Isabel Mayfair Abu Dhabi marks a new chapter for the internationally recognised Isabel brand, bringing its distinctive sense of glamour and theatrical hospitality to the UAE. Designed by Dubai-based DBM Studio under the creative direction of Mahsa Gholizadeh, the project takes a deliberately interpretive approach, translating the character of the original Mayfair destination into a new Abu Dhabi context rather than simply replicating it.
Located within The Galleria on Al Maryah Island, the interior is conceived as an immersive hospitality experience where architecture, art, materiality and atmosphere work together. A carefully choreographed sequence leads guests through contrasting spaces, creating moments of intimacy, drama and discovery.
The design is defined by rich and tactile materials including Calacatta Viola marble, polished brass, dark oak and luxurious velvet. Bespoke craftsmanship is central to the concept, with hand-embroidered silk wall panels, three-dimensional embroidered artworks, hand-painted wallpapers and sculptural floral installations developed specifically for the project.
At the heart of the restaurant, a dramatic sculptural bar and brass-and-glass ceiling installation create a strong visual focal point. Lighting further shapes the experience, allowing the character of the interiors to evolve from day into evening.
Rather than treating identity as a fixed visual language, DBM Studio approaches it as something that can be translated through place, material and experience. The result is an interior that retains the sophistication associated with Isabel while establishing its own identity within Abu Dhabi’s contemporary hospitality landscape.
Mahsa Gholizadeh is the Founder and Creative Director of DBM STUDIO (Design by Mahsa), a Dubai-based interior design consultancy established in 2018. The studio works across interior design, F&B design consultancy, FF&E, furniture design, project coordination and related design services.
Gholizadeh’s approach combines strong visual storytelling with functionality and client-focused design. Through DBM Studio, she has developed a portfolio of hospitality and commercial interiors that place emphasis on atmosphere, materiality, craftsmanship and memorable guest experiences.
For Isabel Mayfair Abu Dhabi, her approach was centred on reinterpretation: taking the established character of the London brand and creating a new spatial expression appropriate to its UAE setting. The studio describes the result as a complete world in which every detail contributes to identity and emotional connection.
Project Details
Project: Isabel Mayfair Abu Dhabi
Category: Hospitality Interior Design / Restaurant
Location: The Galleria, Al Maryah Island, Abu Dhabi, UAE
Interior Designer: Mahsa Gholizadeh
Design Studio: DBM STUDIO (Design by Mahsa)
Hotel Group / Developer: BNF Hospitality
Completion / Opening: 2026
Awards: Shortlisted — Restaurant – Global, The International Hotel & Property Awards 2026
