Studio Bound is a design and research practice founded in 2015 between London and the Gulf, by Hussam Dakkak, Hessa Al Bader and Basmah Kaki. Studio Bound operates as both design studio and research lab. The studio works on projects in the private and public sectors with designers and researchers across many industries. Studio Bound is currently leading a number of key projects in UNESCO heritage sites in Al Balad in Jeddah, and Al Ula, as well as key projects along the Red Sea Highway. In 2021, Studio Bound were the exhibitors of the Saudi National Pavilion at the Venice Architectural Biennale titled “Accommodations”.
The research lab focuses on the study of complex and unique urban contexts, aiming to bridge both the design and academic disciplines. Since its inception, Studio Bound has worked with the Saudi Ministry of Culture, Guggenheim Abu Dhabi, the Sharjah Art Foundation, the Abu Dhabi Dhabi Tourism and Cultural Authority, and Art Jameel on a number of commissions. Studio Bound has been invited to speak at Harvard University, The Global Heritage Fund and has contributed work to numerous publications including the Architectural Review and WTD magazine.