Nebras Aljoaib

Saudi interior designer Nebras Aljoaib established her eponymous studio in 2015. Renowned for her curated approach to interiors, she seamlessly blends vintage influences with a contemporary perspective. Her work is defined by refined materiality and a precise attention to scale and contrast, creating spaces that feel both distinctive and familiar.

Guided by a deep appreciation for craftsmanship, her designs draw on site-specific influences and reinterpret historical references within modern narratives. Aljoaib specializes in both residential and commercial interiors. Her studio is dedicated to crafting timeless spaces, with each project elevated by carefully considered details and a hint of the unexpected.

Aljoaib’s passion for furniture, paired with her extensive knowledge of design history and styles, has naturally led to an expansion into furniture and product design.

Her work has earned international acclaim, including a coveted place on the AD100 Middle East list. With a diverse portfolio that spans from high-end spas to brutalism-inspired perfumeries and serene desert homes, she approaches each project with an intrinsic understanding of materiality, playful aesthetic complexity, and subtle spatial simplicity, where art meets interiors.

How would you define your signature style, and how is it reflected in your projects?

My signature style is defined by a seamless blend of traditional influences with modern narratives.

This is reflected in my deep appreciation for craftsmanship and my considered use of refined materials - from richly veined marble to tactile woods and metals. Each selected to enhance the spatial experience. Materiality, proportion, and contrast play significant roles in my work, as does my interest in sculptural furniture and curated details.

My aim is to create spaces that feel both distinctive and familiar, embracing a sense of curated imperfection and a play between the expected and the unexpected. This balance ensures that each project is quietly bold and timeless.

Why should an Architect or Interior Designer include pieces of Italian Craftsmanship in their projects?

Italian craftsmanship carries a legacy of artistry, precision, and material excellence that elevates any interior. Incorporating Italian-made pieces brings a sense of authenticity and refinement, as these designs are often rooted in centruries-old techniques yet continue to push creative boundaries. The meticulous attention to detail, high-quality materials, and dedication to craft result in furniture and decor that not only stand the test of time but also add depth and character to a space.

My love for vintage Italian design, such as the work of visionaries like Gio Ponti and Gae Aulenti, further influences my approach - these pieces embody a perfect balance of form and function, with an inherent sculptural quality, carrying a quiet boldness that feels both timeless and relevant.

Beyond aesthetics, Italian craftsmanship represents a philosophy where beauty and utility coexist seamlessly, where every detail serves a purpose. For an interior designer, these elements serve as anchors - whether through statement furniture, lighting, or bespoke finishes - that enrich a project with a distinctive sense of sophistication and history.

How do you balance aesthetics and functionality in your projects?

I approach each project with the belief that these two elements should complement each other. Every design decision I make considers both visual appeal and practical use.

My approach prioritizes materiality, proportion, and spatial flow, allowing beauty and usability to coexist seamlessly. Through thoughtful curation, I ensure that each piece, whether furniture or architectural detail, is not only sculptural but also purposeful. I always consider how the design will be experienced - how light interacts with the space, how materials will age, and how textures will feel. This leads to interiors that are intuitive and effortless, where aesthetics and funtionality are naturally integrated.

Is there a dream project you aspire to work on?

I'm drawn to projects that tell a story through materiality, craftsmanship, and thoughtful curation, creating spaces that feel both deeply rooted and globally relevant.

A dream project for me would be one that allows me to bring my Saudi roots into a setting that feels both grounded and unexpected - whether a boutique hotel or historic restoration.

The opportunity to collaborate with artisans and integrate vintage influences would make the projects even more meaningful, blending history, place, and contemporary design into a seamless and evocative experience.