Design Middle East August-September 2021 by Design Middle East

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SAM ALCOCK DUBAI DIRECTOR, TENABLE FIRE ENGINEERING CONSULTANCY

CARPET CALLING

MONA MAKTABI MANAGING DIRECTOR, IWAN MAKTABI

Interiors and architecture from the Gulf, Levant and beyond

special edition

AUGUST - SEPTEMBER 2021 DESIGN MIDDLE EAST

SAFETY FIRST

30 C R E A T I V E

POWERLIST

HONOURING THE REGION'S LEADING ARCHITECTS AND DESIGNERS FOR PRESERVING THE PAST, NOURISHING THE PRESENT, AND PAVING THE WAY FOR A BRIGHTER FUTURE

Bassel Omara

Creative 30 POWERLIST Design Middle East honours the region's leading architects and designers for preserving the past, nourishing the present, and paving the way for a brighter future.

| DESIGN MIDDLE EAST

AUGUST - SEPTEMBER 2021

LEAD DESIGN ARCHITECT + BIM MANAGER DORSCH GRUPPE MIDDLE EAST

FIRE SAFETY Safety First

SUSTAINABILITY Sustainable and high-performance flooring

FZ House by Archidentity on Jumeirah Second, Dubai

Sam Alcock, Dubai Director, Tenable Fire Engineering Consultancy, addresses the importance of hiring fire engineering professionals early in the concept phase, working closely with fit-out suppliers and designers, and the company's expansion plans

50 TÊTE-À-TÊTE Carpet Calling Mona Maktabi, managing director of Iwan Maktabi, discusses the brand's history, the importance of supporting Middle Eastern talent, the power of social media, and their most recent collection

Waterborne amine curing agents for high-performance floor coatings and civil engineering applications

58 HOSPITALITY “A day at the beach” with Hampton by Hilton Marjan in Ras Al Khaimah John Riad, general manager of Hampton by Hilton Marjan in Ras Al Khaimah, discusses the property's distinctive features, the hotel's recommended restaurants, and the trends affecting the hospitality industry

PROJECT The key is LIGHT

66 TRENDS Leading with Innovation Nikolaj Schnoor, LINDBERG's Global CCO and Managing Director, discusses the company's philosophy, the popular thintanium collection, and investing in product innovation during the pandemic

68 WISHLIST Style Central Designer pieces for your space

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Editor's note

DESIGN MIDDLE EAST

AUGUST - SEPTEMBER 2021

he Creative 30 Powerlist is one of the year's most anticipated special editions. Every year, we receive a massive response to our powerlist, and this year has exceeded all expectations. This powerlist honours the region's leading designers and architects who are creating exceptional buildings and environments. We received a fantastic response, and I'd like to thank each and every one of you for sending in your entries and showing your support. All of you are fantastic and doing an admirable job; we applaud your creativity and the amazing work you're doing. Thank you for your continued faith in us. The edition also features an exciting conversation with Mona Maktabi, managing director of Iwan Maktabi, as she discusses the brand's history and her most recent collection. The interview segment features Sam Alcock, Dubai Director, Tenable Fire Engineering Consultancy, on the importance of hiring fire engineering professionals early in the concept phase and the company's expansion plans. Plus, John Riad, general manager of Hampton by Hilton Marjan in Ras Al Khaimah, discusses the new property and trends affecting the hospitality Industry. The Ideal Standard's new Intellimix, which

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we featured in our 'Pick of the Week,' is one innovation that deserves all of your attention. Roma Arora Editor roma@bncpublishing.net

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For all commercial enquiries related to Design Middle East, contact our Group Publishing Director JOAQUIM D’COSTA jo@bncpublishing.net | T +971 504402706 All rights reserved © 2021. Opinions expressed are solely those of the contributors. Design Middle East is exclusively licensed to BNC Publishing. 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.

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th Till 15 th September, 2021 Till 15 September, 2021

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Strategic Partners Strategic Partners

News

DESIGN MIDDLE EAST

AUGUST - SEPTEMBER 2021

Lootah Real Estate Development partners with JPA Design on the Atmosphere Residence project in JVC Dubai ootah Real Estate Development (LRED) has partnered with JPA Design. The partnership will kick off with Atmosphere Residence by Lootah, a luxuriously designed development offering an impressive collection of 114 apartments ranging from studios, 1-and 2-bedroom apartments located at JVC, Dubai. JPA Design’s unique offering of expertly combined interior & product design services has ensured the successful delivery of many luxurious projects globally across the residential, hospitality, and transport sectors. From the multiaward-winning Singapore Airlines First & Business Class Cabins, the entire fleet of Orient Express Trains and multiple luxury residences and hospitality projects, their compelling knowledge of personal space and user experience sets JPA Design apart from its competitors. Raja Alameddine, CEO of Lootah Real Estate Development, commented: “We are in the process

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of enhancing our local presence and elevating our brand. Designing projects that appeal to the desires of our target market i.e., the millennials and Gen Z is our utmost priority.” “We listen to the needs of the market, our clients and our potential customers and hence we innovate by utilizing our

This partnership will bring immediate value to the investors and occupants of this development with its contemporary interiors, luxurious fittings, and advanced technology used in various aspects.

collective expertise and range of partnerships. LRED are the experts in the development of projects and JPA Design’s portfolio contains an extraordinary collection of premium projects located around the world. We are extremely pleased to team up with the world’s best design firms to enhance our offerings and deliver a product that satisfies a need in the market and brings fantastic value to our customers,” added Alameddine. Lee Worthington, managing director MENA, JPA Design, commented: “We are continuously exploring new technologies, material advancements, production techniques and future design possibilities to translate Lootah Real Estate Developments offering into compelling new customer experiences.”

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

10 News

Cosentino introduces the Capsule Collection, the first Dekton furniture line of its kind commitment to innovation, sustainability and pushing the boundaries of surface design. Using Dekton Slim both as a functional and decorative feature, the collaborators have pushed the boundaries of the material to its full potential to create 5 individual works of art in their signature design styles. The eclectic collection comprises of a rocking chair, a console, a coffee table, a range of low side tables and a series of vases, created within a period of 4-months by the renowned collaborators. Miriam Llano, marketing manager – Cosentino Middle East said: “We are pleased to unveil the first ever Dekton Slim Capsule Collection worldwide. This project, which we kickstarted in March 2021, is a true labour of love. The unique creations, proudly Made in the UAE, is an ode to the spirit of collaboration, sustainability and breaking

Carapace console by Nada Debs

rchitectural surfaces leader, Cosentino unveils its much-awaited Capsule Collection of furniture and home accessories created in collaboration with celebrated designers Nada Debs, Mustafa Khamash, Fadi Sarieddine, Aljoud Lootah and the duo Dana Al Matrook, and Newsha Dastaviz from The Line Concept. Unified under the theme “Breaking Boundaries”, the Cosentino Capsule Collection is an ode to Dekton Slim, the 4mm ultracompact material format born out of Cosentino’s

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Tektonia tables by The Line Concept The design integrates organic flowing shapes, symbolising nature and Earth’s patterns. Parts of the tables are sliced off to expose layers that resemble earth’s strata and movement of the tectonic plates, while the discreet exposed stone edges in profile highlight the particular thinness of Dekton Slim.

boundaries in every sense – material, design, process and production.” Dubai-based interior fit-out contractor Cherwell played an integral role as the Production Partner on this project. Talking about how their production design team surmounted challenges, CEO Tom Brooks said: “4mm material obviously has its advantages but it needs be to handled differently. Using our advanced 3D software and a 5-axis waterjet we were able to tackle some of the more intricate elements of the designers’ work, in some instances working with very small and complex shapes cut multi-directionally. This was the designers pushing us to the limit! But that we were able to create these challenging bespoke designs is a testament to the material. It has given us the confidence that there is nothing we cannot achieve through collective effort.”

Timeless Elegance Timeless Elegance

Where modern French art de vivre meets ancient Egyptian charm.

Where modern French art de vivre meets ancient Egyptian charm. Book your stay at sofitel-dubai-theobelisk.com

Book your stay at sofitel-dubai-theobelisk.com PARIS - LONDON - ROME - DUBAI - SYDNEY - MEXICO CITY

PARIS - LONDON - ROME - DUBAI - SYDNEY - MEXICO CITY

30 SEPTEMBER 2021

C R E A T I V E

POWERLIST

THEY ARE UNDOUBTEDLY THE TRUE STARS OF THE SKYSCRAPERS, MESMERISING CONSTRUCTIONS, AND SUSTAINABLE CREATIONS

Design Middle East honours the region's leading ARCHITECTS and DESIGNERS for preserving the past, nourishing the present, and paving the way for a brighter future.

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DESIGN PARTNER

KILLA DESIGN

riven by design excellence, Shaun Killa is an award-winning architect with international experience spanning over 26 years. Throughout his career, Killa has focussed his design philosophy on buildings and master plans that are sustainable, innovative, contextually inspired, and have a holistic approach to the natural

and economic environment, which has led to numerous highly recognisable iconic projects. Before co-founding the Killa Design studio in 2015, Killa spent 16 years as Director of Architecture at Atkins. He has worked on signature projects, including the award-winning designs for the Museum of the Future, the newly-opened The Address Beach Resort, a W Hotel in Mumbai, Vida Hotel in the Dubai Marina, Aykon Twin Towers

in Dubai, and the Office of the Future, the first occupied printed building in the world. The firm is recently selected to build a zero-energy ultra-luxury resort on the Red Sea. Killa works closely with the associate partners on numerous projects, ensuring the highest design quality as well as providing innovative and sustainable ideas. Throughout the design process, Killa also spends significant time mentoring and uplifting the diverse younger generation of architects in his office, where the flat structure of ‘design led’ dialogue is highly encouraged within the studio and design team. Killa’s other responsibilities include competing at the highest level in competitions against multiple international architectural firms for hospitality, cultural, and mixed-use buildings. In many cases, winning these has resulted in the firm increasing from a few individuals to 80 employees in less than six years.

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Shaun killa

DESIGN MIDDLE EAST

Below: The Museum of the Future by Killa Design is comprised of three main parts: the green hill, the building, and the void.

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Joe Tabet

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FOUNDER AND MANAGING DIRECTOR JT+PARTNERS

oe Tabet, founder and managing director of JT+Partners, is a multi-award-winning architect with over 20 years of extensive experience in the architecture, master planning, urban design, and construction industries around the world. He came from a background where nothing is easily achievable and believes that “to get…you need to sweat”. This ideology has shaped his personality and character, as well as instilled in him a desire to seek out the right professional opportunities and to succeed with dedication, hard effort, and self-improvement. Tabet was determined to make a success of himself when he initially arrived in Dubai in his 20s, leaving behind all of his comforts. Tabet compiled his resume and sent it to over 70 architecture and design firms in the United Arab Emirates. When he began to receive calls from various firms, he had to make a choice: should he go with a company that would pay him well but not teach him as much as he wanted to learn, or do he go with a company that would pay him much less but give him the knowledge he needed to fly later? He chose to work for an international firm that offered the lowest salary he had ever had. Tabet rose through the ranks of W.S. Atkins to regional design director in just six years before resigning in 2015, to start his own firm, JT+Partners.

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“Few people challenge themselves,” Tabet says, adding that many individuals remain in their financial comfort zones, refusing to become entrepreneurs or try new things. When Tabet resigned from W.S. Atkins at the age of 41, he felt compelled to start his own firm. He'd give himself four years, and if things didn't work out, he'd be 45 and still be able to go back to the position he was already at. Tabet followed his instincts and ventured into entrepreneurship, and launched JT+Partners. The firm now has operations in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Beirut has grown from a single employee to a team of 53 multi-skilled employees drawn from 16 different nationalities. The result is an energising, collaborative, and innovative group of individuals with their fingers on the pulse of global architecture and construction, from the most cutting-edge technologies and trends to the oldest traditions, producing bespoke designs that reflect diversity in culture, experience, and understanding. Tabet recalls a situation he experienced when he first started JT+Partners and didn't have a staff to help him. He needed to write a proposal for one of his first projects and had no idea how to do it. Previously, he didn't have to write this because his team did it for him. That's when Tabet realised that the most important thing he needed to do was build get a strong team on board. Tabet and his team, whom he still regards as the company's driving force, managed to take the company to an

I DON’T FEEL THAT I AM WORKING FOR MYSELF. I HAVE CREATED, I AM CREATING, AND WILL KEEP ON CREATING A LEGACY THAT IS OWNED BY THE JT+PARTNERS TEAM. WE ARE ALL WORKING FOR THE SAME GOAL.

17 Left: Hampton by Hilton Resort, Ras Al Khaimah, UAE The design is welcoming and fun with natural finishes relating to the beach and the sea, the design also references elements such as oversized beach umbrellas, net sculptures and brightly coloured artworks and fabrics to promote a relaxed, fun environment for a family vacation.

in researching and moving towards the future of IoT (Internet of Things) by developing a better understanding and application of Digital Twin in architecture and design, as well as 3D printing, and modular construction. To make this happen, JT+ Partners along with its research and development department is collaborating with several educational institutions to take this to the next level. Tabet has proven how an architect who wears several hats, from creative designer to business/marketing/staff management strategist, sustainability advocate, CSR supporter, visionary business leader, and multi-award winner, can approach business differently and succeed.

is owned by the JT+Partners team. We are all working for the same goal,” says Tabet. Tabet has a proven track record of honesty, driving corporate growth strategies, utilising lessons learned, information garnered from previous leadership and business experience, as well as his accomplishments, to guarantee JT+Partners maintains its global reputation. Tabet prioritises raising sustainability and CSR awareness among his employees and in the community. “Giving back to the community is a must,” he feels, and he is doing so in a unique way. “Exploring the future is a big focus for me right now,” shares Tabet, and as a result, he continues to raise the bar

DESIGN MIDDLE EAST

international level in just six years, with clients and projects spanning hospitality, residential, cultural, and healthcare, retail, mixed-use, and master plan developments in destinations ranging from Morocco to Seychelles, Lebanon, India, Sri Lanka, Angola, Cameroon, Zanzibar, North, East, and Central Africa, KSA, and the UAE. Recently JT+Partners have handed over Mango House Seychelles, the newest edition to LXR Hotels and Resorts, as well as, Hampton by Hilton Marjan Island in Ras Al Khaimah which is, to date, the largest Hampton by Hilton in the world. Multiple other projects are set to be completed in the upcoming months including 5-star Island Resort, Tawila Island Resort, situated on the northern Islands of the Hurghada region in Egypt. JT+Partners has also been recognised as an award-winning and innovative brand, having received numerous accolades from both local and international organisations. DNA Paris Design Awards, Loop Awards, World Architecture Awards, Redefining the Future Awards, Architecture Leaders Awards, Index Design Awards, and Design Middle East Awards are just a few of the recent honours. “I don’t feel that I am working for myself. I have created, I am creating ,and will keep on creating a legacy that

AUGUST - SEPTEMBER 2021

Below: Mango House Seychelles is a sancturary of heritage, relaxation and calm. A myriad of room categories range from king deluxe rooms to ocean house one bedroom pool suites, and all offer gorgeous sea view with floor to ceiling windows and sunkissed alfresco balconies or terraces. Mango House Seychelles boasts as well the only 13-bedroom villa in the Seychelles, complete with 180-degree panoramic vistas of the ocean.

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AMER / MNEIMNEH

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Ignacio Gomez

GLOBAL DESIGN PRINCIPAL AEDAS

n 1975, Ignacio Gomez was born in Andalusia, Spain. Gomez completed his Master of Architecture and Engineering with Honors in Polytechnic University of Madrid, ETSAM, as well as a postgraduate programme in Museography and Exhibition Spaces from the Foundation Antonio Camuñas, Centro Superior de Arquitectura, Madrid, Spain. Prior to joining Aedas, he worked for Godwin Austen Johnson as partner and design director. He was responsible for leading the overall design direction and a number of key projects in the Middle East. Gomez is committed to the belief that virtual and fictional narratives have and will always be incredibly powerful sources of inspiration, and with the economy and world heading into unknown territory, architects can and should play a part in the role of imaginary landscapes and stories. The architect must be able to create non-fiction from fiction. Then the work becomes an active entity in the imaginations of society -- a type of fable or myth. The source becomes less important, even obliterated, and what counts more is the way the story or the building or the city lives on in collective memory.

The impressive 75-storey tower makes Aedas’ SLS Dubai Hotel & Residences one of the tallest hotels and residences in the region.

Conference and Leaders of Architecture. His work has been published in various publications including Fisuras Magazine, Future Architecture Magazine, Via Arquitectura, 2A, Middle East Architect and Construction Week and some of the most visited architecture blogs like Dezeen and ArchDaily. Over the past few years, Gomez has been responsible for many key projects and as a design director at Aedas and in his previous practice, he is responsible for establishing the overall design direction in the region. His experience covers a broad range of project types including master planning, hotel and leisure, residential and cultural, and transport projects.

DESIGN MIDDLE EAST

Gomez seeks to provide unique and individual solutions for each and every project and takes pride in the fact that they never follow the route of formulaic design. His designs are based on a deep research process and understanding of the region – its people, its culture, its history, its present and its future. The research rooted in the past makes it possible to create a unique story behind every project as we look to the future. Automation and rapidly advancing technologies are reshaping the design and construction industry, allowing engineers and architects to better harness the power of data, manage risk, and improve efficiency. The meeting of digital technologies—machine learning, robotic automation, sensoring, big data— could rethink the concepts of the built environment provide architects with new opportunities. Gomez has established himself as a key design architect in the region with a growing portfolio of projects recognised for their brilliance since relocating to the Middle East in 2006. He has over 18 years of professional experience in the field of architecture. His designs won him the title, “Young Architect of the Year” at the Middle East Architect Awards 2010, while his Red Sea Riviera Master Plan was dubbed Best Residential Project of the Year at the same event. Gomez received the Cityscape Global Award 2011 for Diplomatic Quarter Celebration Hall and Best Hospitality project for The Chedi Khorfakkan at the Middle East Architect Awards 2012, the and most recently for Architect of the year 2019 and “Sustainable Project of The Year” & “Innovation In Design Award” for ENOC Future Station At Dubai Expo at Design Middle East Awards 2020, and “Hospitality Project of the year” for SLS Dubai Hotel & Residences at Middle East Architect Awards 2021. Gomez collaborates as a guest critic at the School of Architecture & Design of the American University of Sharjah, UAE and is a regular speaker in different conferences in the MENA region as the World Architecture Congress in Dubai, Architectural Design Days in Riyadh, DesignMENA summit, Cityscape Global

AUGUST - SEPTEMBER 2021

Located in the Downtown district, SLS Dubai Hotel & Residences offers incomparable 360-degree views over the city, with unobstructed views of the iconic Burj Khalifa, along with a clear overhead of the calming Dubai Creek.

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Amer Mneimneh

VICE PRESIDENT, URBANISM + PLANNING, MIDDLE EAST, & AFRICA AECOM MIDDLE EAST

mer Mneimneh, vice president of AECOM's Middle East Urbanism + Planning practise, oversees a team of more than 90 people and drives growth by ensuring customers receive the best of the firm's technical expertise, high-quality design, and innovative thinking. Mneimneh is a strategic planner and urban designer with a background in architecture. He has more than 20 years of experience gained in the Middle East. He moved to Dubai in 2004, with Dar Group to contribute to the design and delivery of Jebel Ali Airport and Palm Jumeirah. Mneimneh joined AECOM, a Fortune 500 company and industry leader, in 2007. He was exposed to global and regional projects where his ability to address complex briefs, passion for design and understanding of cultural diversity paved a way for accelerated career growth. He is committed to growing a diverse and inclusive team to support AECOM’s vision — a world where infrastructure creates an opportunity for everyone — uplifting communities, improving access, and sustaining our planet. Early in his career with AECOM, Mneimneh moved to London, UK, to support the firm’s work on the award-winning Saadiyat Island master plan, London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games masterplan and Rawabi sustainable community in Ramallah in addition to Sir Bani Yas Island in Abu Dhabi.

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Opposite page, bottom: For Dubai Harbour Amer Mneimneh and his team designed the masterplan, landscaping, and ancillary buildings for this iconic leisure-led waterfront development.

Opposite page, top: AECOM’s masterplan for Saadiyat Island incorporated key sustainability features including restoration of mangroves and beachfront ecosystems, as well as public realm standards for the entire island.

Mneimneh returned to the Middle East in 2009, to work for the community development, and urban regeneration projects, as well as strategic planning studies. Transformative projects he contributed to include the award-winning Dubai Expo 2020 Urban Planning and Public Realm, where he leads the bidding, planning, and delivery stages; the Jeddah Strategic Plans as well as Dubai Harbour; Bluewaters, Bastakiya Urban Regeneration; Riyadh Diplomatic Quarter; and Al Msheireb Downtown Doha to name a few. Recently, Mneimneh has been advising the public sector in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia on the planning and implementation of Vision 2030 initiatives focussed on improving the quality of life. Mneimneh is now focussed on increasing AECOM's team of urban planning professionals in the Kingdom while retaining a centre of excellence in the UAE in response to market demand. While COVID-19 presented us with emotional and professional obstacles, Mneimneh thinks that the future belongs to cities, communities, and enterprises that prioritise wellness, resilience, and adaptation. Mneimneh has gained vast international expertise through involvement in projects in the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Turkey, Bahrain, Oman, Qatar, Kuwait, Syria, Egypt, Northern Africa, and Europe during his 20+ years of experience. In addition to his leadership and technical roles, Amer sits on AECOM’s global ESG and Equity, Diversity & Inclusion (EDI) steering committees to embed sustainable

development and resilience across AECOM’s work and promote an inclusive and diverse working environment. He also engages regularly with universities on career development programmes and participates as a critic on academic projects. As an active member of AECOM’s thought leadership group that researches and addresses complex matters our industry and cities faces, Mneimneh is currently completing a paper on Dubai’s urban fabric adaptability to new well-being and quality of life agenda. Mneimneh is a registered architect and a founding board member of the Urban Land Institute GCC Council. He is also a member of the Lebanese Order of Engineers and Architects.

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Brian Johnson PRINCIPAL & MANAGING PARTNER GODWIN AUSTEN JOHNSON (GAJ)

rian Johnson is the principal and managing partner of Godwin Austen Johnson. Since 1975, he has maintained an almost constant presence in the Gulf region, and in 1991, he established the GAJ headquarters in Dubai. With more than 40 years of regional experience to his name, Johnson’s influence on modern Middle Eastern architecture is undeniable. Some of the region's most recognisable and prized buildings are among his creations.

Among them is the Dubai Creek Golf Club, which is usually recognised as one of Dubai's first architectural icons. Acknowledged as one of the most distinguished architects in the region, Johnson is credited with having set in motion a countrywide trend in the UAE to incorporate traditional Arabic and Islamic themes into modern architecture.

His distinctive style and uncompromising resolve for design excellence has made Brian and GAJ a preferred partner for many distinguished projects and has resulted in the firm winning an array of architectural awards. Some of his successfully completed projects include Miral Headquarters Abu Dhabi, The SPACE (Sports and Performing Arts Centre of Excellence) at Dubai College, Arcadia High School, and Hilton Garden Inn Kuwait, amongst others. There is a range of projects Johnson is currently working on such as a themed Hotel in Abu Dhabi; The Palace Hotel & Serviced Apartments, Dubai; residential project in Diriyah Gate, KSA; a hospitality project in Al-Ula County, KSA; New park and discovery centre in Sharjah; Hotel; a residential development in Abu Soma Egypt; and Mediterranean-style residential development in Egypt.

Brian Jonhson’s body of work comprises some of the region’s most recognisable and prized buildings including the Dubai Creek Golf Clubhouse – designed to reflect a modern interpretation of a traditional dhow in full sail.

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yourself as a designer, ‘like on Instagram, how many of these experiential moments will my client get out of this project? How many Instagrammable moments will each user go through?’” With COVID-19 changing the world, Michael is constantly planning for the future of RSP, ensuring that the company's design and attitude to the business remain innovative. Magill explains: “The world has always been gradually moving to a cyberspace focused one, however, COVID-19 has drastically reduced its transition period, making the online world much more prevalent in today’s society. Thus, companies nowadays need to have an online presence in order to be able to compete in the market as the demand to find work internationally has become easily accessible to clients worldwide.” He has successfully continued RSP's growth throughout the pandemic, successfully landing projects in Cambodia wherein RSP designed a massive masterplan with an area of 35 million km2, and many luxurious villas, as well as building ties in Indonesia with ambitions to open a studio in Jakarta on the horizon.

AUGUST - SEPTEMBER 2021

modern world of fast access to the media, wherein with the press of a button or a flick of a finger, you can instantly view and experience everything through your devices, people and clients nowadays have become much more difficult to please as they have already seen everything that is new and avant-garde online. With this in mind, the way that we approach architecture and designing space in general has changed, focusing on the ‘experience’, even more now than ever before in our industry. When designing for clients and for people nowadays, it is crucial in today’s society, that from start to finish – the experiential journey of the user is always taken into consideration, and to always ask

well-versed professional expert in the field, bringing many years of architectural design across the world to the UAE, Michael Magill has pioneered the establishment of RSP’s branch (a well-established Singaporean based architectural firm that is well known in Asia with over 65+ years of experience in 2500+ projects) in the Middle East. Over the last decade, Magill has successfully led and designed a multitude of exciting and iconic projects, successfully showcasing and growing RSP’s skill and talents to its current growth and reputation in the MENA region. A personal brainchild of his is the newly opened tourist hotspot of the Palm Jumeirah – The Palm Tower. Magill’s refined approach to design has been showcased over the years with many beautifully crafted concepts ranging from a variety of sector types – from hospitality, residential developments to masterplanning, and educational projects. Many of his co-workers, fellow architects, and designers have been inspired by his mesmerising and innovative approach to design, and his amazing visions and creations have captivated the hearts of many of RSP's clients. Magill says: “In this

MANAGING & CREATIVE DIRECTOR RSP

DESIGN MIDDLE EAST

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Michael Magill

Left: Kampot mixed-use master plan

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LEAD DESIGN ARCHITECT + BIM MANAGER DORSCH GRUPPE MIDDLE EAST

Photography © Aexander Bungas

Location courtesy: Media One Hotel, Dubai

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Bassel Omara

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assel Omara is a multi-award-winning Egyptian architect, designer, and artist with a humanitarian vision who has won numerous accolades and honours both domestically and internationally. At such a young age, his name has become synonymous with many of the region's most successful architectural projects, leading to him being nominated for "Young Architect of the Year" and "Architect of the Year" awards across the Middle East. He has won numerous awards including the WAFx 2018 “Ethics & Value” for his Sheltainer Project in Egypt, Omara has successfully led LLFP Meydan School in Dubai, a unique educational project which recently was awarded the “Sustainable Project of the Year 2020” and the “Design Educational Project of the Year 2021”. With over 13 years of global experience, Omara has a proven track record of success in both the public and private sectors on a wide range of projects such as aviation, cultural, commercial, educational, healthcare, hospitality & leisure, industrial, military, mixed-use & offices, religious, residential, sports & recreation, transportation & public services and master plans spanning from Egypt to UAE, KSA, Qatar, Oman, Iraq, Libya, France, Mali, Iceland, and Germany. In terms of philosophy, his work spans a varied range of projects that are all distinct and reflect his vision of creativity and sustainability with limitless potential, with a focus on improving the cultural setting and promoting human welfare. His work has been published in a number of books and magazines, where his visions, solutions, and designs have been explained. His work was featured in the prestigious book "Container Atlas - A Practical Guide To Container Architecture" by Gestalten, a well-known German publisher, demonstrating that his achievement is not just regional but also global. Omara has always been driven by a desire to improve urban areas and reinterpret basic human requirements in his rigorous research and architectural progress. Omara’s commitment to enhancing urban communities and reinterpreting basic human needs has always been the motivator behind his rigorous explorations and architectural development. Apart from his profession, Omara has also excelled outside his appointment through UNICITI as one of the International Working Group of Experts to lead groups of volunteers across the world to guide improving the dense urban fabric for better affordable solutions under the “Third Way of Building Asian Cities” initiative. Omara also quickly responded to the pandemic using a variety of ways, including designs, ideas, collaborations, and thoughts. He is currently directing a group to investigate ways to reuse/utilise various abandoned buildings to make them more liveable and sustainable using a post-COVID lens, as well as how to tackle existing problems while setting a benchmark for new constructions.

Above: ASAS Mega residential project inspired from the local marine context with distinguished sustainability measures

Top right: Mega Dunes Driven from the desert habitat to integrate wildlife, astrophysics, and leisure in one place

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His zeal for spreading information and educating architecture is seen as a moral duty, and he has delivered professional speeches at a variety of summits, conferences, and colleges. He has been named Chair Judge at the World Architecture Festival (WAF) & WAFChina 2019-2021, in addition to being a member of the Advisory Board at Abu Dhabi University. After receiving his B.Arch from Ain Shams University, Egypt with a cross-culture world design studio from Clemson University, USA, Omara joined Cube Consultants where he started his inventive path through various Cairo 2050 master plan visions and succeeded to lead the team to win the renovation of the Egyptian National Theatre governmental competition. Following that, he joined ECG, where he was a member of the team that worked on CAE Head Office, North Africa's first LEED Platinum project. Omara relocated to the UAE in 2014, to lead Dorsch Gruppe's architectural design department, where his abilities were quickly recognised when he won Dorsch the ASAS Marina Towers competition at Lusail City. The 1.7 billion Qatari Riyal project was inspired by the natural form of the Arabian Gulf's coral reefs and seabed. This iconic design covering 124,000 sqm over three residential towers sharing the same podium takes advantage of the marina view with a dynamic sensation. Omara was leading multiple firms from Germany, Egypt, Qatar, UAE, and the Philippines to achieve maximum productivity. Following their founding in Germany in 1951, Dorsch Gruppe has provided complex engineering solutions in the Middle East since 1954, where they have presided over key landmark projects that have been essential cornerstones to the region’s growth. Dorsch’s continued success is a testament to its deep insight and ability to adapt by providing innovative solutions to suit evolving needs. Dorsch Middle East allocates its substantial resources through a fully integrated approach that provides a solid platform for providing their different core engineering services, as well as various management and planning competencies. With a track record for excellence through a regional workforce of over a thousand qualified professionals, they are best equipped to deal with a whole spectrum of challenging projects. This distinction in performance is further reinforced by their determination to realise a corporate culture where common values are shared with their people, as well as the clients and the countries in which they operate and provides a stellar foundation for continued success in the region. Omara says: “It is our responsibility to provide better architecture towards humanity.”

AUGUST - SEPTEMBER 2021

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08I Mohamed Ali DESIGN DIRECTOR

RMJM

is enthusiasm for architecture and cutting-edge technology sets him apart in the region's design industry. Meet Mohamed Ali, who is the design director at RMJM. With strong experience in design, technology, and architecture, he joined the organisation in 2013. Ali believes in ‘data-driven design’ where diverse project inputs and circumstances contribute to the sculpture and enhances the overall project architecture. Ali feels: “The challenge is to continue to deliver high-end value architecture whilst keeping an eye on cost and efficiency, with no compromise on quality. The role of architecture has been extended heavily in the last decade by applying BIM workflow. This has transformed the design routine into a communication and data delivery platform to visualise thoughts on the fly and ultimately give the client answers to the impact of every design decision. The process has opened the potential to achieve more sustainable buildings in terms of carbon footprint or energy efficiency. The RMJM project, RAK Public Realm, is a good example of a sustainable off-grid building. Solar Panels cover 100% of the operational power consumption, whilst still adding a great architectural feature to the master plan, and offering a lovely retail experience.”

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challenge is “ The to continue to

deliver high-end value architecture whilst keeping an eye on cost and efficiency, with no compromise on quality.

”

27 Innovation Hub Offices and Masterplan, Dubai Innovation Hub is a new business park in the heart of new Dubai, next to Internet and Media City. RMJM developed the masterplan including 110,000sqm of office GFA and 90,000sqm of hotel. The new development gives everything, from blue chip companies to small startups, the chance to work in a modern and exciting environment.

Thakher Gardens, Hospitality Project , Makkah

For Ali, sustainability is not optional anymore. It is an important factor that needs to be considered at every design stage, automatically adding value to both end-users and operators. The key factor for an efficient design is maintaining modularity within the design DNA - this, however, does not necessarily mean repetitive patterns or boring experiences. On the contrary, modularity creates better usable spaces and maintains golden ratios to enhance the overall look and feel. “Technology has provided the necessary glue to put all of those modules together and control them for future design development or alterations. The Innovation Hub by TECOM is a good example of a parametric modular design where we applied computational design to control 12 buildings with a few architectural modular components, both applied on facade design and space planning. The technique has not only helped to achieve design efficiency but also contributed to construction phasing. This gives flexibility to the client

to achieve their commercial goals. Even in complex mixed-use buildings, data-driven design and modular spaces are the solutions to efficient and beautiful architecture,” further explains Ali citing an interesting example. Ali also praises RMJM's Thakher Gardens in Makkah, which he believes is an excellent example of combining data-driven methodologies with computational design to fulfil and exceed expectations. The complex of three hotel buildings with 1300 Keys, also has 7000sqm of retail and F&B. Many logistic challenges were solved in the early design stages, allowing the client’s team to contribute and participate in the design process, adding their valuable operational experience to mitigate future risks in early conceptual phases. Ali explains: “These strategies have been demonstrated to be effective on both a large and small scale. In this light, we might turn to the Masdar M10 office building, where our capabilities were pushed to the maximum in order to provide an efficient and

aesthetic design to be proud of. This design also qualified for the Gold Estidama Certificate.” The architecture industry is presently at a historical turning point, where digital transformation is taking place. Smart buildings need smart designs with lots of embedded intelligence. The goal of generative design is to enhance human capacities to explore choices and make better judgments, not to replace human talent. Ali is a fantastic role model for leadership. “It's all about cultivating an innovative culture in which every line drawn is a design decision. It's all about the team collaborating and designing to get the most out of each individual,” says Ali. Ali is leading his team to increase the company's data delivery capabilities by hiring data professionals to study and simulate building performance even before its construction. This addition has changed the individuals' overall performance and, more importantly, their design approach.

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DESIGN DIRECTOR – MENA LWK + PARTNERS

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AUGUST - SEPTEMBER 2021

09I

Kourosh Salehi

ourosh Salehi is a British architect, urbanist, and educator who has worked in the UK, Asia, and the Middle East for over 30 years. He has led the design process for a number of urban skylines in cities like London, Hong Kong, Shanghai and Makkah and Doha: his last completed tower design being the “Habtoor City Towers” in Dubai. His approach as an urbanist is influenced by context, community, and human experience, as he investigates a variety of design interventions in order to expand his knowledge and face the challenges of contemporary built environment. Salehi’s philosophy of design excellence integrates the imaginative and skillful manipulation of form, as well as the ability to draw inspiration from a broad body of knowledge and experiences. His latest bridge design (Hanging Garden Bridge) for the Dubai Creek, has received royal endorsement and been featured in a number of international design journals. Sale-

Abu Dhabi Maritime’s ‘Community Activation Programme’ pilot projects

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hi’s outstanding design experience and passion has helped secure many significant and high-profile projects in the UAE, GCC region, and internationally against other globally recognised practices. He has headed the MENA design operations since its establishment in Dubai in 2018, and is part of a design leadership group that has transformed LWK + PARTNERS from a 35-year-old Hong Kong-based architectural practise into a global integrated design studio. In an era of fast-moving information platforms, new ways of representation and communication are needed. The field of architecture is becoming increasingly more complex and requires new techniques of inquiry and design. Salehi has passionately invested in digital and immersive means of representation, in exploring the boundaries of expression and the way the narrative of design is communicated with the end-users. At all times, Salehi strives to inspire the Dubai Studio to create great ideas that respond to local culture, end-user and client demands, and is a strong supporter of the region, Arab culture, and its translation into contextually relevant contemporary design.

10I

Ziyad Mahmoud

manifest this through several community related master planning projects from a new city outside Karachi to the design of Tecom’s Innovation Hub in Internet City, Dubai. More recently he has been working closely with the Dubai government to look at the rehabilitation of Emirati communities across Dubai through strategic and sustainable phased interventions. He also led the design of the Pulse Mall in Dubai South, an innovative retail project that was also the recipient of the “Retail Project Design of the Year” award at the Architecture Leaders Awards in 2021. Mahmoud and his team are currently involved in several of the regions highest profile projects in KSA where SIEC has been commissioned to develop some large-scale mixed-use projects and an airport development. Mahmoud holds an AA Diploma from the Architectural Association in London and is a Chartered Member of the Royal Institute of British Architects. He has been living in Dubai for the last 14 years.

Awards and again in 2021, when SIEC was awarded the prestigious ‘Architectural Firm of the Year Award’ in the Architecture Leaders Awards. Mahmoud’s design approach is based on an architecture that is born out of its environment and that seeks to understand and reflect its social and cultural context. He follows a “less is more” approach with a client-centred process that looks at carefully understanding client aspirations and working towards that goal. With a passion for sustainable living environment, Mahmoud has been fortunate enough to have had the opportunity to

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iyad Mahmoud has worked and resided in Rome, London, Beirut, and Dubai over the course of his career, which spans two decades. He has played an important role in helping to lead and deliver the level of service that has enabled SIEC to establish itself as one of the young top practises in the UAE. He has worked on numerous residential, retail, commercial, hospitality, and master planning projects. His ability to work with different international clients and his drive to create excellence in design has helped SIEC to grow tremendously from seven employees in 2014, to over 120 people today. The design studio’s achievements were recognised by industry leaders in 2019, when SIEC was awarded the prestigious ‘Architectural Firm of the Year Award’ in the Design Middle East

AUGUST - SEPTEMBER 2021

ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR – DESIGN STUDIO INTERNATIONAL ENGINEERING CONSULTANTS (SIEC)

The Pulse Gate Mall is an innovative and creative design of a Community Retail Center designed by SIEC with a total 20,000sqm of GFA. The project has been designed as a part of large master plan to serve The Pulse Community of Dubai South and in two phases to be compatible with the population growth of the residential community.

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11I

Pierre Martin Dufresne

PARTNER & DESIGN PRINCIPAL U+A

e is regarded as one of the region's most successful and well-respected architects. Dufresne graduated from acclaimed Azrieli School of Architecture and Urbanism in Canada in 1996, before relocating to South East Asia where his passion for design excellence flourished during his seven-year posting at international giant HOK’s Hong Kong office. Dufresne was quickly given a senior role for the architectural concepts of several prestigious commercial and residential projects in the region, which led him to develop a keen interest in large-scale projects. His experience also brought him to a number of regional destinations overseeing the design of projects in Japan, Taiwan, the Philippines, and China. He then obtained a sought-after senior position at award-winning Kerry Hill Architects in Singapore. He worked on several high-end resorts in Southeast Asia, including the Chedi in Chiang Mai, Thailand, the Sukhothai in Bangkok, and the Amansara in Cambodia. Dufresne relocated to Dubai in 2005, where he famously developed Capital Gate, one of Abu Dhabi's most striking landmarks while working for RMJM. The unique gravity-defying hotel/office has since been named the most leaning tower in the world by Guinness Book. Martin authored a book about the tower: 18 degrees - Capital Gate The Leaning Tower of Abu Dhabi - Birkhauser Verlag GmbH

Dufresne conceptualised Capital Gate in Abu Dhabi prior to co-founding U+A in 2007

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In 2007, Dufresne co-founded award-winning firm U+A and has been the driving force behind the firm's tailored design approach ever since. His design sensibilities and vision have been critical to the firm's respected design-centric reputation. His architectural passion emerges from his long-time fascination with ‘living structures’, or creating buildings that improve the lives of its occupants on a daily basis. His vast travels and genuine interest in cultural variety piqued his interest in urbanisation and provided him with the opportunity to contribute to the creation of a sense of place in every community. Dufresne continues to perfect his craft by embracing new technologies through the use of the latest design tools. His reputation has since matured to regional recognition as the top 10 most influential Architect in the Middle East. He also leads all U+A’s international presence pursuing his ambitions for design excellence in the London, Riyadh, Abu Dhabi, and Montreal studios. Dufresne has worked directly with prestigious clients such as Amaala, Emaar, Meraas, ADNEC, Hines US, IBM PRC, China Telecom PRC, Centrair Japan, Aman Resorts Singapore, GHM Hotels, Beaufort Group HK and Indigo.

PARTNER & DESIGN PRINCIPAL U+A

abih Geha is the founder of Rabih Geha Architects, an award-winning firm. Of Lebanese and Croatian descent, Geha is well aware of the architect's mission that is to create with intent and rebuild where others have destroyed. Geha has learned to draw inspiration from a trifecta of brand, space, and individual, to marry the intuitive and the learned, the imaginary and the rational, after 15 years of practice in this industry.

AUGUST - SEPTEMBER 2021

OWNER RABIH GEHA ARCHITECTS

Below: WEARETHEPEOPLE Aishti Seaside in Lebanon, designed by Rabih Geha Architects, is a retail space decked out in candy-striped pink and black cylinders and distinguished by the intersection of a conceptual grid placed on the eye-catching floor.

In the last few years, Geha's practice has grown to Nigeria, the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and the United States, landing him on top designer lists in the Middle East and participating in numerous conferences and jury committees for design awards. His projects have been featured in books such as Frame Night Fever, Andrew Martin Interior Design Review, La Boite de Nuit, Brand Life Restaurants and Bars. His projects span a wide range of industries and include collaborations with hospitality groups such as Gastronomica, 7 Management, Adara, and Advanced Food Company in the GCC and the United States. Geha holds a B.A. in Architecture from the American University of Beirut and earned his master’s degree from a French design school called the École Nationale Supérieure de Création Industrielle located in Paris. In 2006, Geha launched an experiment-driven and research-oriented workshop at l’Académie Libanaise des Beaux-Arts where he mentors Lebanon’s next generation of interior architects. He worked with Rudy Ricciotti in Marseilles and French architect Odile Decq in Paris before returning to Beirut. Geha lives in Beirut with his wife and partner Ghida, and their two children.

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12I

Rabih Geha

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13I Pallavi Dean

14I Paul Bishop

FOUNDER & CREATIVE DIRECTOR | ROAR

ubai-based Pallavi Dean is the creative director and founder of Roar, an interior design studio. Dean feels her designs are influenced by her experiences growing up in India, Dubai, and working in London for several years. Having trained as an architect and a sustainability specialist, she launched Pallavi Dean Interiors in 2013. The studio was rebranded as Roar in 2018. As an active member within the UAE design community, Dean writes for industry publications, assists with trade events and mentors students in the region. Formerly interior design professor at the American University of Sharjah, she aims to incorporate practical and theoretical research into her designs. Her portfolio encompasses more than 84 projects across the region, including SensAsia Spa at The Kempinski Hotel Dubai, offices for Takeda Pharmaceutical, The Nursery of the Future, and a string of private residences, and an interactive lighting system designed in collaboration with Artemide for Euroluce 2019. At prestigious award functions, Roar has received multiple accolades, including Boutique Design Firm of the Year and Global Emerging Designer of the Year.

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15I

Jason Burnside PARTNER | GODWIN AUSTEN JOHNSON (GAJ)

ason Burnside, a highly successful and well-respected architect, graduated from the University of Dundee in 1996, and worked for five years with a small urban design firm in London before moving to Dubai to join GAJ in 2001. Burnside is a well-rounded architect with experience in a variety of sectors, including residential, hospitality, and leisure and mixed-use projects. He also has extensive experience in the education sector, having led the design of over 20 schools in the region. As an expert in his field, Burnside is also highly sought after as a speaker and can regularly be found on the stage at industry events such as The Big 5 and Cityscape

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FOUNDER | BISHOP DESIGN

ince his arrival in Dubai in 1996, Paul Bishop has established himself as one of the most sought-after designers in the Middle East, if not the world. Since the firm's founding in 2004, Bishop and his team have won over 100 regional and international awards for projects such as Torno Subito, Wavehouse, and Studio One Hotel, to name a few. Bishop’s most recent projects include the newly refurbished Arboretum Restaurant and T3 Airport Lounge for globally acclaimed hospitality leaders, Jumeirah, as well as numerous F&B and commercial works, including the newly refurbished Arboretum Restaurant and T3 Airport Lounge for globally acclaimed hospitality leaders, Jumeirah. Other exciting developments include Intercontinental Hotel in Morocco, a cutting-edge ‘Super Spa’ and multiple signature restaurants for Rosewood Hotels in Qatar. Bishop and his team are currently focussing their efforts on overseas markets, with a focus on Miami and Saudi Arabia. This has undoubtedly resulted in Bishop's most significant professional change. As his firm heads towards Miami as part of their expansion strategy, Bishop will be driving the move with an established presence in the demographic.

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Global. Burnside’s desire to create great architecture is clear to see within his vast experience which ranges from concept through to award-winning built projects and, as one of the longest-serving architects in the firm, he has designed and delivered some of GAJ’s high profile projects including Serenia Residences on The Palm Jumeirah, Arcadia High School in Dubai, The Gate Village DIFC in collaboration with Hopkins & Partners; and the Federal National Council in partnership with Ehrlich Architects. He is currently working on two more schools with the Arcadia Group in Dubai as well as the ISG School Campus in Al Khobar and the themed hotel in Abu Dhabi which is set to open later this year.

AUGUST - SEPTEMBER 2021

MANAGING DIRECTOR MENA JPA DESIGN

Sharjah Airport Premium Lounge project

Retail'. During a time when major uncertainty arose regarding physical consumer shopping and spending habits, as well as the imminent surge of online retail, Worthington’s vision for the future, not only aesthetically, but also with a focus on adaptable business models has been the benchmark for his unique design approach over the past two decades. Worthington began his career in the retail design sector, working for companies such as Nike, Arcadia Group, and the first Middle Eastern rollouts for both Debenhams and M&S. He then joined JPA Design in London, where he focussed on hospitality, transport, and healthcare design. Since 2002, Worthington has worked on iconic global projects such as the Lake Palace Hotel in Udaipur, which is consistently voted among the Top 5 Hotels in the world, the very first A380 Business Class cabin for Singapore Airlines, two of the ultra-luxurious Orient Express Trains, and the ‘most expensive penthouse in the world at One Hyde Park, London. After working in Singapore and Cambodia, he moved to the Middle East to take advantage of the exciting development opportunities in the fast-paced UAE and to broaden his creative experience. Worthington led design teams for three major consultancies in Dubai and Abu Dhabi. He then founded his own design firm, AndNow, a collective of creative talent that provides innovative design

raduating from Leeds University in the United Kingdom in 2000, a very successful career within the field of interior design was destined for Lee Worthington after receiving the prestigious International Spatial Design Award at the New Designers Exhibition that year for a project which focussed on the 'Future of High Street

solutions that embrace the future vision and inspire user creativity in the spaces themselves. Heavily inspired by Andy Warhol’s ‘Factory’ concept and the Bauhaus movement, Worthington’s vision was to shake up the ‘copy and paste’ mentality which was becoming all too common within the Dubai design community and to exploit the ‘platform-like’ status that Dubai offers the world by combining multiple creative sectors, technological advancements, and contemporary design methodology showcasing new design trends and groundbreaking business movements born out of the UAE. With AndNow running smoothly in the background and an invitation from American University, RAK to join the Advisory Committee for the Bachelor of Interior Design Program so that his unique vision could be shared with aspiring designers, Worthington then focussed on his next goal: helping JPA Design in establishing its third global office in the UAE. Because of JPA's unique expertise in both luxury transportation and hospitality design, as well as their unrivalled combination of interior and product design, Worthington's vision is to expand the brand's global presence and employ JPA's offering of creating the "Complete Guest Experience" to enable the world's most exciting brands, operators, and developers to create the environments, objects, and vehicles of the future.

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16I

Lee Worthington

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17I

Govind Shepley FOUNDER AND CREATIVE DIRECTOR TWENTYONE06

DESIGN MIDDLE EAST

AUGUST - SEPTEMBER 2021

Tokyo Restaurant, which recently opened in Saudi Arabia and was an instant hit. The goal was to establish a strong brand identity within the location, one that not only competes but also stands out in Riyadh's ever-growing F&B industry.

ovind Shepley, the founder and creative director of TwentyOne06, began his career as a designer in Central London's hip and urban atmosphere, working for various award-winning agencies. Shepley opted to travel and gather experience after being inspired by the worldwide design scene. Before arriving in the GCC, he lived and worked in Belgium and Spain. Shepley took the risk of starting his own design firm in Dubai after ten years of worldwide experience working for some of the world's most prestigious design firms. His design firm,

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‘TwentyOne06’ focusses on projects in the hospitality industry, but has delivered projects across several industries. His firm has already built a reputation as a market leader in F&B design, having completed projects with some of the region's and world's largest international hospitality brands in just three years. “TwentyOne06 is known for crafting one-of-a-kind and unconventional designs that are also commercially successful. Continuing to live up to its tagline of ‘always pushing the envelope’. When you look at our work, you'll notice that no two projects have the same design style because they're all created to build a distinct brand,” shares Shepley.

As the owner of the business, over the last year Shepley like many design company owners had to split his time between growing as a designer and a business owner. This has necessitated an extensive re-evaluation of the business as well as internal concentration on "what actually matters." Balance is one of the most difficult things he has discovered. Throughout the projects, Shepley wasn’t only challenged on his professional ability, but also working on growing personally too. One thing that school or a job does not educate you is how to stay mentally strong and look after your health through the ups and downs, as well as how to be the support structure for your entire team. Shepley explained: “It’s always a challenge to separate your personal and professional lives, when being a new business owner, and there really isn’t a textbook way to manage this, other than by trial and error and a lot of internal assessing." Shepley intends to focus on the company's growth in the future, as well as ensuring that his team is continually motivated. “I'm constantly checking in with the team to ensure that I'm providing them with the resources they need to grow and make the most of their abilities,” adds Shepley. In terms of work, Twentyone06 has completed two hotel projects, a new vertical they have been trying to break into, as well as going into strategic planning and sustainable development.

19I Diane Thorsen PRINCIPAL, HOSPITALITY DESIGN DIRECTOR

ina Murali is DZ Design's design director and the driving creative force behind all of the studio's hospitality, residential, and commercial projects. DZ Design began as a small architectural and interior design studio in 2014, with Murali and her husband, Zain Belgami, working across their dining table. The design duo built a great reputation among their clients and a portfolio of exciting hotels, residential, and commercial projects by leveraging their rich background of working for global hospitality design firms and retail groups. DZ Design was among the first tenants in the heart of Dubai’s new creative zone - Dubai Design District, followed by the opening of a full-fledged office in India. Born in India but Murali has spent most of her life in the UAE. She joined RC Architecture after graduating from India's BLDEA School of Architecture. While working at dwp and other large hospitality design firms, she gained valuable experience creating spaces that always put people first. Some of her latest completed projects Bank of Baroda regional HQ in Dubai, Citymax hotel Business Bay, Hilton Residences in Africa, luxury residential villas in Khawaneej and Dubai Hills. Murali and her team are currently working on design works for Best Western Africa, IT office in Jebel Ali, Pullman Hotel in Business Bay, luxury residential properties in Al Khawaneej and Abu Dhabi, and Lulu Exchange headquarters in The Philippines. The next stage for the company is expanding its operations to become a global practice in the next five years. Already active in India and Africa, DZ Design is looking at new and emerging markets to further its growth.

DESIGN DIRECTOR | DZ DESIGN

20 I Joakim de Rham FOUNDER | SWISS BUREAU INTERIOR DESIGN

DESIGN MIDDLE EAST

18I Dina Murali

iane Thorsen, a graduate of the University of Johannesburg's Faculty of Art, Design, and Architecture, advanced her studies to include sustainability and is a LEED and WELL Building Accredited professional. Thorsen is a Registered Interior Designer within the IIDA and serves on the advisory board of the American University in Dubai. Her designs for international workspaces, hospitality, healthcare, and mixed-use developments, in particular, demonstrates meticulous attention to detail, a passion for local art, and high-quality craftsmanship. The Coronavirus pandemic and its impact on global wellness and the economy has given Thorsen the opportunity to explore her expertise in designing for wellness. Amid the outbreak of pandemic, Thorsen has completed the design of two high-end international restaurants, a luxury hotel restoration, the headquarters of a private investment firm, and Gensler's new office in Alserkal Avenue. Thorsen also leads Gensler Middle East’s Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion initiative, supporting the firm’s mission to raise awareness, shape and lead diversity, equity, and inclusion in the Middle East. Thorsen’s leadership focusses on increasing diversity within the Gensler team, as design is a universal language that knows no boundaries. Her team also looks to actively create job opportunities by investing in the Middle East, engaging with local universities, and supporting educators, local suppliers, and local initiatives.

AUGUST - SEPTEMBER 2021

GENSLER

wiss Bureau Interior Design was formed in 2003, by Joakim de Rham. He and his growing team have successfully delivered over 400 creative projects both regionally and internationally in their 18 years of operation in the Middle East. After a challenging year, Swiss Bureau has proven that human solidarity and creative teamwork are more important than anything else. With this in mind, Joakim has increased his focus on his work family and implemented numerous internal reforms to ensure his team's well-being. Happier employees elevate creativity, and this is at the forefront of his mission this year. Swiss Bureau awaits the remarkable completion of a diverse range of inspiring wellness-related projects. These projects include LEED-certified office space for a private Japanese bank, two new co-working offices in Ras Al Khaimah and Dubai, a 20,000sqft government media office in Sharjah, a luxurious workspace and lobby for The Galadari Brothers, and four offices in the iconic ICD Brookfield Tower with one more on the way, marking the firm's fifth project in the prominent building. The team also expects an increase in the amount of creative design and build projects in the pipeline, which might total up to 200,000sqft.

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21I

Tony Abi Gebrayel

MANAGING PARTNER | MZ ARCHITECTS

Below: Al Qana is a unique waterfront destination bringing a new definition of social dining and entertainment to Abu Dhabi.

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ony Abi Gebrayel is the company's managing partner of MZ Architects-Abu Dhabi, owner and partner in MZ Architects. He has been working in the UAE for the past 13 years, making it possible to transform MZ's Consultancy services business and grow into a thriving, well-respected practice. Before coming to the UAE, Gebrayel was based in Doha, Qatar for eight years

where he led a number of MZ’s major building projects during the transformation of Doha from a small port to a thriving International Business Capital that it is now known and respected throughout the Middle East and the world as a whole. Gebrayel has largely been recognised for successfully leading a growing team of architects and engineers, as well as being a strong advocate of designing for the future, taking on challenging projects, and creating iconic architecture. Gebrayel and the MZ Architects' Abu Dhabi team have completed a variety of projects, including private homes, residences, commercial structures, mixed-use large-scale projects, and public buildings. Gebrayel’s work has left its mark on several cities with iconic projects in the UAE, Lebanon, and Qatar over the course of his nearly 21-year of professional career. His design and leadership approach can be seen in his signature project, the most noteworthy of which is Aldar HQ, Al Raha Beach, an internationally awarded landmark building in Abu Dhabi skyline and a great example of MZ project that combines feasibility and flexibility with its iconic form; Al Qana Development, Al Maqtaa, an exceptional large-scale waterfront project, with great functional diversity and distinctive architectural design, awarded as Project of the year 2019 by MECA; RBW3-C4 office building, Al Raha Beach, awarded as Commercial Project of the Year 2021 by Architecture Leaders Awards; Sail building, Al Raha Beach; Yas Creative Hub, Yas Island, the first industry-specific build for the creative sector in the GCC, awarded as Project of the year 2020 by MECA and many more.

OWNER

L.S.DESIGN

22I

Omar Abdelghafour OWNER

For the BW Interiors office project by L.S.Design, the flow was divided into three main areas, executive, front of the house (client-facing), and back of the house for staff.

L.S.DESIGN

ith over 15 years of professional experience in the design industry from renowned practices, Omar Abdelghafour founded award-winning multi-discipline design and architecture practice L.S.Design (Light Space Design) in 2004. He was born and raised in London, where he earned his master's degrees in Transport Design and then Architecture. He has worked in Europe, Asia, North America, and the Middle East as part of his professional career. Abdelghafour’s founded ability to practice architecture globally enabled him to be invited to be part of the Venice Biennale of Architecture and Light, as a keynote speaker. In addition to mentoring future talent, he is also a member of a number of professional design and architectural platforms in the Middle East and Europe, in addition to mentoring. From Europe to Asia, his work appears in a variety of international design publications.

With a permanent spot on several regional and international design judging panels. He has pushed the boundaries of design in the Middle East and has established himself as regional design authority and ambassador. For him, architecture is one part of “Design” as the language for life, not a singular discipline. This philosophy translates into every aspect of how the human interface and contextual accuracy is used in both his private and commercial architecture. It encompasses urban planning, product, furniture, lighting and even transport design, resulting in the delivery of a detail-rich fully immersed designed environment. This is apparent in his diverse body of work, which ranges from packaging to fully immersive commercial architecture. Abdelghafour founded has great regard for unique craftsmanship and refined aesthetics, with a firm belief that design should be passionate, dynamic, elegant and contextually relevant for the region in which it's being delivered— with simplicity and function at its core.

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38 Creative 30 / POWERLIST /

23I D

Drew Gilbert

DESIGN MIDDLE D EESAI SGTN M| I DADULG E UESATS T - S E| P TAEU MGBU E SR T2 -0 2S 1E P T E M B E R 2 0 2 1

DESIGN MANAGER | OBM INTERNATIONAL

rew Gilbert is a design manager at OBMI. Gilbert is an architect, artist, and educator. From masterplans to refined private villas— his macro-to-micro expertise has led him to become a well-balanced designer with an eye for context, culture, and climate with an emphasis on producing sustainable solutions, profoundly relevant to place and purpose. Gilbert was awarded the AIA Henry Adams award, Middle East Rising Star, and the Design Middle East Young Talent RU. He was selected as Top 30 Architects Powerlist in the MENA region 2021. In 2020, Gilbert was a finalist for the World Architecture festival “Isolation Transformed”, along with winning the Golden Russian Architecture award Honorable mention for the Best public Building for Dubai Creek Mosque. His project Gardens of Samarra went on to win the Project of future in 2020 and was selected by UNESCO to be established as

an Archeological landmark. He is a finalist this year for Sustainability Champion of the year, and two projects at the World Architecture Festival, Gardens of Samarra (for Commercial-Mixed Use Category) and Gwangju City Main Library (for the Cultural Future Projects Category). His projects under construction include Shams Reflection G+22 Residential tower in Abu Dhabi, Al Khan Palace - the first luxury waterfront resort in Sharjah, the Technology Innovation Park in KSA, Citywalk phase 5 in Dubai, and the Valley townhouses by Emaar. With his patent for a modular building system, he aims to provide a viable alternative to traditional construction methods by reducing waste to landfills by 90%, using less energy, reducing project timelines, and being more adaptable and flexible to future changing needs while maintaining the same standards. Gilbert is a LEED accredited professional who is dedicated to a better future by promoting sustainable design methodologies and

cradle-to-cradle thinking for long-term impacts on the built environment. He is focussing on a timeless design that is responsive, adaptive and enriching the context responding to the climatic, ecological, and social emergencies of our time. His future plans include launching a platform utilising XR and immersive technolo-

gies in spatial cognition for architecture. As part of a growing legacy of designing extraordinary destinations across the world for over 85 years, OBMI has become renowned for luxury hotels, resorts, vacation destinations, and residences. Celebrating design excellence and innovation to consistently deliver the extraordinary.

The design established the architectural character and a standard for casual elegance and environmental sensitivity in Oil Nut Bay. Minimising site disturbance through an organic organisation of volumes and the use of natural materials integrating local wood and stonework. Oil Nut bay was recently selected as a winner of Robb Report‘s Best of the Best Awards: The Best in Real Estate.

design-middleeast.com

CREATIVE DIRECTOR ATI CONSULTANTS, ARCHITECTS AND ENGINEERS

prestigious projects and clients, resulting in a number of prestigious design awards. Ajun, born in Turkey in 1988, earned her bachelor’s degree in Architecture and Urban Planning from the Istanbul Technical University, Faculty of Architecture, in 2011. She has worked in leading development and architecture companies in Turkey during which she pursued her master’s degree in real estate development between 2011-2013. She furthered her studies to obtain a diploma in Interior design from the University of London in 2015. Throughout her career, she has produced multiple award-winning master plans, architecture, and interior design projects, and her positive ‘nothing is impossible' spirit resonates throughout the office. She is currently working on various educational and mixed-use projects around the world, including in the UAE. Some of the recent works include a 60 storey mixeduse tower in the UAE; K-12 School campuses in Erbil, Baku, Istanbul, Dammam, and around the UAE; a master-planned community and urban development project in the emirate of Umm Al Quwain; and an iconic residential high-rise tower in Jumeirah Village Circle.

DESIGN MIDDLE EAST

24I

Dilara Ajun

ilara Ajun, the creative director of ATI Consultants, Architects and Engineers, was named ‘Young Talent of the Year' at Architecture Leader Awards 2021. She is passionate about creating “out-of-the-box” designs and solutions that complement the identities of both, the user and the company. Her distinct style and desire for design excellence have made ATI a preferred partner for many

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Bottom: Inspired by the form of a cracked iceberg, ATI’s Snow Tower will become Sharjah’s tallest building, and most striking new residential development. The design is crowned by a 1000m2 snow park experience, and rooftop observatory overlooking the lagoons from the Al Khan Corniche.

design-middleeast.com

40 Creative 30 / POWERLIST /

25I

Alessandra Barilaro

DESIGN MIDDLE EAST

A U G U S T - S E P T E MD B E SR I G 20 N2 M 1 IDDLE EAST

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HEAD OF INTERIOR DESIGN M+N ARCHITECTURE

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lessandra Barilaro, a native of Southern Italy, studied Architecture and Design in Florence, where she also attended the IDEM Master in Product Design at the Higher School of Industrial Technologies. She was one of the founders of M+N Architecture in 2010, and later became the company's Head of Interior Design. The firm, which has offices in Florence, Milan, and Abu Dhabi, has won several prestigious interior design awards as a result of her design vision, including “Best Office Interior” at the Luxury Lifestyle Awards 2021 for the design of the Cyber Security Dept. of NYUAD (Abu Dhabi), “Best SPA Design” at the Middle East Pool and SPA Awards 2016 for the LivNordic SPA & Wellness in Cayan Tower (Dubai), and “Best SPA Design” at the Middle East Pool and (Abu Dhabi). Barilaro specialises in corporate, retail, and hospitality projects and has a broad understanding of all types of interiors; her background includes product design, with collections shown at the GwanGju Design Biennale, the Salone Satellite in Milan and Rome, and the Florence Design Week, and an honourable mention at the 23rd Compasso d'Oro, as well as academic activity as she has been teaching Interior Design at the IAAD in Bologna since 2019. Barilaro sees the client's empathic relationship as the most important factor in approaching the project, which she creates through constant dialogue and end-user perceptual analysis of space and objects. She pushes her research beyond traditional schemes, experimenting with architecture and design in a way that is sustainable and responsive to the needs of today's society, in order to grasp the right perspective.

As a creator of ideas, Barilaro backs them up with in-depth industry knowledge, extensive lighting design experience, and great enthusiasm for Biophilia and indoor greenery. She is currently working on the renovation of the management offices of one of the leading banks in the UAE, a new corporate HQ in Dubai, and overseeing the final touches of three spas close to completion on Palm Jumeirah, Dubai.

Viola Communications HQ, twofour54 - Abu Dhabi

OWNER NIKKI BISIKER INTERIOR DESIGN

ikki Bisiker is a selftaught designer. She was passionate about designing since she was a child, and by the time she was in her 20s, she was planning a large restaurant project in the United Kingdom while navigating the complexities of its historical status. As her international career grew, she worked on projects all over the world, from super yachts in Monaco to a large Emirati palace. Her exposure to a variety of foreign languages piqued her interest in different cultures and traditions from all over the world. Bisiker was raised by her Jamaican mother who instilled a love of colour in her, as well as traditional British grandparents who taught her to enjoy the finer things in life. All of this provided her with an excellent foundation for her future career.

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Bottom right: This property on Palm Jumeirah 2 was designed by Nikki Bisiker Interior Design to serve two purposes. The main reception was earmarked for business entertaining. Beyond that area, a family home unfolded. The lobby area is decorated with greenery and sleek hanging lights.

In the 1990’s, her business thrived with the private commission to design luxury homes in Lyon, France and super-yachts in Monaco. During this time, she earned her Captain's licence, which allowed her to command and sail yachts and other vessels. And a beloved Harley-Davidson motorcycle became one of her favourite forms of transportation for getting from one customer to the next! In 2004, she brought her work together under the brand name Nikki B Signature Interiors and moved to Dubai, where real estate development was booming. She was commissioned to renovate a farmhouse in Al Ain. Following that, she created upscale houses in and around Dubai, as well as her largest project to date, the transformation of a Palace for one of the Middle East's Royal families, as well as

a private yacht commission for the Crown Prince of the UAE. She worked on design projects all around the Middle East, as well as in the French Alps. The company turned into an LLC the following year and started to employ staff. Nikki B Signature Design rebranded to Da Fonseca Design (her mother’s maiden name),

and employed a total of 10 staff members. In 2019, due to the popular demand from her loyal clients, Bisiker rebranded back to Nikki Bisiker Interior Design. Recognising the strength of simply using her own name. In 2021, she will also launch Nikki&B, an exclusive furniture collection.

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26I

Nikki Bisiker

design-middleeast.com

42 Creative 30 / POWERLIST /

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27I

design-middleeast.com

Ernesto Alarilla Jr. DESIGN MANAGER KEY CONCEPT

rnesto Alarilla Jr. is a multi-disciplinary architect with over 11 years of experience in architecture and interior design. Earning his education with flying colours from the University of Santo Tomas in Manila, he trained afterwards under the tutelage of renowned modernist Filipino architect Ed Calma. He has worked on a number of minimalist luxury residences and hospitality projects in The Philippines and Asia. This provided him with a solid foundation in design and construction, which led him to explore his creative limits rooted in materiality and spatial quality. He broadened his experience by moving to the Middle East, successfully delivering 100+ commercial projects to date. He is currently the Key Concept design manager; he also established the design department in 2014, by forming the creative arm of the fit-out company. In 2016, the company shifted its focus to design consultancy, which led to collaboration with Gulf-based brands such as Falla, Origami, Zero Fat, and Huna. Whites KSA, Accor, Emaar, and several KSA government entities are among the company's notable clients. Ernesto's formative years as a young painter taught him to be hyper-aware of his surroundings and to use artistic freedom to express his own interpretation of a subject. His inspiration comes from the realms of low and high-brow cultural dialogues, as he is naturally inclined to the visual and performing arts. He believes that creation and design should be emotionally charged in varying degrees. Driven by his culturally immersive travels, his design comes from a place of recollection and imagination. He is truly passionate in seeking to challenge the perception of the norm. Ernesto is committed to producing and executing a holistic design that will linger in the mind and inspire a new way of thinking about human connection with the built environment.

43 Left: Whites Pop-up store for the Winter at Tantora Festival 2019

According to him, collaboration and having a common end goal with clients and different stakeholders is paramount to achieving a successful project that thrives beyond the turn-over phase. Like the recent Huna Development in Riyadh's Panorama Mall, where Key Concept had to stay on top of the paradigm shift throughout the pandemic while conceptualising the project. Key Concept’s upcoming noteworthy projects include a Mediterranean-inspired restaurant in the heart of Sharjah and a digital and tech-enabled retail store in Riyadh. Further down the road, are also two lifestyle and entertainment destinations both in Abu Dhabi and Riyadh which will involve a lot of collaborations between hospitality specialists, real estate developers, and artists.

28I Jesper Godsk FOUNDER & CEO

J LW

esper Godsk co-founded LW in 1999, with the aim of creating bespoke designs from a firm that would represent the abstract of design prowess. Now, 21 years and a plethora of awardwinning projects later, his vision for the industry and his brand remains the same. Some of the successful projects he has led include Zabeel House to Grosvenor House, Hyatt Regency to JW Marriott Marquis, and Le Royal Meridien Beach Resort and Spa to the exquisite Dusit Hotel, and Edition Hotel. Godsk expanded LW from a tiny, local company to a major, multinational one; he established the brand as an expression of his creative leadership and now has offices in Dubai, Hong Kong, Sao Paulo, and Aarhus.

29I Ben

Corrigan FOUNDER & MANAGING DIRECTOR

BLUEHAUS GROUP

en Corrigan is the founder and managing director of Bluehaus, an awardwinning design studio with headquarters in Dubai and regional offices in Abu Dhabi and Riyadh. The last five or so years have been the most thrilling for Bluehaus. Despite the challenges posed by the COVID pandemic, Bluehaus has had a fantastic few years. Corrigan is especially proud of how his team has come together to support one another during this time. Bluehaus has some interesting and diverse projects on the drawing boards (so to speak) and onsite projects including Sushi Samba in KAFD Riyadh, the new du telecom HQ, several workplace collaborations with tech firms, workplace projects in ICD Brookfield Place, a high-profile retail experience for a telecommunications firm in Riyadh, and also several exciting projects in Expo 2020.

30I Carla

Conte CREATIVE DIRECTOR & FOUNDER

BRAND CREATIVE

arla Conte founded the design firm Brand Creative in 2011, with the goal of creating memorable branded environments by integrating interior and graphic design skills. Her strategic design methodology is the major force behind the multi-award-winning work she has produced in North America, Latin America, the UK, Asia, and presently the Middle East. Carla has designed work for Fortune 500 companies and large worldwide brands on a grand scale and in a variety of styles. Brand Creative is currently working on the extension of Avenues Mall, the largest mall in Oman, where the firm is currently working to accommodate Oman’s first IKEA by the end of 2021. The design firm is continuing to work with Esso in Saudi Arabia, developing six new F&B brands.

design-middleeast.com

A blend of lifestyle & luxury in a timeless elegant atmosphere

sbe.com/sls-dubai @slsdubai

DESIGN MIDDLE EAST

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46 Fire safety

Safety First Sam Alcock, Dubai Director, Tenable Fire Engineering Consultancy, addresses the importance of hiring fire engineering professionals early in the concept phase, working closely with fit-out suppliers and designers, and the company's expansion plans

Tell us the importance of getting Tenable FEC involved in the pre-construction phase of a project and how architects would benefit from seeking out your services?

In our experience, engaging with a fire engineering consultant during a project's concept phase has significant long-term benefits, specifically when preventing abortive works further down the line. However, this is often overlooked as a critical component. For a lot of projects, we see developers, architects and main contractors having to significantly redesign a building before construction or, most commonly, during the construction phase, where significant and costly rectifications are required. design-middleeast.com

Oman Pavilion The eye-catching design of the pavilion is inspired by Boswellia sacra, the tree from which the precious resin is harvested. With an asymmetrical, flowing form that is reminiscent of the tree’s low, shade-giving branches, the structure appears to envelop and protect life.

In terms of interior designs and fit-out projects - how does Tenable FEC work closely with designers to ensure an office or retail space is designed with adequate fire and life safety in mind?

Fit-out projects, in particular, rely on the base build design having adequate documentation in place. For example, all buildings must have a fire strategy report in place alongside approved civil defence fire and life safety drawings. These documents outline elements such as sprinkler system design, egress strategy, fire rating of walls and doors, etc. >>>

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Value engineering runs throughout each element of a project – we believe in cost efficiency without jeopardising overall safety. Respecting the architect's vision is a crucial part of our approach. However, preservation of life is our main focus and, with each project, we aim to guide the design team through the relevant code requirements while still keeping the design intent at the forefront. For this process to be a success, it takes compromise and communication. We will always explain the reasoning that drives our recommendations and a solution to non-compliances, thinking beyond the boundaries of the code when making rectifications. This approach helps with the current project and encourages the architect to apply fire and life safety principles when designing future projects by

bringing us on board as early as possible. We are seeing more and more architects and designers engage with us during a project's pre-concept phase. They are beginning to see the value in identifying the potential pitfalls as early as possible to reduce the potential time and money wasted further down the line.

How do you ensure design intent while still adhering to the relevant fire and life safety codes?

DESIGN MIDDLE EAST

Naturally, the design is most flexible during the concept phase, and this flexibility is vital when ensuring all the key fire and life safety code requirements are implemented. These can include the number of staircases and their location, arrangement of the core and, subject to the building's height, you may be required to provide a firefighting lift lobby arrangement. All of these components, and many more, must meet the relevant country fire and life safety codes and will vary depending on the type and size of a project. For example, if a mall project doesn't consider corridor width during the design phase, the widths may need to be increased during the Authority approval stage, and potentially the developer will lose out on sellable square footage. This poses further problems if the retail units have already been sold and the size requirements subsequently change.

SAM ALCOCK, Dubai Director of Tenable Fire Engineering Consultancy

design-middleeast.com

DESIGN MIDDLE EAST

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48 Fire safety

Warner Bros Hotel will be the world’s first Warner Bros. themed hotel, comprising 257 rooms over eight levels with a modern decor that celebrates the studio’s movies and television series

Provided these documents are in place and well-defined, and the fit-out is carried out in line with the base build, there shouldn't be any requirements to make any rectifications. However, with offices, we often see base build information specifying one occupant load. Then the interior design layout shows the future usage of the space, which exceeds the approved occupant load. This is often due to open communal spaces such as team assembly areas and cafeterias, where more employees gather in a particular space than anticipated, especially if the office is split over two floors with a central communal space. Similarly, with a mall fit-out, the information provided in the fire strategy is crucial. If, for example, an open space will house a gym, food court or general assembly area with a high occupant load, and the relevant metrics are not provided, there is the potential the project will run into delays and additional costs. In addition to high occupancy levels, interior designers must also take the materials used for finishings into consideration. While the majority of finishing materials comply with the relevant country codes, there are instances where this is not the case. If a selected material doesn't meet the code, it will not be granted civil defence approval. How does Tenable FEC use technology and 3D modelling to assist with projects?

Specific projects require us to take a performance-based design approach. For example, a project may include an atrium, and the design requires a smoke management system to protect design-middleeast.com

the space. In this instance, we will run a Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) analysis to ensure the available extract and supply air provides a tenable environment. There have also been projects where we have been brought on board at a later stage, only to find there were not be adequate staircases already in place post-construction. In this instance, we will run a CFD and an evacuation model to determine the time it will take for occupants to evacuate safely versus how long the area remained tenable. Provided the tenability time was longer than the evacuation time, the design is deemed safe. What are Tenable's objectives and goals for the next 12 months?

There has been a recent internal restructure to enable our growth and expansion plans for the next twelve months and beyond. We are seeing a variety of projects coming through both our Dubai and Muscat offices. These range from new hotel and residential projects and fit-out projects to data centres and healthcare facilities. Geographically, Saudi Arabia is a target growth market for us, and we are already engaged in elements of the key gigaprojects such as The Red Sea Project's Coral Bloom, AMAALA, Diriyah Gate and NEOM. However, people are often quick to overlook the developments taking place in other parts of the Kingdom, and we are excited to be part of projects, ranging from Al Khobar down to Medina. Further afield and COVID-19 permitting, we aim to relaunch our London office in the coming months, which will enable us to work more freely on European projects.

As builders of the future, we work all day to yourofdaily Asmake builders the life better. we By thinking future, work all day beyond chemistry. to make your daily life better. By thinking beyond chemistry.

Whether it’s biotechnology, physics or materials science – we connect disciplines, areas of expertise and perspectives to create sustainable solutions that add value in partnership with our customers. Our specialty additives make the difference for end products becoming more valuable, more durable, more Whether it’s biotechnology, physics or materials science – we energy-efficient and in many ways simply better. And that connect disciplines, areas of expertise and perspectives to answers the question of why we exist: to make people’s lives create sustainable solutions that add value in partnership with better day in, day out. Leading beyond chemistry to improve our customers. Our specialty additives make the difference for life, today and tomorrow. end products becoming more valuable, more durable, more energy-efficient and in many ways simply better. And that answers the question of why we exist: to make people’s lives www.mea.evonik.com better day in, day out. Leading beyond chemistry to improve life, today and tomorrow. www.mea.evonik.com

50 Tête-à-tête

DESIGN MIDDLE EAST

AUGUST - SEPTEMBER 2021

Carpet CALLING

design-middleeast.com

MONA MAKTABI, managing director of

Iwan Maktabi, discusses the brand's history, the importance of supporting Middle Eastern talent, the power of social media, and their most recent collection BY ROMA ARORA

Can you give us a brief history of Iwan Maktabi? Iwan Maktabi is a leading carpet gallery that has been in business since 1926 and has locations in Beirut and Dubai. In 1995, we three siblings, Mohamed Maktabi, Chirine Maktabi, and I opened the first Iwan Maktabi Gallery with the support of our father, Abbas Maktabi. Based on three generations of expertise, and a rich family private collection of collectible carpets, Iwan Maktabi added to the depth of people’s appreciation for carpets in Lebanon and the region and proved to be the go-to address for rare carpets and textile art in the Middle East. Iwan Maktabi pioneered the integration of traditional and modern art by introducing contemporary high-quality handmade carpets and exclusively representing various carpet firms and designers such as Jan Kath, Hossein Rezvani, and, most recently, Hechizoo and cc-tapis. Iwan Maktabi takes pride in its “Iwan Maktabi Lab,” the research and experimentation hub of Iwan Maktabi's special projects department, where design is influenced by culture, creativity, craft, testing, and results. This hub invites world-renowned architects, interior designers, product designers, fashion designers, and installation artists to translate their ideas into handwoven crafts. Designers and artists who work at Iwan Maktabi Lab are given the tools and freedom to translate their design language into crafted creations. David/ Nicolas, Nadine Kanso, Karen Chekerdjian, Rumi

Dalle, George Mohasseb, Gregory Gatserelia, and Roula Salamoun are among the many collaborators. We also provide the option of custom-designing any carpet through our design studio.

How has the business evolved over the years? The evolution of Iwan Maktabi's business model is critical to its success. Since its inception in 1926, the emphasis has been on antique carpets and Islamic art. The new classical carpets were introduced by the second Maktabi generation. Whereas the third generation introduced modern designer carpets and special projects department (Iwan Maktabi Lab).

How crucial is it to choose the proper carpet for your space? What factors should one consider before selecting a carpet? The carpet is a conversation starter in your space. It welcomes people and brings the room together. The mood of your interior and the practicality of the room should be the first considerations when selecting a carpet. It is also a matter of personal preference. While some prefer a more subdued ambience, others prefer eye-catching designs/ colours. That’s why Iwan Maktabi introduced the “carpet trial” at home, where before committing to a carpet, you get to live with it and experience it throughout the different hours of the day. >>>

starter in your space. It welcomes people and brings the room together. The mood of your interior and the practicality of the room should be the first considerations when selecting a carpet. It is also a matter of personal preference.

DESIGN MIDDLE EAST

“

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The carpet is a “conversation

design-middleeast.com

52 Tête-à-tête

How do you select your designers?

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We’re interested in artists with different focusses such as interior designers to architects, installation artists to muralists, and even fashion designers. It’s all about experimenting and seeing how different worlds can come together to create crafted creations, and how we can translate their design language into woven art. We work primarily with Lebanese and regional designers because we want to support Middle Eastern talent first and foremost. We are also the sole representatives of carpet firms and designers such as Jan Kath, cc-tapis, Hechizoo, who have proven to push the boundaries when it comes to the art of carpets.

Who are your target audiences?

DESIGN MIDDLE EAST

From commercial and high-end residential projects to carpet collectors, and art lovers, we make sure that there is something for everyone.

These pieces created through Rumi Dalle's own personal journey to discover herself are reminiscent of wall rugs, a reinterpretation of the felt rug into draping wall piece.

Limited Edition handmade carpet designed by Karim Chaaya. It is inspired by The Big Lebowski. It's a traditional vintage Kashan carpet with silk layer on top.

design-middleeast.com

What is the most popular weaving technique? What are the most commonly used materials in your work? While we prefer to concentrate on the ancient craft of carpet making, we have the knowhow to combine centuries-old knotting tradition with modern hand-tufting technology. The fast-paced life we live often requires a shorter lead time, this is where technology comes in to help us achieve a high-quality carpet, in a much shorter period of time.

Social media has changed the way we design our spaces. How has this helped your business? Our horizons have been broadened as a result of social media. It has allowed us to connect with clients/potential clients from all over the world and strengthen our relationships. It has also allowed us to reach a younger audience of art and design lovers.

What effect did the current pandemic have on your business? While the pandemic has affected us as a business, it also had its pros. People have reconsidered just how important their home is, and as a result, they have put in more effort to find high-quality rugs for their space. We've also seen an increase in online inquiries and orders throughout the pandemic, which has given us the push to expand into e-commerce. Something we would never have considered before.

What can you tell us about your most recent collection? We just recently revealed our latest collective at Nomad St. Moritz, (a travelling showcase for contemporary art and collectible designs) - Rumi’s

Dream and Other Stories. The collective showcased works by Lebanese artists: Rumi Dalle, Roula Salamoun, Hala Matta, and David/Nicolas. The highlight of the show was Rumi Dalle’s collection of tapestry sculptures entitled: “It felt like a dream”. The first body of work since Dalle’s transition. Six pieces were created in intimate, personal spaces. The wool has been sourced from Turkey, Argentina, Germany, and Australia, hand-dyed between Konya and Beirut using both natural and acidic dyes. These pieces, created through Dalle’s own personal journey to discover herself, are reminiscent of wall rugs, a reinterpretation of the felt rug into draping wall pieces. The exhibition includes works such as The Architect, The World, The Stripper, and Etoile Filante.

The brand's services are available from Riyadh and Jeddah in Saudi Arabia to the Gulf region, as well as Zurich in Switzerland to the rest of Europe.

How do you envision Iwan Maktabi's future? Iwan Maktabi was never a typical carpet gallery. We’ve always believed in collaborations and bringing together different creative disciplines under one umbrella. Prepping the fourth generation of Iwan Maktabi, we’re branching out towards collectible designs and sustainable solutions in the field of art and design.

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DESIGN MIDDLE EAST

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54 Sustainability

SUSTAINABLE

AND HIGH-PERFORMANCE

FLOORING

Waterborne amine curing agents for high-performance floor coatings and civil engineering applications

ater borne epoxy flooring solutions are fast becoming the choice for concrete protection globally and with the specific needs for workability and performance an emerging trend in Middle East. Low emissions, fast return to service (1 – 3 hours), adhesion on all major substrate’s workability under damp conditions (10°C – 35°C @ 85% humidity), permeability and overall cost savings are driving the use of waterborne epoxy floorings. Evonik’s

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Anquamine® waterborne curing agents are designed to meet the great variety of industrial flooring applications and requirements for concrete. Besides meeting increasingly stringent low emission requirements, the flooring industry is asking for improved efficiency and product performance. These two additional key market drivers comprise minimizing downtime to improve costs and productivity, as well as improved coating robustness and better aesthetics over the service life. To meet these requirements, significant technology advancements of epoxy curing hardeners have been realized over recent years.

allows a faster curing compared to Anquamine® 721. With a walk on time down to 2 hours on dry concrete and 3 hours on wet concrete at 10°C, these formulations enable the applicators to recoat the primer within one shift and therefore minimizing the down time for the end-user.

PRIMER

SELF LEVELLING DECORATIVE AND FUNCTIONAL FLOORING SYSTEMS.

Transparent coating (0.2mm) > Deep penetration into porous substrates > Close porosity and capillaries

For self levelling applications, Anquamine® 735 based formulations are recommended. They provide a desirable satin or matte finish to minimize the visibility of any floor defects and reduce scratch sensitivity. However, the surface is very adaptable and can be modified to produce highly decorative surface appearances. A formulation of a LER cured with Anquamine® 735 exhibits a high level of adhesion as well as excellent mechanical and abrasion properties (Table 1). >>>

SELF LEVELLING COATINGS

Homogeneous pigmented top coat (1-2mm) > Suitable for application over sand dressed primers > Equalize surface roughness

ROLLER COATINGS

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Ultimate product choice will depend on performance requirement and type of flooring layer. Whereas eco- and user-friendliness is a key feature requested for all layers of a floor coating, the importance of the other two market trends depends on the respective layer. For instance, aesthetics such as UV and color stability are essential for topcoats but of less relevance for underlying coating layers. Typically, flooring systems are based on two to three layers. The first layer is a primer which closes porosity and capillary, followed by a thicker self levelling or thinner roller coating (Figure 1). These topcoats are responsible for the functional and decorative features of the final coating. For aesthetics reasons sometimes a final clear coat is also used in addition (not shown in Figure 2). In this article, we will demonstrate that flooring formulations based on Evonik’s Anquamine® proprietary waterborne technology meet these latest market needs for all three coating layers.

PRIMER Concrete primers are used to close the porosity and capillaries of the surface. In addition, the primer formulation must exhibit a good adhesion to the concrete and has to offer a perfect inter-coat adhesion to the subsequently applied protective or decorative floor coating. Whereas epoxy systems are generally known to show excellent adhesion to dry concrete, flooring systems based on the waterborne hardeners shown in this article also exhibit high adhesion even on damp concrete. Primer formulations of Anquamine® 721 cured with a standard liquid epoxy resin (LER) and Anquamine® 728 cured with a LER or Ancarez AR 555® as a solid epoxy resin (SER) exhibit 5 - 8 MPa (Mega Pascal) bond strength on dry and wet concrete. The resulting concrete cohesive failure is higher than 95 % (Figure 1). Whereas adhesion is comparable between all formulations, Anquamine® 728

LEFT Figure 1. Concrete cohesion failure RIGHT Figure 2. Typical layers of an epoxy floor coating

Table 1. Physical properties of self levelling formulation based on LER/ Anquamine® 735

AUGUST - SEPTEMBER 2021

Pigmented top coat (0.3-0.5mm)

> To be applied on primer followe surface substrates > For use for ant-slip surface and smooth surface

Physical Properties

Self Leveller 1

Surface appearance

Satin / Matte

Compressive strength (28 days)

40 MPa

Adhesion to dry concrete

4,5 MPa

Adhesion to wet concrete

4,3 MPa

Impact resistance

180-200 kg.cm

Abrasion resistance (Taber C17)

300 mg

56 Sustainability

TOPCOATS

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AUGUST - SEPTEMBER 2021

Roller coatings are used for pigmented or clear topcoats. Different waterborne epoxy hardeners have been designed to fulfill the market demands for high product performance and excellent aesthetics. For many applications in the industrial flooring segment, resistance against chemical spills is essential. Therefore, the chemical resistance of white model top coatings based on LER/ Anquamine® 721 and LER/ Anquamine® 728 has been evaluated. The results shown in Figure 3 demonstrate that these waterborne systems can fulfill the requirements of the market and must not fear a comparison to solvent free epoxy systems. Figure 3. Chemical resistance of white top-coating

CLEAR COAT Highly decorative surfaces can be achieved by applying an additional clear coat layer. The key requirement for this application is an enhanced UV stability and transparency of the cured film. Clear coats based on Anquamine® 100 exhibit an excellent UV stability and transparency when cured with liquid epoxy resins. In comparison to a standard hardener UV stability is considerably improved (Figure 4). Furthermore, this clear coat formulation has a long pot life of approximately 8 hours which offers improved working flexibility. >>>

50 40 30 20 10 0 0

100

200

300

400

Delta E - Hours exposed to UV-A; 351 nm; 0,89 W/m2/nm; 450c Anquamine 721 Anquamine 100

Figure 4. UV-A resistance of waterborne clear coats

50% sodium hydroxide Distilled water Methyl Ethyl Ketone Ethanol 70% sulfuric acid 10% acetic acid 0

Shore D loss after 96 hours 230C in [%] LER/Anquamine® 721 LER/Anquamine® 728

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500

Anquamine ® range in a nutshell Topcoat (Clear)

Anquamine ® 100

Excellent transparency & stain resistance

Coating (Filled)

Anquamine ® 721 or 728

Fast & Aesthetics; High quality finishes

Self Levelling

Anquamine ® 735

Cost-effective, No osmotic blistering

Epoxy Cementitious

Anquamine ® 287

Cost-effective, Impr. Concrete longevity

Primers

Anquamine ® 721 or 728

Recoat 3-4 h at 100C, No carbamation

Figure 5. Positioning of waterborne epoxy curing agents for different flooring applications

In conversation with Sachin Arte, Senior Business Manager for Middle East & Africa, BL Crosslinkers, Evonik What are the current trends/drivers in the Civil Engineering market?

Sachin Arte, Senior Business Manager for Middle East & Africa, BL Crosslinkers, Evonik

The Covid 19 pandemic impact is also influencing the Construction industry and will also shape its future. In the current scenario with low oil revenues slowly rising and travel restrictions still in place, the focus is shifting from long term investments to short term. Additionally, a few megatrends which resonate prominently in the Middle East Construction market are climate change, urbanization, mobility, demographics, economic diversification, with focus on reduced dependency on hydrocarbon revenues, energy security and localization of the work force.

On the Industrial and aesthetic flooring scenario in the Middle East, Epoxy Chemistry has the predominant share, with the applicators and end users preferring sustainable, low VOC ready to apply service floorings solutions where Crosslinkers has a pivotal role to contribute in the Industry.

What are the Key innovation opportunities you see in the Civil Engineering Industry? In the ever changing and disruptive global business conditions, we are always augmenting our value proposition to meet the demands of the industry. We see future opportunities in the Middle East for Composite Rebars, Aesthetic

3 D floorings, UV resistant and Durable floorings, Low VOC and Waterborne solutions, ready to use low maintenance floorings and Thermal shock resistant floorings. The success of our customers is our own success as we support our partners in offering solutions with our innovative product proposition to challenges, they encounter.

How do you envisage the Construction and Civil Engineering scenario in mid-term in Middle East? Every challenge also offers opportunities and the ME Construction Industry is gearing itself to seize the momentum post pandemic, hence the prospects look bright in mid-term in the region.

curing agents with their Anquamine® portfolio which are suited for different cure speeds and performance demands in all three flooring layers (Fig. 5). In summary, the described epoxy curing agents enable floor coating formulators to comply with low emission and sustainability targets while fulfilling the high expectations on processing speed and aesthetics.

DESIGN MIDDLE EAST

Waterborne epoxy hardeners fulfill the increasing demand for environmentally friendly, non-VOC formulations and are meeting the current trends towards faster return to service and improved surface qualities making waterborne the excellent choice for sustainable and high-performance flooring solutions. Evonik offers a wellbalanced portfolio of waterborne

AUGUST - SEPTEMBER 2021

CONCLUSION

58 Hospitality

“A day at the beach” with

Hilton Marjan

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AUGUST - SEPTEMBER 2021

Hampton

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in Ras Al Khaimah

AUGUST - SEPTEMBER 2021

Below: The infinity pool is a great place to rest and unwind.

The general manager of Hampton by Hilton Marjan in Ras Al Khaimah, discusses the property's distinctive features, the hotel's recommended restaurants, and the trends affecting the hospitality industry

Tell us about your journey. How did it all start? No stranger to the Hilton brand, I began my journey in 2002, at the breathtaking Hilton Pyramids Golf Resort in Egypt. Working with the Hilton brand has been delightful, I have grown with the group and gained extensive industry experience which is why I’m proud to be leading the opening of Hampton by Hilton Marjan Island as general manager 19 years later. I’m excited to welcome guests to the brand’s latest vision, and the first-of-its-kind in the UAE. Tell us about the property's distinctive design features. Inspired by “a day at the beach” this property is the largest Hampton by Hilton in

DESIGN MIDDLE EAST

JOHN RIAD

the world, featuring 515 guest rooms – half of which are interconnected to accommodate larger groups. The hotel’s design features promote positive energy throughout with colourful boat paddles hung in the guest rooms and surf boards adoring the restaurants and public areas. How much do you depend on word-ofmouth and social media? A property that caters to a youthful, tech-savvy generation, we expect social media to be one of our primary platforms for our guests to share stories and experiences at Hampton. With lots to see and do at the property, we look forward to seeing our guests post their fun-filled stay all over social media and enjoy our signature Hamptonality service. >>> design-middleeast.com

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AUGUST - SEPTEMBER 2021

60 Hospitality

Above: At Flavors, the hotel's all-day dining restaurant, every Hampton by Hilton guest can start the day with the brand's signature free breakfast.

Which of the hotel restaurants do you recommend the most here? Every Hampton by Hilton guest can start the day with the brand’s signature free breakfast at Flavors, the

hotel’s all-day dining restaurant. Other dining options include the Surfs Up beach food truck, the H2O pool bar and The View lobby café. We have also partnered with two exciting F&B offerings

that are completely new to the Emirate. From CLAW BBQ, a BBQ eatery noted for its delicious seafood grills, to Karma Kafe, a pan Asian restaurant with an award-winning concept – coming October 2021. What are the main challenges you face in hotel management? The Hampton by Hilton brand is noted for its Hamptonality program ensuring that every guest is satisfied through proactive, friendly service. As a new hotel, we need to take note that we’re not just meeting – but exceeding expectations across all nationalities and ages that visit our hotel.

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Bottom left: Guest rooms are bright and airy, with top-of-the-line amenities, and cutting-edge technology.

What do you think it takes to succeed in this industry? Teamwork is key to successfully running a hotel regardless of size. Streamlining communication between departments and ensuring clear communication strategies creates synergy between departments. In addition to having our hotel positioning set from the start, we at Hampton have a very clear target and we work harmoniously to achieve it.

What are some of the trends you see impacting the hospitality industry? Digital lifestyle now is offering everyone the freedom of expressing and sharing experiences authentically. As a result, this has increased communication and the response rate between hoteliers and their guests, as we’re able to accommodate them based on the interests portraited online. Technology is part of the success of great hospitality. Can you tell us about some of the technologies that go into creating your guest experience at this new property? To make the experience all the more personal, we have implemented the digital key, where the guest can use their phones instead of the key cards. In addition, we’ve now included a large digital screen in the lobby 9x4.5m that creates a great communication tool for all our offers. By installing a large video screen, we’re noticing higher guest engagement as well as maintaining social distancing.

How do you see the Middle East's hospitality industry evolving in the midst of these unusual pandemic times? Countries are slowly lifting their quarantine regulations and opening their borders, which puts the idea of travel and tourism back into the spotlight. However, travellers are still taking precautionary measures which is why we have noticed a surge in staycations and guests from neighbouring countries. What is your vision for the future of the hotel? Following a successful opening, we aim to position Hampton by Hilton as the one-stop destination for young adults looking to experience the whole Ras Al Khaimah package, whether it is entertainment, dining, or enjoying tourist attractions. With Hampton by Hilton Marjan Island universally recognised for their signature service, we look forward to not only meeting, but exceeding expectations ensuring guests come as a guest and leave as family.

62 Project

KEY

LIGHT THE

FZ House by Archidentity on Jumeirah Second, Dubai is a blend of Japanese minimalism and Emirati culture

DESIGN MIDDLE EAST

AUGUST - SEPTEMBER 2021

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he project was developed in collaboration with the Japanese associate architect Takeshi Maruyama. Several features of traditional Emirati and Japanese architecture were incorporated into the design of these light-filled townhouses. Located by Safa Canal on a dense residential street, FZ townhouses faced challenges in providing views outside the villa, which was contested by creating a spacious courtyard that serves as a focal design element that dwellers can perceive from most of the spaces in the house. All rooms, including the vertical circulation, loop around this centre of space, allowing residers to experience it throughout their journey.

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AUGUST - SEPTEMBER 2021

In terms of minimalism, efficiency, and practicality, the villa has a Japanese influence, while still embracing modern Emirati spaciousness and elegance.

Located by Safa Canal on a dense residential street, FZ townhouses faced challenges in providing views outside the villa, which was contested by creating a spacious courtyard that serves as a focal design element that dwellers can perceive from most of the spaces in the house. All rooms, including the vertical circulation, loop around this centre of space, allowing residers to experience it throughout their journey. Limited plot size implored a narrow and linear but highly efficient and compact spatial organisation

for the two-storey villas. It has a Japanese influence in terms of minimalism, efficiency, and practicality, while also incorporating modern Emirati spaciousness and luxury. The central courtyard is influenced by ancient Emirati villas and traditional Japanese row homes, and was also an inspiration for Tadao Ando's masterpiece 'Row House in Sumiyoshi.' Given privacy, it functions as an outdoor extension of the living room for the residents in the pleasant winter months. The outdoor courtyard is flanked on two sides by the dining room and living room and can be opened to create ample continuous space. Even during the summer months when the courtyard is closed to the house, its transparency and placement draw it into the indoor spaces, putting it in practical use for daily life. >>> design-middleeast.com

64 Project

AUGUST - SEPTEMBER 2021

The interior's harmony is reflected in the well-balanced composition of stone cladding, pure white surface, and transparency of the windows.

DESIGN MIDDLE EAST

Project / c FZ House Typology / Residential Villa Location / Jumeirah Second, Dubai Plot Area / 17,425 SQFT BUA / 9263 SQFT Stage / Completed, 2020 Architect / Archidentity The property receives the majority of its natural light through well-designed windows.

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One of the challenging tasks was to ensure that the entire space received plenty of natural light. The doubleheight indoor space adjacent to the yard maximises the light coming in. It also gives the dining area and the first-floor lounge a more spacious and airy atmosphere. In this project, subdued tones of warm greys and off-whites are used in a simple interior palette influenced by Japanese minimalism. Natural light shines as the most important feature in the interior space thanks to the muted tones. The majority of the natural light infiltrates the property through thoughtfully designed windows. Because the villa cannot enjoy many external views due to neighbouring buildings, their design has to be cleverly accounted for. As a result, the courtyard receives the majority of the light. The main bedroom faces the road and has a wide floor-to-ceiling window. The inverted U-shaped slit windows are designed to

provide occupants with privacy from their neighbours while still allowing enough light in. Natural light pours in via the skylights above the shower, illuminating the rooms without intruding on privacy. The villa façade is exemplary of its interiors. The U-shaped windows also give the outside a distinctive appearance. The interior's harmony is reflected in the well-balanced composition of stone cladding, pure white surface, and transparency of the windows. The wooded touch, which is prominent in Japanese architecture, was incorporated into modern Dubai design with accents like the pergola and louvres for the staircase. The project attempts to fuse the Emirati and Japanese traditional space configuration in a modern way against the site's constraints, which indicates a new possibility of residential style in this expanding global city— Dubai.

Dhaheri Building #5356, Salam Street P.O. Box 26417, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates Tel: +971 2 672 1923 | Fax: +971 2 672 0809

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66 Trends

Leading

WITH

innovation

Nikolaj Schnoor, LINDBERG's Global CCO and Managing Director, discusses the company's

DESIGN MIDDLE EAST

AUGUST - SEPTEMBER 2021

philosophy, the popular thintanium collection, and investing in product innovation during the pandemic What are your main priorities and goals in your role? The main priorities in my role are to overlook all commercial aspects of the LINDBERG concept. I need to make sure our collections are distributed and presented in the most optimum way to show off the LINDBERG way of design and ultimately offer wearers the best experience from choosing their right piece, to enjoying the product each day. The customer should have access to all 14 collections, from our core titanium collections to our premium horn and exclusive precious range. We also have the LINDBERG kid/teen collection, which is perfect for the outgoing kid as they are strong, comfortable and don’t obstruct a growing child’s features. As we distribute to selected optical stores, I have to make sure our partners are well trained to understand and present our products in the most appealing and effective way to ensure the end customers are satisfied. To me, the best KPI is great word of mouth, which equals success. What are your company’s core values? Design always comes first. Design that feels fantastic to wear with style and comfort – the perfect balance. The brand is motivated by the modern movement of functionalism, where the purpose of the item guides us. It is an aesthetic design language with the absence of excessive ornamentation. Due to this heritage, the brand is all about functionality, uncluttered minimalism and clean aesthetics. We have removed all unnecessary elements like screws, rivets and welded parts from LINDBERG eyewear. Our designers find great pleasure in letting the material itself do the job. Today, although we work with many other high-end materials like buffalo horn, fine oak, solid gold, platinum and even diamonds, titanium is still at the heart of our products. The material has the advantages of being hypoallergenic, durable and lightweight. One of the most defining elements of our DNA is customisable eyewear. We recognise the need for style and comfort with a building system that allows the wearer to achieve the ultimate fit and one-ofa-kind look. This supreme building system is still not achievable in the world of mass-market. With customisation, we can uniquely tailor our eyewear down to the smallest detail to help the wearer choose the perfect style, size, colour and material combinations. These details are what matter to the wearer for everyday comfort and style. We at LINDBERG also believe that timeless design lies within craftsmanship, high-quality material, and durability. Integrating these elements requires a push for technical innovation, which pushes our designers and engineers to obsess over every design and technical detail. We’re very proud that every aspect of the LINDBERG design

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and manufacturing process is done in-house, as we believe premium eyewear should always be meticulously worked on, passed through human hands and never be mass-produced.

What was the biggest challenge in developing Thintanium collection eyewear? What kind of response are you receiving? LINDBERG’s constant attraction to technical innovation means facing challenges along the process. For the LINDBERG thintanium, the biggest challenge was the brand new hinge system, which was successfully developed based on our experience of working with titanium and investing in new technology. New technology means that the right tools have only been available a few years ago when our designers and engineers started developing the thintanium concept. This engineering milestone in design and technical innovation has most likely achieved the thinnest full-plate titanium collection in the world with a sophisticated and flawless hinge house system. The new thintanium collection has been well received within the eyewear industry and within the whole design community across the world. LINDBERG thintanium has already achieved huge recognition so far, gaining two of the most sought after design awards: “The Red Dot” “Best of the Best” – the highest award in competition, reserved for the very best products, and the “iF Gold Award” – the best award by iF design where LINDBERG and 74 others received the honour out of 10,000 applicants. The feedback we received is that the LINDBERG thintanium collection is the distinguishable benchmark for the future of titanium eyewear. This product is only a success because of the collaboration between our in-house designers, engineers, toolmakers, production and commercial departments, who have offered their total commitment towards the concept. Where is the inspiration for designs found? The brand’s inspiration is taken from creative details seen daily, for instance, in nature, architecture, fashion, interiors and art pieces. We find that architecture and eyewear have the same connection to design ideals. Both are inspired by geometric lines and figures, the latest technology, and industrial simplicity to create refreshing styles. LINDBERG always explores the interplay between design and nature. In organic architecture, buildings are given form to engage with the surrounding natural environment, creating a beautiful balance between the natural and creative world. It draws inspiration from this concept as the eyewear is designed to engage with the natural features of the face and still standout as a designed element to bring out the best in both.

"WE AT LINDBERG ALSO BELIEVE THAT TIMELESS DESIGN LIES WITHIN CRAFTSMANSHIP, HIGHQUALITY MATERIAL, AND DURABILITY. INTEGRATING THESE ELEMENTS REQUIRES A PUSH FOR TECHNICAL INNOVATION, WHICH PUSHES OUR DESIGNERS AND ENGINEERS TO OBSESS OVER EVERY DESIGN AND TECHNICAL DETAIL."

What’s your favourite LINDBERG product and why? It depends on the occasion as I treasure a lot of the collections. I’m currently mixing up between the LINDBERG thintanium and the LINDBERG buffalo unique. As the horn is a natural material, colours and patterns vary, so each buffalo titanium is, therefore, one-of-a-kind. The one I have is exceptionally special as it has a rare white streak detail at the front – a natural embellishment that really appealed to me. I have a LINDBERG sun titanium in a rim style for leisure – it has a timeless aesthetic and is very comfortable as it holds the same minimalistic ideals and functionality as all of our collections. Our sunglasses are stylish and convenient for high movements like exercising as the adjustability allows them to sit perfectly without sliding down your face. It’s perfect for when I cycle in the mornings before heading into the office. What’s one takeaway you’ve had as a company during the pandemic? The appreciation of actually sitting down to learn and explore new ways of working, and to make the brand strive despite the pandemic. Less travelling has given me and the company clarity to see what's possible and impossible for the LINDBERG brand. We have been doing the best we can while respecting the situation. In times like these, we have actually done the opposite of many other companies where we have invested in the innovation of our products instead of cutbacks in production costs. It's all about innovative marketing and pushing for cutting edge products. We have seen constant loyalty from our fans, where they appreciate our iconic design and keep choosing LINDBERG. How important is e-commerce for the brand? LINDBERG only distributes products to carefully selected optical partners. Currently, we don’t see e-commerce as necessary in the sense of direct business. However, we understand that we need to adapt to the changing digital landscape, so we constantly observe if e-commerce would make sense for us. We pride ourselves in our technical ability in our products and the digital innovation of our customisation tool, and explore if these factors would go hand-in-hand with a new way of selling LINDBERG online, without losing the customer experience of getting the perfect premium glasses with the perfect fit. What are your ambitions for LINDBERG moving forward? Staying true to our LINDBERG DNA while constantly developing the brand's products and sales throughout the world. My vision is to look into the future, innovate and digitalise only where it's suitable, and ensure we don't lose any aspects of our core values. LINDBERG's DNA concentrates on unique designs, unique technical solutions, and of course, working with unique materials. We strive to be the best and push for innovation. So far, the brand has received 108 internationally acclaimed design awards to prove our achievements. The search to continuously optimise by creating, designing, constructing, and producing the impossible, has driven the company from the start to today and the future.

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68 Wishlist

Style

With these amazing designer pieces for your space, you'll be spoiled for choice

Available across all Berluti store in Dubai

BEAUTY Tapered metal sticks at the forge constitute the frame of the chair, assembled with rivets. The back is outlined in the form of two arched horns. The Forge Branche Chair will elevate your style. franckchartrain.com

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AUGUST - SEPTEMBER 2021

CENTRAL

CRAFTMANSHIP Berluti together with Laffanour Galerie Downtown present 17 original Pierre Jeanneret pieces upholstered in Berluti’s emblematic Venezia leather.

LIFE IS A GARDEN Blossom brings cheerfulness and wellbeing to the dining table – with a carefully arranged combination of blueberry, camomile, rosehip, dandelion, mulberry and golden marguerite.The Magic Garden Collection by Sacha Walckhoff is truly mesmerising. rosenthal.de

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meillart.com

Illulian's Please Wait rug by Luca Nichetto is a modern addition to any space in need of a design boost

DESIGN MIDDLE EAST

EXQUISITE

AUGUST - SEPTEMBER 2021

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70 Wishlist

TAKE ME HOME This playful Aramis pouf by HamiltonConte adds visual interest, texture, and personality to any space. This decorative pouf with metal structure is available in gold, bronze or copper finish.

DESIGN MIDDLE EAST

AUGUST - SEPTEMBER 2021

hamiltonconte.com

CLASSY Loro Piana Interiors presents “The Palm Duet” Chaise Longue designed by Raphael Navot. sculpture, an armchair, a loveseat or a contemporary interpretation of the traditional chaise longue. raphaelnavot.com

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PRETTY FRONDS This magnificent Fronda mirror is hand-crafted with exquisite detailing and is sure to wow. It comes in two colours: gold and silver. Christopherguy.com

operacontemporary.com

DESIGN MIDDLE EAST

This simple Oscar table comes with top in Calacatta Oro marble and base in metal.The tableau is completed by the Stacy chairs, a combination of pure forms and remarkable materials.

AUGUST - SEPTEMBER 2021

CONTEMPORARY

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72 Wishlist

CHARMING Knot is a collection of stately pendant lights designed by Chiaramonte Marin that appose two dramatically dissimilar materials. The design combines coarse natural fibre with smooth, transparent blown glass to arouse a contrast as striking as it is dignified. brokis.

AUGUST - SEPTEMBER 2021

brokis-collections.com

LIGHT WISE Renowned Interior Designer Nataly Bolshakova has broadened her expertise to home accessories with the new Meghan Lighting Collection. The expertly-designed lamp can softly transform a room with light, creating an irresistible ambiance for any home.

DESIGN MIDDLE EAST

bolshakova-interiors.com

BLACK IS BEAUTIFUL The Noire de Lave (Black Lava) collection gives pride of place to lava stone, a signature of Blanc Carrare. The design and artistic direction of this collection has been entrusted to the renowned architect and Italian designer, Alessandra Apos and Andrea Persano. blanc-carrare.com

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18TH IRF WORLD MEETING & EXHIBITION TH TH TH TH WORLD MEETING & EXHIBITION 18 IRF 1818 IRF 18 IRF WORLD WORLD IRF EXHIBITION R O A D S T WORLD O MEETING TMEETING O MMEETING O R&R& OEXHIBITION W& EXHIBITION TH 18D IRF WORLD &W EXHIBITION RO D SO O TO O M O R| www.irf2021.global R RO R AO A RATHS D O SA T D TT O S T2021 O TT O M|MEETING M O TO RM R O R OO O W R W R OW 7-10 NOVEMBER DUBAI 18 IRF WORLD MEETING & EXHIBITION

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DAYS CONFERENCE SESSIONS SPEAKERS ATTENDEES TRACKS TRACKS DAYS CONFERENCE SESSIONS SPEAKERS ATTENDEES DELIVERING SOLUTIONS TO THE WORLD’S MOBILITY CHALLENGES DAYS DAYS DAYS CONFERENCE CONFERENCE CONFERENCE SESSIONS SESSIONS SESSIONS SPEAKERS SPEAKERS SPEAKERS ATTENDEES ATTENDEES ATTENDEES TRACKS DAYS CONFERENCE SESSIONS SPEAKERS ATTENDEES TRACKS TRACKS TRACKS TRACKS

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AUGUST - SEPTEMBER 2021

7-10 NOVEMBER 2021 | DUBAI | www.irf2021.global 7-10 NOVEMBER 2021 | DUBAI | www.irf2021.global

DELIVERING SOLUTIONS TO THE WORLD’S MOBILITY CHALLENGES DELIVERING SOLUTIONS GOLD TO THE WORLD’S MOBILITY CHALLENGES SILVER PLATINUM DELIVERING DELIVERING DELIVERING SOLUTIONS SOLUTIONS SOLUTIONS TO TO THE THE TO WORLD’S WORLD’S THE WORLD’S MOBILITY MOBILITY MOBILITY CHALLENGES CHALLENGES CHALLENGES SPONSORS SPONSORS SPONSORS DELIVERING SOLUTIONS TO THE WORLD’S MOBILITY CHALLENGES PLATINUM SPONSORS PLATINUM SPONSORS PLATINUM PLATINUMPLATINUM PLATINUM SPONSORS SPONSORSSPONSORS