Pool House in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
At Studio Miaki, we’re excited to reveal our newest interior design project: Pool House, located in the heart of Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.
This project marks an exciting continuation of our journey, as Pool House is the highly anticipated phase two of a larger development we successfully completed last year. What makes this phase particularly special is that it was seamlessly managed remotely by one of our talented designers from our London office. We had the pleasure of sitting down with Lucy Clements, the creative mind behind this innovative project, to gain insights into her design process and the inspiration that brought this vision to life.
Project Inspiration
What was the initial inspiration behind the interior design for Pool House?
The design concept aimed to create a beach-inspired atmosphere that is both relaxed and elegant. Incorporating arches throughout the space was intended to evoke a sense of calm and balance while enhancing the luxurious feeling of spaciousness. The client expressed a desire for a bold colour palette and dynamic patterns to infuse the environment with a playful and distinctive character.
How did Riyadh’s culture and lifestyle influence your design choices?
We aimed for a light colour palette to create a cool and fresh atmosphere, perfect for the hot climate. On the outdoor terrace, we incorporated large olive trees in deep planters, which serve as additional seating areas. These natural elements offer a serene outdoor space to enjoy the evening. The use of lime-washed walls, linen sheers, and boucle fabrics helped introduce rich textures, beautifully balanced by sleek finishes like marble floors, timber tables, and bronze critall doors.
Design Process & Key Elements
What were the key design elements you focused on and how did you bring them to life in the Pool House project?
Curves and arches became central to our design, creating a soothing flow throughout the space. You’ll find these in the arched critall doors, mirrors, and even the curved niches. One standout feature is the entrance floor, where we used Calacatta Viola marble, inlaid as a border offset from the walls. This not only enhances the entrance but gives the entire space a sense of luxury and elegance.
How did you ensure the design balanced both the client’s vision and the practical needs of the space?
The client wanted to maximise seating in the majlis for large family gatherings. One challenge was the angled walls, which disrupted symmetry. By using a variety of sofa sizes, and armchairs, and adding curved chaises and ottomans, we were able to introduce extra seating without overwhelming the space, maintaining an open and inviting atmosphere.
Remote Collaboration & Challenges
What was it like designing and managing this project remotely from London?
Remote design certainly posed its challenges. Being unable to visit the site, I had to rely heavily on communication with the client and architect in Riyadh. Shipping materials from the UK added another layer of complexity, requiring detailed documentation for every item. Despite these obstacles, we were able to create something truly special through close collaboration.
Looking back, what aspect of Pool House are you most proud of?
This project allowed me to push beyond my usual style. It required me to blend bold patterns with a more tonal palette to create an elegant, luxurious space. I particularly enjoyed working on the architectural details, like the entrance floor and critall doors. This project taught me that with the right mindset, anything is possible.
