The spaces we create often reveal more than the way we live. They tell stories about where we've come from, what we value and how we connect with one another. Across the GCC, a new generation of designers is drawing from local traditions while embracing contemporary perspectives, creating interiors that feel deeply rooted yet unmistakably modern.

As part of Maison Tanagra, we spoke with four designers whose work reflects this evolving dialogue. From Laura Gonzalez, whose vision shaped Tanagra's newly reimagined flagship, to leading voices from Saudi Arabia, Qatar and Kuwait, each offers a unique perspective on the relationship between culture, craftsmanship and the home.

Inspired by the traditional Middle Eastern courtyard, Laura envisioned a space that captured the generosity and warmth synonymous with the region's culture of hospitality. Rather than designing a boutique, she sought to create a home, one where visitors move naturally between spaces, discovering moments of comfort, craftsmanship and conversation.

"When I started thinking about what Tanagra must be, I immediately thought about the Middle Eastern courtyard," she explains. "I wanted to reflect this hospitality inside the design."

For Gonzalez, modern elegance is never about excess. Instead, it is found in the thoughtful balance between cultures.

Anoud Mishaal Khalid has always understood design through the lens of gathering. "Our culture is incredibly warm," she reflects. "Bringing families and people together is such an important part of the way we live."

That understanding continues to shape her work today. Natural materials, geometric forms inspired by historic architecture, intricate wood carving and traditional weaving all become part of a contemporary design language that feels both familiar and forward-looking. For Anoud, “Saudi interiors are layered, intentional and deeply human”, reflecting a culture where every object contributes to a wider story.

Khaled sees Kuwait's creative identity as one built through openness and collaboration. Growing up surrounded by diverse architectural influences, cultures and ways of living, he developed a design approach rooted as much in people as in materials. Skilled craftspeople and traditional making techniques remain central to his practice, not simply for their authenticity, but for the relationships they foster.

"It's more than materials," he explains. "It's collaborating with the people behind the craft that really inspires the work."

For Khaled, culture is never static. It evolves alongside the people who shape it, and the same is true of design. Looking ahead, he believes the Middle East is entering one of its most confident creative chapters yet.

Whether working with wood, limestone or clay, Abdulrahman’s practice is grounded in the belief that design carries a responsibility beyond aesthetics. It has the power to preserve rituals, celebrate craftsmanship and keep cultural memory alive.

"There's something really beautiful when objects tell a story," he says. "Design has a responsibility to preserve rituals."

As Qatar continues to evolve, Abdulrahman sees an exciting opportunity to embrace the region's diverse influences while remaining connected to its heritage. Rather than viewing culture as something fixed, he celebrates the exchange of ideas that shapes contemporary life.

The Voices of Maison Tanagra

Laura Gonzalez: Designing a Home Between Cultures

Anoud Khalid Mishaal: Designing with Memory

Khaled Alawadhi: Designing What's Next

Abdulrahman Al Muftah: Designing Through Story

Home Décor

Home Fragrance

Dining