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DESIGNING FOR DESERT LUXURY: AN INTERVIEW WITH CHARLOTTE MUNN ON DUBAI VS. UK INTERIORS
We sat down with our Associate Interior Designer Charlotte Munn from our Dubai studio to explore the unique design landscape of the UAE, and how it contrasts with the refined heritage-led approach typical in the UK. From climate to culture, here’s how Charlotte and our Dubai studio are shaping spaces that reflect the spirit of modern Dubai, while drawing from her global design sensibility…
HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE THE MOST REQUESTED STYLE IN DUBAI?
“The core interior design style most requested by clients in Dubai often combines European sophistication with a modern, luxurious twist. There's a growing preference for Italian-inspired interiors that emphasise craftsmanship, natural materials, and quiet elegance. Clients are drawn to low-slung furniture, open spaces, and curated design details that reflect minimalism rather than opulence. This includes soft, earthy palettes, artisanal finishes, and custom-made pieces that balance function with form. While Dubai is often known for its grandeur, many clients today are leaning toward a more elevated, European aesthetic that feels both timeless and liveable.”
WHICH COLOUR PALETTES AND MATERIALS HAVE YOU NOTICED BEING REQUESTED THE MOST?
“In Dubai, there’s a consistent demand for warm, neutral colour palettes, shades like sand, stone, taupe, and soft whites are especially popular. They create a calm, elegant backdrop that works beautifully with the natural light.
When it comes to materials and finishes, I’m seeing a strong preference for natural, tactile elements like travertine, brushed stone, raw oak, and linen. Clients love matte and textured finishes that feel understated but luxurious. There’s also a growing appreciation for handcrafted details and custom pieces, which add depth and a sense of quiet sophistication to the space. Clients are also favouring pops of colour and bold patterns to add some individuality.”
HOW DOES DUBAI'S CULTURE SHAPE DESIGN DECISIONS?
“There’s a strong emphasis on social gatherings here, so layouts often prioritise spacious living areas, open-plan kitchens, and comfortable majlis style seating to accommodate guests.
At the same time, privacy is important in many homes, so I pay close attention to zoning, often creating separate family and guest areas or incorporating partitions and layered spaces that offer flexibility.
Dubai’s diverse, fast-paced lifestyle also calls for interiors that balance function with luxury, spaces that are not only beautiful but also practical, durable, and adaptable to different cultural needs.”
HOW IMPORTANT IS IT TO INCORPORATE ARABIAN HERITAGE OR SYMBOLISM INTO CONTEMPORARY SPACES?
“Incorporating Arabian heritage into contemporary spaces is incredibly important, it brings a sense of identity, depth, and cultural relevance to the design. That said, it doesn’t always have to be overt. I find that subtle touches like mashrabiya-inspired patterns, arched forms, traditional textiles, or handcrafted elements, can beautifully honour the region’s heritage while still feeling modern and refined.
It’s about finding that balance where tradition enhances the space without overpowering it, allowing clients to feel connected to their roots in a fresh, timeless way.”
HOW DOES DUBAI'S CLIMATE IMPACT DESIGN CHOICES?
“We tend to use materials that are heat-resistant and breathable, for example natural stone, travertine, and light-toned wood, which stay cool and age well in the climate. Linen, cotton, and other airy fabrics are preferred for upholstery and drapery to enhance comfort.
Layout-wise, we focus on maximizing natural light without overheating the space, so UV-filtering glass, layered window treatments, and strategic shading are essential.
It is also important to consider fade resistant and UV protected fabrics for bold colours, to avoid sun bleaching – this is why you will see a lot of interiors are very neutral in tone, to avoid this.”
ARE OUTDOOR SPACES ESSENTIAL IN DUBAI HOMES?
“Absolutely, outdoor living spaces are a major consideration when designing homes in Dubai. Despite the intense summer heat, residents really value their terraces, courtyards, and rooftop areas, especially during the cooler months.
We often design with a strong indoor-outdoor connection, utilising large sliding doors, shaded pergolas, and cooling materials to create comfortable extensions of the interior. Features like outdoor kitchens and lounge seating are also in high demand, making the exterior just as functional and stylish as the interior.”
WHAT IS THE MOST EXTRAVAGANT OR UNIQUE REQUEST YOU’VE EVER RECEIVED FROM A CLIENT?
“We were in conversations with a client about how to showcase a real Bugatti on a rotating platform, almost like a sculptural centerpiece within the home. The client was a passionate car collector and wanted the vehicle to be visible from multiple angles as part of the living space.”
HOW DOES DESIGN IN DUBAI DIFFER FROM THE UK?
“UK projects tend to focus more on heritage, subtlety, and layered detail, often working within the constraints of period architecture or conservation areas. There’s a strong appreciation for craftsmanship, texture, and understated elegance, with a big emphasis on functionality and comfort over showmanship.
In Dubai, by contrast, the scale is often much larger, and clients are generally more open to bold concepts, luxury finishes, and statement features. There’s also more freedom to push boundaries with custom design, technology integration and layout innovation, given the newer architecture and climate.
Both markets value quality, but the UK leans toward timeless restraint, while Dubai embraces innovation and a more expressive sense of luxury.”
AND FINALLY, WHAT HAS BEEN YOUR FAVOURITE PROJECT IN DUBAI SO FAR?
“One of my favourite projects in Dubai was designing a luxury apartment on The Palm Jumeirah, which offered an incredible opportunity to create a truly unique living experience. The location itself is iconic, so the design had to reflect both the exclusivity of the setting and the client’s refined taste.”
accouter’s dubai services
Accouter’s British heritage and traditional influences carry over to our Dubai projects, creating a beautiful, seamless fusion, allowing our schemes to stand out in a rather saturated industry.
With dedicated client liaison, great emphasis is placed on understanding how to deliver the most aesthetically beautiful schemes, with each project one-of-a-kind. we work with only the finest artisans and curators within our global network to create beautiful environments for the world to aspire to.
If you would like to discuss your Dubai Interior Design project with our team, please contact Charlotte and the rest of the team via interiors@accouterdesign.com.
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