2019 Gallery

Sean Connolly at Dubai Opera is sophisticated and sensual, with a maturity that’s also lively and playful. The jury commended the interior’s meticulous detailing and immaculate planning and simply loved everything about it. Each detail has a high level of intelligence and custom elements are beautifully resolved, from terrazzo benches with leather cushions to elegantly understated, and quite often concealed, lighting. Maintaining an architectural integrity in the fit-out’s complex geometry has also been masterfully accomplished.

This design skilfully navigates a large difficult space by creating intimacy in the plan, allowing guests to experience a range of distinct settings. One jury member noted the highly emotive character of the interior conveys a sense of being transported elsewhere, such is the design’s compelling experiential qualities. Add to this the nuance and depth of the material and colour palettes and Sean Connolly at Dubai Opera is a worthy award recipient that sets the bar high for future upmarket hospitality offerings, both nationally and abroad.