Michelle Lusby, Lead Designer, Rolls-Royce Private Office Dubai 

Rolls-Royce Motor Cars Middle East & Africa proudly presents Cullinan Spirit of Marassi, a one-of-one Bespoke Cullinan design concept, inspired by the beauty, culture, and contemporary elegance of Egypt’s North Coast, developed by Private Office Dubai. Conceived during 'The Spirit of Marassi', Egypt's first summer residency on the North Coast, this Bespoke expression particularly resonated with one client in attendance, who has since embarked on the commissioning journey for their own one-of-one Cullinan. 

Cullinan Spirit of Marassi design vision is captured in a series of original artworks, created by the Private Office Dubai Lead Designer. Conceptualised through a deep exploration of the region and local craftsmanship, Cullinan Spirit of Marassi envisions the serenity of the Mediterranean coastline, the richness of Egyptian artistry, and the emotional connection that defines true luxury. Every element has been rendered to capture the atmosphere of long summer days by the sea, where white sands meet turquoise waters and contemporary architecture blends seamlessly with nature.  

At the heart of this design is a breathtaking fascia inspired by the Mediterranean Sea. Conceived to be hand-painted combining multiple application and lacquering techniques, the artwork depicts the movement of coastal waves through a palette of off-white, vibrant teal and deep navy. Envisioned in high-gloss and flowing seamlessly into an open-pore Royal Walnut woodset, the composition evokes the meeting of sea and shoreline, bringing the tranquility of Marassi into the interior.  

Further connecting the design to Egyptian heritage is a Bespoke turquoise centre rotary dial. Drawing inspiration from Egyptian turquoise, historically known as Sinai turquoise, the feature references one of the earliest gemstone traditions in recorded history. Revered by the ancient Egyptians for its symbolism and beauty, the material serves as a subtle yet meaningful tribute to the country's legacy.  

The design of the interior also celebrates one of Egypt’s most distinctive artistic traditions through intricate embroidery inspired by Khayamiya textiles. Originating from Cairo’s historic Souk El-Khayamiya, these decorative hand-stitched appliqué textiles are renowned for their vibrant colours and intricate geometric and floral motifs. For the front and rear seats, the designer selected embroidery as a medium to reinterpret this tradition, serving as a contemporary expression of a centuries-old craft and seamlessly integrating Egyptian culture into the Rolls-Royce experience.  

The Cullinan Spirit of Marassi design concept is a powerful demonstration of Bespoke capability – and the exceptional skill of Private Office Dubai to translate profound inspirations into a design vision. Serving as an extension of the Home of Rolls-Royce at Goodwood, Private Office Dubai provides clients with a dedicated space to begin their commissioning journey, collaborating closely with designers to bring their individual vision to life through Bespoke. It is a personal expression that transforms inspiration into reality through extraordinary craftsmanship exemplifying how Rolls-Royce continues to create highly individual motor cars that reflect the passions, stories, and aspirations of their commissioning clients.