The firm is currently engaged in several transformative projects that are shaping its next chapter. Misk City in Riyadh reflects its expanding role in large-scale urban design, particularly in Saudi Arabia. Refurbishments at Pullman JLT, Mövenpick Bur Dubai, and Al Multaqa Hall at Dubai World Trade Center underscore its commitment to meaningful, sustainable upgrades. Meanwhile, the LK Nine Offices in Bahrain showcase how minimalism can convey understated luxury in a commercial setting.

FROM START TO SUCCESS

Dina Murali completed her architecture studies in India before moving to Dubai, where she gained invaluable experience at both global and home-grown studios specialising in hospitality design. A decade ago, she founded DZ Design, driven by a vision to establish a unique presence in the constantly evolving design industry. A core aspiration for Dina is to highlight projects that exemplify innovation through upcycling and reuse, promoting sustainable

THE ROAD AHEAD

DZ Design is planning to establish a new office in Saudi Arabia, marking a significant step in its regional expansion. To support this growth and ongoing projects, the firm intends to increase its current team of 25 to approximately 30 members within the next few months. The future of design is seen as incredibly bright, with the company especially enthusiastic about integrating AI into its processes. By adopting artificial intelligence, DZ Design aims to minimise the time required to create and deliver projects more efficiently.

Leading with Impact

DZ Design’s core philosophy centres on fostering a creative environment where the team enjoys the design process while delivering exceptional hospitality and multi-family residential projects. The firm believes true innovation arises when designers have the freedom to explore layers of design, materials, and packages in an enjoyable and engaging way. This approach consistently leads to unique, original concepts that stand out. At the heart of the practice, however, remain hard work and an unwavering dedication to providing the best for clients.

PROJECTS

That Define Excellence One of Dina’s favourite projects to date is Mogao, a pan-Asian restaurant at Radisson Red Dubai Silicon Oasis, where concept, collaboration, and creativity came together seamlessly. Another recent highlight is Hobby READING Binge Watching SHERLOCK Favourite City BENGALURU Food and Restaurant JAPANESE, KINOYA Life, Unplugged the Pullman JLT refurbishment, which combined contrasting materials, rich textures, and a bold lighting feature to reimagine the city hotel experience through the theme raw meets refined. Looking ahead, the Misk City development in Riyadh stands out as one of her most ambitious undertakings. She is leading the simultaneous design of six residential towers, with all design packages progressing from concept to IFC within a demanding three-month timeframe—a challenge that tests both design agility and operational strength. Sustainability remains central to Dina’s approach, exemplified in the Mövenpick Bur Dubai refurbishment, where upcycled materials and finishes were used to create a refreshed, contemporary space without unnecessary waste.