : The A’ Design Award was a transformative experience. It provided an international platform to showcase my work, connect with incredible creatives, and gain meaningful exposure. Three major benefits stood out: (1) global recognition, (2) access to a network of like-minded professionals, and (3) the opportunity to exhibit and publish my work. Winning the Golden Award for the Tura Table gave me validation and motivation to push my vision further. Being selected as Designer of the Day is a true honor—it reaffirms my belief in purposeful, story-driven design.

Mai Wahdan Profile