Interview with Lina Ali Alaidaroos

I chose to become a designer because I have always been interested in art, and I believe art and design intersect in many meaningful ways. Over time, design has taken me to new levels of experience, and I have discovered that I truly find myself in this field. It’s a path I chose willingly and passionately.

I have designed hotels inspired by Saudi culture, and I am eager to continue pursuing this field. I want to create spaces that celebrate and incorporate our cultural heritage in meaningful and innovative ways.

A really good design is one that effectively balances aesthetics, functionality, and meaning. It should serve its purpose while also creating an emotional connection with the user. I evaluate good design by how well it addresses the needs of its users, respects its context, and leaves a lasting, positive impact. Ultimately, a good design tells a story and enhances the experience of those who interact with it.

For me, design is more than just aesthetics; it is a storytelling process that connects people to their history, environment, and emotions. It’s about creating meaningful experiences through thoughtful materials, layered narratives, and authentic connections. Design has the power to preserve culture, evoke memory, and foster a sense of belonging transforming spaces into stories that leave a lasting impact.

When I start a new design project, I first assume the role of a design thinker and researcher. I gather inspiration from books, stories, and cultural references, allowing the narrative to influence the concept. I then begin sketching and experimenting with ideas, understanding that failure is part of the process. Through exploration and refinement, the process naturally guides me toward a good and meaningful design. This approach helps ensure that the final outcome is thoughtful, inspired, and well-grounded.

I am passionate about designs that honor history while embracing contemporary storytelling, allowing spaces to become authentic reflections of their cultural and emotional significance.

I wouldn’t say I am committed to a particular style, as for me, design is about how you feel inside a space—the details, the light, the smell, and the textures. I believe that buildings can tell narratives, and that creates a full, immersive design experience. Recently, I’ve been reading about postmodernism and how it challenges modernism by returning to history and emphasizing human-centric design. This approach resonates with me because I believe that good design should evoke emotion, tell stories, and prioritize the human experience.

My favorite materials are natural, earth-based materials such as clay and rammed earth. During my master's studies at the Royal College of Art, I conducted experiments with these materials to explore their potential in design. I love how they carry rich textures, earthy scents, and a sense of authenticity. I believe these materials have the power to evoke layered stories and create spaces that connect deeply with their environment and history, allowing occupants to experience a sense of warmth, texture, and tradition.

I feel the most creative when I am immersed in books. Reading transports me to different worlds and experiences, which in turn fuels my imagination and inspires new ideas in my design work. Books open up new perspectives and narratives that enrich my approach to creating meaningful spaces.

A successful design is one that effectively communicates its intended purpose and resonates emotionally with its users. It should balance aesthetics, functionality, and context, creating a seamless experience that feels authentic and meaningful. Ultimately, a successful design enhances the well-being of its occupants, tells a compelling story, and stands the test of time by maintaining its relevance and integrity.

My sources of inspiration come from a variety of places. Books are a significant influence, as they open new worlds and ideas. Travel also plays a vital role—visiting museums, exploring historical architecture, and experiencing different cultures help me see design from diverse perspectives. Additionally, I believe in continuous learning; I keep feeding my creativity through courses and new experiences, always seeking to expand my understanding and approach. These sources collectively inspire me to create meaningful and layered designs.

My design style is rooted in storytelling, history, and authenticity. Influenced by my time at the Royal College of Art and works like Hassan Fathy’s, I believe design should create layered, meaningful experiences that connect people to their environment. My approach emphasizes research, materials, and narratives over superficial aesthetics. Moving forward, I am committed to preserving historic buildings in Saudi Arabia and creating designs that foster genuine, purposeful connections, blending tradition with contemporary stories.

My future plans center around continuing to explore and develop designs that tell meaningful stories and preserve cultural heritage. I aim to deepen my research, especially in historic preservation and sustainable design, to create spaces that are authentic and impactful. Additionally, I want to contribute to the architectural discourse in Saudi Arabia by working on projects that blend tradition with modernity. Ultimately, I see myself advancing as both a researcher and designer, dedicated to creating environments that foster genuine connections and leave a lasting legacy.

I have experienced both working independently and as part of a team. However, I believe that working as a team elevates the design process to another level, as each member brings their unique input and perspective, resulting in a more harmonious and well-rounded outcome. Collaborating with a team keeps me inspired and constantly exposed to new ideas, which ultimately enriches the final design.