The challenge at Msheireb Downtown Doha was to craft a new architectural identity rooted in local culture. This project rises to the occasion by blending traditional Qatari design principles with a contemporary, climate-conscious approach.

The design draws from the masterplan’s key guidelines: historic proportions, clean architectural forms, informal building arrangements, animated roofscapes, and layered ornamentation to play with light and shadow. Sustainability is central to the project, with carefully considered solutions tailored to the specific environmental conditions of Qatar.

This project was developed while working as an Architect at Squire and Partners in London.

The architecture marries classical elegance with modern lines. Façades are crafted from varying finishes of Portland stone—sometimes smooth, sometimes textured—accentuated by fluted vertical columns, recessed bays, and projecting balconies. This refined architectural language is further enriched by bespoke balustrades and interiors inspired by the area’s heritage, lending depth and sophistication to the development.

The building’s architectural identity draws inspiration from the city’s rich heritage, particularly through the contemporary use of terracotta—a tribute to the iconic façades crafted by the Burmantofts Terracotta workshops. This material is reinterpreted in a modern way, forming a layered terracotta skin that evokes both the texture of woven textiles—a nod to Leeds’ industrial past—and the refined visual universe of John Lewis.

The sleeping area, bathed in natural light filtered through long sheer curtains, evokes an almost ethereal world. Sculptural white furniture and soft textures interact with a vibrant artwork, creating a striking contrast within a serene, otherworldly ambiance. Calm, purity, and minimalist elegance define a way of living where every object becomes a sculpture.

To meet this need, we designed a custom-built bookcase, carefully tailored to accommodate publications of varying sizes. This unique piece of furniture optimises the use of space while also structuring the room, providing both generous storage capacity and a strong visual presence.

The intervention highlights natural light, existing proportions and original architectural elements. The use of authentic materials—solid wood, natural stone, and metal—creates an atmosphere that is both warm, refined, and timeless, enhancing the coherence of the interior design.

The bathroom was completely reimagined to reflect our client’s love for vintage aesthetics: a patterned cement tile floor contrasts beautifully with handcrafted zellige-clad walls, creating an authentic and inviting atmosphere, rich in texture and subtle tones.

The project introduced a bright, light-filled home office space, made possible by the installation of a custom-made glass partition. Purpose-built storage furniture was also created specifically for the project, helping to structure the volumes while optimising every square metre.