Meet the Architect

The Terrazzo structure was hard to miss as you made your way to the Austrian Pavilion at Project Lebanon, 2025.

Designed by architect Serge El Douaihy, son of Douaihy Pour Le Bois' founder Mr. Bakhos El Douaihy, this project was approached with intention. With a master’s degree in architecture from the Architectural Association in London, and deep roots in the business, Serge shaped a space that felt both grounded and architectural, built entirely with materials from their trusted EGGER partner.

In contrast with its calm exterior, the detailing drew you in, minimal yet full of life. Strategic angles and built-in décors allowed the architecture to breathe with balance and precision. Full-height EGGER and CLEAF displays were arranged to honor each surface, with lighting adding depth through shadow and reflection.

We caught up with Serge before he headed back to London.

What was your starting point for the design?
To let the materials lead, and the EGGER Grey Triestino Terrazzo had the depth and movement to set the tone. The mirrored floor, open layout, and grid ceiling structure were all shaped to work together and keep an 18sqm space versatile, and balanced.

What inspired this design?
I value form, function, and quiet details, with a focus on proportion, and sales and marketing intention. Once the terrazzo was chosen, everything else followed naturally. The goal was to shape a space that felt intimate and composed, stayed open to the surrounding exhibition, with the products remaining the core focus throughout.

How did it feel designing for the family business?
Pride, and pressure.

What did you want the space to communicate?
Simply, curiosity and conversation. Then wonder, was it marble, stone, wood? A mirrored floor? In reality, it was all made from EGGER Melamine Faced Chipboard panels, which speaks directly to the versatility of Douaihy Pour Le Bois’ product and material range. Many stopped and asked whether the stand and ceiling were real marble.

What were your impressions of Project Lebanon this year?
It was great for Lebanon, full of energy, movement, and engaged visitors.

Will you be designing next year’s stand for Project Lebanon? 
(He laughed). Definitely! Hopefully with a larger, more ambitious stand and additional space to work with. 

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EGGER Grey Triestino Terrazzo is available in MFC, with matching Edgebanding, Laminates, and Worktops, and remains one of our best-selling decors in the EGGER Fantasy collection.