Men

#INTERVIEW: Meet The Men Shaping the Future of Architectural Craft in the Middle East

At the midpoint of architecture, craftsmanship and artistic expression stands Monumenta, a new ultra-luxury segment by ROKA Doors in collaboration with Euro Systems. And at its heart is ONDE DI GRANO, a sculptural pivot door shaped through over 1,000 hours of artisanal Italian expertise. L’Officiel Arabia speaks with ROKA founder Robert Karasek and Euro Systems' Managing Director Mohamed Fiaz Khazi about this pioneering work and what it means for the future of luxury design in the region.

Tell us about the partnership of Euro Systems and ROKA, what makes it work?

Robert: From our earliest discussions, Euro Systems demonstrated a deep appreciation for Roka’s philosophy. They understood that this was not simply about launching a product line but about cultivating a cultural narrative around craftsmanship. Their knowledge of the Middle East, combined with their respect for design integrity, made them the natural partner for bringing our work into a market that values rarity and artisanal excellence. For me, this collaboration is rooted in trust, shared ambition and a belief that true luxury is something you feel before you see. Together, we are expanding what is possible in the world of architectural expression.

Fiaz: What drew Euro Systems to ROKA was not just their technical mastery but the emotional intelligence behind their craft. Their approach goes beyond engineering to consider meaning, material storytelling and longevity. Our collaboration emerged organically because we share the same values: authenticity, respect for artisanship and an insistence on elevating design rather than mass-producing it. This partnership allows us to introduce a new category of design to the region; one that is quietly powerful, deeply intentional and created to be treasured for generations. We see this as a long-term alliance shaped by mutual respect and a shared vision for excellence.

ONDE DI GRANO has been called a sculptural object rather than a traditional door., what makes it so unique?

Robert: ONDE DI GRANO is the purest expression of what Monumenta stands for. It is not designed as an element of function but as a living sculpture shaped through more than a thousand hours of meticulous craft. Every contour, hammer mark and patina carries the hand of an artisan. Beneath that artistry sits engineering at the highest international standard. For me, it is proof that architecture can hold emotional richness. A door can be a symbol of identity, a piece that sets the rhythm of a space the same way fine art anchors a room.

Fiaz: For the Middle East, ONDE DI GRANO represents a new language of luxury; one that values depth, character and human craftsmanship over spectacle. It reflects a cultural shift we have been witnessing across the region, where design lovers and homeowners are seeking pieces with soul and provenance. This door is an artefact that elevates the entrance into an intentional, curated moment. It shows what happens when engineering excellence meets artistic expression. For Euro Systems, introducing a piece of this calibre signals a new chapter in elevating the design conversation in the region.

Why is now the right time to launch something as niche and nuanced as Monumenta?

Robert: This is the perfect moment because the region is entering a mature design phase where clients are seeking pieces with emotional depth and artistic value. Homes are no longer being designed around pure functionality; they are being curated with the same discernment as private galleries. There is a growing appetite for one-of-one craftsmanship, for pieces that feel soulful and collectible. Monumenta speaks directly to this shift. Launching now allows us to meet a cultural moment where the Middle East is not only consuming global luxury but actively shaping its future through taste, ambition and appreciation for true artistry.

Fiaz: Across the GCC, there is a clear evolution in what luxury represents. Clients are gravitating toward thoughtful, intentional design and are willing to invest in pieces that tell a story. Monumenta embodies that spirit. This moment is perfect because the region is ready for craftsmanship that slows you down, invites reflection and adds emotional value to a space. People want fewer but more meaningful objects, and Monumenta delivers exactly that. Introducing the collection now allows Euro Systems to support this shift and position the Middle East as a leader in refined, craft-driven design.

Fiaz, how does Monumenta align with Euro Systems’ larger creative direction?

Fiaz: Euro Systems has always believed that design should be expressive, functional and emotionally resonant. Monumenta allows us to take that philosophy into the ultra-luxury space by introducing pieces that are sculptural and deeply personal. It moves us from being a solutions provider to becoming a curator of rare, collectible works. This aligns perfectly with our long-term goal of elevating the regional design dialogue and bringing international craftsmanship to discerning clients here. Monumenta strengthens our identity as a brand that supports artistry and pushes boundaries. It also reflects our commitment to partnering with global ateliers that share our passion for meaningful, human-led design.

Looking ahead, what kind of legacy do you see Monumenta creating in the Middle East?

Robert: Monumenta has the potential to inspire a more intimate and intentional relationship with craft. I believe clients will start commissioning doors the way they commission art, focusing on narrative, process and craftsmanship. It can encourage architects to rethink entrances as emotional anchors of a home rather than practical elements. The Middle East is ready for work that carries personality and gravitas, and Monumenta speaks to that desire. In time, I see it contributing to a broader appreciation for collectible design, where architectural elements become canvases for artistic expression and personal identity.

Fiaz: I see Monumenta setting a new benchmark for what luxury means in the region. It reflects a shift toward craftsmanship that is more soulful, more personal and more connected to heritage. I expect clients will increasingly value pieces that feel lived-in, handcrafted and emotionally meaningful. It will also raise the expectations placed on brands, pushing the entire design industry toward greater authenticity and artistry. Monumenta reinforces that the Middle East is not just a market for global luxury but a leading force shaping its future. The early response already shows that this region is embracing a more refined, craft-led aesthetic.

www.monumentadoors.com