If we were to distill an interior designer’s role to its barest essence, it would be: designing a space such that it is able to realise its function.

Now, how a designer approaches this task, within the parameters of budget, taste, culture and context, is what makes their job (and mine) so interesting.

With The Yas Hotel, it’s safe to say that Jestico + Whiles have knocked it out of the park. This could not have been an easy project, given its high-profile nature, the multiple agencies involved, and the inflexible October 30 deadline, when the hotel had to open for Abu Dhabi’s inaugural Formula 1 Grand Prix. To their credit, Jestico + Whiles have created a scheme that complements Asymptote’s architectural intent in every way, while delivering Abu Dhabi’s first design hotel.

Ellerbe Becket’s work is far removed from the frenzy and glamour of the Grand Prix, but no less significant for the region. Having executed some highly visible projects in the Middle East, this solid, more-than-100-years-old practice decided that the best way to win projects in a tough market was to be part of a bigger platform.

Another American firm that has been just as innovative in its approach are hospitality design specialists, Wilson Associates. Some of the strategies they have used to beat the downturn have been expansion into new markets, notably China and Morocco, while offering newer, more specialised services for their clients in the form of a restaurant design consultancy, Blue Plate Studio. They have just been ranked the second-biggest hospitality design firm in the world in terms of billings, so obviously it’s a strategy that’s paying off.

Wilson Associates are not the only American firm expanding eastwards. This month one of the biggest American home décor chains, Crate & Barrel, will be anchoring Mirdif Mall in Dubai. A few months ago, Ethan Allen Interiors opened their design centre in Dubai. Store owners say home décor sales are slower, but still stable. It’s to do with consumers’ current attitude of weighing value versus cost.

And, of course, the fact that it’s more about home and family than ever before. Enjoy the issue and do keep your feedback coming in.

SHALAKA PARADKAR