Nar: A Fiery Fusion of Tradition and Innovation

Brand Creative's Award-Winning Restaurant Design Marries Gulf Heritage with Edgy Style

Brand Creative's design for Nar, a shisha lounge and restaurant in Dubai, is a masterful blend of traditional Gulf elements and contemporary design. The project, which won the Golden A' Interior Space, Retail and Exhibition Design Award in 2015, is a testament to the power of innovative design in creating unique, engaging spaces.

The name Nar, which means fire, hot, and sexy, provided the perfect inspiration for the design. Elements of fire, smoke, and heat are evident throughout the interiors, complemented by nods to the region's pop culture and Bedouin heritage. The use of materials also reflects an industrial aesthetic, adding an edgy touch to the overall design.

What sets Nar apart is its successful fusion of tradition and modernity. The custom graffiti art, Arabic-inspired screens, geometric ceiling panels, and a sculptural bar create an artistic impression, while the shisha pipe-shaped column pays homage to the ancient pastime. The design also focuses on creating intimate spaces conducive to conversations, enhancing the overall dining and shisha experience.

The realization of the design involved the use of the latest technology and sustainable materials. The fire pits, for instance, use ethanol-based biofuel, a smoke-free, organic, and renewable green source of energy. The fabrics used throughout the project have LEED accreditation and feature a low flammability rating. The intricate Islamic pattern on the ceiling, created from hundreds of individual CNC cut pieces, adds a layer of sophistication to the design.

The design process involved extensive research, including interviewing regular shisha patrons and conducting site visits to popular venues in the U.A.E., Turkey, Morocco, and other Gulf countries. The insights gathered played a crucial role in shaping the design, from the comfort of the seating to the quality of the shisha and external design factors such as music and food.

Despite the challenges faced, such as creating the swirling smoke sculpture at the bar and coordinating the intricate ceiling design with AC diffusers and specialty lighting, the team at Brand Creative successfully brought their vision to life. The result is a space that embodies the spirit of the Gulf region while offering a unique, edgy style that appeals to both locals and expats.

In conclusion, Nar is a shining example of how innovative design can transform a space, creating a unique experience that respects tradition while embracing modernity. It serves as an inspiration for designers and architects worldwide, demonstrating the power of design in shaping our experiences and interactions.


Project Details and Credits

Project Designers: Brand Creative
Image Credits: Image #1: Michael Kruger Image #2: Michael Kruger Image #3: Michael Kruger Image #4: Michael Kruger Image #5: Michael Kruger
Project Team Members: Carla Conte Mohammed El Hijazi Alex John Hicham El Yagoubi
Project Name: Nar
Project Client: Brand Creative


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