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In Profile:
NEDA ZIAD ARCHITECTS

In Profile:

NEDA ZIAD ARCHITECTS

Shortlisted: 3 categories

The International Design & Architecture Awards 2026

Name: NEDA ZIAD
Company Name: NEDA ZIAD ARCHITECTS
Position Within Company: Co-founder and Creative Director
Website: www.nedaziadarchitects.com

Tell us a little about your background in design:

With over a decade of experience, Neda’s passion for architecture began in childhood in
Vancouver, where early site visits with her father, Ziad, sparked her fascination with shapes, structures, and the built environment.

After earning her BA in Architecture from the American University of Sharjah and contributing to award-winning projects in Dubai, UAE, she co-founded Neda Ziad Architects with her father in 2021. As Co-Founder and Creative Director, Neda leads the studio in creating spaces that blend beauty, comfort, and functionality while pushing the creative boundaries of design.

How would you describe your personal design style?
My framework is contemporary architecture, a clean canvas shaped by light, proportion, and
landscape. Through the art of layering materials, textures, and light, I add soul and character, creating spaces that reflect the personality and lifestyle of those who inhabit them.

Where does your design inspiration come from?

My design inspiration comes from nature, the interplay of light and landscape, and the
textures and materials that bring spaces to life. I also draw from art, architecture, and cultural experiences from around the world while travelling, always creating environments that reflect each client’s personality and lifestyle.

In what direction do you feel that design is moving towards in a general sense?:
I see design moving away from soft minimalism toward a warmer, more layered approach.
Spaces remain clean and restrained, but the use of texture, natural materials, and thoughtful
layering adds depth, character, and personality, creating environments that feel inviting,
human-centered, and timeless.

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

1. Sustainable Materials
2. Timeless
3. Integration of Nature
4. Human Centric-Design
5. Wellness

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

Design with intention. Every decision should enhance how people experience a space,
making it personal, lived-in, and meaningful.

How important are The International Design & Architecture Awards?

They provide a global platform for boutique studios like ours to be recognized and
celebrated. The awards allow our work to reach an international audience, showcase our
work, and position independent firms like ours alongside some of the most
respected names in design.

What projects are you currently working on?
We are curently working on multiple new-build architecture and interior renovation projects
across the UAE. We are also excited to be designing the interiors of a new-build project in
Barbados, which presents a wonderful opportunity to bring our design approach to an
international context.

What was your favourite project to work on and why?

All my projects are special, as each tells a different story. One I would highlight is the Mangrove Villa in Abu Dhabi, which was the first architecture project I designed after opening my own practice. This project was particularly meaningful as it not only allowed me to shape my own architectural vision but also opened doors to new opportunities and collaborations.

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

The most challenging project was an interior renovation of a large villa in Dubai, where we had a tight deadline to complete the design and execution. We were able to deliver successfully by following a structured schedule and having the right team in place, ensuring quality and precision despite the tight timeframe.

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

BOCCI LIGHTS
MINOTTI
SALVATORI
FLOS
VIBIA
HENGE
GAGGENAU

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

Over the next twelve months, my goal is to take on more projects globally while expanding our work into the commercial sector, bringing our design approach to new contexts and audiences.

Your most treasured possession?

My most treasured possession is my collection of sketchbooks, which hold ideas, inspirations, and stories from my projects

Your favourite holiday destination?

Bali

Your favourite Hotel, Restaurant & Bar?

Hotel: Sindhorn Kempinski, Bangkok
Restaurant: Mimi Kakushi , FS Dubai
Bar: LAVO – Singapore

Your favourite book, film & song?

Book: Haper Lee’s – To kill a mocking bird
Film: La La Land
Song: anything from Ludovico Einaudi

Your favourite food and drink?

Food: sushi
Drink: pepsi

Your favourite way to spend an afternoon?

By the beach with the family

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

I would most likely have pursued a career in medicine

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

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