Belma Amr Mohamed Abdellatif Elsaej

Belma (Alik) Elsaej specializes in biophilic design for hospital facilities, design principles for well-being, and human-centered design. With advanced degrees in architecture and design, she effectively bridges theoretical concepts with practical applications. Her research focuses on the impact of biophilic design on well-being in healthcare environments, showcasing a deep commitment to sustainability and innovation.

Belma’s work involves optimizing functionality and patient experiences in hospital interior architecture, exploring the positive effects of natural elements such as light and greenery on healing environments, and analyzing biophilic design parameters, including patterns and materials that mimic nature. Additionally, she integrates aesthetic and functional planning in interior design, prioritizes environmentally friendly practices in sustainable architecture, and investigates foundational design principles such as balance, proportion, harmony, contrast, and spatial organization in both architectural and interior spaces.

Academic Leadership and Affiliations:

• Assistant Professor of Interior Architecture 
  Heriot-Watt University Dubai 
   
• Past: 2018-2024 Senior Lecturer in Interior Architecture 
  Kocaeli University – Faculty of Architecture and Design
   
• INSPIRE HE Fellowship (FHEA)
  April 2025

Qualifications:

• Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) 
  Kocaeli University – Faculty of Architecture and Design 
   
• Master of Architecture and Design (M.Arch.) 
  Kocaeli University - Faculty of Architecture and Design 
   
• Bachelor of Architecture 
  State University of Tetovo - Faculty of Architecture 

Belma Elsaej is an Assistant Professor of Interior Architecture at Heriot-Watt University Dubai Campus. With a passion for innovative design and a commitment to sustainable practices, Belma brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to the academic community. Holding advanced degrees in architecture and design, she has made significant contributions to both the theoretical and practical aspects of the field.

Belma specializes in biophilic design for hospital facilities, design principles for well-being, and human-centered design. She has published extensively on these topics. Her research interests include biophilic design parameters and well-being in interior design for hospitals, reflecting a deep engagement with the challenges and opportunities within the rapidly evolving design landscape.

In the classroom, Belma is dedicated to fostering a collaborative and dynamic learning environment, encouraging students to explore interdisciplinary approaches and think critically about the role of design in society.