ELE Interior Design Dubai: Leali Ezzat’s Award-Winning Studio
people • designers
ELE Interior Design is an award-winning studio that began as a one-woman startup and has since grown into a dynamic team of diverse, multicultural talents. United by a shared passion for detail, craftsmanship, and materiality, the team excels at bringing projects to life with creativity and precision.
Led by Leali Ezzat, the collective infuses every project with a wealth of experience and unique perspectives. Leali’s deep expertise, shaped by years of designing and managing high-end residential projects in the Middle East, brings a passionate and thoughtful approach to each interior space they create.
WEBSITE: eleinterior.com INSTAGRAM: @eleinterior
Words: designeers
october 2023
designeers
What inspired you to start ELE Interior in 2017, and how did your previous experience shape your vision for the firm?
leali ezzat
In 2017, I had the opportunity to work on my very first project, and it was a transformative experience. The entire process flowed seamlessly, from conceptualization to the final result, and the client was beyond thrilled. The joy of seeing their satisfaction left a profound impact on me. It was in that moment that I realized the true power of design—creating spaces that connect on a deeply personal level. I wanted to build a company that went beyond aesthetics, something with soul and heart. That’s when the vision for ELE Interior was born. I wanted to craft spaces that are not just luxurious, but also emotionally resonant, places where clients can feel a true connection.
designeers
Tell us about your background and how growing up in Valencia, and experiencing Spanish art, architecture, and culture, has influenced your design approach.
leali ezzat
I had the privilege of studying at Barreira Arte + Diseño, a private university in Valencia, where I spent four years immersed in both theory and practice. What I loved most was how we engaged with real-life projects, always rooted in Spanish culture and the city’s architectural richness. Growing up in Valencia, I was constantly surrounded by art and architecture, from the modern lines of Santiago Calatrava’s works to the historic charm of the city’s old quarters. These experiences gave me an appreciation for blending tradition with innovation. They deeply shaped my design sensibility, pushing me to infuse every project with a narrative that respects the past while embracing the future.
designeers
How do you collaborate with your clients to bring their vision to life, ensuring the spaces you create are not only visually stunning but also aligned with their lifestyle and personality?
leali ezzat
Our process is highly collaborative, flexible, and open to constant communication. We make it a priority to truly understand each client’s lifestyle, cultural background, and daily routines. By doing this, we can tailor every element of the design to reflect not only their personal tastes but also their practical needs. Our team is incredibly creative and brings extensive experience working within the UAE market. This fusion of local understanding with a global design perspective allows us to craft spaces that are both visually compelling and highly functional, creating a perfect balance between beauty and livability.
designeers
Is there a signature style or detail that’s consistent in all your projects?
leali ezzat
While our projects often lean towards contemporary design, I’ve found myself increasingly drawn to a more eclectic approach. I love merging different styles within a single space to create something unique and unexpected. It allows us to be bold and take risks, layering modern elements with classic touches, or introducing a surprise detail that challenges the norm. That said, each project is ultimately a reflection of the client, so while there might be a consistent thread in terms of quality and attention to detail, we always aim to create something tailored to the individual.
“I love merging different styles within a single space to create something unique and unexpected. It allows us to be bold and take risks, layering modern elements with classic touches, or introducing a surprise detail that challenges the norm.”
leali ezzat
designeers
What has been your favorite project to date, and why?
leali ezzat
Piedra Villa in Mohammed Bin Rashid City in Dubai has been a standout project for me. It was a full renovation, and the experience was liberating because the client completely trusted our vision and approach. They embraced our style and gave us the freedom to create without constraints. This trust allowed us to push boundaries and experiment, resulting in a space that was not only visually striking but also incredibly harmonious. It’s a perfect example of what can happen when a client-designer relationship is built on mutual respect and shared enthusiasm.
designeers
What’s one thing you wish people knew about the work of an interior designer?
leali ezzat
I wish people understood the immense dedication that goes into every project. It’s not just about picking furniture or colors; it’s about patience, problem-solving, and managing countless details. Interior designers are also not contractors or architects, though we often work closely with them. We’re responsible for shaping the aesthetic, functional, and emotional qualities of a space, which requires a deep understanding of both the technical and creative sides of design.
designeers
What’s your favorite material to work with in your designs?
leali ezzat
I have a deep love for natural stone. It brings a certain elegance and timelessness to any space. When paired with plain walls and thoughtful lighting, even a single piece of beautiful stone can transform an entire room. It’s all about creating balance—letting one element speak louder while everything else plays a supporting role.
designeers
Who is your design hero?
leali ezzat
Shea McGee. Her ability to blend modern with classic, and create spaces that feel fresh yet lived-in, is something I admire deeply. Her work has such a warm and approachable style while still maintaining elegance.
designeers
Penthouse or townhouse, and why?
leali ezzat
I’m inclined towards penthouses—there’s something magical about having breathtaking views that instantly elevate the atmosphere of a home. But of course, it depends on the client. A townhouse might be more suited for a family, offering a different kind of charm with outdoor spaces and a more grounded feel. Ultimately, it’s about what aligns best with the client's lifestyle.
designeers
Favorite hotel in the world?
leali ezzat
Giraffe Manor in Nairobi, Kenya. It’s such an extraordinary place, where nature and luxury blend in the most unexpected way. The experience of interacting with giraffes while staying in a stunning setting—it’s truly one of a kind.
designeers
What’s on your coffee table right now?
leali ezzat
I have a round tray filled with design books, a candle, and a small glass jar of fresh flowers around every day. It’s so simple but always adds a touch of warmth to the space, something I always try to do in my designs as well.
