DZ Design unveils new looks for the outdoor night restaurant Amaseena at The Ritz-Carlton, JBR

This modern outdoor dining venue by DZ Design merges traditional Arabic culture with contemporary design elements to create a family-oriented Bedouin-style restaurant with a timeless appeal.

DZ Design, a Dubai-based interior design studio focusing on delivering luxury living experiences for the hospitality and residential sectors in the region, has just unveiled its latest F&B project – Amaseena restaurant at the Ritz-Carlton JBR.

Set against the serene backdrop of Dubai’s Jumeirah Beach Residence seaside, Amaseena spans over 10,000 square feet, weaving a rich narrative centred around family and gatherings. “Our aim was to capture the essence of Dubai – its roots, its growth, and its unique blend of the new with the traditional,” explains Dina Murali, design director at DZ Design. “In designing Amaseena, we wanted guests to feel as though they are part of a story – one that celebrates the Arabian way of life in a setting that is both modern and steeped in heritage.” 

Avoiding the predictable, the design intent employs a sophisticated palette of terracotta to mirror Dubai’s desert landscapes, alongside a thoughtful selection of materials and outdoor fabrics that echo the local environment while ensuring sustainability and durability. 

The architectural elements, from the terrazzo communal dining tables to handcrafted tables in brass to the intricate woodwork, showcase a fusion of contemporary design with traditional Arabic influences. 

The flooring features a mixed pattern that complements the natural textures and earth tones prevalent throughout the space. Persian rugs are strategically placed, adding a layer of opulence and comfort underfoot.

Designing with lighting in mind 

The moment guests enter Amaseena, they are transported into a luminescent oasis. Lanterns, LED strips, and reflective surfaces combine to create a vibrant, tactile atmosphere, emphasising the interplay of light and shadow. “Each element within Amaseena has been carefully chosen for its ability to transform under the influence of light, contributing to the immersive experience. Colour temperatures were kept at 2700K and below, providing a warm and more relaxing atmosphere,” adds Murali.

Additionally, the flooring adds to the venue’s tactility. By day, natural stone tiles in three different formats in neutral terracotta hues echo the sand and beach surroundings. Nightlight becomes an integral part of the lighting design at night. The inlaid LED strips under the palm trees create pathways of warm light that guide guests through the restaurant by tracing the contours of the stone tiles. The subtle illumination with Arabic lamps not only adds to the atmosphere of the evening but also enhances safety.

The buffet counter of the Amaseena restaurant, set in an alfresco dining environment. The counter is designed with a contemporary aesthetic, featuring clean lines and a warm, neutral colour palette that reflects the modern take on traditional Arabic style. It is sheltered under a sophisticated canopy structure, with soft, diffused lighting creating an inviting ambience for guests. 

Strategically placed lanterns flank the buffet, emitting a gentle light that resonates with the restaurant’s theme. These traditional elements are juxtaposed with the modern furnishings to create a harmonious blend of old and new.

To create an atmosphere that transitions seamlessly as the daylight changes, fabrics play a crucial role. “Night lights were carefully selected to complement tent fabrics, curtains, cheers, and upholstery. A palette of vibrant oranges and subtle blues was chosen, reminiscent of a sunset. Under carefully placed spotlights and ambient lighting, these materials come to life at night. In the more intimate, private areas, we used our tent structure and lighting to create shadows and light,” explains Murali. 

Arrangement of furniture

The furniture arrangement is both intimate and open, offering a variety of spaces. A private, cabana-style seating area within the Amaseena restaurant is designed to offer guests an exclusive dining experience. With a sturdy, fabric-draped frame, the flowing drapes are tied back to create an inviting entrance to the space within, while also providing a sense of privacy and intimacy. 

The furnishings are a blend of modern and traditional, with plush, armless sofas that offer comfortable seating. The sofas are complemented by round, leather-upholstered ottomans and a central table. 

Right from the entrance, the area is defined by a built-in bench-style seating, adorned with cushions in a neutral palette accented with patterns that hint at the region’s rich textile traditions. 

The seating is framed by an intricate mosaic tile backdrop, adding an artisanal touch that speaks to the region’s craft heritage. Above, a series of elegant fabric canopies in a desert hue float gently, softening the space and providing a sense of enclosure that enhances the cosy atmosphere.

.