The Markup #18

On Our Radar

Author

Alan George
July 28, 2026

🎙️Hello aFormers!🎙️

Although summer has brought a quieter rhythm to the UAE, the design industry is far from standing still. Across the region, conversations are shifting from delivery to direction, as practices, developers, and creatives use this time to sharpen strategies, develop new ideas, and build momentum for a dynamic Q3. While many are taking a well-deserved break, it's also a season of preparation, one where the foundations for the months ahead are already being laid.

This month's edition captures that sense of quiet ambition, highlighting the people, projects, and innovations that will define the next chapter of the year. Read along!

— The Markup Team

Somya Angolkar, Co-Founder and Partner at IDA Interior Design Associates, brings two decades of design expertise to crafting refined, experience-driven spaces across hospitality, residential, and commercial sectors.

Highlighting Parthasarathy Sridhar, Director for Growth, Strategic Accounts, Projects & Procurement, and Kevin Mashford, CEO of Verve Design, driving project excellence through strategic leadership, operational precision, and delivering quality outcomes.

DesertBoard’s PSB® (Palm Strand Board) transforms sustainable construction through an innovative engineered panel made from upcycled date palm fronds, combining regional resources, advanced manufacturing, and high-performance material technology.

Designed for interiors, furniture, flooring, prefabrication, and architectural applications, PSB® offers a tree-free alternative to traditional wood-based boards while supporting circular design and reducing agricultural waste. With DesertBoard, designers and builders can create responsible, durable, and locally inspired spaces through a material that connects sustainability, performance, and the natural heritage of the region.

Click here to connect with the team!

// Sharjah welcomes 32 creative voices as its 3rd Architecture Triennial opens this November.

// A geological landscape at Saadiyat, Mecanoo’s Museum.

// Diriyah’s JAX District becomes a canvas for global contemporary art.

// From stone curves to sculpted couture—GaudĂ­ inspires Schiaparelli.

// AlUla’s new star-gazing icon connects Earth, sky, and science.

Need an office playlist? Or do you need to plug-in and disconnect from the studio? We got you! We have put together hours of a an eclectic mix of down-tempo, ethereal & dance music tracks designed in keep you in a state-of-flo! Crafted for those deep design dives & studio vibes!

If this newsletter adds value to you, please share it with like-minded designers.

#StayInspired