In the evolving landscape of global design, Daria Zolotova, Founder of ARTDOM, has created a cultural platform that bridges art, interiors, and storytelling. Built on the belief that design is more than aesthetics — it is a reflection of identity, emotion, and cultural dialogue — ARTDOM has quickly become a stage where creativity meets authenticity. In this exclusive interview, Zolotova shares the inspiration behind ARTDOM, its vision for fostering meaningful global–regional design connections, and what lies ahead as the platform prepares for its first major event in Riyadh this November, followed by Dubai in 2026.
Your journey spans cultural events, fashion, and interior design. What inspired you to create ARTDOM, and how does it reflect your personal vision for design?
Since childhood, I have been fascinated by the way beauty reveals itself in details — in textures, shapes, and the very process of creation. For me, design was never only about form; it was a way of translating ideas, emotions, and even cultural codes into something tangible. I always felt that original design carries the author’s presence, becoming not just an object, but a story you can live with every day.
This conviction became the foundation for ARTDOM. I wanted to create a platform that treats design as art — one that brings together interiors, furniture, and objects not because they are fashionable, but because they are authentic. ARTDOM reflects my belief that design is not a luxury reserved for a few, but a cultural necessity that shapes how we live and who we are. Through ARTDOM, I aim to support those who bring originality to life and to show that surrounding ourselves with meaningful design elevates not just our homes, but our culture as a whole.
How would you describe your design philosophy, and how do you blend global influences with regional culture and aesthetics?
For me, design is never just about function — it’s about emotion, identity, and storytelling. My design philosophy is based on the idea that we are in constant interaction with design, whether we realize it or not. Every object, every space, every detail we encounter shapes our emotions, our behavior, and even the way we think. That’s why design should always carry the soul and intention of its creator, rather than being just a decorative or functional element.
When it comes to blending global influences with regional culture, I see it as a dialogue rather than a contrast. Global design brings innovation, new ideas, and a sense of universality, while regional culture adds depth, tradition, and uniqueness. At ARTDOM, I aim to create spaces and projects where these two layers meet: where international perspectives enrich local aesthetics, and where local culture gives global design its authenticity and soul. This balance creates a design language that feels both contemporary and timeless.
ARTDOM is launching its first major event in Riyadh this November. Why is the Middle East, and Saudi Arabia in particular, the perfect stage for this platform?
ARTDOM is an international project group that connects leading players in the interior and design industry across Europe, the Middle East, and beyond. Our activities include curated exhibitions, design tours, HoReCa projects, and development forums. ARTDOM helps companies build strong connections, expand internationally, and shape the future of the design industry.
The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia is currently experiencing one of the world’s largest waves of urban development — from residential projects and luxury hotels to cultural institutions and commercial hubs. This scale of construction is generating unprecedented demand for innovative and original design solutions.
Riyadh, in particular, is rapidly transforming into a global hub. As it attracts talent and visitors from across the globe, the city is becoming not only a business and cultural capital, but also a place where design is actively shaping the identity and experience of daily life. This makes Saudi Arabia the perfect stage for ARTDOM’s first major event.
With international collaborations and 50% of exhibitors coming from abroad, how does ARTDOM create meaningful connections between global designers and the regional creative community?
Through expos, development forums, and international collaborations — with 50% of exhibitors coming from abroad — participants not only exchange ideas and build relationships, but also see tangible outcomes, including financial returns, from working together within the ARTDOM ecosystem.
Our strength lies in understanding the market, providing high-quality insights, and precisely matching solutions to the needs of each partner. This approach ensures that connections within the ARTDOM ecosystem are not only meaningful but also generate real results, including tangible financial benefits from collaboration.
Looking at the booming luxury and design market in the Middle East, what trends or innovations in furniture and interiors are you most excited about?
What excites me most about design in the Middle East is the combination of innovation and authenticity. Designers and brands are pushing boundaries — experimenting with new materials, textures, and forms — while respecting cultural heritage and regional identity. Growing Luxury Hospitality sector (8% annually) seek bespoke, sustainable interiors. At the same time, publicspaces are shifting toward ergonomic and smart furniture, reflecting new work models and the region’s focus on innovation and sustainability.
In summary, what stands out to me most in this market is authenticity, bespoke design, and smart, functional solutions.
As you plan for Dubai in 2026 and beyond, what is your long-term vision for ARTDOM in the region, and what can attendees expect from future events?
Our long-term vision for ARTDOM in the region is to establish a lasting platform for the global design community, fostering design industty , collaboration, and cultural exchange. By 2026 in Dubai and beyond, we aim to create series of events — they will be immersive experiences where designers, companies, and creatives can explore new ideas, engage in meaningful collaborations, and discover solutions that shape the future of design.
ARTDOM aims to support designers across the region, fulfill a social mission by helping young talents, and integrate design into both the cultural and social agenda of the Middle East.
Looking ahead to Dubai, which is already a global hub, we plan to continue this work on a larger scale — creating platforms for collaboration, showcasing original design, and fostering a creative ecosystem that benefits both regional and international communities. Our goal is to make ARTDOM not just an event, but a long-term catalyst for design, culture, and innovation throughout the region.
Source: dubaidiaries.com
Your journey spans cultural events, fashion, and interior design. What inspired you to create ARTDOM, and how does it reflect your personal vision for design?
Since childhood, I have been fascinated by the way beauty reveals itself in details — in textures, shapes, and the very process of creation. For me, design was never only about form; it was a way of translating ideas, emotions, and even cultural codes into something tangible. I always felt that original design carries the author’s presence, becoming not just an object, but a story you can live with every day.
This conviction became the foundation for ARTDOM. I wanted to create a platform that treats design as art — one that brings together interiors, furniture, and objects not because they are fashionable, but because they are authentic. ARTDOM reflects my belief that design is not a luxury reserved for a few, but a cultural necessity that shapes how we live and who we are. Through ARTDOM, I aim to support those who bring originality to life and to show that surrounding ourselves with meaningful design elevates not just our homes, but our culture as a whole.
How would you describe your design philosophy, and how do you blend global influences with regional culture and aesthetics?
For me, design is never just about function — it’s about emotion, identity, and storytelling. My design philosophy is based on the idea that we are in constant interaction with design, whether we realize it or not. Every object, every space, every detail we encounter shapes our emotions, our behavior, and even the way we think. That’s why design should always carry the soul and intention of its creator, rather than being just a decorative or functional element.
When it comes to blending global influences with regional culture, I see it as a dialogue rather than a contrast. Global design brings innovation, new ideas, and a sense of universality, while regional culture adds depth, tradition, and uniqueness. At ARTDOM, I aim to create spaces and projects where these two layers meet: where international perspectives enrich local aesthetics, and where local culture gives global design its authenticity and soul. This balance creates a design language that feels both contemporary and timeless.
ARTDOM is launching its first major event in Riyadh this November. Why is the Middle East, and Saudi Arabia in particular, the perfect stage for this platform?
ARTDOM is an international project group that connects leading players in the interior and design industry across Europe, the Middle East, and beyond. Our activities include curated exhibitions, design tours, HoReCa projects, and development forums. ARTDOM helps companies build strong connections, expand internationally, and shape the future of the design industry.
The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia is currently experiencing one of the world’s largest waves of urban development — from residential projects and luxury hotels to cultural institutions and commercial hubs. This scale of construction is generating unprecedented demand for innovative and original design solutions.
Riyadh, in particular, is rapidly transforming into a global hub. As it attracts talent and visitors from across the globe, the city is becoming not only a business and cultural capital, but also a place where design is actively shaping the identity and experience of daily life. This makes Saudi Arabia the perfect stage for ARTDOM’s first major event.
With international collaborations and 50% of exhibitors coming from abroad, how does ARTDOM create meaningful connections between global designers and the regional creative community?
Through expos, development forums, and international collaborations — with 50% of exhibitors coming from abroad — participants not only exchange ideas and build relationships, but also see tangible outcomes, including financial returns, from working together within the ARTDOM ecosystem.
Our strength lies in understanding the market, providing high-quality insights, and precisely matching solutions to the needs of each partner. This approach ensures that connections within the ARTDOM ecosystem are not only meaningful but also generate real results, including tangible financial benefits from collaboration.
Looking at the booming luxury and design market in the Middle East, what trends or innovations in furniture and interiors are you most excited about?
What excites me most about design in the Middle East is the combination of innovation and authenticity. Designers and brands are pushing boundaries — experimenting with new materials, textures, and forms — while respecting cultural heritage and regional identity. Growing Luxury Hospitality sector (8% annually) seek bespoke, sustainable interiors. At the same time, publicspaces are shifting toward ergonomic and smart furniture, reflecting new work models and the region’s focus on innovation and sustainability.
In summary, what stands out to me most in this market is authenticity, bespoke design, and smart, functional solutions.
As you plan for Dubai in 2026 and beyond, what is your long-term vision for ARTDOM in the region, and what can attendees expect from future events?
Our long-term vision for ARTDOM in the region is to establish a lasting platform for the global design community, fostering design industty , collaboration, and cultural exchange. By 2026 in Dubai and beyond, we aim to create series of events — they will be immersive experiences where designers, companies, and creatives can explore new ideas, engage in meaningful collaborations, and discover solutions that shape the future of design.
ARTDOM aims to support designers across the region, fulfill a social mission by helping young talents, and integrate design into both the cultural and social agenda of the Middle East.
Looking ahead to Dubai, which is already a global hub, we plan to continue this work on a larger scale — creating platforms for collaboration, showcasing original design, and fostering a creative ecosystem that benefits both regional and international communities. Our goal is to make ARTDOM not just an event, but a long-term catalyst for design, culture, and innovation throughout the region.
Source: dubaidiaries.com