MUSCAT: An Oman-based interior design studio has achieved a significant international milestone, with one of its luxury residential projects being featured in the Summer 2026 print edition of Harper’s Bazaar Interiors - a recognition that its founder believes is not only a personal achievement but also a proud moment for Oman’s growing design industry.
Founded by Latvian designer Kate Kerdi, who has lived and worked in the Sultanate for nearly a decade, Kate Kerdi Interiors has been selected for an extensive five-to-six-page editorial feature showcasing one of its luxury residential projects in Muscat.
According to the studio, this is believed to be the first time an interior design practice based in Oman has been featured in an internationally renowned interior design publication.
Reflecting on the achievement, Kate Kerdi said the recognition extends beyond her own studio.
“Being featured in the Summer 2026 print edition of Harper’s Bazaar Interiors is a meaningful milestone for both me and my studio. It’s an honour to have our work recognised by one of the world’s most respected design publications and to see a project created in Oman receive international recognition,” she said.
“I hope this is just the beginning of bringing Omani interior design to an even wider global audience, and I’m grateful to everyone who has been part of this journey.”
For Kate, Oman has been far more than a place to build a business. She says the country has fundamentally shaped her design philosophy.
“When I moved to Oman nine years ago, I came for work but found balance in return. Oman offers a quieter, more considered environment compared to larger cities, while still providing the opportunity to work on high-end and ambitious projects.”
She added that living in the Sultanate has deepened her appreciation for authenticity and craftsmanship.
“There’s a strong connection here to natural materials, craftsmanship and a more understated expression of luxury that doesn’t rely on excess. Over time, I’ve learned to value restraint, allowing fewer, but better elements to define a space.”
The featured project is a one-bedroom luxury apartment in Sultan Haitham City, Muscat’s flagship urban development. Designed as a fully customised residence from an empty shell, the apartment was envisioned for an internationally minded homeowner who values quality, individuality and timeless design over passing trends.
Kate explained that while her European heritage influenced the project, Oman played an equally important role in shaping its identity.
“The influence is not literal, but it’s present in the materiality, warmth and overall atmosphere. Sandy tones and deep earthy shades echo the richness of Oman’s desert landscape at different times of the day.”
Natural materials - including locally sourced Omani marble, wood and velvet - feature prominently throughout the apartment. Rather than using stone as a dominant architectural element, Kate incorporated it into custom-designed coffee tables, side tables and bespoke furniture, allowing local craftsmanship to become an integral part of the overall design.
“The marble kitchen island best represents my design approach in this project - combining material richness with a bold visual statement while remaining fully integrated into the space.”
She noted that collaborating with local artisans and production teams enabled the studio to create highly customised interiors while supporting regional craftsmanship.
“Working closely with local production teams allowed us to tailor every piece specifically to the design while celebrating the exceptional craftsmanship available here in Oman.”
The apartment combines a living, dining and kitchen area with a spacious bedroom, using natural light, warm neutral tones accented with burgundy and caramel, and carefully selected textures to create what Kate describes as “a refined and contemporary space where neutral simplicity meets bold, expressive details.”
“This project reflects the importance of creating interiors that feel calm, warm and timeless, rather than overly designed.”
The international recognition also highlights the growing maturity of Oman’s creative sector, demonstrating that design talent developed in the Sultanate is increasingly gaining attention on the global stage.
For Kate, the feature represents more than international exposure - it is recognition that contemporary design inspired by Oman’s landscapes, materials and craftsmanship can resonate with audiences worldwide.
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