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Winner interviews

Mohamed Alqari on Blending Heritage, Luxury, and Storytelling in Design

Project Spotlight: Obica Restaurant and Lounge

Obica Restaurant dining hall featuring a chandelier made of 78,000 mother-of-pearl shells
Obica Restaurant and Lounge Dining Hall

In the heart of Manama’s vibrant Adliya district, Obica Restaurant and Lounge by Qreative Design Studio redefines modern luxury through the lens of Bahraini heritage. Designed by Mohamed Alqari, the 431-square-meter space is a masterclass in material richness, artistic expression, and cultural storytelling.

From the moment guests step inside, Obica envelops them in a visual and sensory narrative. The centerpiece, a chandelier made of 78,000 mother-of-pearl shells, shimmers like a wave, a poetic tribute to Bahrain’s pearling history. Deep burgundy and emerald tones, intricate marble floors, and soft velvet seating create a dialogue between grandeur and intimacy. Every detail, from handcrafted finishes to bespoke furniture, tells a story of craftsmanship, cultural pride, and refined glamour.

Interview with Mohamed Alqari

Portrait of Mohamed Alqari, founder of Qreative Design Studio, Bahrain
Mohamed Alqari
1. Your background bridges architecture, heritage, and interior design. How has this shaped your creative approach?

My path into interior design grew naturally from my architectural background and deep connection to heritage. Studying architecture taught me how to shape space, while my master’s in heritage conservation revealed that design is also about storytelling and identity. Growing up in Bahrain surrounded me with rich cultural layers that continue to influence my work. I strive to create spaces that feel timeless, rooted in place, and emotionally meaningful. Today, my designs blend architectural precision with cultural narrative, resulting in interiors that are both luxurious and deeply personal.

2. What was the concept for Obica Restaurant and Lounge, and how did the brief inspire your vision?

The brief for Obica was to create a luxurious yet welcoming destination that felt distinctive in Bahrain’s dining scene. That inspired me to design a space that tells a story, layering rich materials, bold contrasts, and handcrafted details to create an immersive and memorable experience for every guest.
Bright view of Obica Restaurant dining hall with marble flooring and emerald green accents

3. The project showcases striking craftsmanship. What details are you most proud of, and what challenges did you face during the process?

I’m most proud of how we transformed the space into a fully immersive environment through bold material choices and meticulous craftsmanship. The hand-cut marble floor, composed of more than 400 pieces, and the dramatic mother-of-pearl chandelier made of thousands of shells are defining elements that elevate the experience beyond aesthetics.

The main challenge was achieving this level of craftsmanship within a tight space and timeline. Coordinating artisans, sourcing rare materials, and ensuring every detail met the design vision required constant problem-solving. It was demanding, but the result made every challenge worthwhile.

4. Which designers or creative figures inspire your work the most?

I’m inspired by designers who infuse emotion and personality into their work. Martyn Lawrence Bullard for his glamorous storytelling, Kelly Wearstler for her bold layering of texture and form, and Athena Calderone for her effortless blend of elegance and warmth. Each reminds me that great design is not only about beauty but about resonance and atmosphere.

5. How would you define your design philosophy and the values that guide your work?

My design philosophy focuses on creating spaces that are luxurious, dramatic, and glamorous, yet timeless and refined. Every project is a story told through materials, light, and detail. Art plays a central role in setting the emotional tone. I believe that design should not only please the eye but also evoke feeling, celebrate craftsmanship, and leave a lasting impression.

Entrance area leading to the dining hall at Obica Restaurant and Lounge in Manama

6. How do you balance timeless design with contemporary trends, and how does sustainability fit into your practice?

Timeless design is built on strong foundations: proportion, craftsmanship, and a clear narrative. Trends are useful tools for keeping a space relevant but should never dominate the essence of the design. I integrate contemporary elements carefully so they complement, not compete. Sustainability, for me, is about creating enduring spaces using high-quality, locally sourced materials and working with artisans. A truly sustainable design is one that remains beautiful and functional for decades.

7. How do you merge your client’s vision with your own creative identity?

Design is a collaboration. My role is to translate a client’s dreams and needs into a space that also expresses a clear creative vision. I listen closely to understand their lifestyle and aspirations, then elevate those ideas with layers of drama, luxury, and artistry. The outcome feels deeply personal to them but still carries my design language and attention to detail.

8. What does winning the INT Interior Design Award mean for you and your studio?

Receiving the INT Interior Design Award is both an honor and a validation. Personally, it reminds me of how far I have come, from a love of storytelling through space to creating work that resonates globally. Professionally, it reinforces the vision of Qreative Design Studio and motivates us to continue pushing creative boundaries. The award is not only recognition of a single project but a celebration of dedication, passion, and artistry.

9. What advice would you share with emerging designers, and what excites you about the future of interior design?

My advice is to stay curious, trust your instincts, and develop a strong personal point of view. The most memorable designs come from authenticity, not imitation. What excites me about the future of interior design is the freedom to merge disciplines like art, technology, and craftsmanship. The field is becoming more expressive, experiential, and human-focused than ever before, and that evolution is incredibly inspiring.
Bar area at Obica Restaurant and Lounge featuring burgundy tones and soft lighting

Heritage and Glamour Intertwined

With Obica Restaurant and Lounge, Mohamed Alqari has created more than a dining destination. He has crafted an experience that celebrates Bahrain’s cultural identity while elevating contemporary design. The interplay of heritage, artistry, and modern luxury has earned Qreative Design Studio its well-deserved recognition at the INT Interior Design Awards and positioned Obica as a new icon of hospitality design in the Gulf region.

Check out other inspiring projects:
INT Interior Design Awards Winners
Interviews:
Past INT Winners
Qreative Design:
Official Website