In Profile:
La Cle by Alia Lootah

In what direction do you feel that design is moving towards in a general sense?
Design today is moving towards more meaningful and intentional living. People are seeking spaces that feel personal, calming, and timeless rather than overly trend-driven. There is a growing appreciation for natural materials, soft minimalism, craftsmanship, and interiors that create emotional comfort. We also see a stronger connection between hospitality and residential design, where homes are becoming more curated, experience-driven, and reflective of individual lifestyles.

Name five key themes to consider when approaching design in the future.
1. Creating emotionally connected spaces that feel personal and timeless.
2. Hospitality-inspired living, where homes offer comfort, warmth, and elevated experiences.
3. Using natural materials and soft minimalism to create calm and balanced environments.
4. Designing with functionality and lifestyle in mind, making spaces both beautiful and practical.
5. Focusing on timeless design over trends, with attention to craftsmanship, detail, and longevity.

If you could offer one piece of advice when it comes to designing, what would it be?
My advice when it comes to designing is to always design for feeling, not just for aesthetics. A beautiful space should tell a story, create comfort, and reflect the personality of the people living in it. Trends will always change, but timeless and emotionally connected interiors will always remain meaningful.

How important are The International Design & Architecture Awards?
The International Design & Architecture Awards are highly important as they celebrate creativity, innovation, and excellence within the global design industry. Being recognised on an international platform is not only an achievement, but also an opportunity to connect with a wider design-focused audience and showcase our work beyond the region. For us at LACLE by Alia Lootah, it is meaningful to be acknowledged for creating spaces that are emotionally driven, timeless, and deeply connected to modern living.

What are your aims and goals for the next twelve months?
Over the next twelve months, my goal is to continue growing LACLE by Alia Lootah as a design studio known for creating timeless and emotionally connected spaces. I aim to work on more hospitality-inspired residential projects across the UAE and Saudi Arabia, while continuing to refine our signature aesthetic of warm minimalism and curated living. I also hope to expand creative collaborations, explore new design experiences, and continue creating homes that feel personal, elegant, and meaningful.

Your most treasured possession?

As an interior designer, my most treasured possessions are the pieces I collect through travel and inspiration — books, accessories, candles, and objects that hold memories and emotion. I believe the smallest details give a space its soul, and I’m deeply connected to pieces that create warmth, character, and a sense of story within a home.

Your favourite holiday destination?
Maldives, Morocco (marrakech) , paris and london

Your favourite hotel, restaurant & bar?

Hotel: royal mansoor hotel marrakech
Restaurant: zuma

Your favourite book, film & song?

Book: * “Books about interiors, travel, and hospitality are always a source of inspiration for me.”
Film: Me Before You
Song: whitney houston i will always love you

Your favourite food and drink?

Food: chinese/japanese food

Your favourite way to spend an afternoon?
My favourite way to spend a free time afternoon is visiting hotels, and beautifully designed spaces for inspiration, followed by creating mood boards and styling ideas over coffee. I also enjoy a lot of quiet moments at home surrounded by family and my son candles, flowers, greenery, and a calm atmosphere, as these small details inspire my creativity and design process.

If you weren’t in this sector, what would your alternative profession be?
I also have a current job at dubai electricity and water

Anything else interesting?

I love travelling and discovering different cultures, hotels, architecture, and design experiences around the world. Travel constantly inspires my creative process and influences the way I approach interiors, styling, and atmosphere. I find inspiration in the smallest details — from boutique hotels and concept stores to nature, textures, and everyday moments that create emotion within a space.