11-07-2025
Crafting beauty with Arabic soul
In a land where Arabic hospitality is a cherished tradition and every gathering tells a story, Austrian designer Theresa Lunardon-Monteiro is weaving her European sensibility into Omani spaces, transforming them into soulful sanctuaries that celebrate warmth, connection and beauty.
Theresa discovered her passion for design at a young age, fascinated by how a thoughtfully arranged space could shift energy and invite connection. Her travels across Europe, the Middle East and Asia deepened her appreciation for diverse aesthetics, each region adding new layers to her evolving design philosophy.
'Beauty, for me, is not about extravagance - it's about intentionality,' Theresa explains. 'When you design with care, you transform not only the space but also the emotions and experiences of those who gather there. A beautifully set table becomes an invitation to meaningful conversation.'
Contemporary Arabic interior design
Austrian designer Theresa Lunardon-Monteiro
Now based in Muscat, Theresa has found her design philosophy perfectly aligned with the spirit of Arabic hospitality - where welcoming guests with warmth and generosity is woven into daily life. For Omani clients, each table setting begins with deeply understanding the occasion, whether a Majlis gathering, a Ramadhan Iftar, or a family celebration. Arabic coffee cups, ornate trays and other traditional touches anchor each design, reimagined in contemporary ways to balance elegance and practicality.
'A thoughtfully chosen vase can evoke memories, a candle can transform an entire evening,' she says. 'It's these small, intentional details that elevate daily rituals and make guests feel truly valued.'
One of Theresa's standout projects in Oman involved transforming a boat into a serene sanctuary for tourists, infused with authentic Omani accents. Palm leaf placemats, woven baskets, traditional mandoos boxes and handcrafted details all came together to reflect Oman's rich artisanal traditions and deep Arabic storytelling heritage.
A small porcelain cup placed on a plate echoing the Arabian tradition of hospitality.
Austrian designer Theresa Lunardon-Monteiro of Studio Omana
Through Studio Omana, Theresa actively collaborates with local artisans, sourcing and co-creating pieces that infuse each project with authenticity. 'Whenever a project calls for the soul of Oman, I turn to local markets and the skilled hands of craftspeople,' she says. 'Each piece is more than just décor - it carries stories and connects people to the land and its culture.'
For Theresa, an elegant and memorable table setting rests on three pillars: harmony, storytelling and detail. 'A well-set table should mirror the personality of the host and the essence of the occasion,' she explains. 'I always start with a grounding element - such as a handmade tablecloth or beautiful placemats - then layer in textures, colours and natural materials.' Thoughtful accents like personalised place cards, seasonal ingredients and family heirlooms add layers of meaning and warmth.
Traditional table décor
Designer Theresa Lunardon-Monteiro of Studio Omana showcases her work
Theresa has observed a renewed pride in regional craftsmanship and a growing appetite for design that prioritises authenticity and sustainability. 'People are moving away from mass-produced items and are seeking décor with soul and a story,' she notes.
Looking ahead, Studio Omana aims to preserve its intimate, boutique approach while expanding its reach throughout the Middle East and beyond. 'Ultimately, Studio Omana is about much more than objects; it's about crafting moments of connection, beauty and deep cultural resonance,' Theresa says.
Her journey began with a simple desire: to shape beauty with her hands and heart and offer it as a gift. 'I've always believed that beauty, when created with intention, has the power to connect us - to evoke memory, soften moment, and bring warmth into everyday life,' she reflects.
