Lighting has always been more than just a way to brighten a room; it is a design element that sets the tone, creates mood, and brings personality to any space. In the GCC, where architecture and interiors are constantly pushing boundaries, the role of lighting design studios and consultancies in the UAE, KSA, and Qatar has grown into a vital part of shaping how people experience their surroundings.
At the heart of this evolution is Lisa Sicre, founder of Lampshades Dubai. Born in Sweden and raised with a love for design from an early age, Lisa spent decades refining her skills in interiors before noticing a clear gap in the Middle Eastern market: custom-made lampshades. With her keen eye for detail and her ability to blend elegance with functionality, she turned this insight into a thriving design studio. Today, her bespoke creations light up prestigious spaces for brands such as Chanel and Dior boutiques, famous restaurants, and luxury hotels across the region, the latest project, Jumeirah Marsa Al Arab in Dubai.
Lisa’s journey reflects both her Scandinavian roots and her ability to adapt to the vibrant energy of the Middle East. Her work is not only about illumination but also about creating experiences through design.
Today, we are delighted to interview Lisa Sicre and talk about her journey, inspirations, and the artistry of light.
- Your design journey began in Sweden, where light plays such an important role in daily life. How did those early experiences shape the way you think about lighting today?
Growing up in Sweden shaped my relationship with light in a very deep way. You become extremely aware of its presence and its absence. The long dark winter days make light a vital resource, something you seek out and cherish. Summers have endless daylight with a magical quality that changes how you experience space and time.
For me, those contrasts taught me that light is never just functional; it’s emotional. It sets the tone for how we feel in a room, how we connect with our surroundings, and even how we interact with each other.
2. You have spent over two decades in interiors before founding Lampshades Dubai. What inspired you to take the leap and focus specifically on custom lampshades?
I realized that lighting is one of the most powerful tools to shape a space – not just functionally, but emotionally. What truly inspired me to focus on custom lampshades was the unique opportunity to blend artistry, craftsmanship, and personal expression in lighting.
Off-the-shelf lampshades often fall short in meeting a client’s exact vision. With custom lampshades, every detail – from fabric and shape to trim and lining – can be tailored to create a one-of-a-kind piece that enhances both the ambiance and the character of the room.
3. Your work has been commissioned for some of the world’s most recognized luxury brands and hotels. Can you share what it feels like to see your designs become part of such iconic spaces?
What’s most rewarding is witnessing how a custom design becomes seamlessly woven into a space’s identity. It serves as a reminder that thoughtful lighting isn’t just about aesthetics; it’s about creating experiences and memories within those celebrated environments. Each commission feels like contributing a unique signature to a living story—one that so many people get to encounter and enjoy.
4. Interior lighting design in the UAE and across the Gulf is evolving rapidly. In your view, how does lighting go beyond function to influence the way people feel in a space?
Lighting solutions are increasingly popular, allowing spaces to adapt to natural rhythms and personal preferences. This kind of lighting design creates environments that feel welcoming, comfortable, and dynamic—transforming interiors into experiences rather than just places to occupy. Thoughtful lighting design now acts as a powerful emotional and sensory tool that deeply connects with people beyond mere functionality.
5. You bring together Scandinavian simplicity and Middle Eastern luxury in your work. How do you approach finding the right balance between these two very different design aesthetics?
My goal is to blend these elements thoughtfully – using Scandinavian principles to keep the space airy and functional, while layering in Middle Eastern luxurious touches as accent pieces, textiles, or lighting details that celebrate heritage and craftsmanship. Its about creating a dialogue between the two, with timeless and unique pieces respectful of tradition yet fresh and inviting.
6. Looking to the future, what excites you most about the direction of custom lighting design in the GCC? Are there any trends or ideas you are eager to explore further?
We consistently follow the latest design trends and regularly introduce fresh, exciting product designs and innovative materials to keep our lighting solutions modern and inspiring. Mixing new trends and regional traditions promises a beautiful blend of innovation, luxury, and human connection, and that excites me tremendously.