May Jbara Design Studio is thrilled to announce that founder and lead designer May Jbara has been honored with the esteemed A’ Design Award in the Interior Space and Exhibition Design category for the contemporary residential project, Marina Light. This recognition celebrates the studio’s commitment to human-centered design, spatial fluidity, and emotional well-being.
Inspired by Beirut’s Coastal Light
Located in the iconic Marina Tower in Downtown Beirut, Marina Light was conceptually driven by the dynamic movement of natural daylight across the city’s coastline. In a fast-paced urban environment, the 350-square-meter apartment was conceived as a sanctuary of stillness. By replacing rigid boundaries with a soft architectural language and open sightlines, the design captures a fresh, breathable atmosphere that shifts beautifully from morning to dusk.
Fluidity and Purposeful Interaction
A core philosophy behind Marina Light is the seamless transition between spaces. We completely reimagined the original shell to establish a 360-degree flow connecting the living, dining, and private zones.
Rather than relying on visual excess, luxury is expressed through precision and comfort. A defining element of this intuitive flow is a custom double-sided bench designed to frame panoramic views of the city and sea. Tailored to the client’s love of reading, it transforms a transitional area into an experiential focal point where light, views, and comfort converge.
Material Restraint and Psychological Comfort
The character of Marina Light is rooted in an understated, warm materiality. Guided by psychological interior studies and daylight simulations, May Jbara curated a restrained palette of low-contrast neutrals and tactile, natural finishes. Custom CNC-fabricated joinery and smart climate integrations ensure that the home performs as beautifully as it looks, maximizing energy efficiency and everyday ease.
Winning the A’ Design Award is a wonderful milestone for the studio. It reinforces our belief that the most successful interiors are those that respond sensitively to their environment and prioritize the emotional experience of the people who live within them.
Explore the full gallery of the Marina Light project in our projects or contact us to discuss your next interior design journey.
