Nordic Homeworx’s new showroom by Styled Habitat is overlooking Sheikh Zayed Road in Dubai. It showcases the synergy between Nordic Homeworx and the design studio, Styled Habitat. The renovation and expansion project aimed to encapsulate the essence of Scandinavian design, characterised by natural materials, subtle textures, and an abundance of natural light. The objective was
to elevate traditional showroom aesthetics, creating an environment that is more immersive and reflective of Nordic living, aesthetics, and culture—capturing the minimalist yet warm ethos of Nordic design, while enabling clients to truly envision what it means to live with Kährs wood flooring in their own spaces.

Styled Habitat’s design approach focused on creating a sensory spatial environment that highlights the handcrafted Kährs wood flooring. Rooted in Scandinavian design principles, the space features light oak, restrained materiality, and a desaturated color palette, resulting in a gallery-like atmosphere that exudes a sense of calm and inspiration. The design team’s initial focus, true to the client’s vision, was on simplifying the internal volumes to create openness and flow, allowing natural light to permeate the showroom. Warm whitewashed plaster provides a serene backdrop, enhancing the warmth of the beautifully crafted hardwood flooring displays. The neutral color palette and minimalist detailing emphasize the logic and beauty of the wood, creating a space that exudes clarity, rhythm, and repetition.

Rabah Saeid from Styled Habitat explain: “We kept the design simple to showcase the product clearly. The restrained envelope provides a beautiful backdrop, allowing designers and clients to experience a pure, simple, and serene space.” This philosophy is embodied in the showroom’s design, where every element is carefully considered to highlight the quality and craftsmanship of Kährs flooring. Interior designers and homeowners alike thrive on visual and tactile inspiration, and the renovated showroom serves as a creative hub. It provides visitors with a real-world canvas to see, touch, and feel the textures and finishes of Kährs wood products in a curated setting. This hands-on experience is
invaluable as it helps bridge the gap between conceptual design and physical reality.

Upon entering the showroom, visitors are immediately captivated by the window display, which tells the rich history of Kährs through carefully selected artifacts. The display begins with the spinning jenny—the very first product Kährs produced in the 1800s. Alongside it, original wooden toys manufactured by Kährs
in the 1950s and a collection of antique wooden tools each echo the brand’s enduring commitment to craftsmanship and quality. The display is encased within a modern black wooden Scandinavian cabin that adds an element reflective of Nordic tradition and the culture of coexistence with nature. Cladded
custom black-stained rustic wood planks, the cabin conceals a walk-in sample room, creating a compelling contrast to the showroom’s restrained aesthetic.
The traditional wood flooring retail experience is reimagined with varied display opportunities. Flooring samples are showcased throughout the space, allowing visitors to appreciate the quality and craftsmanship of Kährs flooring. High ceilings and large display panels enable visitors to visualise their design decisions, while mid-size panels and bespoke meeting tables facilitate engagement and idea exchange.

A window-front meeting area serves as a versatile space for staff and customers, bringing life to the showroom. Repurposed wood flooring tables are used for discussions, feasting, and collaboration, while smaller meeting areas and breakout spaces provide privacy and foster team interactions. A striking marble coffee station adds a touch of elegance to the communal areas.

Nordic Homeworx and Kährs share a commitment to sustainability and innovation, reflected in every aspect of the new showroom. The minimalist aesthetic extends to the workstations, which are strategically placed near windows to maximise natural light, while utility areas are pushed to the core of the building, allowing more airiness to an open plan. Personal belongings are neatly stowed away to maintain the open and inviting feel of the workspace, while utility areas are discreetly positioned to enhance the overall functionality and circulation.

Photographer: Oculis Project