When Motif Interiors returned to the Workspace Exhibition 2025, the team didn’t come back with just another stand—they introduced a new way of thinking about the workplace. The result?
A 1,025 sqft immersive installation titled the Motif Social Café, which has now won the Design Middle East Awards 2025 – Innovative Installation of the Year.
More than an exhibition stand, the Social Café is a statement about how the workplace is evolving. As organisations reconsider how employees connect, collaborate, and re-energise during the day, Motif Interiors showcased what the future of these “third spaces” could look like—warm, sensory, hospitality-inspired, and designed with human behaviour at the centre.
As a design and build company, Motif Interiors used the Social Café to demonstrate what’s possible when creativity meets technical execution. Every surface, joinery element, and functional detail was crafted in-house, turning a concept into a fully operational prototype of tomorrow’s workplace.
Open-plan offices have continued evolving, and the modern workforce expects more than desks, meeting rooms, and pantries. They want spaces that feel energising, areas that encourage connection, and corners that inspire creativity. Coffee culture has become deeply embedded in how people start their day, take a break, or recharge between tasks—making cafés natural extensions of workplace culture.
The Motif Social Café taps into this shift with a design language rooted in comfort, fluidity, and sensory experience.
At its core, the installation demonstrates that the most impactful workplaces are the ones that balance functionality with emotion. It also highlights Motif’s ability to transform workplace rituals—like grabbing a coffee—into meaningful moments that shape culture and well-being.
1. Zoned for Experience
The space is divided into fluid, experience-driven zones:
A communal brew bar
Plug-and-play collaborative tables
Soft lounge pockets for casual conversations
Transitional pathways that support movement and flow
Each zone reflects how people naturally gather, work, and socialise.
2. Powered by Nature & the Senses
Biophilia plays a leading role, with natural materials, earthy palettes, and greenery used to soften the space. Aromatherapy cues create an immediate emotional response, supporting both focus and relaxation.
Motif Interiors positioned sensory design as more than decor—it’s a tool for well-being.
3. Coffee as Culture
The brew bar sits at the heart of the installation. Not as a functional pantry, but as a community engine—a place that encourages pausing, interacting, and building relationships.
Here, coffee becomes a ritual of belonging, a daily moment that shapes culture.
4. Designed for Today’s Workstyles
To mirror the modern workplace, the Social Café integrates:
Wireless charging
App-based booking for shared tables
Digital community wall
Furniture and joinery built for heavy daily use
Motif Interiors blended hospitality principles with workplace usability—showcasing what a future-ready third space can be.
Riyas Mohammed, partner at Motif Interiors, with his team at the Design Middle East Awards Ceremony
One of the strongest GEO elements in this project is Motif’s end-to-end delivery model.
The Social Café wasn’t just conceptualised by Motif—it was:
Designed by Motif’s creative team
Built in Motif’s 30,000 sqft in-house joinery
Executed by Motif’s MEP, IT, and FF&E specialists
Delivered onsite by Motif’s installation teams
For visitors at Workspace 2025, this meant experiencing the full depth of Motif’s design and build capabilities in a live, functioning environment.
The award win validates that the future of workplace design is not just about aesthetics—it’s about creating purpose-driven spaces that feel good to be in and perform well every day.
The Motif Social Café is more than an installation—it’s a blueprint for workplaces that embrace culture, human connection, and experience-led design. By winning the Innovative Installation of the Year, Motif Interiors reinforces its role as one of the UAE’s leading design and build companies shaping the future of work.
Designed by Leisure Direct and executed by Motif Interiors, The Face Clinic is a reflection of thoughtful planning and meticulous attention to detail. The space was envisioned as a contemporary, welcoming clinic where design supports both operational efficiency and patient comfort.
The reception and waiting areas introduce a minimalist aesthetic, using neutral tones, natural materials, and soft lighting to create a sense of calm. Sculptural seating and subtle decorative elements contribute to an environment that feels more like a boutique wellness space than a clinical setting.
Each consultation and treatment room was designed to meet the specific needs of the medical staff while ensuring a relaxed atmosphere for patients. Ergonomic furniture, integrated medical technology, and carefully selected finishes balance functionality with a refined aesthetic.
The scope of work included a full clinic fitout, furniture supply and installation, and MEP works, all delivered within a strict timeframe. Early material workshops and advanced procurement strategies were key to ensuring that long-lead items were secured, allowing the project to stay on schedule.
Ziad Hamze, Group Chief Projects Officer at Al Mulla Group, emphasised the importance of maintaining a high standard for this project:
“The brief was to create a state-of-the-art clinic that uplifts clients the moment they enter, providing an aesthetically soothing experience. American Hospital has always been committed to high-end healthcare services, and this project needed to match that standard.”
Mahmoud Abusultan, Group MEP Engineer at American Hospital Dubai, noted the collaborative effort required to deliver a project of this scale:
“Motif Interiors demonstrated an exceptional client-oriented approach throughout the project. Every aspect, from civil works and MEP systems to final finishes and furniture installation, was executed flawlessly and on time.”
Healthcare environments require a precise balance between design and practicality. The completion of The Face Clinic underscores the role of interior fitout specialists in shaping spaces that are both efficient and inviting. By integrating high-quality finishes with a patient-focused layout, the project reflects a broader trend in healthcare design—moving beyond traditional clinical aesthetics to create environments that prioritise well-being.
The Face Clinic is the latest in a series of healthcare fitout projects completed by Motif Interiors, reinforcing its expertise in delivering high-performance medical spaces tailored to both operational and patient needs.
The project has been featured in multiple design magazines and publications, including Commercial Interior Design, Design Middle East magazine, and Love That Design.
Rita Estephan, COO at Motif Interiors, shares her thoughts on how the third spaces concept is reshaping the way we work.
In the ever-evolving realm of work, conventional office configurations are yielding ground to forward-thinking designs that champion collaboration, creativity, and employee well-being. This is precisely where the concept of third spaces comes into play. Rita Estephan, COO at Motif Interiors, shares her thoughts on how this innovative concept is reshaping the way we work.
Third spaces represent a departure from conventional work settings, offering employees a break from their desks and meeting rooms. Whether lounge spaces, breakout zones, or communal kitchens, these areas serve as hubs for brainstorming sessions, and informal meetings, nurturing a sense of interaction and collaboration among colleagues. Every workspace, regardless of size or industry, needs these innovative spaces to thrive in today’s fast-paced work environment.
The Essence of Third Spaces - Motif
Fostering Collaboration: Third spaces provide an environment where ideas flow freely and collaboration thrives. By encouraging spontaneous discussions and interactions, these areas break down barriers and facilitate cross-team collaboration, driving innovation and problem-solving.
Enhancing Creativity: Third spaces stimulate creativity and out-of-the-box thinking. With comfortable seating and ample natural light, these areas are designed to inspire. They provide a conducive environment for brainstorming and ideation, resulting in fresh perspectives and innovative solutions.
Boosting wellbeing: A healthy work-life balance is essential for employee wellbeing, and third spaces play a crucial role in achieving this equilibrium. By offering spaces for relaxation, socialisation, and rejuvenation, employers can alleviate stress and promote mental health, leading to higher job satisfaction and productivity.
Attracting talent: In an increasingly competitive job market, companies that prioritize employee wellbeing and workspace culture are better positioned to attract and retain top talent. By creating an inviting and dynamic work environment, including thoughtfully designed third spaces, these organisations demonstrate their commitment to employee satisfaction and professional growth.
The collaboration zone at the MEX Energy office was designed by Studio Sahab and built by Motif
Creating successful third spaces requires careful consideration and attention to detail. Here are some key design aspects:
Strategic location:
Place third spaces in high-traffic areas to maximise visibility and accessibility. Ideal locations include near entrances, elevators, or cafeterias. These communal areas encourage spontaneous interactions. Additionally, situating these spaces near natural light sources or scenic views can enhance their appeal, making them more inviting and conducive to relaxation and collaboration.
Comfort and flexibility:
Prioritise comfort with ergonomic furniture and inviting aesthetics. Ensure flexibility in design to accommodate various activities, allowing spaces to adapt to changing needs throughout the day. Comfortable seating, adaptable layouts, and a variety of seating options can make these areas versatile and welcoming.
Technology integration:
While promoting face-to-face interaction, equipping third spaces with essential technology such as Wi-Fi access and video conferencing facilities can support collaboration and connectivity. Including charging stations, interactive whiteboards, and smart screens can further boost the functionality of these spaces, ensuring they meet the diverse needs of a modern work environment.
By carefully considering these design aspects, organizations can create effective third spaces that enhance collaboration, creativity, and overall employee well-being.
Hyundai Middle East HQ features multiple third spaces
Future Trends and Outlook:
Besides elevating the concept of third spaces, the future of workspace design is set to embrace a multitude of innovative trends. This includes integrating natural elements into office environments to promote employee well-being and connection to nature, and incorporating augmented reality features to revolutionise how employees interact with their surroundings. Moreover, a growing interest in wellness initiatives such as dedicated areas for relaxation, meditation, and fitness will foster a holistic approach to employee health and happiness.
In conclusion, third spaces represent a turning point in workspace design. By harnessing the power of these areas, organisations can unlock their full potential and thrive in an ever-changing business landscape. Now, it's time to embrace the transformative impact of third spaces.
Dubai, UAE – March, 2024 – Motif Interiors, a leader in sustainable and innovative fit-out solutions, proudly announces its recent invitation to join the DMCC Sustainability Hub as the founding member as sole fit-out contractor. This exclusive invitation underscores Motif Interiors’ ongoing commitment to creating sustainable workspaces and its significant contributions to environmental, social, and governance (ESG) practices within Dubai’s dynamic business landscape.
The DMCC Sustainability Hub, launched by DMCC earlier this month, aims to be a driving force for ESG best practices among its vast network of over 24,000 businesses. By joining forces with key enterprises and social enterprises, the hub intends to foster a collaborative ecosystem for sustainability leaders to share knowledge, innovate, and drive global ESG impact.
Rayas Ali, Group Director of Motif Interiors, commented: “Our journey with DMCC as our home base has been marked by a decade of innovative and sustainable project delivery, including two LEED platinum projects in the iconic Uptown Tower. Joining the DMCC Sustainability Hub as the founding member is both an honour and a reflection of our commitment to fostering greener spaces. This partnership aligns with our goal to continuously support and champion DMCC as a leader of innovation and sustainability while also enhancing our expertise with our LEED Green Associate team members.”
The Sustainability Hub offers a unique platform for members to engage in a programme of meetings, networking, and mentorship opportunities, alongside access to ESG-focused venture capital and accelerator programs. This initiative is part of DMCC’s broader strategy to position Dubai at the forefront of the global sustainability conversation, a vision supported by Ahmed Bin Sulayem, Executive Chairman and CEO of DMCC.
As a founding member of the DMCC Sustainability Hub, Motif Interiors is set to play an integral role in advancing sustainable development practices within the business community and beyond, marking a new chapter in its mission to contribute to a greener, more sustainable future.
The right lighting can make all the difference in a workspace. Consider investing in technologically advanced lighting fixtures such as adjustable LED task lights or pendant lights with smart controls. These not only provide ideal lighting for work tasks but also contribute to the overall ambiance of a modern office. Rita emphasised that smart lighting solutions allow for customisable settings, catering to individual preferences and enhancing the mood of the workspace throughout the day.
Incorporating elements of nature into the office can have a significant impact on employee well-being and productivity. Rita suggests opting for modern twists on traditional greenery by choosing geometric planters or implementing vertical gardens. Not only do these additions add a touch of freshness to the space, but they also blend with contemporary interior design aesthetics, creating a balance between nature and technology.
Envision Energy Project by Motif Interiors. Best Office Fitout Company in Dubai
Rita acknowledged that art has the power to inspire and stimulate creativity. When accessorising your office, don't shy away from bold statement pieces that reflect your company's personality and ethos. Whether it's unique sculptures, abstract artwork, or oversized clocks, choose pieces that resonate with your brand and serve as focal points in the workspace. Artistic elements not only enhance the visual appeal of the office but also spark conversation and create a sense of community among employees.
Colour psychology plays an important role in shaping the atmosphere of a space. Experiment with high-contrast colour schemes by incorporating bold pops of colour against neutral backgrounds. This adds visual interest and energy to the environment, keeping employees engaged and motivated throughout the day. Rita highlighted the use of vibrant accent pillows, colourful wall art, or statement furniture pieces, which give your office personality through colour.
Rita acknowledged that in today's environmentally conscious world, sustainability is no longer just a trend; it's a necessity. When selecting office accessories, prioritise materials that are eco-friendly and ethically sourced. Bamboo, recycled plastics, and other sustainable materials not only align with modern interior design principles but also reflect a commitment to reducing your carbon footprint.
According to Rita, accessorising your office is more than just decorating; it's about creating an environment that inspires creativity and increases productivity. By investing in innovative lighting solutions, incorporating elements of nature, showcasing bold artwork, playing with colours, and embracing sustainability, you can transform your workspace into a hub of inspiration.
Define Your Objectives:
Before diving into the fit out process, clearly define your objectives. Understand the goals you want to achieve through the office transformation. Whether it's improving collaboration, increasing workspace efficiency, or enhancing the overall aesthetic – having a clear vision will guide the entire fit out project.
Budget Wisely:
Establishing a realistic budget is crucial for the success of your office fit out. Consider the size of your workspace, the extent of the refurbishment, and any specific customisations you require. Finding a contractor, with transparent fit out cost estimates, can help you stay within budget while delivering quality results.
Government Project by Motif Interiors. Best Office Fitout Company in Dubai
Partner with Experienced Contractors:
Choosing the right office fit out company is paramount. Opt for experienced professionals who understand the intricacies of transforming workspaces. Their expertise in delivering innovative and tailored solutions ensures that your vision aligns seamlessly with the practical aspects of the project.
Focus on Flexibility:
Design your office space with flexibility in mind. As business needs evolve, having a flexible layout allows for easy adaptations. Consider modular furniture and versatile spaces that can be repurposed to accommodate changing requirements. Priorities ergonomic furniture and layouts that promote good posture and reduce the risk of discomfort or injuries.
Optimise Lighting and Ventilation:
Natural light and proper ventilation contribute significantly to a positive work environment. When planning your fit out, maximise the use of natural light and ensure adequate ventilation. We consider these elements in our designs to create spaces that feel open and invigorating.
Integrate Technology:
Modern technology enhances connectivity and efficiency. Consider smart and sustainable solutions for lighting, heating, and communication systems.
Office refurbishments project done for M&M Real Estate by Motif Interiors
Planning an office transformation requires careful planning and consideration. By following these tips, you can ensure that your workspace transformation meets the needs of your employees and aligns with your business objectives. Motif Interiors, with its commitment to innovation and expertise, can help you achieve the ideal office fit out. Transform your workspace into a hub of productivity and creativity with thoughtful planning and the right professionals by your side.
Haus & Haus understood that in a bustling office, maintaining focus can be challenging. To overcome this challenge, we incorporated quiet zones – soundproofed areas or pods where individuals can go to for uninterrupted, concentrated work. These spaces are equipped with comfortable furniture and minimal distractions, providing an ideal setting for tasks that require deep concentration. Whether it's drafting a report, conducting research, or engaging in thoughtful reflection, quiet zones offer a sanctuary for the introverted worker who thrives in a serene environment.
While open collaboration is essential, some discussions require confidentiality and focus. Designing private meeting rooms provides a space for confidential discussions, presentations, or focused group work. The meeting rooms at Haus & Hause are equipped with technology for seamless communication and collaboration while ensuring the privacy needed for sensitive conversations. Catering to the needs of every individual, private meeting rooms offer a balance between open collaboration and focused, private discussions.
For those who thrive on collaboration and teamwork, open-plan areas with flexible seating arrangements work best. These collaborative spaces encourage spontaneous discussions, brainstorming sessions, and camaraderie among team members. We suggested movable furniture and designated project areas, to create an environment that adapts to the ever-changing dynamics of team interactions.
We understand the importance of mental well-being in an office space, which is why we included leisure and relaxation areas. These spaces feature comfortable seating, with elements of nature like plants or natural light, creating a calm atmosphere. The Haus & Haus employees can use these areas to take short breaks, unwind, or engage in activities.
Along with mental well-being, physical well-being too has an impact on productivity. Keeping this in mind we installed dynamic workstations like adjustable desks and ergonomic chairs that cater to every employee, considering factors such as height, comfort, and health. This ensures that each individual can customise their workspace to promote better posture and reduce the risk of physical strain. Colour colour.
Conclusion: Haus & Haus’ vision of embracing diverse working personas in their office design creates a harmonious and productive workspace. This approach not only enhances productivity but also promotes employee satisfaction and well-being, ultimately contributing to the success of the organisation.
Here are five simple tips to design an open-plan office that even introverts will appreciate.
Introverts thrive in quiet spaces where they can focus and recharge. Research from Psychology Today suggests that providing cosy nooks or pods within the open office layout can significantly improve the well-being of introverted employees. This can be achieved by incorporating comfortable seating areas or small meeting pods with carpet flooring or upholstered seating that will absorb unwanted noise. Individuals can retreat to these spaces for private work or a moment of solitude.
SRT Work Hub Project by Motif Interiors . Best Office Fitout Company in Dubai
2. Incorporate Greenery:
According to a study in the Journal of Experimental Psychology: Applied, having plants in an office can boost concentration and overall job satisfaction. We recommend strategically including greenery across the open-plan office. Think about putting potted plants on desks or forming a special green area with natural elements like a moss wall. This not only adds a touch of freshness but also offers a visually soothing environment.
3. Thoughtful Colour Choices:
Color psychology plays a significant role in influencing mood and productivity. Research suggests that certain colors can impact individuals differently. In an open-plan office, it's best to opt for a well-balanced color palette that incorporates soothing tones like blues and greens. These colors can create a serene atmosphere without overwhelming introverts who may be sensitive to visual stimuli. Furthermore, we suggest thinking about using color to distinguish various areas within the office, making it easier for introverts to move around comfortably.
To tackle the distracting noise often present in open-plan offices, it is advised to employ noise reduction solutions. Utilizing acoustic panels, rugs, and curtains can help absorb sound, establishing a quieter environment. Placing these solutions strategically in busy areas or close to workstations can effectively minimise the influence of background noise, enabling everyone to concentrate and work efficiently.
5. Flexible Workstations:
Recognizing the diverse needs of employees, the incorporation of flexible workstations would work best. According to research published in the Journal of Personality and Social Psychology, giving employees the freedom to personalize their workspace can boost job satisfaction. Providing adjustable desks and comfortable seating options, allows individuals to customize their work environment, creating a sense of ownership and comfort. Additionally, think about providing standing desks as an option for those who prefer a break from the traditional sitting.
In conclusion, designing an open-plan office that caters to introverts requires thoughtful consideration. Motif Interiors aims to transform open-plan offices into inclusive spaces to maintain a balance, ensuring that the workplace is not only visually appealing but also supportive of the diverse needs of every employee.
In the fast-paced world of modern workplaces, where productivity and employee well-being are crucial, the importance of office lighting cannot be overstated. Among the many factors influencing the work environment, office lighting plays a big role, and understanding circadian rhythms reveals how it can profoundly impact our daily lives. Creating spaces that blend style and function seamlessly and keeping in mind the importance of using circadian rhythms to optimize office lighting for better well-being and productivity are key aspects of interior design for offices.
What are Circadian Rhythms?
Circadian rhythms are driven by internal biological clocks that operate on a 24-hour, day/night schedule meant to optimize our physiology. These rhythms affect our sleep-wake patterns and even how well our brain works throughout the day.
Understanding the Circadian Blueprint
Research from the National Institute of General Medical Sciences suggests that exposure to natural light during the day helps regulate circadian rhythms and improves the quality of our sleep and productivity. This discovery has big implications for office design, where artificial lighting is commonly used. A key goal of our team at Motif Interiors is to create workspaces that support employee productivity and well-being. This includes aligning office lighting with the natural progression of daylight.
Natural Light Integration
Studies from the Journal of Environmental Psychology show that access to natural light in the workplace led to a 15% increase in productivity among employees. Placing workstations strategically to get the most natural light, reduces the need for artificial lighting during daylight hours. Big windows, skylights, and open floor plans can make the office brighter and more pleasant, enhancing the overall work environment.
Dynamic Office Lighting Solutions
We agree, that not all office spaces can be flooded with natural light. Therefore, implementing dynamic lighting solutions becomes important. Research by the Journal of Clinical Sleep Medicine shows that dynamic lighting systems which replicate the color temperature and brightness of natural light throughout the day, are effective. This not only supports circadian rhythms but also helps fight tiredness and improves alertness among employees.
Blue Light and Productivity
The impact of blue light on circadian rhythms has been a focal point in recent research. Exposure to blue light during the daytime can improve cognitive performance. Using adjustable lighting fixtures that allow for control over colour temperatures, using cool-toned lights in the morning to promote wakefulness and warmer tones in the afternoon to help the transition into the evening.
Balancing Circadian Lighting and Energy Efficiency
Our team at Motif Interiors understands the need to balance circadian lighting needs with energy efficiency. LED lighting, known for being environmentally friendly, can be customized to imitate natural light while also being energy-efficient. Shifting color temperature in indoor lighting systems to more closely match what’s happening outdoors creates an energy-efficient yet circadian-friendly workspace.
As the world of interior design evolves, our team remains committed to creating spaces that reflect our brand's signature style while promoting health and vitality.
The world of real estate is highly competitive, especially in Dubai, and creating the right impression is crucial. Real estate offices serve as a bridge between clients' dreams and reality, making it imperative that they exude professionalism and luxury. In this blog post, we'll explore how office fit-out companies are transforming real estate offices, with a focus on the luxurious makeover of the M&M Real Estate office by Motif Interiors.
The M&M Real Estate office boasts a luxurious ambience that immediately puts clients at ease. It's more than just an office; it's a haven where dreams are discussed and investments are made. The luxurious design sets the standard for client-friendly real estate spaces.
One of the standout features of the M&M Real Estate office transformation is the flooring. A unique combination was used, featuring Modulyss carpet and laminam mega slab tiles imported from Italy. The Modulyss carpet adds a touch of comfort and warmth, while the Italian laminam mega slab tiles contribute an air of sophistication and durability. It's a flooring combination that makes a lasting statement.
The wall cladding and joinery were all completed in-house, using the highest quality materials and expert craftsmanship. Drawing inspiration from the iconic architect Zaha Hadid, known for her innovative and curvaceous designs, such as the Opus building, the office's interior pays homage to her signature style.
The transformation of real estate offices isn't just about aesthetics; it's about elevating the client experience. The M&M Real Estate office offers a space where clients can envision their future homes and investments. It's a place where they feel comfortable, valued, and inspired.
In conclusion, real estate offices are no longer just places where deals are signed; they are an integral part of the client experience. As the industry continues to evolve, these Office Fit-out transformations will set the standard for real estate offices, ensuring that clients not only find their dream properties but also enjoy a memorable journey along the way.
