Today’s interior design trends are being heavily influenced by the manner in which distinctly different cultures are meshing together. Such fusion mixes elements in a new way to create a look that is both fresh and intriguingly familiar. This month we are showcasing Sofitel’s new property in the Indian city of Mumbai.

The hotel (pg 40) has been designed by Singapore-based Franco-Spanish designer Isabelle Miaja. The fusion between the Indian culture and French flair is evident throughout the hotel. For example, the waiting lounge is adorned with delicate Indian columns, vibrantly weaved carpets and furnished with classic French furniture.

The same can be said for the Royal Opera House Muscat (pg34). The new opera house is a fusion of Omani tradition and modernity. Equipped with the latest sophisticated technologies available like Radio Marconi’s multimedia interactive display seatback system, Mode 23, a feature no other opera house has yet installed, the architectural character of the building, designed by WATG, is influenced by the grand style of Omani palaces.

Good architecture and interior design of a public building are key elements in creating a unique experience for its users and Saeed Zaki of DWP explains how the user’s experience can be enhanced through interiors (Pg 56).

The key to successful interior design is a strong and clear design concept based on building typology, location, content and size, and the concept must be followed through in every area to give a sense of unity and continuity, he writes.

This month we also explore the latest in wall coverings and flooring. The UAE market is home to many international players such as Newmor and Muraspec. Newmor is actively involved with the healthcare sector. Anti-microbial agents are standard in all Newmor products, which can be further enhanced with a stain resistant Tedlar coating.

New products from Newmor include Vogue, which works perfectly in any classic or contemporary interior, be it a boutique, city or country hotel; a new colour palette for its classic faux silk Lyon collection; and Midas, with a metallic finish and a subtle, creased fabric embossed texture suitable for hospitality and leisure markets.

Meanwhile, RAK Ceramics has come up with a collection of porcelain tiles that give a natural look and also blend harmoniously with any surrounding.

All this plus our usual round-up of new products, industry news and upcoming events.

We would love to hear from you on what you think are going to be the most influential products this year.

Mridula Bhattacharya