Jeffrey Meawad: Weaving Lebanon’s Soul into Contemporary Design
people • DESIGNERS
Jeffrey Meawad, founder of JM Design & Architecture, blends cultural heritage with contemporary luxury in high-end residential, corporate, and hospitality projects. Guided by a philosophy that balances aesthetics, functionality, and human experience, his work reflects refined craftsmanship and authenticity. Expanding his creative vision, he debuted the Solis Bar Cabinet at We Design Beirut in May 2024.
WEBSITE: jmda.co INSTAGRAM: @jeffreymeawadarchitect
Words: designeers
Ferbuary 2025
DESIGNEERS
How did you discover your passion for interior design? Was there a moment or project that made you look like this would be your life job?
Jeffrey Meawad
From a young age, I was captivated by spaces. I had an innate ability to visit a place once and recall its details with absolute clarity. What intrigued me the most was designing restaurants—where food and ambiance come together to shape an experience. This fascination only deepened as I immersed myself in design through travel, books, and magazines. When the time came to choose a career, it was clear to me that architecture and interior design were not just passions but my true path.
DESIGNEERS
What defines your design philosophy? Is there a particular approach or signature element that makes your work recognizable?
Jeffrey Meawad
My goal is to craft spaces with a distinct identity—ones that feel effortlessly cohesive yet unmistakably mine. There’s a certain satisfaction in knowing that someone can step into a space and recognize my touch, not because of a rigid formula, but because of an underlying sensibility. I approach each project as a new journey, allowing materials, trends, and the client’s vision to shape the outcome. My signature is always present, but it never overpowers; instead, it integrates seamlessly into the essence of the space.
DESIGNEERS
Regarding the Solis Cabinet, what inspired you in the creation of this new piece? Was there an event, place, or object that sparked the creative spark?
Jeffrey Meawad
The Solis Cabinet was conceived for We Design Beirut’s Past Echoes exhibition in Beirut last May. The design was inspired by an exquisite piece of onyx marble, whose natural beauty became the cornerstone of the creation. We envisioned creating a piece that would become a focal point for gatherings, one that fosters connection while celebrating craftsmanship. The cabinet was designed to spark conversation and elevate the social experience.
DESIGNEERS
Are there any cultural or artistic influences that played a role in the creation of the product? Did you draw inspiration from art movements, architecture, fashion, or other disciplines?
Jeffrey Meawad
The Solis Cabinet is a fusion of intricate craftsmanship and modern design, deeply rooted in cultural inspiration. In Lebanon, we share a deep connection to the sea and sun, and many of our summer moments are spent savoring sunset drinks in beautiful coastal settings. We wanted to encapsulate that feeling—the warmth of the sun, the beauty of the surroundings, and the effortless elegance of those moments. It’s a tribute to the natural beauty and cultural traditions that define Lebanese summers.
Solis Cabinet
Solis Cabinet
Solis Cabinet
“My experience allows me to quickly visualize how a product will come together, and while my creativity and imagination drive the design, I rely on years of craftsmanship knowledge to execute with precision. ”
Jeffrey Meawad
DESIGNEERS
Why did you call this piece Solis Cabinet? Can you explain the meaning behind the name?
Jeffrey Meawad
The name “Solis” is derived from the Latin word for “sun,” which ties in beautifully with the onyx marble’s sunset-inspired hues. As the cabinet also serves as a bar, it felt fitting to associate it with sunset, a time when people tend to enjoy a drink and relax. The name reflects both the material and the experience it’s meant to enhance.
DESIGNEERS
What is the message or emotion you wish to convey with Solis Cabinet? What are you meant for people to feel or think when they interact with this object?
Jeffrey Meawad
The Solis Cabinet is designed to intrigue. When closed, it presents a sleek, sculptural form that conceals its true purpose, inviting curiosity. The subtle hints of color that peek through its exterior are meant to draw people in, creating a sense of anticipation and discovery. There’s also a playful element—a hidden drawer with a tray for serving drinks—adding to the experience and making the cabinet as functional as it is beautiful. It’s the perfect blend of aesthetics and utility, designed to surprise and engage.
DESIGNEERS
Is there a key element or detail that you are particularly proud of?
Jeffrey Meawad
The fluted onyx marble is something I take great pride in. The craftsmanship required to maintain the continuous veins throughout the piece was incredibly intricate. Seeing people appreciate the precision and artistry that went into its creation makes me proud of both the design and the skill of the artisans who helped execute it to perfection.
DESIGNEERS
How much space do you leave for intuition and how much for rational planning when working on a new product? Is your process more impulsive or methodical?
Jeffrey Meawad
My process leans toward the intuitive, though it’s grounded in practical experience. My experience allows me to quickly visualize how a product will come together, and while my creativity and imagination drive the design, I rely on years of craftsmanship knowledge to execute it with precision. It’s a balance of imagination and method, ensuring that the final product feels both inspired and well-executed.
DESIGNEERS
What is your favorite design hotel in the world?
Jeffrey Meawad
My favorite would have to be The Edition hotels, particularly Edition Miami. The design is the perfect balance between modern sophistication and relaxed, beachy elegance. Materials like light wood, white marble, and brass create a luxurious yet laid-back atmosphere. What sets it apart, in my opinion, is how seamlessly they integrate the natural beauty of the location into the design; huge windows, expansive open spaces, and strategic lighting blur the lines between indoors and outdoors. It’s a perfect example of how a hotel can feel like both an urban sanctuary and a home away from home.
DESIGNEERS
Who is your design hero?
Jeffrey Meawad
Tadao Ando is one of my favorite architects. His mastery of light, space, and materiality is truly inspiring. He has an incredible ability to create dialogue between architecture and nature, using concrete in ways that feel almost poetic. The way he plays with natural light and shadow transforms even the simplest forms into deeply emotional and immersive experiences.
DESIGNEERS
What advice would you give someone working with a designer for the first time?
Jeffrey Meawad
Trust the process, and trust your designer. Start by clearly defining what you want to achieve, your lifestyle needs, and any key preferences, but then step back and allow the designer to do their work. Avoid seeking too many outside opinions, as they can cloud your judgement and slow down the project. The best results come from a strong, confident collaboration between the client and the designer.
