ara Design

ara Design ara Design International is a leading architectural interior design practice specialising in the global hospitality sector.

Having worked in over 30 countries, ara Design International understands the importance of absorbing the culture, the aesthetics, the values and where applicable, using the materials of those countries we work in. We employ an international community of designers who bring a wealth of experience gained worldwide and subsequently, a dynamic and innovative approach to our projects. Our designers are

trained in all disciplines including CAD and 3D drawings. ara Design International has offices in London, Abu Dhabi and Bali. With our operations in different time zones, our Clients can be assured that there will always be a designer on hand to deal with any enquiries that may arise throughout the course of the design process. ara Design International can provide clients with a full design service including:
- Design concepts
- Space planning
- Design development
- Contract documentation and specification
- FF&E negotiations and specifications
- Site supervision
- Project management

04/09/2026

ara Design conceived a wall finish inspired by the Penjor, the arched bamboo pole raised across Bali during celebration and ceremony. Novacolor brought the design to life into a 3D textural wallcovering used as an accent at guestroom entries.

31/08/2026

For Hotel Indigo Ubud, ara Design collaborated with Bali-based ceramicist Philip Lakeman to develop bespoke ceramic tiles built around geometric form and colour. The designs draw on flowers rooted in Balinese culture, echoed in the radiating form of the Canang Sari. ara shaped the initial concept, then worked with Philip through prototyping to the final handcrafted pieces.

29/08/2026

Hospitality design at this scale requires more than remote coordination. Our China team is embedded in the projects and part of the conversations that keep design intent intact through every stage of delivery.

This visit brought our Bali studio leadership together with the China team for site reviews, client meetings and the kind of direct dialogue that no video call fully replaces.

The living room of the Heritage Suite at The Langham Ningbo occupies the ground floor of a two-storey guestroom, where t...
27/08/2026

The living room of the Heritage Suite at The Langham Ningbo occupies the ground floor of a two-storey guestroom, where the timber ceiling and original staircase set the architectural tone for the entire guest experience across both levels.

Every project at ara Design begins with a single narrative that is then interpreted differently across each space within...
24/08/2026

Every project at ara Design begins with a single narrative that is then interpreted differently across each space within the property.

For Hilton Copenhagen, that narrative was rooted in the city's Viking heritage and the navigational tools and natural materials that defined it. Dimensional layering, translucency and floating details became the design language applied across the Lounge, Restaurant and Executive Lounge, each space a distinct expression of the same origin idea.

The elevation drawings shown here are where that translation begins, establishing proportion, material and atmosphere before visualization takes over.

21/08/2026

We are proud to see Karlyn Cerdena, ara Design's Creative Director in Bali, join the panel discussion on Light as Infrastructure of Space at Enlightened Bali 2026, alongside architects, lighting designers and hoteliers.

The conversation explored how lighting shapes the way guests move through and experience an interior, from atmosphere and material perception to the way different areas within a space are defined and felt.

At Kerry Hotel Pudong, bronze framing, woven inserts and warm timber panels build a composition that draws on the layere...
19/08/2026

At Kerry Hotel Pudong, bronze framing, woven inserts and warm timber panels build a composition that draws on the layered geometry of Chinese lattice, creating depth that shifts with the light and the angle of the viewer.

For MAMAKA by Ovolo, we partnered with Punk Me Tender to integrate his signature butterfly installation into the lobby a...
12/08/2026

For MAMAKA by Ovolo, we partnered with Punk Me Tender to integrate his signature butterfly installation into the lobby and guest lounge. Inspired by the graceful movement of butterflies in flight, the artwork explores themes of transformation, freedom, and personal metamorphosis. Integrated into the interior design, it celebrates Bali's creative spirit while adding a distinctive artistic identity to the space.

The grand lobby at Huating Hotel is designed as a welcoming destination where guests can meet, relax and linger througho...
08/08/2026

The grand lobby at Huating Hotel is designed as a welcoming destination where guests can meet, relax and linger throughout the day.

Working within the existing architecture, we reimagined the arrival experience through a refined material palette, intimate seating settings and lighting that bring warmth and human scale to the expansive atrium. The Spring River feature wall, with its flowing metallic textures, and the sculptural Ode to Time lighting installation together create a strong visual identity, celebrating Chinese artistic traditions through a contemporary design language.

04/08/2026

Inspired by the desert landscape and the stillness of the Dead Sea, Kayma Hotel is conceived as a tranquil retreat where architecture, interiors and nature exist in harmony.

Working alongside Feigin Architects, we developed the interior design to complement the surrounding landscape through a restrained material palette, warm natural textures and spaces designed to evoke a sense of calm and retreat.

We are delighted to see Kayma Hotel now open to guests.

Address

Clare Court, Judd Street
London
WC1H9QW

Opening Hours

Monday 9am - 6pm
Tuesday 9am - 6pm
Wednesday 9am - 6pm
Thursday 9am - 6pm
Friday 9am - 6pm

Telephone

+442072783288

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