Inside the Vision of Mondrian Al Marjan Island Beach Residences

A new chapter in design-led living is emerging on the shores of Ras Al Khaimah. At the heart of this transformation stands Mondrian Al Marjan Island Beach Residences, a groundbreaking collaboration between ELEVATE, Ennismore and Bergman Design House. More than a collection of residences, this development is a manifesto on what it means to live well. With architecture by Pininfarina, hospitality by Ennismore and interiors by Bergman Design House under the creative direction of Marie Soliman, the project is in expert hands. In an exclusive interview with L’Officiel Arabia, Zeeshaan Shah, Founder of ELEVATE, and designer Marie Soliman, Founder and Creative Director of Bergman Design House, share the vision behind the project,. 

L’Officiel Arabia: Zeeshaan, what inspired you to launch ELEVATE and get on the trend of branded residences?

Zeeshaan Shah: The fundamental purpose of great real estate is to improve the way people live. That’s always my starting point. I begin by understanding the land and the people it will serve: studying the location, envisioning the lifestyle of future residents and figuring out how we can genuinely add value to their lives.

The process always begins with land selection because it’s the one God-given element that cannot be changed. Everything else we do, be it the design, the experience, or the community, these elements enhance that natural gift.

One of my favourite quotes is by Sir Isaac Newton: “If I have seen further, it is by standing on the shoulders of giants.” That’s my business philosophy. Surround yourself with the best in the world and build on their brilliance. That’s why we partnered with Ennismore and Bergman Design House, and together, we share a commitment to timeless design, innovation, and creating spaces that move people.

L’Officiel Arabia: How does Mondrian Al Marjan Island reflect ELEVATE’s vision for the future of luxury living?

Zeeshaan Shah: Our mission is to curate environments where life flows effortlessly, purposefully, and beautifully. Mondrian Al Marjan Island Beach Residences brings that vision to life… it’s where global hospitality, world-class design and emotional connection meet.

From the art-gallery-inspired lobby to wellness sanctuaries overlooking the sea, every moment is designed to make life simpler, calmer and more fulfilling. We believe true success isn’t measured by what you own, it’s measured by how you live. And this development embodies that belief completely.

L’Officiel Arabia: What sets this project apart from other luxury developments in the UAE?

Zeeshaan Shah: Firstly, this is not just a collection of homes; but a landmark of lifestyle. In a world where many projects focus on finishes, we have focused on feeling. Every single detail, every line, is designed to create an emotion. This is a place where art, wellness, design and gastronomy intertwine. Beyond its architecture, the project spans over 60,000 sq. ft. of curated amenities: from an adults-only Sky Infinity Pool and panoramic Mondrian Sky Clubhouse to immersive beachfront experiences, yoga and pilates studios, a kids’ club and world-class dining.

L’Officiel Arabia: Ras Al Khaimah is definitely taking its place on the map, tell us how this project aligns with the emirate’s evolution?

Zeeshaan Shah: Ras Al Khaimah is in the middle of an incredible evolution, from a lesser known emirate to one of the world’s most exciting lifestyle and entertainment destinations. Its natural beauty, combined with growing investment and global attention, is reshaping what luxury means in the region. Mondrian Al Marjan Island Beach Residences is both a reflection and a catalyst of that change. We saw the opportunity early and set out to create something that embodies where RAK is heading: design-led, experience-driven, and wellness-focused. Besides contributing to RAK’s growth, it’s helping define the emirate’s luxury identity.

L’Officiel Arabia: Who is the ideal resident for this development?

Zeeshaan Shah: This project is for the modern global citizen, people who value wellness, culture and connection as much as aesthetics and comfort. Mondrian Al Marjan Island Beach Residences is for those who want more than a home, they want a way of life and lifestyle for themselves and their families.

L’Officiel Arabia: Marie, how does your approach at Bergman Design House shape the lifestyle experience here?

Marie Soliman: Our philosophy is about creating spaces that function as both sanctuary and social stage. In Mondrian Al Marjan Beach Residences, this comes to life beautifully: the lobby acts as a cultural gallery, while the Sky Lounge and Infinity Pool become places for connection and celebration. Even the wellness areas are seamlessly integrated into daily living, so well-being isn’t an afterthought but a natural rhythm of the space.

L’Officiel Arabia: Tell us how the island’s natural setting influenced your design.

Marie Soliman: The natural beauty of Al Marjan was our constant muse. We wanted residents to feel in dialogue with the sea, through luminous, ocean-inspired tones, organic textures and sculptural wood finishes that echo the rhythm of the tides. The interiors are fluid, allowing residents to feel that constant harmony between home and horizon.

L’Officiel Arabia: Wellness is a core value in this project. How is it embedded in the interiors?

Marie Soliman: Wellness is indeed embedded in every design choice; natural light enhances circadian rhythm, fluid indoor-outdoor transitions encourage engagement with nature, and communal spaces are designed to nurture social connection and emotional well-being. Every element, from the materials to the spatial flow, supports physical and mental restoration.

L’Officiel Arabia: As a designer, how do you balance timelessness with modernity?

Marie Soliman: For us, timelessness lies in proportion, light and emotion. We use materials that age gracefully, bespoke furniture that carries both beauty and function, and design narratives that invite interaction. The result feels contemporary yet enduring, spaces that will still feel relevant and inspiring decades from now.

L’Officiel Arabia: This is Bergman Design House’s first branded residence in the Middle East. What makes it distinct to the region?

Marie Soliman: We’re proud to bring our first branded project to this region with Mondrian. The natural canvas of Ras Al Khaimah inspired bold forms, striking lighting, and innovative material combinations. From wraparound glass walls to bespoke marble finishes and integrated lighting schemes, every element is considered. Each home is both visually exceptional and emotionally resonant setting a new benchmark for refined coastal living in RAK.