ABOUT C'est ici Design
C’est ici is an award-winning multidisciplinary design studio creating spaces shaped by people, stories and the way we live.
Based in Dubai and working internationally, we specialize in luxury residential, hospitality, retail and commercial design, bringing together interior architecture, bespoke design, FF&E, craftsmanship and styling to create environments with soul and a strong sense of identity.
At the heart of our studio is a simple belief: design begins with people. We listen, observe and take the time to understand each client—their lifestyle, aspirations, rituals and the moments that matter to them. This human connection becomes the starting point for every project.
Our design language is rooted in emotional minimalism—refined simplicity, sculptural forms, natural materiality and thoughtful details balanced with warmth, character and individuality.
We believe the best spaces are created together. Our team works closely with clients, artisans, makers and collaborators, building genuine relationships throughout the creative journey.
More than creating beautiful interiors, we design places to live, gather, connect and belong—spaces with meaning, made to be experienced and remembered.
C’EST ICI
ABOUT Moni
Monica Arango is the Founder and Creative Director of C’est ici Design, an award-winning multidisciplinary studio recognised for its distinctive approach to luxury interior design and interior architecture.
Her philosophy is rooted in emotional minimalism—creating timeless, highly personal spaces through thoughtful architecture, refined materiality, bespoke craftsmanship and a deep understanding of how people live. Under her creative direction, C’est ici has grown into an internationally recognised studio working across residential, hospitality, retail and commercial design.
The studio was named Boutique Interior Design Firm of the Year at the CID Awards, while Monica has been recognised among Identity’s 50 Most Powerful Designers. Her vision extends beyond interiors into bespoke furniture, creative collaborations and iNVERTI, C’est ici’s collection celebrating sculptural form, craftsmanship and materiality.
For Monica, design is ultimately about people—creating spaces that evoke emotion, encourage connection and leave a lasting story.
THE Studio
C’est ici is an award-winning multidisciplinary design studio creating meaningful spaces through architecture, interiors and bespoke design. Founded in Dubai, the studio works across luxury residential, hospitality, retail and commercial projects throughout the Middle East, Europe and beyond.
Our approach is deeply human. We believe every project begins with understanding the people behind it—their lifestyle, aspirations and story. Through thoughtful spatial planning, refined materiality, craftsmanship and curated FF&E, we create timeless environments that feel personal, effortless and enduring.
From concept to completion, our multidisciplinary team works alongside clients, artisans and international partners to bring each vision to life with creativity, precision and care.
We design spaces with meaning—made to be lived, experienced and remembered.
OUR Ethos
People first. Design with intention.
At C’est ici, we believe great design begins with people.
We listen, question, explore and collaborate—because the strongest ideas are rarely born from one perspective. Our studio brings together different backgrounds, disciplines and personalities around one shared ambition: to make the best decision for the project.
We design with intention. Every space, material, proportion and bespoke detail has a reason to be there. We value craftsmanship over excess, individuality over trends, and spaces that evoke emotion over those designed simply to impress. We are curious by nature and bold when it matters. We believe in challenging the expected, experimenting with materiality and allowing each project to develop its own identity.
From the first sketch to the final detail on site, we remain deeply involved. Architecture, interiors, FF&E, bespoke design and execution are considered as one continuous
story. Above all, C’est ici is human. We believe in collaboration, honesty, relationships and enjoying the creative journey together.
Different minds. One vision. Design with meaning.
ABOUT team
JOHNNY MATTA
Senior Interior Designer
BA in Design & Applied Arts | MS in Interior Architecture
Johnny is a key creative force within C’est ici, combining a strong architectural foundation with an instinctive approach to design, proportion and materiality.
Working across projects from early concept through to detailed design, he has a particular ability to translate bold ideas into spaces that feel considered, functional
and distinctive. His experience also extends into bespoke and product design, where his understanding of form and craftsmanship comes to life.
Curious, creative and always ready to challenge an idea, Johnny brings both design rigour and personality to the studio.
MONTSERRAT PURATA
Interior Designer
BA in Spatial Design & Interior Architecture
Montse brings a thoughtful and highly considered approach to design, with a strong understanding of space, composition and the relationship between architecture and interiors.
From conceptual development and spatial planning to materiality and FF&E, she approaches each project as a complete story, carefully considering how every element contributes to the overall experience.
Collaborative and intuitive, Montse brings sensitivity and precision to the creative process, always searching for the decision that feels right for the project rather than simply following a formula.
CLARA MOUAWAD
Interior Designer
BA in Interior Design & Applied Arts
Clara brings a fresh perspective, curiosity and an experimental spirit to the C’est ici design team.
Her approach is driven by individuality—the belief that every project should have its own identity. Through research, material exploration and conceptual development, she is constantly looking for unexpected ideas that can give a space character and meaning.
Creative and naturally curious, Clara represents the new generation of design talent within the studio, bringing energy and a willingness to explore beyond the expected.
KRISTY FAHMY
PROCUREMENT & LOGISTICS MANAGER
Meet our Procurement and Logistics Manager. Kristy is a multitasking maestro who tackles tight deadlines and effortlessly negotiates deals like a boss with suppliers- all with a designer’s eye and a knack for turning potential obstacles into artfully crafted spaces.
She ensures every project has a harmonious blend of timely execution, budget conscious decisions, and sources fabulous pieces. When she’s not saving the day on our installations, you might find her unearthing the latest design trends and charming suppliers with her infectious enthusiasm, wit and expertise.
MOHAMMED IRSHAD
Draftsman & Bespoke Specialist
BSc in Interior Design
Irshad brings technical precision to some of C’est ici's most creative ideas.
Working closely with the design team, he translates concepts into detailed technical drawings, joinery packages and bespoke solutions, bridging the space between creative intent and execution. His understanding of construction, detailing and bespoke fabrication makes him an important part of our design process—particularly when transforming an original idea into something that can be beautifully made.
Meticulous and solutions-driven, Irshad reminds us that exceptional design is often defined by the details you don't immediately see.
ELIA ASSY
Site Manager & Interior Designer
BA in Design & Applied Arts | MS in Interior Architecture
Elia is the essential link between the creative vision developed in the studio and its execution on site. With a background in both design and interior architecture, he brings a designer's eye to construction—understanding not only how something needs to be built, but why every detail matters to the overall concept.
From coordinating contractors and consultants to resolving the unexpected challenges that arise during execution, Elia protects the integrity of the design through every stage of the project.
For C’est ici, great design does not end with a drawing. Elia helps make sure it is carried through to the very last detail.
ALEJANDRA MANILLA
Finance Executive
BA in International Business | MBA
Alejandra brings structure, strategy and financial clarity to the creative world of C’est ici.
With a background in international business and an MBA, she oversees key financial and administrative aspects of the studio, helping ensure that the business behind our projects is managed with the same level of precision and consideration as the design itself.
Organised, analytical and solutions-focused, Alejandra provides an essential balance within a highly creative environment.
Behind every beautifully delivered project is a strong studio—and Alejandra is an important part of keeping ours moving forward.
