Powerlist Creative 30 2025 : Christian Merieau, Managing Director, Partner Mmac Design Associates, Ranks 20th

Over the next five years, MMAC, under Christian’s leadership, will strengthen and elevate its hospitality portfolio with upper-upscale and luxury lifestyle hotels, signature restaurants, and immersive design experiences. Building on this momentum, the firm has already signed two 24 Hours hotels in KSA, marking key milestones in its regional growth. By delivering distinctive, signature designs, MMAC aims to become the preferred partner for operators, investors, and architects seeking spaces that combine functionality with true character and lasting impact.
FROM START TO SUCCESS
Christian has spent over three decades in the world of interior design, a journey that began with a strong foundation in craftsmanship and gradually progressed into leadership roles. His first steps were in hotel administration, but in 1989 he earned a degree in Interior Design, later qualifying as an Interior Architect in Geneva, Switzerland. In 2005, he made a pivotal move to Dubai, taking on the role of Managing Director at a prominent international design firm. Nearly twenty years in this position allowed him to shape projects for some of the world’s leading hotel operators, including Hyatt, IHG, Millennium, Rezidor, Rosewood, Marriott, Starwood, and Accor.
THE ROAD AHEAD
Between 2025 and 2030, MMAC, under Christian’s leadership, will embark on a transformative phase, expanding its portfolio with distinctive upper-upscale and luxury lifestyle hotels, signature restaurants, and immersive design experiences. Anchored in hospitality, the firm aims to be the design partner of choice for operators, investors, and architects seeking spaces with true signature. Supported by redefined business development, marketing, PR, and communications strategies, MMAC will amplify its visibility and desirability. From 2026 to 2032, the firm will also expand into airport lounges, leveraging its collaboration with Emirates to deliver elevated, memorable passenger experiences.
Leading with Impact
Starting as an apprentice, Christian has seen firsthand how servant leadership can transform teams. He believes that mistakes are opportunities to grow, and that every team member should be empowered to reach their full potential. Respect guides all of his interactions—not only with those he aims to impress, but with everyone—because he understands that respect builds trust, inspires collaboration, and drives high performance. When teams feel valued and supported, creativity thrives, results improve, and the wider industry benefits from leadership that genuinely lifts others.
PROJECTS
That Define Excellence Christian has had the privilege of shaping transformative aviation spaces where pure design meets ultra-modern technology. The new Emirates Business and First-Class Lounges in Dubai introduce a true luxury F&B experience, immersive privacy and leisure zones, and intelligent charging and lighting systems, creating a serene yet high-tech environment. The new Emirates Business Class lounges in Mauritius, Munich, New York, Istanbul, Manchester, and Frankfurt use innovative materials, digital integrations, and immersive design to redefine the passenger experience and set industry benchmarks.
