Modern dining area with a round table, six yellow chairs, blue rug, large windows with sheer curtains, and a partial room divider next to a living room with a TV.

July 30, 2026

Words: Karine Monié

Photography: Fadhi Muhammed

A High-Rise Waterfront Apartment In Bahrain Bay Epitomizes The Art Of Display

Designed by Gensler, the building housing this 1,937-square-foot apartment in Manama (one of the Four Seasons Private Residences at Bahrain Bay) reflects a modern architectural language defined by clean lines and expansive glazing, resulting in a strong connection to the surrounding sea and city panorama. Inside, architect and interior designer Mohamed Alqari, founder of Qreative Design, introduced artworks, sculptural furniture, and rich woodwork with the intention of creating a warm, comfortable and refined space with a collected, boutique-hotel feel. “One of the biggest challenges was working within the existing architectural shell and finishes of the building while still creating a home with a strong and distinctive identity,” confesses Alqari.

The design direction drew from the colors of the sun and sea, incorporating soft sandy tones, warm neutrals, and shades of turquoise, deep blue, green, and yellow in the different areas. “Rather than relying on obvious coastal references, the project interprets the surroundings through materiality and form,” says Alqari. 

Inspired by the movement and softness of ocean waves, curves became a recurring design language throughout the home, expressed in organic rugs and rounded mirrors. “The overall atmosphere was influenced by modern Mediterranean living, balancing calmness with moments of bold color and artistic character,” says Alqari.

Pieces of furniture and lighting sourced from Italy, France, India, Indonesia, the Netherlands, Portugal, and Morocco, combine with elements custom-made locally in Bahrain, as well as works by both prominent local and international artists from Europe and the United States, creating a dialogue between regional identity and a more global contemporary aesthetic.

“Circulation throughout the apartment was intentionally kept clean and gallery-like, allowing the artwork, sculptural furniture pieces, and curated details to become focal points within the space,” the designer says. “For me, design should feel emotional and inviting. I am drawn to spaces that balance strong contemporary design with character and collectability, and this project reflects that approach.”

Walk Through The Home 

  • Modern dining area with a round table, six yellow chairs, blue rug, large windows with sheer curtains, and a partial room divider next to a living room with a TV.
    Adorned with an Artemest chandelier, the colorful dining room features a Mogg table surrounded by Almaraya chairs, all placed on a bespoke rug by Jaipur Rugs.
  • A man in a black suit stands beside a modern chair and geometric floor lamp in a contemporary room with abstract wall art.
    Architect and interior designer Mohamed Alqari, founder of Qreative Design.
  • Modern kitchen with a marble island, black bar stools, a vase of greenery, and abstract portrait art on a wood-paneled wall.
    Artworks were introduced to infuse the space with character and a sense of personality.
  • Modern living room with a white sofa, glass coffee table, sculptural chair, large wood panel wall, mounted TV, geometric lamp, and gold ceiling light fixture.
    A bespoke sofa, a Weaveknots rug, and a Champalimaud chandelier create an inviting atmosphere in the living room, complemented by a coffee table and side table sourced via 1stdibs. On the wall, the black artwork “Flow” by Martin Berger strikes a powerful contrast with the floor lamp by Mogg.
  • A marble console table with a vase, books, a decorative object, and a candle stands against a white wall with an abstract mirror above and a wooden partition beside it.
    In the entry foyer, a mirror by Ethnik Living adorns a wall finished in Reach Paints, hanging above the Cut & Fold Console by dAM Atelier.
  • Modern bedroom with a green upholstered bed, white bedding, abstract art above the headboard, and large window with sheer curtains.
    A green color palette was chosen for the bedroom to echo the tones of the surrounding environment.

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