ASK magazine July issue 2015 by ASK magazine

VOL 8 ISSUE 4 2015

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Director’s Note Dear Readers, Hope you all have had a wonderful Ramadan and Eid Mubarak!

This issue is about 2015, with its ups and downs, trends and tastes, colors and concoctions, not to mention style-makers and style-breakers. We will discuss the pure elegance of Egyptian creativity, the excellence of Italian craftsmanship, and the skillfulness of all universal citizens. Design has come a long way, and needless to say, so have we. As houses and apartments get smaller, so do the designs, as professionals in the industry think of new solutions to creating a more compact and functionally efficient model for interior spaces, whether its an office, a residence, or a facility. Along with that we have multipurpose products to serve both as aesthetic and operative elements within any home. It wouldn’t be a surprise that what you’re about to see in this issue might shock you, provoke you, or maybe even force you to think again. So with get your kahk, coffee, and come to be inspired in the next pages. Let the light of the fanous guide your way!

Chairman Enass Mohamed Sleem Alkhair Managing Director Jessica Yeramian Editor in Chief Wael Mongy Editorial Department Nader Ramadan International Content Researcher Maha El Masry Art Director Maged Boutros Sales & Marketing Manager Maged Othman Sales Executive Mohamed Hassan Design Contributor Arch. Karim El Hayawan Assistant Managing Director Raghda Moustafa Assistant Dist. Manager Ahmed Abdel Salam Distributors Ahmed Gamal Sherif Hussien Financial Department Hatem Ghandour Ahmed Galal IT Manager Osman Afifi Printing Sahara Printing Company

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Distribution Points Zamalek Diwan Book Store – La Taverna – The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf – Tabasco Café – Arabica Café – Mix Café – Rigoletto – Einestine Café – Euro Deli – The Crave – Gezirah Sporting Club – Romancia Book Store – Zamalek Book Store – Orange Café – Café Goal – Segafredo – Orangette – No Big Deal – Cilantro – Dar el Shorouk (Inside Beano’s Café) – Mori Sushi – Ciccio – Quick – Mobil Shop - Mohamed Al Sagheer Beauty Salon - Abou El Sid - Bakery Marriott Hotel - pottery Café - Alef Bookstore - Black Stone - Coffee Shop Company - Gloria Jeans (inside Gezirah Sporting Club) - Coffee Shop Company - Trombieta - Limes. Downtown Casper & Gambini (Nile City) - Dar el Shorouk (Talaat Harb Square) – Bon Appetite – AUC Book Store – Café Riche – Cilantro – Dar el Sherouk (Inside Beano’s Café) - Mohamed Al Sahgeer Beauty Salon (Semiramis InterContinental Hotel) - Mohamed Al Sagheer Beauty Salon (Grand Hyatt - Galleria) - Mohamed Al Sagheer Beauty Salon (Four Seasons Nile Plaza) - Bakery Marriott (USA Embassy) - Baraka Optics. Mohandessin & Dokki Trianon – Solidaire – The Coffee shop Co. – Ahmed Rehan Beauty Salon – Pasqua Café – Makani – Cocolina – Café Mo – Pottery Café – Volume 1 Book Store – Momento Café – Samia Allouba – Tabasco Café – La Pietra – Spectra – Al Cantina – Cilantro – Second Cup – Tirol – Retro Café – Fratelli – Beau Jardin – Andrea – Kenzy – Maison Thomas – Ciccio – Prestige – Bert’s – Mori Sushi – Cedars – Ryta Clinic – Tarek Nail Center – Tabasco Café – Roastery – Cilantro (Dokki) – Dar el Shorouk (inside Beano’s Café) – La Cassetta – Lipstick – Orange Café – Quick – M&S Beauty Salon - Ahmed Hazem Beauty Salon - Ahmed & Abdo Beauty Salon - Mohamed Al Sagheer Beauty Salon - Kriss - Sidi Mansour - Costa Coffee (Mesadak) - Bent El Sultan Café - Pro Center Gym - Bakery Marriott (1) - Costa Coffee (Gamaat El Dewal) - Bakery Marriott (2) - Segafredo - Eros Café - Ahwa Balady Café - Beano’s Café - Beano’s Café - Coffee Shop Company - Adory - Tche Tche. Maadi Trianon (Nile Crystal) - Café Greco – Samia Allouba – Rigoletto – Zeera – Tarek Nail Center – Le Café – Yasser Zein Beauty Salon – Euro Deli – Creperie Des Art – Lucille’s – Cuba Cabana – Fudruckers – Spectra – Beau Jardin – Dunes – Cilantro – Volume 1 Book Store – Dar el Shorouk (Inside Beano’s Café) – Bungalow – Curves – Bakier Stationery – Second Cup – Layaly Lebanon – The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf (Nile Mall) - Trianon (Nile Mall) - Abou El Sid. - Pomodorino - Bakery Marriott (Degla) - Bakery Marriott (Nasr Street) - Bakery Marriott (US AID) - Bakery Marriott (Al Zahraa) - Bakery Marriott (9 Street) - Bakery Marriott (Mokatam) - Salimos - Fuego - Peace a Luce - Il Pannello Ceramica Café - Baraka Optics - Alef Bookstore - Kotob Khan Bookstore Diwan Bookstore - pottery Café - Club 55 - Beano’s Café - PascuccI Café - Condetti Café - Cortigano restaurant - Cocoon Café - Coffe Shop Co.. Giza Trianon (Trianon boat) – Le Chalet – le Chateau – Dar el Shorouk (inside Beano’s Café) – Cilantro – Dar el Shorouk (First Mall) - Mohamed Al Sahgeer Beauty Salon (First Mall) - Carnivore (Trianon boat) - Beano’s Ruby Tuesday. Nasr City Casper & Gambini (City Stars) - Trianon (City Center) - Trianon (City Stars) - Rigoletto – Pro Gym – Costa Café – Kiro’s Lounge – Cilantro – Dar el Shorouk (Inside Beanos café) – La Cassetta – Farah Café – Lilly Garden – Chez edy – Aroma Lounge (City Stars) – Alfredo (City Stars) – Marche Restaurant (City Stars) – Coffe Shop Co. (City Stars) – Dar el Shorouk (City Stars) – Virgin Mega Stores (City Stars) – Second Cup (City Stars) – Venczia (City Stars) – crepaway (City Stars) - Mohamed France Beauty Salon - Beauty Salon - Ahmed & Abdo Beauty Salon (City Stars) - Mohamed Al Sagheer Beauty Salon (Intercontinental City Star Hotel) - Fudruckers (City Stars) Abou El Sid - CinnaBon (City Stars) - Ruby Tuesday (City Stars) - Macaroni Grill (City Stars) - Harris Cafe (City Stars) - The coffee Bean & Tea Leaf (City Stars) - Bakery Marriott - Baraka Optics. Heliopolis Trianon – Costa Café – Viking Restaurant – Africano – Kan Zaman – Lipstick – Schatz – Einstein – Mercado – Café Berry – Wabi Sabi Sushi – Roastery – Tarek Nail Center – Everyman’s Book Store – Harris Café – Tres Bon – Musicana – Pietro Café – Samia Allouba – Level Café – Rumors Café – Diwan Book Store – Il Pannello Ceramica Café – World Gym – Compu Me – Petite Palmera – Up 2 Date – Grand Royal – Pottery Café – Square Café – Café Mo – Armando Café – Cilantro – Dar el Shorouk (Inside Beano’s Café) – La Cassetta – Tres Bon – Cake House – Abd el Maqsoud Pharmacy – El Halaby Pharmacy – Farah Café (All Branches) – Le Caire – Maha Ridamis Center – Pascucci – Good Time – Carino’s – Chez edy – Hot pink – The World Dentist’s Center (Dr. Osama Hashish) Ahmed & Abdo Beauty salon - Ahmed & Abdo Beauty Salon (Concord El Salam) - Mohamed Al Saghier (Fairmont Towers) - Mohamed Al Sagheer (Le Meridien) - ADAMS - Pascucci - Kriss - Bakery Marriott (Sheraton) - Bakery Marriott (El Hegaz) - Baraka Optics - Alef Bookstore - Pascucci (Sun City) - Costa (Sun City) - Einstein (Sun City) - Coffe Shop Co. (Sun City) - CinnaBon (Sun City) - Pink berry (Sun City) Makani (Sun City) - Abo El-Sid (Sun City) - Diwan (Sun City) - Posqini (Sun City) - Salom's (Sun City) - Orgeno ( Behind Central Almaza ) - Tahity - Coffe shop Co. (sheraton) - Tchata Lounge - Tekia - El Tanora - Cairo 1940 - K>S - Coffe Shop Co. ( Korba ) - Alain le Notre - Carinos. 6 October Trianon (Dandy Mall) – Golds Gym (Inside MUST University) – Cilantro – Second Cup (Dandy Mall) – Mori Sushi (Dandy Mall) – PascuccI (Dandy Mall) - Abou El Sid (Dandy Mall ) - Casino Cafe (Dandy Mall) - Broché Cafe (Dandy Mall) - Dar El Shourok (Dandy Mall) - Beano’s Café (Mall of Arabia) - Coffee Shop Company (Mall of Arabia) - Second Cup (Mall of Arabia) - La Wein (Mall of Arabia) - Costa Café (Palm Hills) - Casper & Gambini (Mall of Arabia) - Pasqua Café (Mall of Arabia) - Noodles House (Mall of Arabia) - Pestle &Mortar (Mall of Arabia) - Gloria Jeans (Mall of Arabia) - Ruby Tuesday (Mall of Arabia) - Pasqua Café (Mall of Arabia) - Palm Hills Club Al Nada Club House - Mo Café - Gardenia Club House - El Karma Club House - Laila (Mall of Arabia) - Mocca & more - Fayruz - CACHIMBA - POME DE PAIM - Ovio (GALLERIA MALL) - kaffi cho loung - rose ville - gaby,a. El Rehab Trianon (Rehab Mall) – Le Reve – Mercato Italiano – Jounieh – Gauchos – The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf (Mall 2) – Cilantro – Cinnabon – Quick - Costa Coffee - Baraka Optics - Alef Bookstore. Alexandria Transit Café (Master) - Café (Master) - Pasqua Café (Master) - Seif Pahrmacy (Master) - Costa (City center) - Le Mode (City Center) - Fudruckers (City Center) - Baskin Robens (City Center) - Xtreme (City Center) - Cilantro (City Center) - Dino (City Center) - Cinnabon (City Center) - Sultana (City Center) - Sinos (City Center) - Glitter (City Center) - Pizza Inncon (City Center) - Espresso (City Center) - Delice (City Center) - In & Out (City Center) - Café Noir (San Stefano) - Harris Café (San Stefano) - Glateria Roma (San Stefano) - Beano’s Café (San Stefano) - Valentino (San Stefano) - Costa Coffee (San Stefano) - Cilantro (San Stefano) - Cilantro – Dar el Shorouk (Inside San Stefano Mall). New Cairo Mohamed Al Sagheer Beauty Salon (JW Marriott Mirage City) - Baraka Optics - GUC Library - Coffee Shop Company (Downtown Mall) - Paul (Downtown Mall) - Cilantro (Downtown Mall) - Melodies (Downtown Mall) - Carpaccio (Downtown Mall) - Mori Sushi (Downtown Mall) - Makani (Downtown Mall) - Bakery (Downtown Mall) - Picasso (Downtown Mall) - IL Café Di Rome (Downtown Mall) - Grand Patjo (Downtown Mall) - Olives (Downtown Mall) - Mama's (Downtown Mall) - Coffe Bean & Tea Leaf - Harris - Magost - Costa - Trianon. Hotels Semiramis Hotel (Down Town) – Le Riad Hotel De Charm (El Hussien) - Sheraton Cairo Hotel (Dokki) Renaissance Hotel. El Obour City Le Café (Golf City Club) - Bakery Marriott (Shell Station) - Baraka Optics. Egypt Air Pick up your copy from Business and Economy lounges in Dubai and Paris Lines (Egypt Air)

JULY/AUGUST 2015

CONTENTS

Local

Kitchen & Bathroom

Architecture

Lighting & Product

Interior & Furniture

Coverage & Press Release

JULY / AUGUST 2015

LOCAL 36 A Tasty Interior Design at Tabla Luna / 46 The Mind Behind Value’s Interior Design / 68 Designed Up with Driftwood

INTERIOR & FURNITURE

20 Chairs & More / 26 Paradise On Earth / 40 Choose the More Elegant Switcheroo / 64 Dress to Impress…Zalf’s Wardrobes of Colossal Fashion

COVERAGE & PRESS RELEASE

50 Cairo Fashion Festival 2015 / 51 ‘The Garden of Earthly Delights’ / 58 Ramadana Tent Organizes Amazing Suhoors / 71 La Casa Coverage

LIGHTING & PRODUCT

30 Six Wooden Lighting Fixtures That Will Blow Your Mind

ARCHITECTURE

60 The July-August Archtagon

KITCHEN & BATHROOM

52 Dekor Haus Egypt’s Exclusive Gateway to nobilia’s Ingenuity

JULY/AUGUST 2015

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FURNITURE • MODERN

CHAIRS & MORE BADMINTON CONIC SOFT SEATING by

>>>

By Nader Ramadan

ITEMdesignworks

Almost taking the shape of a badminton ball, the Badminton Conic Soft seating unit is a throne in and itself, giving the user comfort, privacy, and a sense of authority all in one go. This product designed by ITEMdesignworks has a dynamic and open conception, acting as your own little cocoon within the workplace, an often fast-paced and stressful environment. “It is a kind of throne that impresses you with its size and shape. The aim is to feel well and comfortable, but always with an active attitude,” Javier Cuñado, Director of ITEM designworks, said in a press statement.

LONGO LOUNGE SEATING >>> by

Ramos & Bassols

The average corporate employee spends 8 hours at the office everyday with his/ her head turned towards the computer and the back being scrunched into an uncomfortable position which many times can have its long lasting effects. The solution to this notorious comfort deficiency suffered by many employees is in essence the Longo Lounge Seating collection by Ramos & Bassols which was strategically thought of to cater to the corporate world’s physical demands in terms of comfort in addition to the being a modular system of sofas, desks, and storage solutions. What’s most interesting is that the two in essence can go together, such that a small meeting table can be combine with a long waiting room sofa, as demonstrated in the below with the ballerina.

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very now and then designers have to reinterpret even the most the ancient design concepts that have been written in stone, even with some of the most long-lasting products, such as that of a chair. In adding to the long list of new designs, this article acts as a platform teeming with some of the most interesting and at times slightly whimsical designs the market has ever seen.

>>>

SIAMOO by

ZZA (zigzag arquitectura)

LAPALA

>>>

Using a more ethnic route for inspiration, ZZA (zigzag arquitectura) designed Siamoo, a name stemming from “Siamese” and “stool”. In essence, Siamoo consists of two stools, similar to each other just like Siamese twins, yet each stool has their own personality, emphasizing the idea of individuality with the design itself. What the studio founders, David Casino and Bernardo Angelini, wanted to do was create a system that act as a pair, one character as a table and the other as a seating unit, adding an extra element of flexibility.

Lievore Altherr Molina Studio and Expormim

Expormim, in a collaborative effort with Lievore Altherr Molina Studio, has taken upon itself to revive the elegance classics of braided chairs with its release of Lapala, purely Mediterranean and refined in every sense of the word. This chair, whether you order it tall or short, goes well with patios, terraces, and porches if you have one.

>>> CRON by

AlegreIndustrial Studio

Cron is an ergonomic business seating solution created by AlegreIndustrial Studio, made to fuse the assertive visual elements of being a managerial chair while at the same time maintaining its pragmatic functionality. It is this comfortable and relatively light weight seating solution that can make the office experience overall more pleasant.

Season Chair by Piero Lissoni

>>>

CHAIRS TAKING THE CHANCES WITH VICCARBE Viccarbe works with two prestigious designers, Jean Marie-Massoud and Tomoya Tabuchi, both of whom contribute volumes to the company’s extensive product network. Massoud designed the ACE wood chair collection (seen below) and Tabuchi fundamentally revolutionized design at Viccarbe with his new Nagi chair.

Ace Wood by Jean Marie-Massoud

ONDARRETA â&#x20AC;Ś. >>> ENCOMPASSING A SUMMER DIP Named after one of the three great beaches in Spain, Onderreta is a company which tells a story of secrets and romanticism through the works of furniture design that they produce. Nora and Nadia Arratibel make up the second generation of this long established business, which gives reference to the scenic coast of San Sebastien. This yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s collection includes masterpieces of creative design and carpentry alike such as the Skid Chairs Bob XL, the Aia poufs, the Mikado chairs, the Oto stools, the Bai steel chair, the Bob low tables, and the Bob high table. Nora and Nadia Arratibel

JULY/AUGUST 2015

>>> THE GARDENIAS INDOOR COLLECTION by

Jaime Hayon (Barcelona Design)

Over the years designer Jaime Hayon has refined his creative approach and techniques to become one of the most significant assets Barcelona Design has ever had, especially with the release of his second grand collection Gardenias Indoor. This product line of classic outdoor furniture has been calibrated for contemporary settings and style taking garden furniture to another level which goes well beyond imagination. Hayon through his designs refines the way people live and experience the great outdoors.

>>> LIGHT LEAPS OF LUXURY WITH MARSET Marset prides itself with the release of several light designs in collaboration with a variety of different designers and design studios. Most notably, Joan Gaspar made an amazing impression with the new models of Ginger and Soho, in addition to Sputnik Estudioâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Santorini lighting unit, all of which are part of an extensive series of lighting designs for any contemporary home.

Marset -Sohoa

JULY/AUGUST 2015

Marset -Santorini C

Ginger by Joan Gaspar

RESORT â&#x20AC;˘ HOTEL

PARADISE ON EARTH By Nader Ramadan Images courtesy of Kelly Hoppen Interiors

Extravagance has always been the popular mantra that all designers involved luxury have rigidly followed. Being the dare devil of a designer that she is, Kelly Hoppen comes up with the ultimate sensual experience for the luxury resort LUX* Belle Mare in Mauritius. Bringing all the elements of luxury together in one venue which caters to all five senses.

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n collaboration with LUX* Island Resorts, award-winning British designer Kelly Hoppen has designed an ideal spot for all those who want to spend their vacation some place else, other than in front of the television, of course. LUX* Belle Mare is nested on the sumptuous shores of Mauritius where international visitors can enjoy the calm waves, the sun, and all elements of nature at its best. Sometimes taking in the natural beauty of an area requires a more simplistic approach, where the real design in question is the environment yet the invitation is in essence the luxury resort made to patent down all the elements to the desired level. Hoppen says that her approach of fully taking advantage of the area natural beauty. She turned to no other than the 60s legend Brigitte Bardot, an actor and fashion model transformed into an animal rights activist. Her Saint Tropez design project became an exemplary model and inspiration for Hoppen’s work in Mauritius, particularly the stunning minimalistic yet down-toearth simplicity needed to enjoy what nature brings.

“I know what I want when I go to a hotel, and it is virtually nothing – but everything there has to be clean, simple and pleasurable to the touch. This is a beachside location, so the design had to reflect the same sort of minimalist luxury that Brigitte Bardot made famous in Saint Tropez in the 60s. In fact the more I designed, the more I made it lighter and simpler – my aim was to create an uncluttered ambience to help rebalance the body and soul,” said Hoppen in a press statement.

"Resort takes inspirations of Brigitte Bardot in minimalist luxury to the next level!" More importantly, the beach restaurant Beach Rouge was one of the main attractions at the resort being the ultimate platform for leisure, as Mr. Paul Jones CEO of LUX* Island Resorts, explains “the concept of Beach Rouge was born from the desire to create a place where people can share and get together for lunch, dinner or simply to [have a drink] by the sea. The Beach Rouge will also

Drawing from the company’s signature Island Light concept, the designed involved a myriad of Hoppen’s characteristic neutral colors including whites, creams, taupes and beiges along with other accents including turquoise, fuchsia, soft yellow, apple green, Chinese red, bright orange and purple. It’s psychedelic to say the least! To complement the color work and add texture, a combination linens and cotton fabrics were drawn from beach-inspired themes to extrapolate different elements such as bleached wood trestle tables or water-like lacquered surfaces. The simplicity of the design in essence works with the environment to create a harmonious mix of elements that supplies the visitor with not only inspiration but leisure for the heart and soul.

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be the perfect framework for many memorable parties”. Commending Hoppen for her role in the resort’s design, Jones added that “the LUX* Belle Mare has been an important step in [her] career. Not only is Mauritius an extraordinary place with extraordinary people, working with Paul Jones and Piers Schmidt on this project has been very enriching."

Every moment at the LUX* Belle Mare will arouse in you the same feeling that you get when you walk barefoot on a white-sand beach. It’s paradise!” It’s the combination of a gifted designer such as Hoppen with the natural beauty of the area that becomes the main formula for success. If you don’t believe it, take it from the owner and president himself. As Mr. Jones most specifically concludes that “there are two essential ingredients

to LUX* Belle Mare’s success. The beach, which is one of Mauritius’s most beautiful beaches, and the incredible team that is always devoted to our guests. Add Kelly Hoppen’s stunning designs and LUX* Belle Mare instantly becomes the perfect place to spend your holidays”.

LIGHTING & PRODUCT • MODERN

6 WOODEN

LIGHTING FIXTURES THAT WILL BLOW YOUR MIND By Nader Ramadan Images courtesy of LZF

echnology is no longer the litmus test for the progression of lighting design. Rather lighting design has taken a revolutionary turn to a more a meaningful, artsy of interpretation of how we illuminate our spaces in a more stylish way that ultimately effect the way we live, think, feel, and experience the environment around us. LZF works with a host of different designers to synthesize a new way of thinking about modern illuminations using the ideas that contemporary luminaries (designers) of the age have to offer.

LZF Funny Farm by Isidro Ferrer & LZF Lab

LZF Elephant by Isidro Ferrer & LZF Lab

LZF Funny Farm by Isidro Ferrer & LZF Lab

FUNNY FARM

by Isidro Ferrer and LZF Lab

LZF Fish by Isidro Ferrer & LZF Lab 04.

JULY/AUGUST 2015

Well, it’s always important to start any story with a little laugh. Funny Farm by designer Isidro Ferrer in cooperation with LZF Lab is a rather peculiar funny family of farm animals made into small designed accessories, almost toy-like. Mr. Ferrer describes the creative process that it took to develop this collection saying “… I began to experiment with the shape and the look of their lamps, and began to play with small wooden pieces inspired by the morphology of their products. My experiments led me to a peculiar, funny family made up of nineteen wooden animals, including, among others, monkeys, a fish with legs, elephants and rabbits. That was when knew I had created the Funny Farm.”

LZF Luzifer Funny Farm by Isidro Ferrer & LZF Lab.

LZF Dandelion by Burkhard Dämmer.

LZF Cervantes by Burkhard Dämmer

CERVANTES

by Burkhard Dämmer

Cervantes is the work of German designer Burkhard Dämmer, who made it to be a suspension lamp as well as a unit for the ceiling and/or wall. What’s most striking about this lamp is its lattice of wooden veneers, creating a beautifully intricate pattern in addition to the way these veneers are spread in all directions creating a concave effect. The main inspiration for this product was ruffs, neck ornaments from the Baroque period often found in paintings of famous figures such Miguel de Cervantes, from which the product gets its name.

NEW WAVE by Ray Power

LZF Hi Collar by Ray Power

LZF New wave by Ray Power.

Irish designer Ray Power creates an interesting reinterpretation of wood veneers and wooden lighting with his most recent invention New Wave. This unit represents a successful venture into experimenting with the expressive abilities of wooden structures that can take geometrically dynamic, organic shapes. The New Wave consists of two rectangular wooden panels, one being placed inside another, giving it its characteristic smooth curvature, making it an iconic element for any interior.

LZF Asterisco by Cuatro Cuatros

ASTERISCO

LZF Asterisco by Cuatro Cuatros

by Cuatro Cuatros (Cristina Ródenas and Adrián M. Almonacid)

The Valencian studio Cuatro Cuatros formed by designers Cristina Ródenas and Adrián M. Almonacid has created the masterpiece the Asterisco lamp, coming the asterisk symbol one would usually find in a book or professional publications to point to references. The duo says in a press statement: “We wanted to merge the two products into one with Asterisco, it is a fun and functional lamp, simple yet intelligent, designed to support your tablet or book to read comfortably. Considering it was our first project with LZF we wanted to make it something unique for their collection.”The product was hit in the market winning the iF Design Award and being a finalist for the prestigious German Design Awards 2015.

LZF Piknik by Macalula

PIKNIK

by Macalula

Well, it does look like a picnic basket, but there’s than meets the eye with the Piknik lighting unit by Macalula which consists of a tubular piece of veneer that covers the light source and a handle on top. In this particular unit, the free-hanging lampshade moves with the breeze creating a candle-like sense of tranquility.

LZF Koi by Inocuo the Sign & LZF Lab

KOI

by Inocuo The Sign and LZF Lab

Being part of the company’s long-term project, Inocuo The Sign has been one of LZF Lab’s longest standing initiatives to make lighting solutions from the shapes of different animals using Koi fabrics, a system of overlaying wooden slacks that make of the scaly skin of a carp. Koi in essence is a rather large carp, made out of wood and light, considered by many to be half lighting fixture and half sculpture. This creation becomes a dynamic element for any interior it is placed in, adding a sense of movement, with the same gracefulness you would see in that of any other marine creature.

JULY/AUGUST 2015

LZF Koi by Inocuo The Sign & LZF Lab

JULY/AUGUST 2015

LOCAL • INTERIOR

By Nader Ramadan Photography by Bilo Hussein

A TASTY INTERIOR DESIGN AT TABLA LUNA Arch. Malak Rashad and Arch. Ahmad Fayyad

JULY/AUGUST 2015

When architects Arch. Ahmad Fayyad and Arch. Malak Rashad from F&R Partnership were tasked to design Tabla LUNA’s new branch in Sodic's the HUB in Westown, 6th of October City, they knew that they were not dealing with just any brand, but the king of Latin American cuisine in Cairo. Using their skills and experience, they translated a corporate identity into an elegant interior design which ensures its customers a world class fine dining experience.

F&R Parternship takes on the challenge of designing the best Latin American joint in Cairo!

abla LUNA….It’s a Latin American restaurant with a refined reputation for its food, its taste, and its special skills in stirring up an appetite. But when it comes synthesizing an interior design which intends to create an authentic fine dining experience, that’s where this design duo comes, Arch. Ahmad Fayyad and Arch. Malak Rashad, the owners of F&R Partnership. One of the most ingenious elements in the design of this facility was the architects’ use of different volumes and protruding structures to separate between distinct zones within the interior space. In designing what was to be one of the most attractive places to eat, the first and most important aspects of their plan was to establish a relationship between the customers and the food as it was being made using this specific technique. The team placed the kitchen in a separate block overlooking the tables, open to the customer area, only to be separated by sleek structure hanging from the ceiling. This structure was adorned with lighting units that were created from recycled wine bottles and were fashioned into fully functional suspension lamps, an innovative touch and creative approach to customizing the lighting arrangements to the space. The dish washing area was placed in an adjacent yellow floating cube. The customer area itself has its own fill of fun, playful twists and turns, including its use of traditional qahwa (‘coffeeshop’) chairs painted with red, green and yellow to fit with other elements in the restaurant’s interior. This is only one of many ingenious projects that were taken up by F&R Partnership, being a recently established architectural and interior design firm based in Cairo, Egypt. With its young creative staff and its prestigious portfolio of clients, they pride themselves on being one of the unique studios working with a minimalist modern approach to design which are competitive on a global scale doing projects in both Egypt and the UAE.

BARON MALL

Everything home, under one roof

aron Mall is your one-stop mega shop for everything home! From furniture, ceramics, lighting, wallpaper, carpets, curtains, fabrics, floor coverings, mattresses, home appliances, kitchens, accessories, and much more - there is nowhere else you will have to go but here! We have brought together the top local, national and international brands under one roof. Mostafa El Sallab, Oriental Weavers, and Asfour Crystal are just a few of the world-renowned names that await you here.

ur aim has always been to perfect the union between quality and price, and match your needs exactly. From modern to classic furniture, you will find thousands of options from top-quality brands. Are you looking for something classic and unique, or something modern and specific? For modern and contemporary styles, Mazloum Home, Divano, Zahran Furniture, Living Mix, and Bella Casa are just a few of the brands located here to satisfy your needs. On the other hand, if you are a fan of classic and timeless pieces, look no further than French Home Furniture, Premier Curtains & Fabrics, Harmony, and Extreme Royal Design. We are always delighted to help you find exactly what

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you need. Encounter an exceptional shopping experience, and explore our exquisite selection of furniture that offers a truly impressive variety for both home, corporate environments, and much more.

ince 2010, Baron Mall has helped thousands of customers find exactly what they are looking for. From different and diverse tastes, needs, and beyond, we are the most easily accessible shopping destination. We are conveniently located on Ring Road, Kattameya and if parking is ever an issue for you, it won’t be here. With more than ample parking, we will save you the time and frustration of visiting countless locations. Baron Mall has provided a distinguished, familyorientated and relaxed shopping experience for everyone to enjoy.

hether you’re looking for a full home renovation, home accessories, or even a simple and relaxing coffee break at Baron Mall’s very own Cilantro, you’ve come to the right spot. Are your kids an issue when it comes to shopping? Not to worry – we will entertain your children at the kid’s play area just for you. We’ve always got you covered, anywhere, anytime!

FURNITURE â&#x20AC;˘ CONTEMPORARY

CHOOSE THE MORE ELEGANT SWITCHEROO

By Nader Ramadan Images courtesy of Cattelan Italia

Boxer by Paolo Cattelan Yannik

If youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re considering doing the summer switcheroo to remodel your house, consider the ingenious designs of Cattelan Italia, with its abstract inventiveness being the epitome of what great designers can offer you today. Watch as your house can become a pure spectacle of glamor for many to see, as it refines the way we look, think, and feel about our very own habitats.

ummer is the time when we have to rethink, yet again, about what we want to do with different aspects of our lives. Kids take three-month summer vacations, people travel, and some even go camp in the wild. But summer time is also healthy for another thing, a rather important one, and that is remodeling your home so that it fully encompasses the way you want to live your life.

With its army of experienced designers, Cattelan Italia offers what it really means to live a stylish lifestyle, with its extensive product range featuring everything from lighting units glistening for inspiration to furniture which will blow your mind.

Magda by Studio Kronos

Apollo by Oriano Favaretto

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Apollo by Oriano Favaretto

Europa by Andrea Lucatello

We start with the first item that would you need to consider, which is that of the Apollo lighting units designed by Oriano Favaretto. This lamp consists of two borosilicate spheres, with its lower sphere made out of transparent glass and the upper sphere made out of either glass as well or different material such as painted

chrome, copper, or bronze. The ceiling fixing which anchors the light units into the ceiling surface and is made out of high quality chromed steel. With yet another voluminous element, you can use to completely remodel and refine your living room setup with the Boxer designed by Paolo Cattelan. This rather attractive TV cabinet is made out of high quality Canaletto walnut wood is widely available for those who want to enjoy your typical Ahly-Zamalek soccer match or anything that you or your family might find entertaining. It is fundamentally this element in the space that mixes well with bright blue or green walls making it a complementary part of a harmonious living room package.

Falco by Emanuele Zenere

Stone

Valdo

Corner by Giorgio Cattelan

Giotto by Andrea Lucatello

In addition, the design of the world class professional Emanuele Zenere being Falco, is a fundamental forward for all people who have an eye for smaller table units that make an encompassing element in any living room environment. Well, thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s that when it comes to sheer size, especially if youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re talking about small and compact in creative design. Yet, what was to be designed by the Andrea Lucatello and executed by Cattelan Italia was fundamentally revolutionary. Giotto is in essence is a bookcase which is looks as wise as its design, made out of Canaletto walnut wood and perfected to the best quality for its end user.

Hystrix by Giorgio Cattelan

Organize your books with Giotto, watch TV in front of the Boxer, and get ready for dinner on all tables combined!

Elan Drive by Paolo Cattelan

Giotto by Andrea Lucatello

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Batik by Andrea Lucatello

Lothar by Alessio Bassan

Finally, Europa, also designed by Lucatello, is part of a complete desert, with stylishness and elegance being part of the main course of the menu. This side board table features smoothly sliding doors as well as its sleek, minimalist design made out of Canaletto walnut, burned oak, gloss oak and other elements. The structure of the table itself is made out of matt graphite, consisting of internal shelves that help keep the end user at his/her highest level of organization. Founded in 1979 by Giorgio and Silvia Cattelan, Cattelan Italia is a company which exports to up to 150 countries work with a select 350 prestigious dealers worldwide. The company has participated in many international fairs and exhibitions in Milan, Cologne, Paris, Valencia, Moscow, and Coutrai.

ET by Angelo Tomaiuolo

Batik by Andrea Lucatello

Galaxy by Oriano Favaretto

Lingotto by Paolo Cattelan

Eliot Keramik Drive by Giorgio Cattelan

Europa by Andrea Lucatello

Apart from the company’s admirable record of international cooperation and expansion with its products being seen everywhere, the most important aspect of Cattelan Italia’s philosophy is that it was established on the rich tradition Italian craftsmanship. Giorgio himself was the youngest in a family of seven brothers and his father himself was a famous carpenter from the small village of Thiene, near Vicenza.

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His passion has motivated him to build a multinational brand making it clear that it is a force to be reckoned with. In 1995, management of the company was taken up by Giorgio’s sons Lorenzo and Paolo Cattelan who have pushed their business to new heights. In January 2011, the Cattelan Italia reached a significant benchmark with its purchase of ARKETIPO from Florence, one of the most widely regarded brands for its sophistication and high level production practices. And still, Cattelan Italia to this day plans to accomplish a whole lot more in the future.

Helix by Piero De Longhi

LOCAL • INTERIOR & FURNITURE

Eng. Amera El Saadani

THE MIND BEHIND VALUE’S INTERIOR DESIGN By Nader Ramadan Images courtesy of Value’s Interior Design

t is all too often that we find the business in Egypt has been confined within the market. For this reason, ASK Magazine goes behind the scenes to sit with Value’s Interior Design & Furniture’s main mastermind in its design department. Symbols of architectural achievement in the local Egyptian

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scene have often long been forgotten, only to be written in books of history or inscribed on the tablets for many to read and reflect on for years to come. Yet, what is from the past will remain from the past. The question that often looms is what is next? It was this question that burned our minds until we had the opportunity to

interview the mastermind of Value’s Interior Design & Furniture Eng. Amera El Saadani, who is the concrete foundation of the world class firm that Value’s Interior Design is today.

THEIR WORK IS DRIVEN BY PASSION FOR DESIGN.... Its work in essence is driven by an impeccable record of work ethics, demonstrating only world standard practices in all its business operations, but also it has gone beyond country lines to do some of the most amazing projects in the Middle East. Its other major motivation behind many of their business is passion. It was the burning flame of passion that we as a magazine found in Eng. Amera El Saadani, being the director of designs at the company which has for so long been at the center of her career, as she explains: “I graduated from the Faculty of Engineering and ever since I’ve worked in the interior design field I’ve loved it. From the day I graduated, I have been working for Value’s Interior Design, specifically in its furniture factory, chiefly concerned with producing furniture which looks good and how it could work different environments such as a private residence, an office, or a clinic, etc. We do our best to produce the best outcome.”

She is not only the master of design, but we find also a master in the corporate world as well. It’s no brainer that Eng. Amera El Saadani a corporate maestro when it comes to helping in running Value’s Interior Design, having offices in both Cairo and Dubai.

Expanding to become one of the most prominent interior design and furnishing companies in the Middle East

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“Value’s Design is an interior design and furniture company. Our primary service was interior designs and then we starting also expanding into furniture design. The types of furniture designs company offered by the company are characteristically more unique than what is offered in the local market. The company opened in 2004

with only three interior designers and in 2015 with many employees in Cairo, Dubai, and branch in Germany which is currently being developed.” Further expanding on the company’s history, she said that the company went from doing private villas to designing one of the most prestigious voluminous projects in the region, everything from hotels to hospitals for the benefit of the community. “The first project that this company worked on was a private villa,” said Eng. Amera. “Now, the company works in a number of different fields including residential communities (such as villas and apartment buildings), educational facilities (such as schools), hospitals, hospitality (including resorts and fivestar hotels).

Interior design yes, but nobody said that they can’t be kept from expanding their horizons. This is why they are working on KLAFS, a new brand that they are currently exploring in the sauna and spa sector. Soon KLAFS saunas and spas will become the centerpiece of every single home in Egypt. Last but certainly not least, we also always know that even in design that there is a need for speed, which is why Value’s Interior Design was a sponsor and involved in the design of some elements in one of Dubai’s sports cars. The interview left us with one thing: the problem in the Egyptian market is not really quality as much as it is awareness. The potential for local Egyptian interior designers and

architects really is there and all the country really needs to do is grab it, invest in it, and develop its potential so that brands such as Value’s Interior Design can be written in the history books for all its achievements.

COVERAGE

By Nader Ramadan Images courtesy of EGO COMM

CAIRO FASHION FESTIVAL 2015

A STORY OF JEANS, JOY, AND ALL THAT JAZZ

airo just got a makeover with style this May with Cairo Fashion Festival 2015….the country’s hotspot and platform for showcasing some of the world’s most prestigious names in the fashion industry. Taking place at Cairo Festival City, stylists and style-seeking guests got to feast their eyes on the latest spring/summer trends and the latest that fashion talents from all over the region have to offer right from the cat walk. Visitors also got to enjoy the festival’s bazaar, offering everything from small accessories to dresses as well as food and beverages.

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COVERAGE

DESIGN EMPORIUM

LAUNCHES ‘THE GARDEN OF EARTHLY DELIGHTS’ By Nader Ramadan Photography by Nader Ramadan

‘

The Garden of Earthly Delights’, the collaborative work of Design Emporium, Chairs & Co., and ABn’G, was launched at a private celebration taking place at the Design Emporium headquarters in Zamalek.

This capsule collection which was showcased at the event featuring a model wearing a dress from the same pattern as that of the upholstery in the furniture item right next to the model, placed in a setting at Design Emporium headquarters with the same patterned wallpaper in some cases. A photo shoot done by Arch. Karim El Hayawan and a printed portrait of the fashion. model was displayed along with other items in each capsule. All of this was done using Design Emporium’s high end labels including Casamance, Osborne & Little, Mathew Williamson, Christian Lacroix, Jean Paul Gautier, and Nina Campbell.

The event was attended by some of most well-known figures in the design market, including Aziza El Tanani herself as well as Clement Rivera a representative from Casamance who came all the from France to give a brief presentation of his company’s latest works.

The event featured a special Fashion Presentation organized and styled by Laila Youssef, and included Perle D’Or, Randa Torky, Ghada AlHashash and Shaimaa Eshmawy. It couldn’t have been possible without the help of its Platinum Sponsors including Levis, Quiksilver, Vans, Rockport, and GEOX. This season’s Silver Sponsors also included Max Fashions and Splash Fashions. Organized with the efforts of the event’s founder Omar Madkour and its coordinator Clorinda Siag, Cairo Fashion Festival is a cooperative initiative taken up by a coalition of companies including Ultimate Fashion Wear, Fashion Republic, AlAgabany, The Hub and EGO Communicate.

The event ended with El Tanani awarding several young designers included those from Chairs & Co. who were involved in efforts in producing this wonderful collection, which integrates furniture design, interior design, and fashion, all in a unique way.

KITCHEN • CONTEMPORARY

DEKOR HAUS Egypt’s Exclusive Gateway to nobilia’s Ingenuity By Nader Ramadan Images courtesy of nobilia Provided by Dekor Haus

Being the exclusive agent in Egypt for nobilia, Dekor Haus has reached a new benchmark in being the country’s top provider for German-efficient kitchens. With its emphasis on delivering services that demonstrate excellence in professionalism, Dekor Haus and its well-trained staff are determined to keep its customers satisfied for the years to come.

ekor Haus being the exclusive agent and local distributor of nobilia’s kitchen designs has taken it upon itself to be a world class showroom for homeowners in Egypt to select the kitchens that they deserve which are long-lasting, durable, and above all aesthetically appealing. One of the most important collections that Dekor Haus has always been stressing on introducing into the Egyptian market is the nobilia’s

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signature Line N collection, a spectacle of what high end designs combined with the mentality of a world class supplier can provide. One of the most important aspects of this particular collection is its handleless kitchens being the future of what kitchen design is made to be. It’s all brought to you by the ingenious business model that Dekor Haus has as nobilia’s agent. “Modern designer kitchens appear large with straight lines. High quality

lacquer fronts or perfectly crafted matt fronts with seamless, laser-welded edges are best shown to advantage without handles. Handleless fronts automatically create the impression of a linear and uniform appearance. It is no wonder, then, that handleless kitchens have advanced to the ranks of new designer kitchens,” as their catalogue specifies. It’s not only about collections, but it’s also about delivering modern kitchen architecture. With the variety of fine materials well-integrated with a compatible system of cutting edge technology, Dekor Haus can also bring you more space-consciousness kitchen solutions from nobilia, offering a complete setup within 11.5 square meters fit with a top quality design, ergonomics, and functional elements. Moreover and most importantly, Dekor Haus offers variety. Through the various choices that Dekor Haus offers, you can choose the custom combinations of materials and color accents which suite you the best. All of these elements work together so that your custom-made kitchen can be in harmony with the rest of your household.

“Exciting contrasts or soft accents. Our extensive spectrum of fronts and colours is an open invitation to custom combinations. Our planning tips offer suggestions as to which colours and wood reproductions work together harmoniously as well as how colours and materials can be combined to create design focal points,” according to the nobilia catalogue. “Of course, there are many more possibilities for combination than those shown here. Allow us to

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inspire you, choose your favourite combination or create a whole new one. Have fun!” Dekor Haus in essence is a one-stop shop solution which has everything that you would need from nobilia, coupled with its world class products, stellar interior design services, and facilities should the customer ever need anything. The company acts as your personal guide to create the perfect kitchen in the heart of your very own home.

Having been founded in 2008 with its head office in Mohandeseen in Gamaat El Dowel Al Arabeya, Dekor Haus prides itself year after year for being the exclusive agent of nobilia. Though its main specialization is in kitchens, Dekor Haus is also an agent for other furnishing brands with multiple functional elements, including furniture, TV sets and audio equipment, ensuring that your house is unforgettably elegant.

NOW OPEN THE

DISTRICT MALL

HELIOPOLIS BRANCH

The District Mall, Wadi Degla City Furniture Complex, Building No. 27, Heliopolis Mob: +2 0120 1742 777

MOHANDSEEN BRANCHES

22 Gameat El-Dowal El Arabia St., Mohandseen, Giza, Egypt. Tel: +2 02 33 44 7104 | Fax: +2 02 33 47 6292 50 Abo El Mahasen El-Shazly St., Mohandseen, Giza, Egypt. Tel: +2 02 33 04 6614 | Fax: +2 02 33 04 6612

6TH OF OCTOBER BRANCH

HC Furniture Mall, Mall of Arabia, 6th of October, Gate 1, 2nd Floor ,S8 Mob: +2 0120 1743 555 info@dekor-haus.com | Mob: +2 0122 7745 866 www.dekor-haus.com www.facebook.com/pages/dekor-haus https://instagram.com/dekor_haus/ https://plus.google.com/107142695897799482453/posts

GERMAN FURNITURE 61

JULY/AUGUST 2015

COVERAGE

By Nader Ramadan Photography by Nader Ramadan

Booming Nightlife in Ramadan as the

Ramadana Tent

Organizes Amazing Suhoors

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ne of Egypt’s biggest communications/ advertising agencies, Tarek Nour Communications (TNC) organized an amazing hangout for nightlife in Cairo during the sacred month of Ramadan, where people at the Ramadana Tent Riverside got to dine and dance the night away with its live performances. These performances included some of the country’s most well-known stars, such as Hossam Hosny, Mahmoud El Laithy, Sha’ban Abdur Raheem, Hamdy Batchan, Adaweya, and many more. Food and drinks were served along with good music, good food, and a whole lot of mingling. Reviews from the audience proved to be stellar with the place’s impeccable design, catchy colors, festive Ramadan spirit, not to mention its prestigious riverside location offering scenic views of the Nile River. Spending a night at the Ramadana Tent would be an overall life changing experience to cut loose from a long hard day’s work so that you can hang out with friends and an enjoy an amazing cuisine. With its close to Sequoia and other main urban centers, the place couldn’t have better chosen to hold such an pleasant occasion. It’s part of TNC’s special way of saying Ramadan Kareem to everyone out there!

ARCHITECTURE • CONTEMPORARY

THE

JULY-AUGUST ARCHTAGON By Nader Ramadan

ith the current energy crisis and the alarming rate of depleting non-renewable resources, sustainability has been on the agenda to formulate new modes of urban expansion, so much so that even some urban spaces will be devoted to taking on the same tasks as their rural counterparts. Mass urbanization has pushed experts to their breaking points to design cities which can at least provide basic services to its residents in a more efficient and competent manner, while maintaining a minimal carbon footprint and close to zero emissions. This issue’s ‘Archtagon’ will be devoted to discussing several projects which play with a contemporary mix of motifs along with sustainable themes.

THE DONGFENG CITY MALL by amphibianArc Images courtesy of amphibianArc

Inspired by the traditional Chinese “Treasure Bowl/Cornucopia”, the Dongfeng City mall project is radical reinterpretation of commercial space, set to be located in the northwest district of Zhenghzhou, China. The structure will be a 350,000 square meter complex, fit with retail outlets, food and beverage facilities, hospitality (via a hotel tower), and family entertainment services among many other elements. Architects sought out to use traditional Chinese inspirations to synthesize a vibrant, intimate urban zone which comfortably lays out the facilities for a variety of different activities for regular shoppers.

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CORAL REEF by Vincent Callebaut Architectures Images courtesy of Vincent Callebaut Architectures

Belgian architect Vincent Callebaut has designed Coral Reef, an inspirational residential space of 1000 houses which takes advantage of the three-dimensional structure of marine corals and amplifies the concept to a human community scale. This prototype project is designed to a solution to a humanitarian crisis and forms a residential area that is divided into two large structures. These structures are characteristically wavy, separated by a rather large interspacial canyon between the two volumes, providing this community with plenty of pedestrian space taking the form of a tropical ecosystem infused with the natural beauty of local fauna and flora.

LONDON ORGANIC SKYSCRAPER by chartier-corbasson architects Images coutesy of chartier-corbasson architectes

It may look somewhat like a gigantic Christmas tree to you, but as a matter of fact this pyramid-shaped structure is the masterpiece of chartier-corbasson architectes who wanted to create an interestingly organic high rise building that was inspired by the concept of bamboo scaffoldings. It is in essence an interfolded, interwoven framework that not only forms a stable structure, but also consists of greener elements, such as its extensive use of recyclable materials.

THE CITY by SURE Architecture Company

Images courtesy of SURE Architecture Company Design Team: Kam Tai Fai, Alina Valcarce, and Eliane Billon

Participating as part of the SuperSkyScaper Awards, the City is in essence a new vertical city which provides the facilities of any urban space within the framework of a vertical structure rather than a horizontal urban block. This skyscraper, different from any one of its kind, is made to be an interactive platform for all types of urban activities, that normal city dwellers engage in, including residential, commercial, as well other functions.

HABITATS OF THE FUTURE by Goetz Schrader

Images courtesy of Arch. Goetz Schrader (Dusseldorf, Germany)

Designed by German architect Arch. Goetz Schrader, these structures are an experimental type of plan that would, in the future, be a new way to power cities and provide the hospitality industry with a more luxurious, energy effiecient experience for their visitors. As can be seen in the picture with the wind turbines, each unit is an insulated capsule that spiral around the trunk of the towering wind turbines. Residents can be taken up to their flats using the hallow vertical tube that can take them up or down the shaft. To take another concept to another level, Nessy was developed by the architect which basically involves floating hotel rooms which separate during the summer time, yet during harsh winter condition will come together.

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INTERIOR • WARDROBE

DRESS TO … IMPRESS ZALF’S WARDROBES OF COLOSSAL FASHION By Nader Ramadan Images courtesy of Euromobil Group

Euromobil Group works in a great many sectors of the furniture industry, but what particularly concerns them is people’s morning grooming habits. It is this critical moment during the day which creates the striking first impression that people want to make every day at work or at a posh dinner party. One of the company’s brands Zalf presents an entire collection of creatively designed closets to make your morning dressing mode more organized and efficient than ever.

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ress rooms, closets, wardrobes…. these three products are the name of the game for Euromobil's Zalf brand. Targeting a significantly demanding portion of the market, Zalf worked with world-class designers to produce a series of wardrobes that are sure to ease the stress involved in that vital process of tuning up your tuxedo before any wedding! Dressing isn’t easy for many people and that’s what makes the Combi system a necessary component for any modern bedroom with its titanium frame finish and glass doors, making any fashionable collection clothes organized and neatly laid out without

kinks, wrinkles, or stains. Picà, a cabinet with a unique titanium finish, is also a component that the company offers it several different colors. “The furniture for the sleeping area by Zalf opens the series of new products with the elegant wardrobe Combi System with conventional glass doors Crystal and frame in titanium finish, that is also proposed in the original Open version like a comfortable and large walk-in cabinet,” said a press statement from Euromobil Group. “Also the intriguing walk-in cabinet Picà amazes with the exclusive design of its accessories, which are available in a wide range and in several colours. Here the refined uniqueness of the titanium finish stands out.”

But of course, maestros have to work with more than one instrument in order to complete the entire symphony. Euromobil did such with the works of Marc Sadler, using modular concepts and strong character to design bookshelf LZ. That along with the elegance of the console Dabliu-in designed by Setsu&Shinobu Ito, makes an overall pleasant experience with its sleek fine lines and light components. “Design again prevails in the living area by Zalf with the bookshelf LZ by Marc Sadler, based on a concept of plain modularity with a strong character and the bookshelf and console Dabliu-in by Setsu&Shinobu Ito, in metal rod with wooden shelves,

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extremely light furnishing elements and suitable for several functions,” the statement added. Euromobil Group’s new concept was presented several months ago at Salone Internazionale del Mobile, where the company the aimed to create revolutionary steps forwards in revamping the lifestyle of the average buyer so that they can feel better about the way they live. Living more fashionable ultimately means living more functional, such is the mantra that makes every furniture designer’s day.

LOCAL • FURNITURE

DESIGNED UP WITH DRIFTWOOD By Nader Ramadan Photography by Nader Ramadan

They say that it takes two to tango, and the same can be said about creative design, especially if it’s unique as the ones created by Gazwareen showcased at Jawhara Nafa’s impressive apartment of sweet stylish design treats. Ahmed Galal

hat’s the display all about? It’s about driftwood, specifically recycled driftwood at a time when too many trees are being cut down for all types of uses. Named after a local tree species known in Latin as Casuarina, Gazwareeen was started by Dr. Shahir Maged Mikhail, a physician turned into a passionate designer. The company was and still is the passionate dream

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project that he has held in such high regard, working tirelessly to create a more artful meaning to the way we think about furniture in a greener way. Working with Ahmed Galal, who studied fashion design in Canada and equally supports in Gazwareen’s cause, both believe that they are adding value to something that is often not considered a hidden treasure.

Dr. Shahir Maged Mikhail

The initiative comes amidst a crisis where natural wood has been rapidly depleting on a global level, primarily due to the high demand for fresh raw wood material. Though many furniture factories are going back to the use of MDF wood, recycling wood still has not become a widespread practice among mass furniture producers around the world and still production nevertheless continues at a mercilessly rapid rate. Yet, Gazwareenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s intends to show everyone that driftwood is in fact a treasure that producers can make use of. Being raised in Alexandria, it was only natural that the habit of collecting wood that washed up on the cityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s beaches would eventually become

Mikhailâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s main source of raw material. And the hidden value behind driftwood is that it has been everywhere from old boats to ships that have travelled everywhere, all brought together so it can form a piece of furniture in your very own home! Make no mistake! Driftwood has many advantages as a raw material for producing furniture including the fact that it is insect-resistant, highly durable, and stable for fashioning his work into something which is both functional and aesthetically appealing.

Hands down, the most appealing characteristic of driftwood is its bumpy surface, making it purely authentic and visually dynamic, as if it tells a story in each piece of wood. The result was Gazwareen’s own selection of chairs, tables, and other furnishing elements made out of their secret ingredient. On display was everything from the magazine table, the love cabinet, the platform 47 table among many other ingenious creations. Gazwareen also has an impressive supply of other furniture delights including the Queen Bed, the Peace Bench, the dining cabinet, the shoe closet. Equally unique were the design delights on display at Jawhara Nafa’s gallery. Being both a travel and design enthusiast, Jawhara is a treasurehunter voyaging to the ends of the earth in search of inspiring designs, whether it be rare silks from a remote

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Laotian village to island-hopping in Indonesia for unique furnishings. And impressive is the display indeed. You can travel quite literally around the world with what she has with amazing prices and colors, all to add an extra creative impulse to anyone’s household.

COVERAGE

UNITED FOR A CAUSE JAWHARA AND GAZWAREEN JOIN FORCES In her gallery, visitors will be able to find everything to make their homes stylish. Combining both the treasures from Jawhara’s travels with the creative works of Gazwareen, both show homeowners how they can create an authentic natural feel for their environment, while still caring about the environment. Sometimes the most important thing in life is to live it to its fullest by surrounding yourself with positive energy. The products from Gazwareen and Jawharea are sure to make you feel at one with your natural surroundings.

By Nader Ramadan Photography by Nader Ramadan

La Casa

Celebrates A Renewed Sense of Furnished Courage!

t’s 2015 and La Casa is on a roll, making it one of the most profitable furniture fairs in Egypt and attracting many far and wide to come to feast their eyes on some of the regional talents and major players. Of the most attractive displays that were showcased this year was that of Amr Helmy and his innovative Designy, Krema-Mehrez, Nogal Furniture, High Point, Fine Line, and American Furniture. There were also a host of interesting architectural, interior design, and construction firms including ICONIC Studio, Al Gabalawi Group and AMG.

What visitors found especially enticing was the welldesigned entrance, being not only catchy to the eye but very skillfully thought of and executed as part of the company’s campaign. It’s a no brainer that anyone who’s taking design seriously should visit La Casa next year.

PRESS RELEASE

Ezz Elarab and Citroën Introduce the C-Elysée in Egypt

JOTUN Egypt successfully

launched Fenomasitc My Home for Professionals

Ezz Elarab Automotive Group, (www.citroenegypt.com), the sole agent for Citroën in Egypt has furthered its reputation of bringing the finest cars to the Egyptian market with the introduction of the C-Elysée. Building on 90 years of innovation, Citroën’s stylish saloon car, the C-Elysée reaps the full benefits of Citroën expertise in technology and design. The C-Elysée is available now at Ezz Elarab’s showrooms as well as its network of authorized dealers across Egypt.

Intelligent Cities Exhibition & Conference (ICEC) Gathers Global Industry Leaders Together Intelligent Cities Exhibition & Conference (ICEC) 2015, (www.icec-mea.com) the Middle East and Africa’s foremost smart and sustainable cities event announced this years featured speakers’ lineup, including an impressive array of international experts. This year ICEC is taking place 29-30 September in Cairo, Egypt bringing together global industry leaders and investors to the region’s premier gathering place for those looking to develop sustainable intelligent cities. Registration for ICEC 2015 is now open. To obtain a free exhibit pass and learn more about ICEC 2015, please visit www.icec-mea.com.

Another successful Launch for Fenomastic My Home was held on the 28th of April for the Professional segment, attended by 250 from key influencers in the Real Estate industry, Top notch consultants, contractors and developers, besides Interior Designers, furniture stores and Media representatives. The event was held on one of the prestigious hotels in New Cairo, JW Marriot. The event featured several presentations introducing our most beautiful paint ever “My Home “ as well as our latest colour trends collection for 2015.

TRIPADVISOR CERTIFICATE OF EXCELLENCE 2015 For the 5th time, Semiramis InterContinental Cairo announced that it has received a TripAdvisor® Certificate of Excellence award. The accolade, which honors hospitality excellence, is given only to establishments that consistently achieve outstanding traveler reviews on TripAdvisor, and is extended to qualifying businesses worldwide. Only the topperforming 10 per cent of businesses listed on TripAdvisor receive this prestigious award.

ASUS Launches its Transformer Book Chi in Egypt

The Batter Half Releases Top Secret Cake Pop Techniques at Pop’O’Clock Can you keep a secret? Because those who got to see how The Batter Half’s mouthwatering Cake Pops are made certainly can! At The Batter Half’s exclusive event Pop’O’Clock, which took place at the company’s main office in Zamalek, attendees got the chance to customize their own Cake Pops. Cake Pops, quite literally a piece of cake on a stick, are a specialty of this new bakery brand that has made its way into the Egyptian market, not to mention also making its way into everyone’s sweet tooth!

JULY/AUGUST 2015

ASUS (www.asus.com), the leading brand in innovation, announced today the release of its Transformer Book, Chi to the Egyptian market. The detachable 2-in-1 device seamlessly transforms from a powerful laptop to a razor-thin Windows 8.1 tablet. Chi, as the world’s thinnest 2-in-1 device is the new standard for design innovation, underscoring ASUS’ commitment to bringing best in class products to the market and is available now in Egypt.

JULY/AUGUST 2015