Cigar lounges have traditionally relied on a predictable aesthetic formula, favoring the heavy, cloistered atmosphere of a private men’s club. These spaces are typically defined by dark, somber woods, heavy leather furnishings, and a strict emphasis on seclusion from the outside world. However, when tasked with designing N53, a high-altitude luxury lounge suspended more than 300 feet above the dynamic cityscape of Dubai, the creative team at Bergman Design House chose to subvert these conventional expectations entirely. Rather than recreating a closed-off sanctuary detached from its surroundings, the designers opted for an approach that deeply honors regional heritage while engaging in a sophisticated dialogue with its distinctly contemporary, gravity-defying architectural envelope.
Perched within The Link—the breathtaking cantilevered structure that dramatically bridges the dual towers of the One Za’abees development—N53 required an interior concept capable of anchoring itself within such a striking modern setting without losing its sense of intimacy. "Within this modern architectural envelope, N53 introduces a layered interior language, one that blends contemporary luxury with heritage craftsmanship, creating a timeless counterpoint to the building’s striking modernity," explains Marie Soliman, co-founder of Bergman Design House. This philosophy forms the bedrock of the lounge’s spatial experience, where the dizzying heights and expansive glass facades of Dubai are met with grounded, tactile warmth.
Conceived as an expansive yet meticulously zoned open-plan lounge, N53 successfully balances the competing desires for social vibrancy and hushed privacy. Guests entering the space are greeted by carefully orchestrated seating clusters that pivot organically around a central cigar display, a boutique retail area, and a custom-crafted bar. For those seeking an even greater degree of exclusivity, a secluded VIP area provides a secure retreat anchored by a locked humidor. The venue’s curated offerings match its elevated design standards, boasting an extensive collection of 90 premium cigars alongside an enviable menu of rare and vintage spirits, including the highly sought-after Hakushu 18-Year-Old Japanese single malt whisky.
Central to the narrative woven by Bergman Design House is the ancient regional tradition of falconry. Recognized throughout the Middle East as a potent symbol of power, patience, and precision, the sport has been translated into the modern interior landscape through subtle, high-end artistic expressions. Bespoke marquetry artwork integrated throughout the lounge pays direct homage to this storied practice, weaving a thread of cultural continuity that softens the futuristic geometry of the building and grounds the international clientele in local history.
This rich narrative is further articulated through a sophisticated and enveloping color palette. Warm, grounding shades of tobacco leaf, caramel, and cognac dominate the primary seating zones, establishing an inviting and relaxed atmosphere. These rich earth tones are thoughtfully balanced by deep charcoals deployed across the ceiling and underfoot, lending a cozy, cocoon-like quality to the space. Subtle accents of slate blue and amber round out the visual scheme, echoing the changing hues of the desert sky at twilight.
To elevate the sensory experience further, Bergman Design House curated an eclectic mix of luxurious materials and fine accessories. Rich, tactile woods are paired with striking Cipollino marble, supple leathers, and gleaming brushed metals, introducing a rich contrast of textures at every turn. Attention to detail extends to the tabletop accessories, which include exquisite pieces by Elie Bleu and bespoke cigar cutters meticulously forged from Damascus steel.
Lighting serves as both a functional necessity and a striking artistic statement within N53. A massive metal mesh installation hangs overhead, forming a cloud-like sculptural piece that diffuses light and commands the room without overwhelming it. This is complemented by artisanal Murano glass floor lights that cast a soft, welcoming glow across the room. Combined with plush furnishings, intimate seating layouts, and specialized acoustic treatments that soften ambient noise, these elements dissolve the cavernous feel often associated with high-rise developments, inviting patrons to settle in and linger.
Ultimately, N53 achieves a delicate design equilibrium. Rather than attempting to compete with or replicate the monumental architecture of The Link, the lounge introduces a human-scale sanctuary. Through meticulous craftsmanship, profound regional references, and a deeply considered material palette, Bergman Design House has forged a timeless interior counterpoint that stands in quiet, elegant conversation with the sprawling metropolis pulsing far below its windows.
