To enter the awards, call us on: +44 (0)1244 401932

In Profile:
Ghada Alabbasi

In Profile:

G.light

Shortlisted: Interior Design Scheme - Middle East & Africas

The International Design & Architecture Awards 2026

Name: Ghada Alabbasi
Company Name: G.light
Position Within Company: Founder & Creative Director

Tell us a little about your background in design (education, experience, etc) :

I hold a Bachelor’s degree in Architecture, graduating in 2013. After graduation, I began my career as a teaching assistant at university while pursuing a Master’s degree. During that time, I realised my true passion was not in academia, but in the practical world of design, where ideas could be transformed into meaningful spaces that people experience every day.

I then moved into the industry, gaining valuable experience with leading companies before founding G Light five years ago. Since then, I have dedicated myself to creating distinctive residential interiors that combine creativity, functionality, and meticulous attention to detail. Today, I lead every project from the initial concept through to execution, ensuring each space reflects its own unique identity and the lifestyle of the people who live in it.

How would you describe your personal design style? :

When I founded G Light, I asked myself one simple question: How can I create designs that people instantly recognise? That question became the foundation of my design philosophy.

From the beginning, my goal was not simply to create beautiful interiors, but to build a distinctive design identity. I wanted G Light to have a signature that people could recognise through thoughtful details and original bespoke pieces.

I enjoy designing bespoke lighting, architectural features, wall compositions, artwork, and custom-designed pieces that are created specifically for my projects. Over time, many of these elements have become part of G Light’s identity. I continue to develop and reinterpret them in different ways, allowing each project to feel fresh while remaining true to the studio’s design language.

My style is contemporary, elegant, and detail-driven. Every project is tailored to the client’s lifestyle and vision, while maintaining the distinctive identity that defines G Light.

Where does your design inspiration come from? :

I have always believed that design begins with the way we see things. Since I was young, my family trusted my eye when choosing clothes, furniture, and details for our home. I naturally found myself drawn to pieces that others might overlook, simply because I could imagine how beautiful they could become in the right setting.

That way of thinking still inspires me today. I find inspiration in architecture, art, fashion, travel, and craftsmanship, but I never see them as something to copy. Instead, I enjoy transforming ideas into something original that reflects my own design language.

For me, great design is not about choosing the most expensive or obvious piece. It is about having the vision to see its potential and knowing how to bring every element together to create a space with character and identity.

In what direction do you feel that design is moving towards in a general sense? :

I believe interior design has become more accessible than ever before. Today, people from all lifestyles and budgets value good design, whether they are creating a luxury villa, a family home, or a small apartment.

Social media has played a major role in this transformation. It has raised design awareness and encouraged more people to invest in the spaces they live in. As a result, the industry has become far more competitive.

I believe this growing competition is a positive thing. It challenges designers to think beyond trends, develop their own identity, and create original work that offers lasting value rather than simply following what is popular.

Name five key themes to consider when approaching design in the future. :

1. Authenticity – Creating spaces with a unique identity rather than following trends.
2. Functionality – Designing interiors that enhance everyday living and meet the client’s lifestyle.
3. Sustainability – Making thoughtful choices in materials, quality, and longevity.
4. Craftsmanship – Valuing bespoke design, fine detailing, and skilled execution.
5. Innovation – Continuously exploring new ideas while preserving timeless design principles.

If you could offer one piece of advice when it comes to designing, what would it be? :

My advice would be to focus on building your own design identity rather than chasing every new trend. Trends will always change, but a clear design language is what gives your work lasting value and makes it memorable.

Stay curious, keep learning, and don’t be afraid to create something different. The most meaningful designs are those that reflect authenticity, thoughtful details, and a genuine understanding of the people who will live in them.

How important are The International Design & Architecture Awards? :

The International Design & Architecture Awards represent far more than recognition. They provide an opportunity to present our work on an international platform, exchange ideas with some of the industry’s most respected designers, and gain valuable exposure beyond our region.

Being shortlisted is already a meaningful achievement, and I am truly honoured to have my work recognised by such a respected panel. For me, this experience is not only about celebrating one project, but also about continuing to grow, challenge myself, and share G Light’s design vision with a global audience.

What projects are you currently working on? :

I am currently working on several high-end residential projects while continuing to develop G Light’s distinctive design identity through custom lighting, bespoke furniture, and signature design elements.

Looking ahead, one of my goals is to expand G Light beyond interior design by launching an online store featuring original pieces designed by our studio. Having our own woodworking factory allows us to transform ideas into carefully crafted products while maintaining exceptional quality and attention to detail.

I also look forward to participating in more international design awards and collaborations, as I see them as an opportunity to continue learning, share our work, and introduce G Light to a wider global audience.

What was your favourite project to work on and why? :

It is difficult to choose just one project because every project has its own story. However, the projects I enjoy the most are the ones where the client truly trusts me and gives me the freedom to create.

When a client believes in my vision, I feel an even greater sense of responsibility to exceed their expectations. That trust allows me to explore ideas more deeply and create spaces that genuinely reflect my design philosophy.

I believe the strongest projects are created through collaboration, but they also require trust. When that balance exists, the final result feels authentic, timeless, and true to both the client and G Light.

What was your most challenging project to work on and why? :

One of the most challenging projects I worked on was a villa where the interior architecture had many angled and misaligned walls. At the time, there was a strong focus on creating dramatic exterior forms, often without giving enough attention to how the interior spaces would function.

As a result, the layout was difficult to use efficiently, and the homeowner had been unable to fully develop the house for almost seven years because the spaces felt fragmented and impractical.

The challenge was not simply to redesign the interiors, but to work with the existing architecture and transform those limitations into functional, elegant spaces without losing the character of the home. It required careful planning, creative problem-solving, and attention to every detail.

Looking back, it became one of the most rewarding projects because it reminded me that great design is not only about creating something beautiful, but also about solving complex problems in a thoughtful way.

Which products/services could you not live without when designing? E.g. Lighting companies, furniture companies :

Exceptional craftsmanship and high-quality materials are the foundation of every project I design. I rely on skilled craftsmen and trusted manufacturers to transform bespoke ideas into reality with precision and attention to detail.

Lighting is equally essential, as it has the power to transform the atmosphere of a space and highlight the design exactly as it was envisioned. Custom woodwork, natural stone, bespoke furniture, and carefully selected finishes all play a vital role in creating timeless interiors.

Rather than relying on specific brands, I focus on choosing the right products and partners that best support the vision behind each project.

What are your aims and goals for the next twelve months? : 

Over the next twelve months, my goal is to continue growing G Light through inspiring projects and greater international exposure. I also look forward to participating in more design awards and launching G Light’s online store to offer our products to a wider audience.

Your most treasured possession? :

I love what I do, and I feel lucky that my passion is also my career. I enjoy creating new designs, and every new project excites me.

Your favourite holiday destination? :

Anywhere with beautiful scenery, luxury, and a relaxing atmosphere.

Your favourite food and drink? :

Food: Italian cuisine

Drink:coffee

Your favourite way to spend an afternoon? :

It depends on the day. I might be with my family, working, in meetings, exploring new places, or simply relaxing.

If you weren’t in this sector, what would your alternative profession be?:

Probably a children’s fashion designer. I’ve always loved children’s fashion.

Architect – ENG/ GHADAH ABDULWASEA MOHAMMED AL-ABBASI

Interior Designer – ENG/ GHADAH ABDULWASEA MOHAMMED AL-ABBASI

Location – SAUDI ARABIA

G-LIGHT has been shortlisted for Interior Design Scheme – Middle East & Africas Award in The International Design & Architecture Awards 2026.

design et al only work with the world’s leading companies in the International Design & Architecture industry.

If you think you have what it takes to compete in The International Design & Architecture Awards, submit your application by following the links below:

Use the links below for more information about the Awards:

The International Design & Architecture Awards 2026
are organised by design et al

Sylka

Contact Us

If you wish to speak to someone regarding the design awards,

Simply fill in the form below!





    Interested in:

    Alternatively, call us on 0044 (0)1244 401932