Pallavi Dean is one of the UAE’s most promising interior designers. As an Associate with Godwin Austen Johnson in Dubai, she’s working on a range of high profile commercial and hospitality projects across the region. Her work was recognised in 2010 when she won the CID Middle East Young Interior Designer of the Year Award.
Pallavi was born and raised in Dubai, gaining her BA in architecture at the American University of Sharjah. She spent two years living and working in London with a leading UK firm, adding international experience to her strong Middle East background. Pallavi is an active member of the UAE design community, writing for industry publications, organizing events and mentoring students.

Pallavi Dean offers some words of wisdom for aspiring young designers.If you are fresh off the boat here are a few simple tips to make sure you hit the ground running.

As any designer will tell you, materials and finishes are just as important as the design concept. But sourcing them can be tricky even for seasoned professionals – use trade shows like Index and Design Days to see some of the products first hand and build a relationship with the suppliers. Fraternise with like-minded creative people; the Pavilion Downtown and MAKE business hub are both excellent venues that bring together designers to participate in workshops, art events and discussions.

Give something back – design schools in the region are always looking for professionals to inspire the next generation of creatives. Participate in design reviews, guest lectures and mentoring students as a part of your professional development. Last but not least, the UAE has a very unique culture and climate. Understanding the local traditions and climate will help you create a better synergy between brief and context. Majlis settings, prayers rooms, courtyards, high temperature and humidity are all particular to this region and can have a huge impact on design.