About Me

Sohila Naji: Alexandrian Elegance Meets Bahraini Brilliance

Nestled between the Mediterranean’s azure waves and the bustling streets of Alexandria, Sohila Naji first glimpsed the world. Growing up in Egypt’s “Pearl of the Mediterranean,” Sohila’s childhood was cradled by the beauty of Greco-Roman monuments, the allure of Qaitbay Citadel, and the timeless charm of Montaza Palace gardens. Such surroundings would sow the seeds of her destiny: a passionate journey into the realm of interior design.

Alexandria’s tapestry of cultures, with its layered history of Hellenistic, Roman, Byzantine, and Arab influences, was the perfect canvas for young Sohila. She would often wander the city’s streets, soaking in the architectural marvels, imagining how they would look if they were reimagined for the modern era.

But as much as Alexandria fueled her imagination, Sohila yearned for formal education to shape her raw passion into expertise. This thirst for knowledge took her across the waters to Bahrain. At the University of Bahrain, she found herself amidst a blend of tradition and innovation, an environment that allowed her to meld her deep-rooted Alexandrian aesthetics with the cutting-edge design principles of the Gulf.

In Bahrain, Sohila’s designs became synonymous with a unique blend of elegance and functionality. She artfully incorporated Alexandrian motifs with Bahrain’s sleek modernity. Her interiors resonated with narratives of the Mediterranean while celebrating the warmth and hospitality intrinsic to Bahraini culture.

Sohila’s time in Bahrain wasn’t merely about refining her design language. It was also a period of intense self-discovery. Through her interactions with fellow designers and mentors, she understood the importance of sustainable and inclusive design. She championed the use of eco-friendly materials and ensured her designs were accessible, breaking barriers of age and mobility.

Her designs soon garnered attention. From the luxurious villas in Manama to chic boutiques and cozy cafes, Sohila’s touch turned spaces into experiences, evoking nostalgia while embracing modern comforts. Each project was a narrative, a tale of two cities she dearly loved.

Now, as one of the leading figures in Middle Eastern interior design, Sohila Naji continues her quest to bridge cultures and eras. Through her work, she pays homage to her roots in Alexandria while saluting her academic evolution in Bahrain. In the tapestry of design, Sohila’s thread is distinct, vibrant, and unmistakably her own.