Salalah: Interior design transcends mere furniture arrangement and color selection; it is a profound art form that mirrors the essence and cultural identity of a locale, significantly influencing the daily lives of its inhabitants.
This perspective is shared by entrepreneur and engineer Samou bint Amer Tabuk, who views her journey towards realizing her passion for interior design and architecture through a unique lens.
In an interview with Oman News Agency, Engineer Tabuk articulated, “My fervor for design led me to pursue a specialized academic path, aiming to lay a robust foundation for professional and scientific endeavors. This ambition has been a driving force since my academic years, culminating in the establishment of the “Samou Design Studio” project in 2019, which has received funding from the Public Authority for Small and Medium Enterprises.”
The genesis of the project idea was rooted in the burgeoning demand for innovative and sustainable design solutions that cater to the diverse needs of both individuals and institutions within the Sultanate of Oman, as elucidated by Samou. Her vision is to effect positive change within the field and contribute to the evolution of the architectural landscape.
She further elaborated, “The project commenced with several small-scale initiatives to gain practical experience and broaden our clientele. Since inception, the project has evolved through distinct phases, guided by a clear vision and objectives. This included the formation of an integrated team of seasoned designers and architects, culminating in notable achievements such as commercial projects on a large scale and the execution of residential designs and garden coordination.”
Samou highlighted that since its inception, the project has experienced significant growth across various sectors, with an annual customer base expansion of 30 percent over the last two years. The project has also garnered positive feedback, underscoring its success and the growing demand for its services.
Regarding the support received, she noted, “The project has been met with considerable backing from relevant entities, with various facilities provided to foster its growth. This support has been instrumental in enhancing the business environment, thereby propelling the project towards its objectives.”
She expressed her aspirations for the future, aiming to broaden the project's service offerings to include all GCC countries, deliver innovative design solutions at a regional scale, introduce sustainable technologies in projects, and foster strategic collaborations with leading entities in the industry.
Challenges serve as catalysts for projects to strive for greater achievements, she stated, noting that the primary obstacle encountered by the project was during the Covid-19 pandemic. This period saw numerous projects disrupted and delayed due to global conditions. She further elaborated: "Persistence allowed me to adapt to the circumstances, enabling remote work and effective communication with clients."
She holds the conviction that the disciplines of interior design and architecture offer extensive avenues for creativity and professional growth, particularly for the youth of Oman. She advocates for the development of skills, taking advantage of the plethora of educational and training opportunities available, alongside fostering innovation and creative thought, as key strategies for success in these fields.
