This year, Mandarin Oriental, Doha dedicates the entire month of March to women, inspired by their strength, inner beauty and perseverance every day of the year. As we celebrate this month full of achievements from many inspirational women, we speak with Qatari designer Shaikha Al-Sulaiti, Interior Designer at Msheireb Properties about her journey overseeing the design inception of Mandarin Oriental, Doha.

Mandarin Oriental, Doha is one of Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group’s first hotel’s in the Middle East, marking the blossoming of the Group in the region. Designed by legendary British designers David Collins Studio, Mandarin Oriental, Doha offers the perfect fusion of contemporary style and subtle Qatari elegance. Bringing Qatari heritage to life through subtle details that reflect the local environment, the hotel’s sumptuous design enjoys an elegantly sophisticated feel that chimes perfectly with the rich cultural experience of Msheireb Downtown Doha.

Iconic Qatari elements adorn the hotel in modern, yet subtle design details and have been inspired by the aim of preserving the city’s unique heritage. “The design concept was to find the perfect balance between the oriental identity of Mandarin Oriental and incorporate a unique sense of place with decorative elements inspired by Qatari heritage,” says Shaikha Al-Sulaiti, Interior Designer at Msheireb Properties. “The sense of place created from every pattern gives a feeling of nostalgia and remembrance of old Qatar in the modern setting we have today,” she added.

Decorative elements showcased throughout the hotel include abstract geometric patterns inspired by the shapes of the country’s sand dunes, and designs showcasing handicraft craftmanship. “My personal favourite design which I feel showcases the beauty of this hotel is the handmade straw marquetery by Alexander Lamont,” says Shaikha Al-Sulaiti. “The intricate handicraft reminds of the weaving from traditional baskets which evokes the essence of Doha, therefore creating a work of art with a local narrative. The design is harmonious and intricate to build a story – it’s very refined, simple and classical, but it has modern twists and layers of detail,” she added.

Aspects of atari heritage, culture and history are combined with timeless luxury to create a unique hospitality experience for the city. Inspired by heritage, texture and layering of contemporary design, David Collins Studio has created a truly breath-taking design that gives a feeling of nostalgia and remembrance of old Qatar in the modern setting we have today.