Marina Light Residential Space by May Jbara Receives the Bronze A' Design Award in Interior Space and Exhibition Design

The Work

Project

Marina Light Residential Space

Function

Residential Space

Category

Interior Space and Exhibition Design

Discipline

Spatial Design

Industry

Architecture and Packaging & Retail

Colors

Light Gray, Lavender, Silver, Rosy Brown and Dark Gray

Images

5

Client

May Jbara Design Studio

The Recognition

Laureate

May Jbara

Country

Lebanon

Recognition

Bronze A' Design Award

Edition

2025 - 2026

Design ID

#179366

Design Details

Unique Properties

Marina Light is a contemporary residential interior project that redefines luxury living through a soft architectural language, fluid spatial transitions, and refined material expression. Designed as a highly personalized residence, the project prioritizes natural light, openness, and psychological comfort while maintaining a clear and cohesive spatial identity. The interior is organized through a sequence of interconnected spaces that promote visual continuity and effortless circulation. Open-plan areas are balanced with moments of intimacy, allowing the design to respond flexibly to daily living while maintaining a calm and harmonious atmosphere.

Inspiration

Daylight was the primary inspiration for the project, shaping the conceptual foundation of openness, clarity, and a fresh, breathable atmosphere. The design originates from an observation of how natural light moves through Beirut’s coastal environment, shifting throughout the day and softening the relationship between interior space and the surrounding urban context. This dynamic quality of light informed a spatial narrative that emphasizes fluidity, calm, and visual continuity. Philosophically, the project explores the balance between movement and stillness in contemporary living.

Research

The design research for Marina Light followed a qualitative, human-centered approach focused on understanding lifestyle, comfort, and environmental performance within a high-rise residential context. The research began with in-depth communication sessions with the clients to identify daily routines, spatial preferences, reading habits, social activities, and expectations for privacy and relaxation. These discussions formed the foundation for all design decisions, ensuring alignment between spatial organization and real-life use. Lighting and daylight studies were conducted to evaluate sun orientation, light penetration, and glare control throughout the day.

Challenge

The primary creative and research challenge of the project was the complete transformation of an existing residential apartment that suffered from an inefficient layout, poor spatial hierarchy, and limited environmental performance. The original design lacked coherence, restricted daylight penetration, and failed to support the client’s lifestyle, making a full A–Z redesign essential. One of the most significant challenges was reconfiguring the spatial organization while respecting structural limitations inherent to a high-rise building. This required extensive planning to balance openness with functional zoning, ensuring fluid circulation without compromising privacy.

Realization and Technology

The project was realized through a comprehensive design and production process that integrated material research, psychological interior studies, and advanced fabrication techniques. Early stages focused on detailed material and color studies aimed at enhancing relaxation, visual comfort, and emotional well-being. Neutral tones, natural textures, and low-contrast finishes were selected based on their psychological impact and ability to create a calm, restorative environment. Daylight simulations and spatial studies informed layout decisions, ensuring optimal light distribution and reducing reliance on artificial lighting.

Operation and Interaction

he residential space is designed as an intuitive and fluid living environment where daily activities unfold naturally through carefully considered movement and spatial relationships. Circulation is organized to allow effortless transitions between living, dining, and private zones, ensuring that the user experiences continuity rather than separation. Open connections between spaces encourage flexibility, while subtle boundaries preserve comfort and privacy when needed. A key element supporting interaction is the introduction of a double-sided bench positioned to frame panoramic views.

Project Duration and Location

The project started in February 2025 and finished in September 2025 in Beirut downtown at the Marina tower

Specifications

The project consists of a fully renovated residential apartment with a total interior area of approximately 350 square meters, redesigned entirely from shell condition following the removal of an outdated and inefficient previous layout. The renovation encompassed all architectural, technical, and interior components, resulting in a complete spatial transformation aligned with contemporary living standards and the client’s lifestyle requirements. The original plan was reconfigured to establish a clear spatial hierarchy and a 360-degree design concept that enhances circulation, visual continuity, and functional efficiency.

Keywords

Day light driven design,Human centered design, Emotional comfort,Calm living,Luxury living, personalized home, bespoke residence