Mai Wahdan

Specialized in Furniture Design.

Mai Wahdan

About Mai Wahdan

Mai Wahdan is the founder and interior design director of Luxentti Design House, a multidisciplinary studio specializing in architecture, interior design, landscaping, and custom furniture. Her practice explores the relationship between natural materials, spatial experience, and cultural identity, often incorporating biophilic principles to strengthen the connection between people and place. Through residential, commercial, and product design, she leads projects rooted in material exploration and contextual awareness. In addition to her design work, she participates in sustainability-focused initiatives and advocates for design as a tool for human connection and purposeful living.

  • Winner of the A' Design Award.
  • Specialized in Furniture Design.
  • Original Design.
  • Creative, Diligent and Innovative.
  • All Designs
  • Furniture
Tura Table

Tura Table

Furniture Design

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Interview with Mai Wahdan

Could you please tell us more about your art and design background? What made you become an artist/designer? Have you always wanted to be a designer?
I’ve always been drawn to spaces, materials, and how they make people feel. I studied architecture in 2008, but my true passion has always been interior and furniture design. It’s my way of telling stories — using natural elements to create spaces and objects that connect emotionally and reflect a deeper purpose.
Can you tell us more about your company / design studio?
Luxentti is a multidisciplinary design studio with a strong presence in the Gulf region. We specialize in architecture, interiors, landscaping, and furniture design. Our international team brings diverse perspectives, and we focus on natural materials, timeless elegance, and emotionally grounded spaces.
What is "design" for you?
Design, to me, is how we shape the way people live, feel, and connect. It’s not just about beauty — it’s about creating purpose, emotion, and a sense of belonging through every detail.
What kinds of works do you like designing most?
I’m most drawn to designing spaces and furniture that feel timeless, natural, and emotionally resonant. I love working with raw materials like stone, wood, and metal — pieces that tell a story and connect deeply with the people using them. Whether it’s a serene villa or a sculptural console, I enjoy creating designs that balance function with quiet beauty.
What is your most favorite design, could you please tell more about it?
One of my favorite designs is the Tura Table, inspired by the strength of the pyramids and the beauty of Tura stone. I used fiberglass to replicate the texture while keeping it light and practical. I designed it with love, never expecting it would win the Golden Award — that made it even more special.It blends history with modern living.The contrast between rugged texture and sleek glass creates a bold statement.It’s a piece that reflects both my roots and my design philosophy.
What is your favorite material / platform / technology?
Material: Stone — timeless, grounding, and full of character. It adds depth and honesty to my work. Platform: Instagram — a space to share stories, connect with a wider audience, and showcase the soul behind each design. Technology: Modeling technology — it helps bring complex forms to life while balancing beauty and function.
When do you feel the most creative?
I feel most creative when I’m surrounded by nature or traveling to new places. The change of scenery, textures, and cultures always spark fresh ideas. Silence, space, and raw materials also help me tune in and create with intention.
Which aspects of a design do you focus more during designing?
I focus most on materials, proportion, and emotional impact. I want every piece to feel balanced, natural, and meaningful — not just visually appealing, but also emotionally resonant and functional in real life.
What kind of emotions do you feel when you design?
When I design, I feel calm, connected, and inspired. There’s a quiet joy in shaping something from nothing — especially when it feels honest and purposeful. It’s a mix of focus and emotion, where intuition leads and every detail has meaning.
What kind of emotions do you feel when your designs are realized?
When my designs are realized, I feel a deep sense of fulfillment. It’s emotional to see an idea take physical form and become part of someone’s life. There’s pride, gratitude, and often surprise — especially when others connect with the piece in their own personal way.
What makes a design successful?
A successful design balances beauty, function, and emotion. It feels natural in its environment, serves its purpose well, and resonates with people on a deeper level. When it tells a story and leaves a lasting impression — that’s success to me.
When judging a design as good or bad, which aspects do you consider first?
I first look at the balance between form and function. A good design should serve its purpose effortlessly while expressing a clear aesthetic language. Material choice, proportion, and emotional impact also play a key role in how I judge its success.
From your point of view, what are the responsibilities of a designer for society and environment?
A designer has a responsibility to create with intention — to design spaces and objects that improve lives, respect the environment, and reflect cultural values. We shape how people live and interact with the world, so our work should be sustainable, inclusive, and meaningful.
How do you think the "design field" is evolving? What is the future of design?
Design is evolving toward deeper purpose — it’s no longer just about aesthetics. There’s a growing focus on sustainability, emotional wellbeing, and cultural relevance. The future of design lies in creating experiences that are human-centered, environmentally conscious, and driven by meaningful innovation.
Where does the design inspiration for your works come from? How do you feed your creativity? What are your sources of inspirations?
My inspiration comes from nature, history, and the places I travel. I’m drawn to textures, materials, and quiet details that tell a story. I feed my creativity by observing the world around me — from ancient architecture to everyday moments — and by staying curious. I also find inspiration in cultural heritage and raw materials like stone, wood, and metal. They ground my work and connect me to something timeless.
How would you describe your design style? What made you explore more this style and what are the main characteristics of your style? What's your approach to design?
My design style is earthy, luxurious, and emotionally grounded. I’m drawn to natural materials, clean forms, and spaces that feel both refined and rooted. What led me to this style is a deep appreciation for nature, cultural identity, and timeless craftsmanship.The main characteristics of my work are raw textures, balanced proportions, and thoughtful material choices. My approach is always human-centered — I design with feeling, intention, and a strong connection to place.
Where do you live? Do you feel the cultural heritage of your country affects your designs? What are the pros and cons during designing as a result of living in your country?
I live in Egypt, a country rich in history, craftsmanship, and cultural layers. That heritage deeply influences my work — from the use of natural materials like stone to the symbolic storytelling embedded in each design. The richness of local culture is a constant source of inspiration, but it also comes with challenges like limited access to certain modern materials or technologies. Still, these limitations often push me to be more creative and resourceful, blending tradition with innovation in meaningful ways.
What are your suggestions to companies for working with a designer? How can companies select a good designer?
Companies should treat designers as creative partners by clearly communicating their goals while allowing room for creativity. Trust, respect, and involving designers early in the process lead to the best outcomes. When selecting a designer, look beyond the portfolio. Choose someone whose style aligns with your vision, who demonstrates strategic thinking, strong communication skills, and a genuine passion for their craft.
Can you talk a little about your design process?
My design process starts with deep research and understanding of the client’s vision, needs, and lifestyle. I then move to concept development, where creativity meets strategy to form a clear direction. Through mood boards, sketches, and 3D visualization, I refine the design, ensuring every detail balances aesthetics, function, and emotion. Collaboration with the client throughout the journey is key to achieving a truly personalized result.
What are 5 of your favorite design items at home?
1.A custom-designed stone coffee table — designed by myself, reflecting raw beauty and personal expression. 2.A vintage leather armchair — timeless and full of character. 3.Large floor candles placed along the staircase — adding warmth and a soft, inviting glow. 4.Frames showcasing traditional Egyptian Bedouin accessories — bringing culture and authenticity to the space. 5.A large, uniquely designed mirror — a bold and artistic focal point.
Can you describe a day in your life?
My day begins quietly in my dressing room, with a warm cup of coffee that gives me a moment to breathe and reflect. I check on my kids, sharing small moments before the day gets busy, and have breakfast with my husband — a simple routine that grounds me. Then, I move into my creative space, where I sketch, explore ideas, and lose myself in the details that turn passion into design.
Could you please share some pearls of wisdom for young designers? What are your suggestions to young, up and coming designers?
Be patient with yourself. Mastery takes time, don’t rush it. •Stay curious. Inspiration is everywhere — not just in design books. •Design with feeling. Let your work carry meaning, not just aesthetics. •Stay humble, but protect your vision. Listen, learn, but don’t lose yourself. •Keep building. Every project, every sketch, even the mistakes — they all shape your journey.
From your perspective, what would you say are some positives and negatives of being a designer?
Being a designer is a beautiful journey where you get to shape spaces, emotions, and experiences. It offers endless creativity, continuous growth, and the deep satisfaction of turning ideas into something meaningful. But at the same time, it can be emotionally demanding — balancing your vision with client expectations isn’t always easy. There’s a constant pressure to innovate, and sometimes the path feels lonely when few can truly understand the passion behind every detail.

Extended Interview with Mai Wahdan

Could you please tell us about your experience as a designer, artist, architect or creator?
I hold a Bachelor’s degree in Architecture, earned in 2008. My academic foundation, combined with real-world experience and continuous learning, shaped my approach to creating meaningful, balanced spaces.
How did you become a designer?
Design allows me to turn emotions, stories, and visions into real, living spaces. I became a designer because I believe spaces have the power to shape how we feel, live, and connect — and creating that impact has always been my passion.
Which emotions do you feel when designing?
I currently design interior spaces and furniture pieces, focusing on creating meaningful and elegant environments. Moving forward, I wish to design more highly personalized spaces and statement furniture pieces that tell stories, reflect individuality, and connect deeply with nature — blending luxury, authenticity, and sustainability.
What particular aspects of your background shaped you as a designer?
Stay true to your passion, stay patient with your journey, and never stop learning. Focus on building depth, not just chasing trends. Real greatness comes from consistency, authenticity, and designing with heart — not just with skill. Legends are made by those who keep creating, even when no one is watching.
What is your growth path? What are your future plans? What is your dream design project?
A good designer creates beautiful work. A great designer creates work that feels — designs that tell stories, evoke emotions, and leave a lasting impact. It’s not just about how things look, but about how they connect with people on a deeper level.
You are truly successful as a designer, what do you suggest to fellow designers, artists and architects?
Good design shapes how we live, feel, and connect with our surroundings. It’s not just about beauty — it’s about creating spaces and objects that enhance everyday life, bring comfort, inspire emotions, and add lasting value. Investing in good design is investing in a better quality of life, in spaces that nurture well-being and leave a meaningful impression over time.

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