UAE 225

Type

Global

Location

Dubai, UAE

Project team

James Ashfield
Close Icon
James Ashfield
Studio Director - Interior Design

With 15 years’ experience working in the UK and internationally, James is an accomplished Studio Manager and Interior Designer. James’ exceptional technical ability and passion for innovative design have ensured the delivery of a wide range of projects for private and commercial clients such city apartments, country houses and five-star hotels.Since joining Rigby & Rigby in 2018, James has become the leading interior designer on Rigby & Rigby’s special project, 'Lancelot House', a 17,000 sq ft private residence located in the heart of Knightsbridge, London. He has also been instrumental in the design of several international projects most recently in Copenhagen, Dubai and Japan.James’ attention to detail and commitment to create the most exceptional homes for our clients has led him to develop a strong interest in sustainability and wellness. James is focused on the impact of our living environment on our physical and emotional health with particular expertise in the practice of Feng Shui.Prior to Rigby & Rigby, James has built a wealth of knowledge as an interior architect and interior designer whilst working for leading London design houses, including Harrods Interior Design Studio. James brings his expertise in communicating with clients to Rigby & Rigby having spent two and a half years working for a private client in the Middle East.

Rebecca Dix
Close Icon
Rebecca Dix
Senior Designer

Rebecca studied History of Art at the University of Leeds, where she graduated with a 1st Class Honours Degree. Following graduation, Rebecca established a career in Finance in the Channel Islands before returning to the UK to pursue her love for the Decorative and Fine Arts. Rebecca then went on to study at the Inchbald School of Design, where she developed the skills necessary to establish a career in Interior Design.In 2017, Rebecca joined the Rigby and Rigby Interior Design Studio and has since completed projects in Covent Garden, Knightsbridge, Belgravia, Oslo and Dubai. She has most recently concluded a 17,000 sq ft new build project in Knightsbridge and is currently working on projects in London and Bangkok.Rebecca enjoys travelling, skiing, good wine and good food.

Tania Blanco
Close Icon
Tania Blanco
Senior Designer

Tania joined the Rigby and Rigby Interior Design Team in 2019.

Since moving to the UK, Tania has worked as a designer for the main developers in country gaining great experience in the London Market.Keen to develop her career, Tania then moved to an international firm with offices in London, New York and Los Angeles. During this time she worked on various high end private residential projects.Having joined Rigby and Rigby, she has led projects for a number of clients including a number of townhouses in Belgravia, a contemporary new build in the country and a private family office in Oslo, Norway.Tania’s main hobbies are photography, art and travelling. After graduating, she spent a year travelling and continues to visit different cities and cultures capturing new inspirations to bring in to her design schemes.

Iain Johnson
Close Icon
Iain Johnson
Chief Executive Officer

Rigby & Rigby CEO Iain Johnson has been a pivotal part the growth of the firm since its inception, dynamically executing the vision of a truly integrated design and delivery studio with full-service capabilities. A champion of the studio’s expansion, he has helped it to become a leading multi-award-winning name in ultra-prime delivery. Accredited in every division, the firm’s extensive expertise extends across development management, architecture, interior design, construction delivery and private client services, to create the most exceptional properties in the world.

Rigby & Rigby is a founding member of the luxury design group Allect, alongside Helen Green Design and Lawson Robb. Johnson’s vision was to bring together some of the finest names in architecture, interior and product design with the mission to foster an unrivalled level of creativity, innovation and excellence. Rigby & Rigby’s research and development-influenced architecture and interior design strikes a fine and complimentary balance with Helen Green’s elegantly British sensibility and Lawson Robb’s unique and vibrant interiors and yacht design. Johnson leads and oversees the group’s operational strategy and creative division – ensuring the brands individual identity, heritage and expertise is maintained and delivered as a complimentary offering, he is also creating collaborations with some of the world’s best architects and interior design studios providing clients a unique opportunity of choice within the full-service delivery model.

At the heart of Rigby & Rigby’s approach is Johnson’s profound commitment to the client experience. Architecturally trained with 20 years of industry leadership and experience, Iain’s ability to understand every facet of the design process ensures he is perfectly positioned to support clients throughout their development journey. This includes Rigby & Rigby’s award-winning Special Projects division, where Iain leads a dedicated development and delivery team undertaking the most complex signature new build and heritage restoration projects, requiring an additional level of attention and care.

Creatively Iain’s passion lays in driving innovation through research-based methodology, influencing the architectural and interior design studios to be more experimental and to maximise the client experience and enrich the user journey. The product being perfectly resolved residences, with a style defined as understated refined luxury, delivered with a service that is second to none.

Kay Sames
Close Icon
Kay Sames
3D Studio Manager

Kay Sames is a highly seasoned 3D Visualiser based in London, with specialist experience in the architectural and interior visualisation industry, creating images and animations for some of the most renowned commercial and residential properties across the globe. She established the Rigby & Rigby 3D department in 2022 and she has made a mark as a distinguished professional in the field, having honed her expertise through tenures at some of London's most esteemed studios, where she refined her skills and proficiency in the essential software and techniques integral to the visualisation industry.

As a results-oriented 3D Visualiser, Kay brings over a decade of experience to the dynamic realm of architectural and interior visualisation. She demonstrates exceptional proficiency in industry-standard tools such as 3ds Max, Corona, V-Ray, Photoshop, and Marvelous Designer, using them to translate design concepts into visually striking and lifelike representations. Currently, Kay holds the position of 3D Studio Manager at Rigby & Rigby, where she applies her extensive expertise in project management and marketing oversight. Her consistent track record of delivering high-quality visualisations that not only meet but exceed client expectations is a testament to her unwavering commitment to detail and her innate talent for effective communication. With a passion for translating creative visions into compelling, tangible visuals, Kay excels at elevating projects across diverse industries.

Kay has made a name for herself in the visualisation industry and has been featured in publications including 3Disciple Magazine.

Lucy Marsh
Close Icon
Lucy Marsh
3D Visualiser

An accomplished 3D designer with a background in architectural design, Lucy has been a key member of the 3D design team since 2021. Her seven years of prior experience in architecture have proven invaluable in maintaining a high level of accuracy in our visual representations. Lucy is proficient in a diverse range of design software, including AutoCAD, 3dsMax, Corona, Photoshop, and After Effects. Her exceptional organizational skills, aptitude for creating efficient processes, and ability to streamline workflows have significantly contributed to our department’s productivity and improved project pipelines.Lucy has been instrumental in driving departmental success through her introduction of effective organizational and list-based management techniques, resulting in a substantial increase in overall efficiency. She takes pride in ensuring the precision and accuracy of visual representations, aligning them meticulously with project requirements and industry standards. Committed to continuous learning, Lucy has consistently surpassed expectations, evolving into a proficient visualiser capable of independently managing projects with outstanding results. Her adaptability is remarkable, as she exhibits flexibility and dynamism in handling various responsibilities, swiftly adapting to evolving project needs and dynamic industry trends.

Rigby & Rigby’s Interior Design team have delivered two luxury apartments in Atlantis The Royal Residences, Dubai.

The apartments are a tranquil escape from the city, effortlessly luxurious with subtle inspiration from the geometric architecture of the building and the movement of the arabian sea. This project is another successful international delivery by our Interior Design team, who collaborated with local professionals to meet the client’s deadline. The furniture is a collection of custom items designed by our team and interspersed with brands such as Minotti, Hermes, Flexform, Christian Dior, Gabriel Scott, Giorgetti & Poltrona Frau to name but a few. In the living areas, a simple but effective brass trim added onto the ceiling elevated and defined the dining & lounge. The carpets and rugs are geometric and organic shapes. The bedroom headboards are bespoke tailored features, each one beautifully designed and detailed by Rigby & Rigby. Beyond design and delivery our role also involved client representation to inspect the unit during the building construction stage and ‘snag’ the developers fit out. Our very own in-house 3D Creative Team produced the CGI’s and the final product is a precise replica. It’s been a pleasure to build our international relationships, to work within a Dubai landmark and to establish a stronger market presence in the Middle East.’ James Ashfield, Studio Director of Interior Design

Rigby and Rigby had the privilege of undertaking the interior design for a second-floor lateral apartment and ninth-floor duplex apartment with private garden and infinity pool for a private client. Both apartments benefit from breathtaking views to the sea and over the wider Dubai skyline.

We have taken the views and the geometric architecture of the building as inspiration to subtly inform our interior schemes. Working with the base build specified by the developer, we have designed spaces that are calm and luxurious with playful twists. Our aim was to create spaces that excited our client but provided an oasis that floats above the hustle and bustle of Dubai life.

James Ashfield
Studio Director - Interior Design
Close Icon
James Ashfield
Studio Director - Interior Design

With 15 years’ experience working in the UK and internationally, James is an accomplished Studio Manager and Interior Designer. James’ exceptional technical ability and passion for innovative design have ensured the delivery of a wide range of projects for private and commercial clients such city apartments, country houses and five-star hotels.Since joining Rigby & Rigby in 2018, James has become the leading interior designer on Rigby & Rigby’s special project, 'Lancelot House', a 17,000 sq ft private residence located in the heart of Knightsbridge, London. He has also been instrumental in the design of several international projects most recently in Copenhagen, Dubai and Japan.James’ attention to detail and commitment to create the most exceptional homes for our clients has led him to develop a strong interest in sustainability and wellness. James is focused on the impact of our living environment on our physical and emotional health with particular expertise in the practice of Feng Shui.Prior to Rigby & Rigby, James has built a wealth of knowledge as an interior architect and interior designer whilst working for leading London design houses, including Harrods Interior Design Studio. James brings his expertise in communicating with clients to Rigby & Rigby having spent two and a half years working for a private client in the Middle East.

Rebecca Dix
Senior Designer
Close Icon
Rebecca Dix
Senior Designer

Rebecca studied History of Art at the University of Leeds, where she graduated with a 1st Class Honours Degree. Following graduation, Rebecca established a career in Finance in the Channel Islands before returning to the UK to pursue her love for the Decorative and Fine Arts. Rebecca then went on to study at the Inchbald School of Design, where she developed the skills necessary to establish a career in Interior Design.In 2017, Rebecca joined the Rigby and Rigby Interior Design Studio and has since completed projects in Covent Garden, Knightsbridge, Belgravia, Oslo and Dubai. She has most recently concluded a 17,000 sq ft new build project in Knightsbridge and is currently working on projects in London and Bangkok.Rebecca enjoys travelling, skiing, good wine and good food.

Tania Blanco
Senior Designer
Close Icon
Tania Blanco
Senior Designer

Tania joined the Rigby and Rigby Interior Design Team in 2019.

Since moving to the UK, Tania has worked as a designer for the main developers in country gaining great experience in the London Market.Keen to develop her career, Tania then moved to an international firm with offices in London, New York and Los Angeles. During this time she worked on various high end private residential projects.Having joined Rigby and Rigby, she has led projects for a number of clients including a number of townhouses in Belgravia, a contemporary new build in the country and a private family office in Oslo, Norway.Tania’s main hobbies are photography, art and travelling. After graduating, she spent a year travelling and continues to visit different cities and cultures capturing new inspirations to bring in to her design schemes.

Iain Johnson
Chief Executive Officer
Close Icon
Iain Johnson
Chief Executive Officer

Rigby & Rigby CEO Iain Johnson has been a pivotal part the growth of the firm since its inception, dynamically executing the vision of a truly integrated design and delivery studio with full-service capabilities. A champion of the studio’s expansion, he has helped it to become a leading multi-award-winning name in ultra-prime delivery. Accredited in every division, the firm’s extensive expertise extends across development management, architecture, interior design, construction delivery and private client services, to create the most exceptional properties in the world.

Rigby & Rigby is a founding member of the luxury design group Allect, alongside Helen Green Design and Lawson Robb. Johnson’s vision was to bring together some of the finest names in architecture, interior and product design with the mission to foster an unrivalled level of creativity, innovation and excellence. Rigby & Rigby’s research and development-influenced architecture and interior design strikes a fine and complimentary balance with Helen Green’s elegantly British sensibility and Lawson Robb’s unique and vibrant interiors and yacht design. Johnson leads and oversees the group’s operational strategy and creative division – ensuring the brands individual identity, heritage and expertise is maintained and delivered as a complimentary offering, he is also creating collaborations with some of the world’s best architects and interior design studios providing clients a unique opportunity of choice within the full-service delivery model.

At the heart of Rigby & Rigby’s approach is Johnson’s profound commitment to the client experience. Architecturally trained with 20 years of industry leadership and experience, Iain’s ability to understand every facet of the design process ensures he is perfectly positioned to support clients throughout their development journey. This includes Rigby & Rigby’s award-winning Special Projects division, where Iain leads a dedicated development and delivery team undertaking the most complex signature new build and heritage restoration projects, requiring an additional level of attention and care.

Creatively Iain’s passion lays in driving innovation through research-based methodology, influencing the architectural and interior design studios to be more experimental and to maximise the client experience and enrich the user journey. The product being perfectly resolved residences, with a style defined as understated refined luxury, delivered with a service that is second to none.

Kay Sames
3D Studio Manager
Close Icon
Kay Sames
3D Studio Manager

Kay Sames is a highly seasoned 3D Visualiser based in London, with specialist experience in the architectural and interior visualisation industry, creating images and animations for some of the most renowned commercial and residential properties across the globe. She established the Rigby & Rigby 3D department in 2022 and she has made a mark as a distinguished professional in the field, having honed her expertise through tenures at some of London's most esteemed studios, where she refined her skills and proficiency in the essential software and techniques integral to the visualisation industry.

As a results-oriented 3D Visualiser, Kay brings over a decade of experience to the dynamic realm of architectural and interior visualisation. She demonstrates exceptional proficiency in industry-standard tools such as 3ds Max, Corona, V-Ray, Photoshop, and Marvelous Designer, using them to translate design concepts into visually striking and lifelike representations. Currently, Kay holds the position of 3D Studio Manager at Rigby & Rigby, where she applies her extensive expertise in project management and marketing oversight. Her consistent track record of delivering high-quality visualisations that not only meet but exceed client expectations is a testament to her unwavering commitment to detail and her innate talent for effective communication. With a passion for translating creative visions into compelling, tangible visuals, Kay excels at elevating projects across diverse industries.

Kay has made a name for herself in the visualisation industry and has been featured in publications including 3Disciple Magazine.

Lucy Marsh
3D Visualiser
Close Icon
Lucy Marsh
3D Visualiser

An accomplished 3D designer with a background in architectural design, Lucy has been a key member of the 3D design team since 2021. Her seven years of prior experience in architecture have proven invaluable in maintaining a high level of accuracy in our visual representations. Lucy is proficient in a diverse range of design software, including AutoCAD, 3dsMax, Corona, Photoshop, and After Effects. Her exceptional organizational skills, aptitude for creating efficient processes, and ability to streamline workflows have significantly contributed to our department’s productivity and improved project pipelines.Lucy has been instrumental in driving departmental success through her introduction of effective organizational and list-based management techniques, resulting in a substantial increase in overall efficiency. She takes pride in ensuring the precision and accuracy of visual representations, aligning them meticulously with project requirements and industry standards. Committed to continuous learning, Lucy has consistently surpassed expectations, evolving into a proficient visualiser capable of independently managing projects with outstanding results. Her adaptability is remarkable, as she exhibits flexibility and dynamism in handling various responsibilities, swiftly adapting to evolving project needs and dynamic industry trends.

Let's work together

If you would like to discuss a future project, or learn more about Rigby & Rigby, please contact us.