Design Middle East August 2020

Feature

SAY STUDIO'S NEW WORKPLACE INTEGRATES TECHNOLOGY WITH DESIGN

EXPERTS ON REIMAGINING GYM DESIGNS

BRICK BY BRICK

Joe Tabet, founder of JT+Partners, on how he turned his challenges into stepping stones to build a company that regards its people as the greatest asset

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August 2020

Project

MAKING AN ENTRANCE! Unique entrances for unique buildings Bauporte doors provide the entrances to some of the worlds most iconic buildings and now we have brought our experience and expertise to the Middle East.

With the completion the prestigious entrances for the Dubai Real Estate Company, an upgrade for the entrances of the Opus by Zaha Hadid and the start of the exciting Action Impact auditorium works in Abu Dhabi, our customized doors solutions have found their way to some of the regions’ most iconic buildings.

We have been designing and manufacturing customised door solutions for more than 100 years and our experience and passion for quality will ensure that you can create that exceptional entrance that your building deserves.

Visit bauporte.com and get inspired!

Bauporte Gulf Building Materials Trading L.L.C. Rep. office: Level 41, Emirates Towers, Sheik Zayed Road, PO Box 31303, European Business Centre, Dubai Investment Park First, Office BC-38, 598-633, Dubai, UAE Tel: + 971 43132 793, sales@bauporte.com

Contents AUGUS T 2020

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IN THIS ISSUE‌ Cover Story 20 Joe Tabet, founder of JT+Partners on his how 'thinking out of the box' is key to success

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OP-ED

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Interview

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Feature

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Project

Interior designer Mahsa Gholizadeh talks the new F&B concepts post COVID-19

Sonia Wedell-Castellano from Domotex on planning Domotex 2021

Industry experts weigh in on the future of gym spaces

Exclusive images of SAY Studio's new workplace

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Contents AUGUS T 2020

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REGULARS 5

Editor’s Note

12 Newsmakers

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August 2020

31 Tips & Tricks 36 Pick of the Month

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Canopy of Light M A N D A R I N O R I E N TA L J U M E R I A , D U B A I D Y N A M I C I N S TA L L AT I O N D E S I G N E D I N C O L L A B O R AT I O N WITH DESIGNWILKES

preciosalighting.com

Conca - basin 80cm Conca - mirror round Ø 100cm Conca - vanity unit 200x37x55 cm, matt sunset color

IDEAL STANDARD MENA Tel. +971 4 804 2400 | Email: idealstandardgulf@idealstandard.com IDEAL STANDARD DESIGN BATHROOM CENTRE Sheikh Zayed Road, near Nour Bank metro station, Dubai, UAE | Tel. +971 4 309 6000 www.idealstandardgulf.com

CEO Wissam Younane wissam@bncpublishing.net Director Rabih Najm rabih@bncpublishing.net Group publishing director Joaquim D’Costa jo@bncpublishing.net +971 50 440 2706

Business development director Rabih Naderi rabih.naderi@bncpublishing.net +966 50 328 9818

Editor Roma Arora roma@ bncpublishing.net

Art director Aaron Sutton

Welcome In a normal scenario, in the pre-COVID world, we would have been witnessing various design events and launches at this time around.

But now, things seem slow yet promising. The best thing about UAE is its capability to collect and come out even stronger. This year's edition of Downtown Design would be a mix of digital and physical events happening simultaneously. I am surely looking forward to this concept. Even Design Centre, Chelsea Harbour in London will present Focus/20 in an exciting new format-a hybrid of physical and virtual offerings. Can virtual events be the future of exhibitions? We will find this out soon.

Our August issue is graced by Joe Tabet, founder of the JT+Partners as he talks about his career journey, passion for design, and valuing the human assets. Such an inspiring story! The feature of this month highlights how design needs a complete overhaul when it comes to gyms and fitness centres. Industry experts share their ways of dealing with such spaces. This month, we have an interesting project by SAY Studio as they have moved to a bigger space and have implemented the design codes they completely swear by! Plus, other exciting reads include interviews, interior tips, opinion pieces, and lots more.

Happy reading!

aaron@bncpublishing.net

Marketing Executive

Roma Arora Editor

Aaron Joshua aj@bncpublishing.net

Digital Media Producer Ahmad Khader ahmad@bncpublishing.net

SUBSCRIBE subscriptions@bncpublishing.net PO Box 502511 Dubai, United Arab Emirates T +971 4 420 0506 | F +971 4 420 0196 For all commercial enquiries related to Design Middle East contact

jo@bncpublishing.net

T +971 504402706 All rights reserved Š 2019.

Opinions expressed are solely those of the contributors.

Design Middle East and all subsidiary publications in the MENA region are officially licensed exclusively to BNC Publishing in the MENA region by Design Middle East.

No part of this magazine may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means without written permission of the publisher.

Images used in Design Middle East are credited when necessary.

Attributed use of copyrighted images with permission. Prices are quoted in US dollars.

What caught my attention this month is the VOYAGER table by design form SVENM. For more details, check out 'Pick of the Month' section.

FOLLOW US ON www.design-middleeast.com /designmideast /designmiddleeast /designmiddleeast @designmiddleeast

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Our initiatives and remote solutions have got you covered in all situations. du.ae/wegotyourb

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Newsmakers

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Ideal Standard wins at BIMobject Awards 2020 Ideal Standard has been recognised at the 2020 BIMobject Awards, receiving the ‘Most Downloaded Brand’ award.

The award recognises the manufacturer’s outstanding digital excellence, after nearly 400.000 Ideal Standard BIM files were downloaded by architects worldwide in 2019.

Award organiser, BIMobjects.com is one of the leading platforms for BIM files – hosting over a thousand brands including the most renowned international names from the world of construction.

BIM (Building Information Modelling) is the technology that underpins the digitalisation of the construction industry and has been a key focus for Ideal Standard in latest years, with the recent win marking the second time that the brand has received this accolade, having also been named ‘Most Downloaded Brand’ in 2017.

Using files called BIM objects, which contain detailed product information such as dimensions and performance data, construction professionals can create a ‘digital twin’ of a real-life asset. This ‘digital twin’ can then be used by interior designers to create digital visualisations of projects and showrooms, allowing designers to ensure the real-life product fits the design, sales or marketing purpose while avoiding design and construction errors and

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The brand's BIM objects provide exact 3D geometrical information and accurate data for its products

the resulting costs from rework.

Ideal Standard has embraced BIM files as a way of honouring its commitment to making customers’ lives easier, offering improved efficiency, cost-saving benefits and enabling customers to be more productive.

In recent years, the brand has invested in and significantly enhanced its Building Information Modelling (BIM) efforts and expertise, positioning Ideal Standard as one of the leaders in the digital construction arena, as well as

the Sanitaryware industry overall.

Offering around 10 different formats, Ideal Standard BIM objects are also accessible for all sections of the construction sectorfrom electrical and mechanical engineers to interior designers.

Frederick Trzcinski, marketing & innovation director at Ideal Standard MENA, said: “It’s great that our efforts in digital construction have been recognised. Winning the award for the ‘Most Downloaded Brand’ from the leading BIM platform is a fantastic achievement.

Our BIM files are bringing our products closer to our customers and really highlight the quality and sustainable certifications that our customers so eagerly need.”

“In addition, the analytics data we obtain from BIM, such as which products are most popular, who downloaded our digital assets and where we had most exposure, also gives us valuable input to further fine-tune our offering and really give our customers the tools they need to make their lives easier,” Trzcinski added.

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NEWSMAKERS

Photo credit: Keir Harris

Wilson Associates brings back the eclectic glamour for Pai Thai project

A selection of evocative wall coverings were installed

Wilson Associates’ Dubai studio unveils its renovation for Pai Thai, a fine dining establishment located inside of the Jumeirah Al Qasr Resort in Dubai. The firm was tapped to refresh the restaurant’s interiors while increasing dining capacity, season-proofing the exteriors for year-round service, and creating efficient patterns of mobility and flow for both patrons and staff.

The senses served as inspiration for the design concept –– encouraging guests to let go and allow their senses to guide them through the dining experience,

with each element permeated in the authentic scents, sounds, and lighting of Thai culture. Traditional Thai umbrellas, the soft glow of candlelight, and the scent of jasmine welcome patrons as they arrive by boat and step up to the main entrance, while the sound of water and the aroma of incense await guests at the grand arrival pavilion. These sensorial ambiences continue throughout the various spaces, with curated beats further immersing guests into the world of Pai Thai.

Designed in the style of a Sheikh’s summer residence, the Jumeirah Al

Qasr Resort in Dubai is a one-a-kind destination that embodies palatial luxury inspired by 1,001 Arabian Nights. Pai Thai, an authentic Thai cuisine experience, is situated amid the waterways of the resort.

Hidden behind the lush foliage of the surrounding gardens, the restaurant invites guests to make their way through a boat or buggy where they will ultimately come across an expansive terrace that hangs across the water. Pai Thai’s distinctive facade, boasting both character and tradition, is draped by the backdrop of the expansive waterside terrace and charming

inner courtyard. The path from Abra Station to the front entrance is lined with unique, decorative umbrellas in different shapes and sizes; sourced in Thailand and detailed with bells.

Playful lighting overhead dons monkey and parrot figures hung from the newly installed retractable ceiling, which allows the reactivated courtyard to be used seasonally. Further exploring the animal theme, the bar footrest is supported by elephant-shaped hardware –– a concept the design team implemented down to the smallest detail.

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NEWSMAKERS

CLOUD Spaces, new co-working offices set to launch at Yas Mall

CLOUD Spaces members will also enjoy access to fully-equipped meeting facilities, photo and recording studios, and a café

CLOUD Spaces, Yas Mall’s new co-working space and the first to be based in a mall across the GCC region, is set to launch in August 2020. A hybrid concept, it will offer a fresh and flexible approach to working and collaborating, serving the needs of the evolving business landscape across the UAE. More than just an office, the co-working space will bridge the gap between traditional working environments and the current demand in UAE for flexibility, agility and connectivity in the business. Cloud Spaces will cater to both local and international companies and entrepreneurs, with existing Yas Mall retailers making use of the creative space and associated services.

CLOUD Spaces aims to attract innovative businesses and individuals with a focus on retail, fashion product design and emerging brands

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and will also offer comprehensive solutions for new businesses in a similar vein to incubation hubs. This will include support for acquiring trade licenses and opening units, to mentoring programs and access to consumers for product showcases. Importantly, CLOUD Spaces will enable networking between like-minded individuals and businesses within a thriving commercial destination.

Saoud Khoory, executive director of retail, Aldar Properties said: “We welcome the addition of Cloud Spaces to Yas Mall, another first-of-itskind model in the region and a response to the changing needs of Abu Dhabi’s commercial landscape. With the growing demand for flexible working spaces across the UAE, CLOUD Spaces will serve as a hub to support the growth plans of existing tenants and future tenants alike, as well

as the wider business community.”

Offering cost-effective solutions, CLOUD Spaces provides flexible co-working memberships and workspace options on both monthly and annual plans to suit diverse working needs. All office spaces and pods are equipped with the latest technology, a dedicated phone number and a team on hand to support all members. In line with government rules and regulations, all areas have been designed to the highest safety standards and will follow social distancing protocols.

Malak Smejkalova, general manager at CLOUD Spaces, said: “A number of local and international businesses have already signed up, with many more in the pipeline. As an office space designed for the future, CLOUD Spaces is poised for further expansion in the UAE, the wider region and internationally.”

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NEWSMAKERS

Modon completes the awarding of all infrastructure development contracts for Riyadh City South The Riyadh City South project aligns with the Abu Dhabi Government’s strategy of building integrated and sustainable residential communities

Modon has awarded the infrastructure development contracts for phases three and four of Riyadh City South at a cost of AED1.93bn, in partnership with the Abu Dhabi Housing Authority.

This completes the awarding of all infrastructure development contracts for Riyadh City South at a total cost of AED5.83bn. The infrastructure works will begin in 2020, and will cover a total area of 15.8mnsqm. Phase three of the project covers 6,153,000sqm while phase four spans 9,647,000sqm.

Both phases make up roughly 45% of the total project area.

“This project falls in line with the efforts of the UAE’s wise leadership to provide a high-quality of life for families, social stability for citizens, and sustainable communities for residents,” said H.E. Jaber Mohammed Ghanem Al Suwaidi, GeneralDirector of the Crown Prince Court of Abu Dhabi and Chairman of the Abu Dhabi Housing Authority.

“The Riyadh City South project is one of the most important housing projects in the Emirate of Abu Dhabi, and it will contribute significantly to the development of the housing sector in the UAE’s capital.

“We look forward to working together with Modon on Riyadh City South. This project forms a part of our ongoing initiatives designed to enhance our contribution to the development of

integrated and sustainable residential communities built in accordance with the highest international standards. It also aligns with our vision of providing all Abu Dhabi residents with a high-quality of life,” added H.E. Al Suwaidi.

H.E. Abdulla Al Sahi, Chairman of Modon, said: “We are delighted to announce the awarding of all the infrastructure works for Riyadh City South, one of the most significant housing initiatives in the Emirate of Abu Dhabi. Through this project, Modon is enriching the lives of citizens by providing them with an exceptional quality of life within a cohesive and sustainable community.

Riyadh City South will cater to the needs of all residents by offering a range of comprehensive and integrated facilities.”

The project involves creating neighbourhoods that cater to the needs of citizens and residents by offering an integrated range of community facilities, including parks, schools, shops, mosques, medical centres, and community centres.

The infrastructure work across the third and fourth phases include the construction of internal and external roads, the installation of lighting systems, the construction of water and sewage networks, the implementation of groundwater level reduction systems, and the installation of rainwater drainage.

ORGATEC cancelled; next edition in October 2022

Although outstanding registration levels for the autumn events had already been achieved by spring 2020, and in spite of extensive preparations for the trade fair and the #B-SAFE4business package of measures for coronaviruscompliant implementation of our trade fairs, the situation of this trade fair increasingly began to reflect current developments around Covid-19 and the economic situation. In recent weeks, a large majority of exhibitors and trade visitors decided not to attend ORGATEC after all. In light of this, Koelnmesse reassessed the overall situation and decided that it was best to respond to the cancellations and wishes of a large number of industry exhibitors and trade visitors by not implementing ORGATEC 2020.

The ORGATEC organisers, however, do not want to be discouraged by this setback and immediately set their sights back on the future. Together with all of the trade fair participants in the sector, Koelnmesse is joining the industry in search of solutions to present the topics of ORGATEC at an international level in the coming months.

Together with industry, and under the rubric of events in the Koelnmesse furnishings portfolio, such as imm cologne (January, 18-21, 2021), opportunities are being sought to realise formats developed with partners from the sector – formats such as Inspired Collaborations, the FRAME Architecture Congress or the Architektur+ Office space developed with AIT – as soon as possible in a new form.

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OP-ED

MOVING FORWARD

Interior designer Mahsa Gholizadeh and owner of Design by Mahsa, on reimagining F&B spaces post COVID-19

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OP-ED

The global pandemic is posing a new set of challenges to the F&B design. As the world recovers from the impact of an unexpected global pandemic that has paralyzed life as we know it, the interior design industry is currently looking into how the future will be for designing spaces of high use such as F & B outlets. In 2020, F&B has been particularly sensitive to global changes and it begs the question of how will interior design change in the aftermath of Covid19?

Without a doubt, 2020, marks the start of a new era for humanity, ushering in a shift in psychology and behaviour which will reverberate throughout every facet of our society. With social distancing here to stay for a while and with lessons learned from the effects of C0VID-19, designers are preparing to implement changes that will reflect on a long-term structure and take into consideration the unplanned event of a new outbreak.

REDEFINING MODULAR DESIGN One of the most important aspects of F&B design during the COVID-19 pandemic was the capability for the F&B outlets to quickly adapt to the social distancing rules. With fixed structures, the reshaping of the interior became an impossible challenge and it leads to reducing the capacity of customers in the outlet. Modular furniture and

modular structures will be the new trend. A degree of privacy is maintained within any interior layout using modular walls that could redesign any layout.

Electrical networks need only have one route into the partition system and then can be spread internally. Some items can be packed away within the walls when the modules are closed as well.

DECORATIVE LIGHTING As a natural consequence of introducing modular designing, rethinking decorative lighting is an essential part. Making the transition from static lights to dynamic lighting track systems will allow the F&B space to rearrange the lights system according to the location of furniture and requirements of social distancing without compromising on the quality of the ambience.

CHANGING THE WAY WE CHOOSE MATERIALS An increased need for sanitisation in places with high customer volume is reflecting now in the permanent choices interior designers will have to make. The surface phobia induced by the global pandemic is a thought-provoking insight into how we can innovate the use of materials in such a way that it becomes non-hospitable for viruses.

The choice of fabrics that are virus-resistant and

biosafe coatings for surfaces will see increased demand, preparing any F&B outlet to cope with outbreak scenarios.

ADAPTABLE JOINERY Another important aspect of designing for the future of F&B outlets is the implementation of adaptable joinery systems. Creating mobile joinery systems will catalyse a dynamic change of interior in the event of an outbreak, helping the outlet to integrate social distancing rules.

SANITISING SYSTEMS Both as a behind the scene feature for the staff and an F&B outlet entrance mandatory set-up for customers, the integration of sanitising systems and temperature checks will have to take a permanent design-friendly shape. From small dispensers to creating personalised hand sanitiser tools, we will see the sanitising need including contactless hand sanitising stations, and post signs reminding guests about social distancing.

The design for the F&B industry will be defined by two main trends: adaptable and modular. The flexibility of structures and furniture will define the next wave of design, pushing the creativity to innovate ways to integrate new elements of flexible structures and increased safety measures.

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INTERVIEW

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INTERVIEW

DOMOTEX 2021 WILL OFFER APPROPRIATE TOOLS, PRODUCTS, AND SOLUTIONS Sonia Wedell-Castellano, global director of Domotex on the current planning for Domotex 2021 WHAT IS THE CURRENT STATUS OF REGISTRATIONS FOR DOMOTEX 2021?

Are there variations across the display categories covered at the show? The current rental status is running at around 60,000sqm, which is about two-thirds of the total space that is normally occupied at Domotex. We are particularly pleased about the positive trends in the sections devoted to “Machine-made Woven Carpets” and “Fibers and Yarns”, whereas in halls 11 and 12 – in the “Carpeting” and the “Parquet, Wood & Laminate Flooring” sections – we have room for a few more suppliers. Those areas are still subject to some uncertainty due to the coronavirus situation. Some companies are essentially still in “waiting mode”, and have not yet finalised their plans. In addition, as we are dealing with an odd-numbered year, there is a strong competitor event also taking place, which has an impact on Domotex.

DEUTSCHE MESSE HAS DEVELOPED A PERSONAL PROTECTION CONCEPT THAT WILL MAKE IT POSSIBLE TO STAGE TRADE FAIRS AGAIN FROM AUTUMN ONWARDS. WHAT ARE THE CONDITIONS EXHIBITORS HAVE TO MEET TO BE ABLE TO OPEN THEIR STANDS? Fortunately, we have a large, highly modern exhibition centre with numerous exits and entrances. We can thus position our exhibitors with enough space between them, making it possible to widen the aisles. The exhibitors themselves need to ensure that their stands comply with the stricter hygiene standards – similar to the rules everyone is familiar with for retail shops and cafés. This includes the

maintenance of minimum distances and, if necessary, the wearing of mouth and nose protection. Exhibitors also need to record the visitors to their stands, so that these people can be contacted as necessary. We have a great deal of trust in our exhibitors and visitors and are committed to a responsible mode of cooperation. We are always happy to support everyone involved by using the appropriate tools, products, and solutions. We hope that everyone is on board with this. After all, the safety and health of all parties are at stake.

WHAT DOES THE PROTECTION PLAN MEAN FOR AVERAGE TRADE SHOW VISITORS? WHAT WILL A VISIT TO DOMOTEX 2021 REALLY LOOK LIKE? We are introducing guidance systems to make it easier for visitors to maintain their distance from each other without slowing down the foot traffic in the aisles. In addition, we will make sure there is good ventilation of the entrance gates, halls and conference rooms and frequent cleaning and disinfection. Otherwise, the same rules as everywhere else will apply: Visitors need to maintain a distance of 1.50m and, as appropriate, wear mouth and nose protection. In addition, everyone will need to supply their personal details when registering, so that infection paths can be traced if there is a need to. Our catering will also comply with all the relevant legal requirements.

And as is to be expected, we will be in close communication with the responsible health authorities and provide medical services at the exhibition centre around the clock. By the way, we are delighted at all the positive feedback we

Sonia Wedell-Castellano

have been getting from visitors and exhibitors – feedback that underscores the important role trade fairs play in general, and how much our clientele relies on Domotex as a place for gathering information, doing business and engaging in networking. This gives us added motivation as we work all-out to prepare for the Domotex, which we are sure will give the industry perfect opportunities for kicking their business back into high gear.

The next Domotex will be staged from 15 to 18 January 2021, at its traditional venue in Hannover, Germany.

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COVER STORY

LEADING WITH OPTIMISM: Joe Tabet, founder of JT+Partners

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COVER STORY

SCRIPTING SUCCESS

In conversation with Joe Tabet, founder of JT+Partners, on lessons learned, chasing dreams, and how to level up yourself with challenges

By Tamara Pupic Joe Tabet fidgets in his armchair as he recalls a vivid moment in his past when he was sealing envelopes –75 of them, to be precise– in front of an Emirates Post branch in Dubai. The year is 2002, and the 20-something Tabet was sending his professional bio to 75 addresses of architecture and design firms across the UAE. Having just arrived from Lebanon, he remembers having only US$500 to his name. “A local man who worked there told me, ‘Son, I see that you are searching for a job, and that you are eager to find a job, and you will, for sure, get a job with what you have in your hands,’”

Tabet says. “Then, I started receiving phone calls, but I said that I didn’t leave my family and my country to get just any experience, but that I needed to get the right experience. I chose an international company with the lowest salary I had ever had, because I was able to see what I needed to start with, in order to fly later on.”

And Tabet’s career has certainly taken wing since then- today, Tabet is the founder of JT+Partners, a multi-disciplinary consultancy in architecture, master planning and integrated design practices with three offices –Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Beirut– and projects around

the world, from Morocco to Seychelles, from India and Sri Lanka to Portugal, from Greece to the whole of Middle East and many African countries. Tabet looks to be in good spirits when mentioning his 70-person team, who he credits as have the driving force in increasing JT & Partners’s revenue more than six times since launching the company in 2015. “All this has been created in just five years,” Tabet says, his humility allowing him to showcase only a tiny bit of the pride that he must actually feel.

As I sit with Tabet in a conference room at JT+Partners’ office in Dubai, I can only

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COVER STORY

imagine the range of thoughts and emotions that might be coursing through him as he takes me through his career trajectory. His story starts with him spending 12 years at Atkins, a UK-headquartered architectural design, engineering and project management consultancy- that’s the amount of time it took for that young man with 75 envelopes climb to the position of regional director for the Middle East at that company. “It was a boom in Dubai [in 2002], and we were very lucky at that time because, as architects, we got to experience building a city from scratch,” Tabet

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remembers. “It was a blank urban fabric, an open desert, and we, architects, came with our creativity (and our ego, which you need to be careful with in case it starts affecting you and others), and got an opportunity to work on many big projects. Then the 2008, financial crisis happened, and that was another type of experience. We lived through a boom, and now we had to live through a recession. The crisis pushed us to go internationally, so we looked at Pakistan, India, Sri Lanka, Azerbaijan, which gave us an understanding of how different cultures look at architecture and design. I am

thankful for experiencing these different things, going up, then down, and then up again, which means that I have learnt some valuable lessons.

I believe that the recession, merged together with my personality and creativity, allowed me to reach a new level.”

Tabet also radiates an air of honesty in that he is not afraid to share insights other people selfishly keep quiet about. “One of the things that pushed me up quickly at Atkins was getting rid of my position, which simply means delegating your responsibilities to the people below you,” he says. “They will go up, and you

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COVER STORY

The team at JT+Partners

will go up. However, in corporations, you will find the opposite. Ask senior people to give their responsibilities to the people below them, and they won’t, because they feel insecure.” It is this self-conviction and accurate perception that made him sense when a time to move on from Atkins had come. Being 41 at the time, he says, allowed him to make a deal with himselfhe could try building a business for, say, four years, and if it did not work out, he would be 45, and thus still able to go back to the career he had already had. Talking about the day he decided to take the leap into entrepreneurship,

Tabet says, “I woke up in the morning and felt that something was wrong. On the way to the office, I called my mum, and she told me on her own, ‘My son, anything that bothers you in life, just shut it out.” That was in November 2014. I went to the office, I was working, and at about noon, I left everything, walked out of my office straight to the CEO’s office, and told him, ‘I believe that today I’m going to resign.’ We had 10 seconds of silence. He asked me about other job offers, but I had none.”

Interestingly, Tabet does not shy away from advising his team to follow in his footsteps

when it comes to following their personal goals and aspirations. “I always tell them that if you wake up in the morning and you’re not happy with where you’re going, just resign,” he says.

Emerging from the very first phase of starting up a business unscathed is hardly possible for anyone, and Tabet is no exception. “We started working from the lobbies of a couple of hotels, then we got our office, and throughout all that time, I was a tea boy, a PRO, an architect, a lawyer, an accountant, and so on,” he says.

“That lasted for six months. I gained a lot of weight and I looked like I hadn’t slept for ages.

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COVER STORY

Abu Dhabi Island Resort by JT+Partners

Hampton by Hilton Resort, by JT+Partners

I was looking at the unforeseen, but there was something from the background driving all this passion and emotions. I was at the age when you can take the risk blindly.” However, it was a few crucial decisions he made that would determine his strategy and consequent business success. “When it comes to hiring, I took a decision that I wanted people who had never been in the GCC before- I brought in new blood,” Tabet says. “Then, one of the main challenges was that clients used to tell me, ‘We know you as Joe Tabet at your previous employer, but not as Joe Tabet at JT+Partners.’

So, from day one, I decided that my portfolio would not include my previous work, so, we even did some free projects, because we had to build our portfolio step by step.”

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But the most important decision Tabet made was for JT+Partners to focus on international projects from the start. “I believe that’s what makes us strong until this day,” he says. “From day one, we took the UAE as a base, because having the UAE experience has made us and our clients confident, but we have served the world from here. So, our focus has been on the outside, and whatever came from within the country has been a plus.”

Today, his company’s roster of clientele includes Abu Dhabi Crown Prince Court, NCT&H, Al Ghurair, Al Marjan Island LLC, Al Hamra Real Estate, Anwa Group, Giga Group, Shalimar Group, Jumeirah Group, Marriott Group, Hilton Group, EMAAR, Aldar, Pennyroyal, and several others. Many of his clients, Tabet says, cannot believe how much

JT+Partners has achieved in just a few years. “It’s all about the team, and it’s not about the number of people that you have, but their mentality, because we eliminated negative energy,” he explains. “I used to be in a corporate business, and I used to spend 60% of my time managing politics, so here, over the last four and a half years, I’ve let go of people who didn’t fit into this. We are creative people, and we get damaged by negative energy. The environment is very important. That’s why our staff turnover is very low.”

The last five years have been challenging but constructive, and now, he says, it’s all about navigating the growth phase of his business carefully. “We have created a company that has gone international, and now competes with international names, and now, the whole challenge is to keep it up,” he says.

The COVID-19 pandemic changed the world on all aspects - political, social, economic, religious and financial. This troubled and trying time is a huge challenge for any business to overcome.

“In order to overcome this challenging period of COVID-19, we need to bring our team on board as part of the decision making across all levels and open communication, clarifying each step. Together, we are stronger. Next, we need to get closer to our existing clients and help them so they can help us in the near future and beyond. Then, we need to have a proper vision and mission for the next two to three years and plan everything around it from business strategy to financial situation. Lastly, we need to keep chasing work in different geographies.

Survival maybe for the fittest, however, I learned through the years that those who are flexible and adaptable to the situation and “think outside of the box” are those who thrive, flourish and succeed,” explains Tabet.

Giving back to the community, Tabet tells me firmly, is a must. A moment later, he adds, “It’s not allowed to any successful entrepreneur not to give back to the community in one way or another.

You’ve been given, then you have to give back.

Then, you get more, and then you need to give even more.” Nothing more to add, nor to ask- I couldn’t have asked Tabet for a better conclusion to our interview than this.

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FEATURE

FINDING A FIT DESIGN FOR GYMS

Industry experts on how the gyms will look and function in the future

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FEATURE

As COVID-19 is defining the new normalcy in the world, the fitness industry would also change forever. As governments in many countries are easing lockdown restrictions, fitness facilities are getting ready to re-open and welcome back customers. After the pandemic, health has certainly risen to the top of the list of consumers personal priorities, especially after so many weeks of lockdown. Now more than ever the importance of movement and exercise, with the support and motivation of fitness professionals, will be in high demand.

NEED TO RESTRUCTURE THE SPACE Gyms and fitness centres today are faced with a great challenge. Struggling with balancing the safety of their guests while still trying to provide the most essential of well-being resources in a post COVID-19 era. During the confinement period, online training and technology-based workouts took the lead. Those newfound initiatives appeared to be very interesting.

However, replacing going to the gym by home training is not an easy task; going to a health club which represents a professional space with professional gear is essential for gymgoers. The human experience has to be taken into consideration, the motivation ‘in-person’ communities bring is a great factor in favouring going to the gym and experiencing the social energy it brings.

Rabih Geha, founder of Rabih Geha Architects explains: “We as designers propose we adapt to the new conditions and start by restructuring health clubs. We have to work to ensure social distancing by rebalancing the future floor plan with a design-first approach. This can be achieved with personalized functional training pods, digital workout guidance, smart storage solutions, guided flooring, controlled traffic flow, visual aids, effective signage, to name a few. We should also strongly incorporate visual guidance regarding hygiene protocols and best practices to support the fitness floor. These challenges may bring unique opportunities to define the future of a new fitness experience where space optimisation and the incorporation of safety measures will help deliver the best workout experience for gym-goers.”

TECHNOLOGY IS AT CENTRE Technogym, one of the leading manufacturers of fitness equipments is focussing on technology. The current time has also given a strong acceleration to the digital revolution in all sectors. During such times, Technogym’s Mywellness app is making things easier for people to return to gyms post lockdown and during the pandemic, so it is what a lot of operators will be using.

During lockdown fitness facilities connected with consumers using Technogym’s Mywellness platform by engaging and coaching them

and offering training experiences and support services, at home, digitally. In the re-opening phase technology will continue to play a key role to help operators both to offer engaging experiences and a safe environment. Social distancing will represent a key consideration for clubs to be compliant to local regulations as well as protect members whilst training. Partnering with Technogym at this current time will ensure you have a comprehensive re-opening strategy, The platform is also introducing brand new features for booking facilities services such as gym floor, classes, swimming pool. Members will be

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FEATURE

U Energy boutique health club in Lebanon by Rabih Geha Architects

able to easily book, from home or while travelling to the club, their preferred training spot. This will streamline reception operations and ensure member a seamless customer experience, creating confidence to customers at the same time.

The heart of any fitness business is its community. Especially during an unsettling and unknown time, keeping the community connected to the business—and to one another—is more important than ever. The coronavirus pandemic has raised concerns about working out in a public gym in the presence of other people, including instructors. That means it’s time to re-think gyms.

SOCIAL DISTANCING IS THE NEW NORM Rasha Alkady, principal architect and founder

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at Studio KAD, says: “One entrepreneur developed a system to open his group classes back up while following social distancing guidelines. He assembled PVC pipes, shower curtains, and zip ties to create three-walled workout shields for gym members to attend class. Those qualms aside, the design is in line with some best practices we’ve already seen, in that it’s notably similar to a well-researched project called ‘the COVID Shield’, developed by a leading healthcare architecture firm, CannonDesign. The COVID Shield places healthcare workers inside three-walled plexiglass cubes. While these workout pods certainly aren’t foolproof when it comes to spreading COVID-19, the design gets a nod for thrift and ingenuity,

and for being used in combination with other health-screening efforts.”

In this uncertain time, business owners will need to do everything possible to ensure their adjusted-models are viable for the longterm commercially. As the fitness-industry design adopts new guidelines and harsh postCOVID circumstances, owners might eliminate showers and locker facilities to enable social distancing. “They might also stagger gym attendance to allow for housekeeping sessions throughout the day. During the pandemic, many people took classes online. While online fitness may remain appealing to many, it won’t replace the traditional space where people get-together. Brick-and-mortar gyms will look different, however, future gyms will instead be

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FEATURE

Photo credit: Shutterstock

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FEATURE

Rasha Alkady, principal architect and founder at Studio KAD

Rabih Geha, founder of Rabih Geha Architects

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Vim & Vigor Gym by Rabih Geha Architects

divided into sections that are independently equipped with modular tools, equipment that can be replicated across the gym. That way, each person can exercise without sharing any equipment or getting too close. The design community has also been galvanised in a search of solutions to help restore social life and heal people’s mental health. While the pandemic forced us to reorganise our shared

spaces, the lockdown has given us the time to rethink what we want our social life to look like.

And although we may have to wave goodbye to the lively, crowded spaces including gyms that we used to love, at least for some time, we also have the unique opportunity to rediscover what togetherness means in new spaces – and to reimagine those spaces from scratch,” feels Alkady.

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TIPS & TRICKS

LOW-COST YET LUXURIOUS DÉCOR HACKS From a simple blend of on-trend neutral colour to the luxurious gold and chrome decorative highlights, lifestyle expert at Max Home take a look at everything you should consider when dressing your home up for a summery and opulent indoors Neutral yet luxurious colours: Adding in a neutral colour to a room is a simple, yet incredibly effective way of bringing summer outside indoors. This season summer home decor is all about understated nude tones and rich creamy fabrics.

It’s all in the details: A sunny and summery pattern is a great way to get on board with seasonal home decor. Choose block tones with intricate details and prints, from complex embroidery to ornate geometric metal designs in decorative items.

Metallic highlights: Simple living room additions that bring a touch of modern luxury include candle holders. A low-cost and effective way to draw the eye to any central surface.

Gold bling: Affordable and fresh accessories are a simple hack to hone in on summer home décor and will add personality and visual focus to any room such as pillar candles, metallic tea light candle holders, and more.

Greenery: This is the perfect time to bring the outdoors in because so much of our time in the summer is spent indoors. There’s just something about fresh blooms that make your home feel bright and cheery! Or, if you prefer, potted ferns, wreaths, and potpourri can also make a statement.

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PROJECT

FLEXIBLE & FABULOUS

Design firm SAY Studio recently celebrated its second anniversary and the launch of the new offices at The Onyx Tower, Dubai

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PROJECT

The bright and cheerful space invariably uplifts the mood of the employees

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PROJECT

Appropriate office lighting is a workplace necessity, that's what exactly SAY Studio has focussed on

Laila Al-Yousuf, design director and partner, SAY Studio

Matthew Sexton, managing director and partner of SAY Studio

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PROJECT

The interiors of SAY Studio's new offices is based on their design ethos and practices.

The ultimate ambition was to design a space that provided with complete flexibility, whilst offering a dynamic and functional environment for the team that feels less like an office and more like a vibrant café where all of the team members could come together in a combined passion for what they do.

Subtle touches in the office draw inspiration from the brand, through colour selections or the prominent black and white floor at the entrance.

The concept of a traditional reception area is not used and instead, the designers opted to welcome their guests into a vibrant Café space.

This space would also serve as an area for staff

to unwind and becomes an extension of their client meeting room on the occasions in case of larger gatherings.

Laila Al-Yousuf, design director and partner added: “As we celebrate our anniversary in the new office, we’re extremely thankful for everything we’ve achieved. At the same time, our vision is focussed on the future - on how we can achieve more for our clients, our community and our industry. There has been a lot of talks about how work and social environments will need to change over the coming months, but the essence of what we do remains the same.

Interior spaces have the power to bring people together and influence how they feel, and that’s a responsibility we take seriously. We’re looking forward to the next phase of the business while maintaining the values that brought us together when we launched.”

Within the open areas, the office design complements the simplistic approach with a neutral material palette and biophilic elements. It is an environment that serves to support creativity and collaboration.

The integration of technology is something which was given a lot of attention With a 65” touchscreen that rotates from landscape to portrait at the touch of a button, this supports the complete creative interaction. There is a fully functional library, an acoustic seating group for those moments away from the desk, and 16 workstations with thoughtfully designed cable management.

Matthew Sexton, managing director and partner of SAY Studio, said: “Over the last two years we’ve worked with some fantastic clients on incredible projects, and built a team that embraces every challenge to deliver exceptional designs. From a market perspective, demands are changing all the time and we’ve demonstrated our ability to respond. So much of what we do is built on relationships and our stakeholders rely on us for tailored support underpinned by in-depth expertise. The use of technology is an area where we specialise, using the latest innovations to simplify the design process, and striking a balance between technology and creativity."

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PICK OF THE MONTH

How about a post-Covid table for F&B outlets?

How can designers best help other sectors post-Covid? How for example do you make a post-Covid table for food and beverage businesses, some of whom are clients, struggling with vast compliance issues?

Dubai-based design studio SVENM has created a new product called ‘VOYAGER’. This table fully addresses each of these key post-Covid hospitality sector needs.

Social distancing being the need of the hour, with the base structure being asymmetrical [one table leg is extensively recessed] the table’s design is ideal for pushchair accessibility and only fits three guests, at one time.

To reduce surface transmission of microbes the table’s glass has an antiviral polymer finish which actively inhibits bacteria from spreading, supporting Dubai food and beverage businesses facing ongoing hygiene compliance guidelines.

Its skeletal structure and hexagonal tabletop are nods to design history giants like Carlo Scarpa and Joe Colombo who in the 1960s set the bar for aesthetics linked to space travel and futurism.

Availability: SVENM, Warehouse 79, Alserkal Avenue, Dubai Price: $3,500

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