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Mustard and Linen Interior Design Studio: A Workplace Designed to Feel Human

Project Spotlight: Mustard and Linen Interior Design Studio

Open-plan office interior at Mustard and Linen Interior Design Studio
Mustard and Linen Interior Design Studio – Office Interior

Located on Saadiyat Island in Abu Dhabi, Mustard and Linen Interior Design Studio reimagines the workplace as a warm, residential-inspired creative environment. Designed by Mustard and Linen Interior Design, the award-winning commercial project balances functionality, wellbeing, and emotional connection through soft palettes, tactile materials, and carefully curated spaces. Through this interview, Farah Hanbali shares the ideas, challenges, and philosophy behind the studio’s thoughtful design approach.

Interview with Farah Hanbali

Portrait of Farah Hanbali from Mustard and Linen Interior Design
Farah Hanbali,  Lead Architect at Mustard and Linen Interior Design

1. Can you share the story of how you entered interior design, and how your background shaped your creative practice?

I’ve always been passionate about design from a very young age. I grew up watching my mother design and decorate our home, and I was fascinated by how every detail, from furniture placement to material selection, could completely transform a space and evoke emotion. That early exposure nurtured my curiosity about how environments influence the way we live and feel.

Over time, this fascination evolved into a deeper commitment to creating spaces that tell stories, spaces that connect people, culture, and emotion through thoughtful design.

2. What was the brief for the project, and how did it inspire your approach?

The brief was to design an interior design studio that would stand out from the typical office, a space that feels more like a home than a workplace. The goal was to create an environment where creativity flows naturally, where clients and team members alike feel comfortable, inspired, and connected.

We wanted the studio to reflect the Mustard & Linen brand identity and vision, warm, tactile, and authentic, blending functionality with a sense of belonging. This guided our approach in every detail, from the choice of materials and color palette to the layout and atmosphere. The result is a space that not only supports creative work but also embodies the essence of who we are as designers.

Glass meeting room inside Mustard and Linen Interior Design Studio
Mustard and Linen Interior Design Studio – Conference Room

3. What design choices or innovations are you most proud of, and what challenges did you face while bringing them to life?

One of the main challenges we faced was that the project started as a shell and core space with several large structural columns that couldn’t be altered. The key design challenge was integrating these elements seamlessly into the interior without letting them dominate the space. We turned them into part of the design language, using them as sculptural anchors that define zones and rhythm within the layout, rather than obstacles.

Another challenge was the tight project timeline, which required us to work efficiently while maintaining the design integrity. We had to be strategic in sourcing materials that were readily available in stock, ensuring that every selection still aligned with the aesthetic and brand values of Mustard & Linen.

4. Who are the interior designers or creative figures who inspire you most, and why?

I’ve always been inspired by designers who create with emotion and restraint, people like Vincent Van Duysen, Ilse Crawford, and Patricia Urquiola. Their work captures a perfect balance of warmth, texture, and timelessness, qualities that deeply resonate with how we design at Mustard & Linen. I admire how they design spaces that are not just beautiful, but also deeply human, where every detail feels intentional and connected to a story.

Open lounge with sofas and natural textures at Mustard and Linen Interior Design Studio
Mustard and Linen Interior Design Studio – Interior

5. How would you describe your design philosophy and the principles that guide your decisions?

My design philosophy is rooted in the idea that spaces should evoke emotion, tell a story, and create a sense of belonging. I believe in designing with purpose and authenticity, where every material, texture, and detail contributes to how people feel within a space.

6. How do you balance timeless design with contemporary trends and approach sustainability?

I believe timeless design comes from creating spaces that feel authentic rather than trend driven. My approach is to focus on proportion, materiality, and emotional resonance, elements that never go out of style while subtly integrating contemporary touches through detailing, craftsmanship, or furniture pieces that reflect the present moment.

At Mustard & Linen, sustainability is viewed not as a trend but as a responsibility. We prioritize natural, durable materials, collaborate with local artisans, and design spaces that age gracefully rather than require constant renewal. By crafting interiors that last, both aesthetically and functionally, we create sustainable design through longevity and intention.

Waiting lounge area with soft seating in design studio
Mustard and Linen Interior Design Studio – Interior

7. How do you balance your client’s needs with your own creative voice?

I believe timeless design comes from creating spaces that feel authentic rather than trend driven. My approach is to focus on proportion, materiality, and emotional resonance, elements that never go out of style while subtly integrating contemporary touches through detailing, craftsmanship, or furniture pieces that reflect the present moment.

At Mustard & Linen, sustainability is viewed not as a trend but as a responsibility. We prioritize natural, durable materials, collaborate with local artisans, and design spaces that age gracefully rather than require constant renewal. By crafting interiors that last, both aesthetically and functionally, we create sustainable design through longevity and intention.

8. What does receiving an INT Interior Design Award mean to you?

Receiving an INT Interior Design Award is an incredible honor, both personally and professionally. It’s a recognition of the passion, dedication, and countless details that go into every project. For me, it represents more than just a design achievement; it’s a celebration of the journey, the collaborations, challenges, and creativity that shape each space.

9. What advice would you give to emerging designers, or what excites you most about the future of interior design?

My advice to emerging designers is to stay curious and stay true to your voice. Don’t rush the process, take time to observe, to feel, and to understand how people live and interact with spaces. Design is not just about creating something beautiful; it’s about creating meaning. The more honest and intentional you are, the more your work will resonate.

interior at Mustard and Linen Interior Design Studio
Mustard and Linen Interior Design Studio – Interior

A Studio Built Around Human Connection

With Mustard and Linen Interior Design Studio transforms the traditional office into a space centered on creativity, emotion, and human connection. Through natural materials, tactile layering, and a calm architectural language, the project creates an environment that feels both functional and deeply personal. Recognized at the INT Interior Design Awards, the studio reflects the firm’s commitment to timeless, meaningful, and experience-driven design.

Check out other inspiring projects:
INT Interior Design Awards Winners
Interviews:
Past INT Winners
Mustard and Linen Interior Design:
Official Website