Name five key themes to consider when approaching design in the future. :
I firmly believe that functionality, intentionality, lifestyle adaptability, personal identity, and creating a space of cozy opulence- are the pillars of timeless home design. I avoid trend-following—and have little interest in starting trends myself. Instead, I am committed to bespoke design.
When designers come to LIU Luxxe seeking materials—whether for a bathroom mosaic or a kitchen fit-out—I encourage collaboration to produce something entirely unique. These custom creations honor both their aesthetic vision and the client’s individuality, ensuring every space feels thoughtful, refined, and deeply personal.
At LIU Luxxe, we partner with designers to craft environments where luxury is purposeful and every detail—from pattern to finish to palette—is selected with intention and character in mind.
If you could offer one piece of advice when it comes to designing, what would it be?
If I could offer anyone a piece of advice when designing their home, it would be this: design your space your way, with authenticity at the heart of every choice. Create a home that genuinely reflects how you and your family live and move through the space—where comfort, function, and personal style come together naturally.
How important are The International Design & Architecture Awards?
I believe the International Design and Architecture Awards are important because they provide a powerful platform for creatives from around the world to come together and share their unique perspectives and styles in a cohesive, inspiring space. It’s more than just a celebration of design—it’s a meeting point for individuals from diverse backgrounds, not all necessarily rooted in design, to contribute their own sense of originality and vision toward a shared goal: creating meaningful, beautifully designed spaces.
As someone from a finance background, of Ethiopian origin, American-born and raised, and now living in Dubai, I bring my own personal blend of influences and intentional style to every space I design. It’s this diversity of experience that allows each project to tell a story that feels layered, thoughtful, and globally inspired.
What projects are you currently working on? :
I’m currently working on several projects, including a particularly special one in the U.S.—a boutique development of eight brownstones in the suburbs of New York City. Set to be the first of its kind in the area, this project is designed to capture the essence of its suburban surroundings while thoughtfully pulling in the timeless character and architectural charm of New York City’s iconic brownstones. I’m currently fine-tuning the designs to ensure every detail strikes a balance between local authenticity and classic urban elegance.
Another special project I’m working on is in its early stages—an exciting opportunity to introduce a refined European modern design aesthetic to a villa in Dubai. This concept will be thoughtfully integrated across both the exterior and interior elements, creating a cohesive and contemporary living experience. The intention behind this design direction is to appeal to the growing number of European transplants relocating to Dubai, offering them a sense of familiarity and style that resonates with their design sensibilities while complementing the local context.
What was your favourite project to work on and why? :
One of my all-time favorite projects was a boutique, eight-unit luxury apartment building named after my firstborn, located within the suburbs of NYC, The Mignote on Second. It holds a special place in my heart for many reasons. Not only was it developed in the town where I grew up and graduated from university, but it also came to symbolize integrity, character, and resilience.
From a design perspective, it was an incredibly liberating experience. I had the creative freedom to thoughtfully explore and express design in every corner of the building, with quiet luxury serving as the guiding principle throughout.
What was your most challenging project to work on and why?
I believe every project brings its own set of challenges—but the key isn’t to dwell on them, it’s to recognize them early and move quickly toward effective solutions. In fact, I’ve often found that the obstacles faced in one project become the inspiration or foundation for something even better in the next. Challenges, when approached with the right mindset, often spark fresh creativity and stronger outcomes.
