Mahdi Naim is a multidisciplinary designer and Chief Design Officer with over 16 years of experience. Based between Casablanca and Lyon, he continuously redefines the boundaries of design and prototyping, guided by a deep respect for intuition, material intelligence, and cultural heritage.
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Beyond Technique: A Deeper Design Philosophy
Though celebrated for his technological innovations, Mahdi’s approach to design goes far beyond function or aesthetics. At the core of his vision is a profound reverence for Moroccan craftsmanship, not as a relic of the past, but as a living, evolving form of expression.
To him, Moroccan objects like the tagine or babouche aren’t just products of tradition; they emerge from a deeper collective memory. By liberating craft from rigid definitions, Mahdi opens it to reinterpretation and global relevance without losing its soul.
“My ambition is to infuse Moroccan design with new energy, elevating it on the international stage while remaining faithful to its deepest essence.”
— Mahdi Naim
A Unique Vision That Blends Intuition and Innovation
What truly sets Mahdi apart is his design philosophy: a seamless integration of intuitive wisdom, cultural heritage, and technological possibility. For him, design isn’t just about solving problems, it’s about revealing identity. His work invites a dialogue between modernity and memory, where innovation honours the essence of tradition.
Trailblazing Projects in Design and Technology
Mahdi’s portfolio spans groundbreaking projects that fuse sustainability, functionality, and creativity. Here are some standout examples:
1. NEURA Studio
At the intersection of human creativity and artificial intelligence, NEURA Studio, founded by Mahdi, redefines interior architecture and design. The studio integrates neuro-architecture and advanced technologies to craft immersive, highly personalized spaces.
Key Innovations:
- Generative AI: For tailored, original design solutions.
- Photorealistic 3D Simulations: Enabling vivid visualizations for clients.
- Predictive Space Analysis: Optimizing designs through behavioural insights.
- Cognitive Neuro-Design: Applying neuroscience to boost well-being and creativity.
Results:
- 60% time savings through automation.
- Up to 40% cost reduction without compromising quality.
- 100% customization, delivering unique client experiences.
NEURA Studio doesn’t just follow trends, it redefines them by merging human sensitivity with artificial intelligence.
2. Robot SIMO
In collaboration with the RobotiCore Club and the Euromed University of Fès, Robot SIMO is a pioneering advancement in medical assistance. This project harnesses intelligent robotics to transform patient care and enhance healthcare delivery.
3. Evatic Table
Inspired by the carnivorous Dionaea plant, the Evatic Table is a sculptural, functional piece crafted from eco-friendly composite materials like linen fiber, blending nature with contemporary elegance.
4. Echo: A Model for Sustainable Design
The Echo project transforms oyster shells into beautifully crafted “vide-poches” (a tidy), showcasing Mahdi’s commitment to sustainability by turning waste into functional design.
5. Lumcity: Nature-Inspired Urban Lighting
Drawing from the form of Moroccan palm trees, Lumcity reinvents public lighting with a poetic fusion of nature and technology, enhancing cityscapes while honouring local heritage.
6. Uricolo: Sustainable Sanitation
Uricolo addresses sanitation issues in public spaces with an ecological, dry-composting urinal. Its urban-friendly design makes it a practical and sustainable solution.
Educator, Speaker, and Thought Leader
Beyond his design work, Mahdi is a respected educator and public speaker. He’s delivered keynote speeches at major events including:
- Global Industry 4.0 Conference (Casablanca)
- Casa Design Week
- French Design Week
- IÉSEG School of Management (Lille)
As a member of the Scientific Council of EDVANTIS Higher Education Group, he helps shape a new generation of thinkers by bridging design with engineering.
Driving Societal Progress
Mahdi is also a key contributor to Al Mountada, an independent Moroccan think tank focused on sustainable development. His ideas have helped shape national conversations on innovation and progress.
Recognition and Influence
Mahdi’s work has garnered significant media attention, appearing in leading publications and being featured in major design books. His recognition in Maroc Business Intelligence 2010 underscores his impact on Morocco’s economic and creative development.
Supporting the Next Generation
As a Diamond Sponsor of the Mines-Rabat Solar Team, Mahdi invests in the innovators of tomorrow. His support fosters youth engagement in sustainability and renewable energy initiatives.
Looking Ahead
Mahdi Naim continues to blaze a trail at the intersection of tradition and innovation. Through his multidisciplinary work, educational efforts, and societal contributions, he is not just shaping the future of design, he’s helping to redefine it.
To know more about Mahdi Naim’s vision of Craftsmanship, a topic that YAZ cherishes and supports, check his blog “Moroccan Craftsmanship: a classical timeless vision”.
