Since its founding in 2015 in Diriyah, Riyadh, SHADES DESIGN STUDIO has steadily developed into a respected name within Saudi Arabia’s commercial interior design landscape. The studio was formed by local talents with a shared interest in creating environments that function well for clients while presenting a clear design identity. Led by Maram AlQahtani, and supported by a skilled team including Interior Architect Roua AlHaddad, SHADES has completed projects across retail, hospitality, and workspace sectors. 

Their philosophy centers on understanding how spaces are used and ensuring that every design decision supports the client’s objectives. Rather than relying on overly stylized gestures, the studio focuses on clarity, cultural sensitivity, and material honesty, producing interiors that feel rooted in place while still expressing the brand they represent. SHADES DESIGN STUDIO has been honored by Luxury Lifestyle Awards 2025 in the category of Best Contemporary Restaurant Interior Design for Villa Fayrouz in Saudi Arabia. 

Project Overview: Villa Fayrouz in Diriyah

Among SHADES DESIGN STUDIO’s recent achievements is Villa Fayrouz, completed in April 2025. The restaurant is part of a long-established Lebanese chain recognized for interiors that highlight cultural motifs and warm hospitality. For its new location in Diriyah, SHADES was asked to create a space that honors the restaurant’s identity while reflecting the architectural character and traditions of the area. 

The scope involved designing a complete interior for a new building, resulting in a restaurant that feels aligned with its brand history while presenting a contemporary, region-responsive atmosphere. 

Design Direction and Cultural Influence

The team approached the project by examining the essential features that define Lebanese design traditions. Instead of replicating motifs directly, they reinterpreted them through a modern filter to create a fresh spatial language. This approach gives the restaurant familiarity without relying on repetition of historical details. 

Diriyah’s traditional material palette also informed the project. SHADES integrated textures and finishes that resonate with the region’s architectural legacy, allowing the restaurant to sit comfortably within the cultural context while introducing new expressions tailored to its brand. 

Materiality and Spatial Character

Natural materials serve as a foundation throughout the interior. Stone, wood, textured plaster, and subtle metal accents provide depth and a tactile quality aligned with the restaurant’s identity. These choices not only bring warmth to the environment but also reinforce authenticity, helping the space feel connected to both its Lebanese roots and its Saudi Arabian surroundings. 

Lighting, color, and proportion were carefully considered to ensure that each area supports an enjoyable dining experience. The result is an interior that feels calm, expressive, and suitable for a wide range of visits, from everyday meals to special gatherings. 

Studio Portfolio and Future Outlook

SHADES DESIGN STUDIO continues to expand its body of work within Saudi Arabia and has clear aspirations for international projects. The studio has previously been acknowledged by several industry programs, and although recognition is appreciated, SHADES remains focused on delivering thoughtful, client-driven design. 

Villa Fayrouz stands as a strong representation of the studio’s approach, an interior shaped by cultural awareness, careful material selection, and a design process aimed at supporting both brand identity and the guest experience. 

Explore SHADES DESIGN STUDIO’s portfolio to see how the studio develops thoughtful environments:  https://shadesstudio.com/