Press

A Modern Classic

  • date
    2023 Volume 2, Issue 53
  • publication
    ABODE 2 LUXURY MAGAZINE
  • location
    UNITED KINGDOM
  • author
    L-J Andrews
  • ORIGINAL CONTENT

Award winning designer Anoud Bint Khalid of A Interiors walks L-J Andrew their latest project in Saudi Arabia

A Interiors is an eclectic design firm, specialising in interiors, curated furniture collections and rare art. Based in the lively capital of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, they are known for their tailored and comprehensive design services, catering to a wide-spectrum of tastes, preferences and styles.

‘Traditional with a twist’ epitomises A-interiors latest project, as Anoud Bint Khalid playfully balances modern minimalism with warm earthy textiles to create a farmhouse on the fringe of Riyadh’s desert, that is both sleek without feeling stuffy; welcoming without feeling worn.

The sheer scale of the interior, with a light and airy aspect as the rooms stretch both outwards and upwards, is exaggerated by the use of white on the walls and floors.

This carte blanche approach lets every artfully selected piece stand out in its own glory. Deep reds interwoven throughout the carpets and rugs reflect the rich sands of the Sahara, and draw the eye down, welcoming you to bask in their hand-made intricacy. Woven palm baskets, sourced from across the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and Africa, and colorful hand-crafted goods thoughtfully occupy shelves and walls, paying tribute to the owners’ Arabic roots.

Expansive white couches, fashionably functional, create a sense of peace, as the eyes have moments to rest as they glide across the rooms. Natural materials further ground the farmhouse as deep woods, lush greens and vintage aged furniture create anchors that tip the design from too bright, to just right.

Hanging lantern and basket lighting effortlessly illuminate the living and dining areas, subtly reinforcing the sense of traditionalism, while maintaining its contemporary core.

Crisp, clean white lines juxtapose with dark, rounded circles proving that, when done correctly, opposites can complement rather than contradict. This clever balance is extended to the guest bathrooms, where an exposed natural stone wall stands proudly in its nakedness next to a modern double sink.

Imposing, yet delicately etched ‘mashrabiyas’ – intricately carved woodwork – span the space, from windows to hangings, creating shadows that filter sunlight into mesmerising rays and patterns on the walls. Sadu textile cushions are delicately applied to dining chairs, paying further homage to the farmhouse’s Saudi origins.

Mirroring the melding of contemporary and traditional, interior designer Anoud, teasingly brings the exterior indoors, as palm trees loom to the side of the living space, and cheekily provide shade in the bathroom. Inspired by the house’s location, surrounded in nature amongst mountains, palm trees and farms, Anoud was careful to respect the environment, absorbing it into the design, to create a symbiosis.

This continuous entwining of opposites defines Anoud’s design ethos, and the farmhouse is a testament to her distinctive style; constantly seeking to redefine the old to make it something new, while still enduring the test of time.