Design Middle East May 2018 issue

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I N T E R I O R S A N D A R C H I T E C T U R E F R O M T H E G U L F, L E V A N T A N D B E Y O N D

May 2018

Inspiring and

engaging Jason Burnside, partner at Godwin Austen Johnson on creating a stimulating environment for Emirates International School Jumeirah

Superchic

summer

Create calm and relaxed homes with top ideas to steal

INSIDE: Roundtable discussion on office furniture trends and competition

Contents M AY 2018

18 26 IN THIS ISSUE‌

18

Cover Story

24

Interview

26

Feature

32

Interview

Case study on Emirates International School Jumeirah by Godwin Austen Johnson Tarek Zakaria, managing director, JUNG Middle East DMCC, talks about innovations and competition in the region Stores to explore for Ramadan decoration

In conversation with Cecilia Setterdahl, owner, artist, and designer at Carpets CC

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Wish List

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Contents M AY 2018

46 50

58 REGULARS

40

Roundtable

In-depth discussion on office furniture by industry experts

7

46

Feature

12 Newsmakers

50

Decor review

Fit-out trends and challenges

Editor’s Note

49 Tips & Tricks

Design tour of Mexican-inspired restaurant Luchador

58 Events

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Supplier focus

Oliver Dietrich, vice president export sales, Luctra, on importance of a good lighting system

May 2018

60 Pick of The Month

©2018 Steelcase Inc. All rights reserved. Trademarks used herein are the property of Steelcase Inc. or of their respective owners.

™

SILQ

Innovation.

Redefined.

steelcase.com/SILQchair

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

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

Editor Roma Arora roma@ bncpublishing.net

Sales manager Stephanie Hughes stephanie@bncpublishing.net

Art director

Welcome It’s that time of the year when the cruel sun spares no one in this region and every idea, every suggestion counts to bring some cool and calm to our living spaces, that’s exactly what our feature of this month is all about. There are some amazing tips to turn your house into an oasis. The May’s cover story highlights how the design and architecture of schools and architecture plays an important role in the development of students. We have an interesting case study of Emirates International School Jumeirah by design and architecture firmGodwin Austen Johnson highlighting the importance of a good design at learning institutions.

As this is the holy month of Ramadan as well, we have another worthy feature on décor stores to check out for the festive decorations. The rest of the issue is lined up with some exciting interviews, selection of latest products for home décor, tips & tricks, and supplier profile.

My favourite design is placed in the ‘Pick of The Month’ section and is making me fall in love with the glass cabinets!

Happy reading!

Roma Arora

Ifteqar Ahmed Syed

FOLLOW US ON

Marketing executive

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Mark Anthony Monzon mark@bncpublishing.net Photographer Hayder Al-Zuhairi

/designmideast /designmiddleeast /designmiddleeast @designmiddleeast

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NEWSMAKERS Sotiris Tsoulos

Sotiris Tsoulos is appointed as RMJM Dubai new director Architect Sotiris Tsoulos, who served RMJM Istanbul as managing partner will now work directly with RMJM Dubai CEO Raymond Park and RMJM Dubai principal Neil van der Veen to lead the design team’s work in the Middle East. “Tsoulos is an extremely talented architect”, said Raymond Park, RMJM Dubai CEO. “In addition to overseeing the growth of RMJM in Eastern Europe, he has already led several successful submissions in collaboration with our team. We look forward to continuing to collaborate with him to serve our clients and communities”.

Tsoulos, who joined RMJM in 2012, has a long experience working in the international arena for both private and institutional clients in the real estate sector.

“I’m honoured to take on this new role”, Tsoulos commented. “RMJM teams around the world create innovative designs that respond to our client’s needs and create an enriching experience for the end user. I’m looking forward to continuing to deliver unique designs and experiences in Dubai and across the region”.

RMJM has 27 studios worldwide working to shape the future of architecture through sustainable, quality designs that will stand the test of time and deliver holistic value to their clients and end users. Their recent and forthcoming projects include Gate Avenue, Ningbo China Agricultural Bank, Sheremetyevo International Airport and the Iran Historical Car Museum.

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May 2018

Panasonic will soon launch its Ramadan and Eid campaign, which will highlight its latest and top-of-theline kitchen appliance, beauty, and grooming line-up

Panasonic marks its 100th anniversary!

At the annual dealers’ convention in Dubai, Panasonic Marketing Middle East & Africa (PMMAF) managing director Hiroki Soejima reflected on the company’s rich heritage of innovation and outlined how it will sustain the growth momentum in 2018 and beyond. He also said that the company remains bullish about its Middle East prospects and looks for further growth as it marks it's 100th anniversary.

“The Middle East continues to be an important market and investment destination for Panasonic.

Having proven our strength and leadership during the past 100 years, we have indeed come a long way in establishing ourselves at the cutting-edge of electronics technology. Backed by a century-long experience and our capability to continuously innovate, we are confident that Panasonic, as it embarks on its next 100 years of operation, will continue to play an important role in shaping the future by designing and manufacturing products and solutions consistent with our reputation of high-quality Japanese craftsmanship,” Soejima commented.

He added that Panasonic has its sights set firmly on key strategies for its businesses in the region, among them strengthening its presence in the Middle East, through increased market

penetration, as well as reinvigorating its premium value as a top-ranked global Japanese brand.

Soejima continued, “Serving one purpose since the company’s founding – that is, keeping our customers at the core of our business – we pledge to empower them by introducing new products that meet their ever-changing needs, while ensuring continued understanding of the local markets’ unique needs in order to contribute to their growth and development as a society.”

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Officine Gullo opens new showroom on Jumeirah Beach Road, Dubai High-end kitchen brand Officine Gullo has opened a new single brand showroom located at Umm Suqeim 2 between Al Manara Road and the Burj Al Arab.

The new space was designed to be the reference point for retailers and architects who, together with their customers, want to know and to analyse in depth the world of kitchens

by Officine Gullo, which is made of tradition of craftsmen and technological innovation, everything exclusively made in Italy.

The activity of the showroom aims to develop even more the knowledge of furniture for kitchen and of cooking equipment by Officine Gullo, together with domestic cooking appliances from the Restart collection.

The exhibition will host different settings of kitchens: a very elegant composition of a full kitchen with central island, a cooking island OG128, the "Sforza Palace" kitchen with its “bell” shaped hood and a matched island, and a beautiful cooking island for exteriors.

Furthermore, customers will be able to appreciate several compositions of cooktops, domestic ovens and several hand-crafted accessories for the kitchen such as sinks, taps,

Officine Gullo kitchens are custom-made according to the customer's specific requirements

hand-decorated jars and oven trays, copper pots and pans, professional cutlery as well as accessories in leather for the kitchen.

With this new challenge, Officine Gullo will be even more active and competitive in one of the main international markets worldwide, which has always reacted with great interest and attention to the uniqueness, the top quality and the refinement of the excellent products created by the Florentine company.

World Tricot to debut at Interiors Expo 2018, Bahrain Artisan chic design house, World Tricot, will be making its GCC debut at Interiors Expo 2018 in Bahrain. The French design house and confection, world-renowned in the global fashion and haute-couture, will be promoting its handmade upholstery, luxury hotel linens, and designer luxury clothing range for their brand Angele Batist.

Carmen Colle, president of World Tricot, said:

“Interiors Expo provides a major platform for us, our interior pieces, and our designer luxury brand of Angele Batist, to service the domestic and commercial consumers in Bahrain.”

Interior’s Expo 2018 will be held under the patronage of HRH Prince Khalifa Bin Salman Al Khalifa, prime minister of the Kingdom of Bahrain from April 24-26, 2018, at Bahrain International Exhibition Centre.

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NEWSMAKERS

Dufit Interiors handovers the iconic Le Cercle showrooms Dubai-based interior design and fit-out company, Dufit Interiors, have announced the completion and handover of the iconic showrooms for Fendi Casa, Trussardi, and Baxter located on the Jumeirah Beach Road.

The completion of the two villas located on Jumeirah Beach Road, took place in phases, with a complete handover announced recently, and followed by a launch event hosted by Le Cercle Middle East. The fit-out work started following the project’s launch in April 2017 and the makeover of the villas-showroom created a unique precedent in changing the façade of the low-rise urban tissue on the Jumeirah Beach Road.

“The delivery of the showrooms for Fendi Casa, Baxter, and Trussardi was a unique challenge.

We re-created two villas, from the well-known exterior design specific to the Jumeirah Beach

Road residences to a different visual and structural experience, making the project a flagship in the Dufit Interiors portfolio” said Elio Gebrayel, managing director, Dufit Interiors. “We consider the project a proof of the capabilities of the Dufit interiors project management and creative skills, and we are always happy to take on great designarchitectural challenges meant to align with the futuristic vision of Dubai.”

Elio Gebrayel

Woods Bagot to design Middle East’s first 25hours Hotel Woods Bagot, the global architecture and design company, revealed its latest interior design project in Dubai for 25hours Hotels, a unique hotel concept that provides inventive hospitality experiences for the modern nomadic traveller’s needs. The hotel operator, formed in 2003 with ten locations in six cities, will work closely with Woods Bagot to realise a vision of creating a vibrant destination for businesses, residents, tourists and visitors within the Dubai World Trade Centre’s One Central development.

Woods Bagot has been commissioned by Dubai World Trade Centre for the 25hours Hotel, operated by their strategic partner and world leading travel and lifestyle group AccorHotels, to provide full interior design services for 25hours Dubai Hotel, the company’s debut location within the Middle East and first outside Europe.

25hours Hotels, the game-changing disruptive hospitality brand which was conceptualised in

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Germany is renowned for offering its guests a sense of expressive storytelling through design, interpretation of context, and a touch of adventure during their stays. Weaved into each one of their locations is a desire to create an invitingly warm and social hub where international travellers and local guests can come together to enjoy a unique travel experience.

“The 25hours Hotel for Dubai is an exciting first on many levels. Apart from being our first destination outside of Europe, it is the first development in cooperation with our partner AccorHotels and will be the largest hotel for the brand. At the moment we are at a stage where we are learning a lot about a new market and culture, as we hope to cope with the regional climate. 25hours Dubai Hotel will be a unique hotel reflecting the spirit and international attitude of Dubai,” said Christoph Hoffmann, CEO, 25hours Hotels.

The project will open its doors to guests in 2020

Richard Fenne, principal and studio chair of Woods Bagot’s Dubai studio, said: “This commission demonstrates our capabilities in hospitality design to meet complex and challenging briefs. We are excited to be working with a brand like 25hours Hotels as it continues to push boundaries and grow into new markets.”

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Armadilla lifestyle pods are available in a broad range of non-toxic painted colours as well as natural wood stains

Armadilla launches lifestyle pods in the Middle East A range of pre-constructed, energy efficient lifestyle pods, designed and manufactured in the UK have become the latest solution in creating additional room space for commercial and residential use.

Launched at the recently concluded Arabian Travel Market 2018, the Armadilla collection of unique, Scandinavian style pods can be adapted to a variety of innovative hospitality uses including spa treatment rooms, glamping accommodation and

pop-up retail spaces. Constructed primarily from sustainably sourced Acoya wood, with a marine grade stainless steel framework, these pods are recyclable as well. Its pointed ceiling, curved walls and circular window ensure a spacious, airy environment and outstanding ventilation, as well as remarkable acoustic properties.

Colin Jones, partner - Armadilla Middle East, explains that the applications of this sustainable,

moveable pod are endless. “We currently have hospitality clients looking at the pods for spa extensions and ambient, beach-side treatment rooms, retail pop-ups in outdoor areas, in addition to private daytime cabanas for beach front properties. Another advantage of these moveable structures are that they are temporary buildings so don’t need planning permission and can be installed and removed very easily.�

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COVER STORY

Enhancing the

student’s experience through designs Jason Burnside, partner at Godwin Austen Johnson talks about his project, Emirates International School-Jumeirah in Dubai and how important it was for him to blend his design vision with institution's education philosophy

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D

esigns are changing and are touching every aspect of our lives. From malls, offices, healthcare, hospitality sector, to now education institutions. It’s great to see how academic institutions are welcoming the modern flavours in designs, structures, colours, and architecture and owning them in a personalised manner. School and colleges are incorporating something that is modern, functional, and would sustain for a long period of time. One such modern

example of contemporary design and practical approach in Dubai is the Emirates International School-Jumeirah (EIS–Jumeirah) by architecture and design firm Godwin Austen Johnson (GAJ).

As one enters the Emirates International School— Jumeirah, visitors encounter the first key spaces of the main entrance, reception area, and central atrium. These spaces represent the standard of the school, communicating the ethos of EIS–Jumeirah and its aim for excellence.

Jason Burnside

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COVER STORY Design philosophy Jason Burnside, partner at GAJ, emphasises the importance of a good design. Burnside says: “A well-designed building will generally have a positive impact on the end users and hopefully, this enhances the learning experience in the case of schools. What we have noticed in the schools, where the students and teachers are proud of their facilities is a greater sense of community when you speak to both them and the parents.”

Burnside further believes in preserving resources through smart designs. He says: “Where possible, we always aim to adopt a low-technology ecological approach to our designs by optimising natural light through careful orientation. In general, we achieve a 30% reduction in power consumption over standard schools in the region.”

A well-designed building will generally have a positive impact on the end users.

– Jason Burnside

The relevance of open space

ATRIUM In accordance with the school’s educational philosophy, the design of the daylight-flooded atrium is designed to foster social interaction, while creating an inviting space that can be utilised for activities and gatherings

Key areas such as the main atrium, reception, corridors, breakout spaces, and the main library with their natural yet invigorating colour palette, engaging furniture, interactive features and incorporated technology nurture the students’ education and growth as well as communicate activities throughout the school as a whole.

Burnside says: “With the Emirates International School, we wanted to create an efficient, open, and an airy junior school with a unique sense of place. For us creating open spaces is a critical part of how we approach the design of education projects. The spaces outside of the traditional classroom now need to be much more flexible than ever before and with advances in technology, students and teachers use these space for everything from breakout learning to impromptu drama sessions.”

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May 2018

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ENGAGING WITH THE ENVIRONMENT The design of the interior seeks to excite children to encourage learning and exploring, fostering engagement with the environment to stimulate young imaginations

Technology to enhance student learning Through age-appropriate features, such as child-height displays, interactive play walls and chalkboards, a stimulating atmosphere is created along with elements incorporated into the corridor spaces that invite the opportunity to engage with the environment as well as with other students.

Technological features such as internet access and an LCD screen will additionally stimulate intellectual, the academic, and social inspiration of the students.

Burnside shares his take on technology, “Generally the new technologies in our current designs are there to supplement the traditional methods of teaching and not replace it. In our standard classrooms interactive white and overhead projectors are being replaced with standard white boards and smart TV’s, which connect with the students’, own devices.”

Focus on design The interior concept for the EIS–Jumeirah draws from the richness of global education paired with the sense of a vibrant community and cultural highlights. The concept encompasses the differences shared between the students, the academic staff as well as the wider community.

Everything is so perfectly planned and logically worked out. The reception counter adjacent to the lobby entry area creates a welcoming and immediate contact point for all visitors while the adjoining corridor spaces and atrium staircase support clear and strong wayfinding elements to classrooms. The lobby area comprises elements that inspire to engage and socialise: multifunctional soft seating that is of hospitality-quality, furniture in

The challenging part! natural materials, large sculptural features, bright wall graphics, and a large LCD information screen.

The design of the classroom spaces provide a stimulating atmosphere that fosters interaction and triggers active learning. Further flexibility is provided through an easy transition between classrooms and adjacent support spaces, which provide various sensory features.

Space encourages a range of experiences with multiple levels of challenge for different ages and abilities, bookshelves of various heights and shapes, child-sized tables and chairs, various playful and flexible elements such as modular soft seating, reading nooks and showcase displays to acknowledge the school community’s achievements.

Burnside had his shares of challenges working towards this project which completed in 2016 but he trumped them all. He concludes: “We faced a number of challenges on this project; it was an existing school campus with limited space for the new development which had to be completed in one year from approval of the concept. Combined with this, we had to keep the school operational throughout the construction process, which meant working around the day-today school activities.”

Clearly, there's an obvious connection between the design of a learning institution and student development. Designs firms like GAJ in the region are creating dynamic and interactive student spaces to meet, learn, and study.

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COVER STORY

PLAY AREA The spaces give the students the opportunity to probe, explore and make the space theirs in the sense of belonging, allowing them to alter and personalise the environment to fit their needs and the same goes for the play area as well. It’s colourful, spacious, and give students enough to explore and develop their skills

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LIBRARY Neutral and natural finishes with sound absorbing qualities throughout are combined with colourful elements to create a safe and friendly library space where students can thrive

CORRIDORS The transition from corridors into classrooms is visually linked though extending the flooring through the corridors into the teaching spaces. Classroom numbers are illustrated with numerals as well as colour insets for easy wayfinding

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INTERVIEW The Hotel Liberty, Offenburg features classic JUNG LS 990 switch design that blends beautifully with the dark interiors of the hotel

Progress through

quality and design Tarek Zakaria, managing director, JUNG Middle East DMCC, talks about the new innovations, expansion plans, and competitive edge

What is your company philosophy?

When Albrecht Jung founded the company in 1912, three things were vitally important to him: progress, quality, and design. These principles have characterised JUNG to date and are noticeable and can be experienced in all parts of the company. “Progress as tradition” is an attitude, the commitment to constant new thinking. A

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commitment to the development of ideas that create something new, for easier use, better functionality, more attractive appearance, and more customer-friendly service.

What are the new launches for 2018?

The annual Light + Building exhibition premiers some of the industry’s latest advancements, and

JUNG is one of the biggest regular participants in this regard.

A veritable innovation in the field of lighting control premiered through Plug & Light. This is the first light socket, which in combination with suitable light units, ensure reliable light in interiors that is easy to regulate. The corresponding LED light units dock onto the light socket via a

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magnet and the light is immediately flicker-free and dimmable – from bright to dark to warm dim, which is equivalent to a light bulb. Once fitted, each light unit can be swivelled continuously by 360° and can be easily replaced even when in use.

Tarek Zakaria

What sort of trends can we expect from Jung in the coming five years?

The continuous trend demonstrated by JUNG throughout the years is the push for innovation and integration of cutting-edge technologies with its promise for design and quality. And with the rise of smart assistants and the ‘internet of things’ movement, the brand is on an ongoing search to meet the latest requirements and push the envelope. This is showcased by the new integration of Amazon’s Alexa to our smart home automation platform.

The continuous trend demonstrated by JUNG throughout the years is the push for innovation and integration of cuttingedge technologies with its promise for design and quality.

What are the new innovations in design and technology that the company is focussing on?

The brand differentiates itself through focus on aesthetically integrating all aspects of user control and interaction. JUNG has introduced a series of thermostats with a wide range of features and designs to revolutionise the way thermostats are perceived in the industry visually and practically.

What makes JUNG different and ahead of its competitors?

What truly distinguishes JUNG in the market falls under a set of features lacking in other offerings on the market. One feature lies in the fact that anything launched with the brand’s name must be of highest material quality, production precision, and quality control with a special focus on refined aesthetical design to meet all

The switch classic LS 990 from JUNG in white is used in every room of Altstadt Hotel Vienna

expectations set by end users as well as interior designers and architects.

Another strongpoint is the ability to match all the wiring devices and smart switches to be from the same finish and range. Additionally, JUNG is home to a collection of internationally verified automation standards.

What geographies are you selling in and eyeing for expansion in the Middle East and other GCC countries?

Regionally, the hospitality market has seen continuous growth patterns with notable GCC countries like the UAE and Saudi Arabia leading

the pack and keeping this growing momentum.

This can be attributed to these countries’ governmental determination to well prepare for upcoming mega-events in the likes of Dubai Expo 2020 and Saudi Arabia’s new strategy to encourage openness throughout private and public functions and to increase all forms of tourism, especially to accommodate for religious tourism. That in addition to the observation of increased hospitality construction activities in Oman as of recent times. Given these, JUNG’s latest subsidiary in the Middle East is open to serve all the region with direct representatives based in some of the countries.

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FEATURE

Ramadan Decorating your home for

As this month marks the beginning of the holy month of Ramadan, there must be something new and experimental that one can try to up the dĂŠcor quotient of your living spaces. From trying out the stunning table setting to elegant lighting, and playing up with traditional rugs, and more, there is so much one can do to prep up their abode for the festive season. Here are few absolute must-visit stores and why one should consider them for all the Ramadan decorations:

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NAKKASH Gallery USP of the store: The USP is that we curate spaces, rather than just sell furniture. We handpick every piece that we use to build a concept.

We also love mixing and matching so that no space is just made up of one specific style.

Ideas to steal: During Ramadan, there are a few easy steps you can use to make the best of your space. Firstly, you need to have ambient lighting, Ramadan and more specifically iftar is associated with the sunset and to be able to replicate that feeling in your home adds a new dimension.

Secondly, through Iftar and Suhoor, Ramadan tends to unite the family around the dining experience. Always have beautiful table settings and tops for the family to enjoy together.

Must-buys: Candles, lanterns, and ambient lighting Where: Al Rostamani Business Centre, Sheikh Zayed Road and, Building 7, mezzanine level, Dubai Design District

Inputs by Aya Nakkash, marketing manager, NAKKASH Gallery

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FEATURE

Nada Debs Boutique USP of the store: I love handcrafted products.

As a designer, I’m fascinated by the role of the human hand in telling stories and creating a sense of belonging, and love to play around with duality and dialogue, combining ideas, skills and techniques together and my interior style and my stores match with this. The store has some unique stools, wooden trays, colourful cushions, mirrors, stools, and much more.

Ideas to steal: It would be nice to have a mix of modern and traditional: lots of candles, warm colours, cosy feel soft cushions in terms of accessories, but contemporary pieces in terms of furniture.

Must-buys: Cushions, candles, and mirrors.

Where: Nada Debs Boutique, Saad Building, Gouraud Street, Gemmayze

Inputs by Lebanese designer Naba Debs

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Home Centre USP of the store: The Mall of the Emirates store integrates customer-focussed store layout and product offerings with interactive digital technology to provide seamless online and in-store experiences to customers.

Ideas to steal: You don’t have to spend thousands of Dirhams to redecorate your home for Ramadan this season, instead focus on adding traditional arabesque accents that capture the spirit of Ramadan. Changing the lighting in your home can easily bring about a festive atmosphere. Place decorative lanterns in various sizes and shapes to create soft and soothing lighting, by using scented candles you can really add that extra touch and capture that festive feeling. Choose an existing table in your home such as a console table near your entrance hallway and create a decorative and welcoming Ramadan display. This display can feature decorations, such as decorative vases and bowls filled with gorgeous flowers, pretty plates, candles, or even fun string lights.

Must-buys: A distinct focus this year is on the Suzani collection, a grand and luxurious collection featuring mirror, silver and champagne finishes, with embroidered patterns.

Where: Mall of The Emirates, Dubai

Inputs by Anri Hamilton, style and trends manager, Home Centre

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FEATURE

Al Huzaifa Furniture USP of the store: Al Huzaifa Furniture is known for its uniqueness in the region. The brand represents and produces individual bespoke pieces of furniture pieces and has a wide range of warm accessory options as well to give your space the look and feel of serenity and calming aesthetics, this holy month.

Ideas to steal: We advise mixing various metallic colours such as brass, silver, and gold, combining and highlighting the mood with additional warm colours.

Must-buys: Lamps, mirrors, and accessories in metallic colours such as brass, silver, and gold.

Where: Abu Dhabi Plaza, Hamdan Street. Opp.Al Mariah Mall and, Zabeel Road, Zomorrodah Building

Inputs by Lama Al Awa, head of interior design, Al Huzaifa Furniture

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Make it yours !

USM helps you create collaborative work spaces: leveraging synergies and tapping the full creative potential – one spirit, one team, one table.

www.usm.com Configure your individual piece of USM online!

Visit our authorized sales partners or our USM Showrooms.

INTERVIEW

Cecilia Setterdahl poses proudly with one of her colourful creations

“A carpet should be a first thought, not a second” Cecilia Setterdahl, owner, artist, and designer at Carpets CC, talks about her design inspirations, trends, and how carpets create a style statement 32 |

May 2018

Where do you look for inspiration?

Inspiration for me is found everywhere; it’s all around – an angle of a roof, an unexpected colour combination, or a beautifully landscaped garden. However, for me, my inspiration usually comes at night when it’s quiet and I’ve got the time and space to process all I’ve seen both consciously and subconsciously throughout the day.

How can a carpet change the look and feel of the space?

A carpet usually gives a home a cosy, warm feel – however, I want my carpets to do more than just that.

I don’t want them to sit in the background; I want them to be a statement, to say something about the owner.

Much like a piece of art, why should a carpet not speak visually as well? A carpet should be a first thought, not a second.

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What are the key trends in carpet design at the moment?

I think we’re seeing a lot more patterned and geometric prints, with a turn away from neutral to bright colours. I also think carpets are becoming more seasonal with people choosing to roll out different carpets (style, fabric, and type) depending on the time of the year.

Tell us about the current fibre and colour palette you’re working with?

I generally work with New Zealand semi-worsted wool, often combined with silk. It’s high-quality wool, which wears well and takes to colour beautifully. I’m currently enjoying the exploration of bright colour pallets (particular variations of yellow and pink) alongside on-trend soft greys.

How will the design trends evolve in the industry over the next several years in this region?

I think one of the main trends we’ll continue to see developing is the combination of contemporary and traditional. Design and art across the region can’t help but be influenced by the multitude of nationalities that call the Middle East home. For me, it’s wonderful to be part of a culture that’s so diverse, you can already see the influence in my work – ‘Dubai Growing’ is my take on the fastchanging nature of Dubai’s skyline.

What is the greatest challenge you face when designing a carpet?

For me, it lies in the usage of colours when taking one of my canvases and turning it into a carpet –

you really have to consider how the colours used in the painting on a smaller scale will impact the visual look and feel when applied on a larger scale.

What works on a canvas doesn’t always translate well to a carpet.

How many collections do you have so far? Do you have a favourite and why?

I usually produce my carpets in limited edition runs of 10 with occasional one-off carpets, which are part of my CS collection. However recently I developed three separate collections – Tribal, Freedom and Faces. I’m proud of all my designs, it would be very hard to choose a favourite.

Why is performance important to carpet design?

For me, although I consider my carpets to be pieces of art, they also need to be functional as well. There is no point having a beautiful carpet you can't put your feet on, it needs to stand up to the demands of everyday living. This is why I choose to work with New Zealand semi-worsted wool; it's high quality, providing each carpet with a beautiful, luxurious finish and feel, whilst also being hard wearing.

How important is being eco-friendly to you?

Sustainability is something we all need to consider, it’s our duty to think consciously about the effect we have on the environment around us and the way we live. In this vein, I’m super excited to be working on a new project; a collection of outdoor carpets made from recycled plastic.

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FEATURE

Summer

mood Make your house summer ready with fun patterns, cheerful designs, and new hues

W

e are at the peak of summers and let’s not waste the precious time sulking and just snoozing.

It’s time to embrace this period to transform the living spaces in a manner that relaxes, create a sense of harmony, and brings in lots of cool vibes. There are a lot of ways to experiment and change the look and feel of the house, from try out beautiful curtains and blinds, to opting for fancy lights, to brightening up accessories, and switching to more earthy designs for the floors. So, here are few decorating tips to keep the summer vibes going!

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Cover it up with curtains Fashion is always changing, and with time, the trends are having a much shorter lifespan. Same is the case with curtains and blinds; people are ditching the bulky styles and opting for minimal and sophisticated. Sedar Global has completed 125 years in the industry and is known for the window and wall treatments. Nahel Selo, creative director of Sedar Global, shares some easy ways to adorn your place with curtains and blinds. Selo suggests: “Summers is the perfect time to change your curtains. Also, curtains are probably the biggest piece of soft furnishing in the house, and it’s one

of the first few things we notice when we enter a home. If you’re looking to make your space bigger, go for lighter coloured fabrics, and if you want to add height to your ceiling, raise your curtains to the height of the wall, and not just at the window.”

Technology is further enhancing the customer’s experience here. Selo adds: “With the help of curtain motorisation brands like Somfy, you can control your curtains remotely. Now integrated with home automation, these smart devices can predict the time of day, and adjust the curtains accordingly to protect your furniture, and greatly reduce AC costs in your absence.

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Curtains are probably the biggest piece of soft furnishing in the house.

Nahel Selo

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FEATURE

Imran Shaikh

Getting floored!

If one is looking for some major changes, try changing the flooring in your house.

Depending on the budget, there are various styles to explore. Like, consider the few porcelain floors for budget projects; laminate wooden flooring for the economy project, and natural wooden flooring for luxury and highend projects. Imran Shaikh, sales manager, Greenwood General Trading, comments: “Depends on the client budget but surely natural wooden flooring will be the most ecofriendly and goes well in the summer setting.

For residences, the latest we are offering is the chevron design and for offices and malls clients can opt for herringbone and planks.�

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Bathroom makeover There are endless ways to glamorise your bathroom.

From flooring, lights, WC, to sleek faucets, and more, a bathroom can look from drab to fab with easy styling tips. Even different finishes of the faucets can dramatically change the appeal of your bathroom like stainless steel, chrome, concrete, etc.

Nizam A. Baki, managing partner at Purity, says: “The main technologies that Purity proposes in Dubai are the chromo-therapy system in the shower environment, the water-saving features, and the implementation of natural materials as well as lead-free faucets and stainless steel faucets for the bathrooms. We also introduce new finishes, like one our partners Ritmonio has been the very first to introduce the use of concrete in the designer faucets, anticipating the trend, with the concept concrete. The concrete is indeed a material that is being rediscovered and is becoming increasingly important in the world of interior design, as well as in product design.�

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FEATURE

Neel Shukla

Lighting and furnishing Summer is the perfect time to give your home a facelift. From bold colours to splashy prints, a few easy decor updates can make your home feel like the tropical beach or calming lake cottage you pine for. Neel Shukla, creative and managing director, Four Seasons Ramesh Gallery lists some tips: “This year, Rose gold is the key colour, it brings its own elegance together with a sense of decadence.

Modern décor is based mostly on clean forms.

Whether it is a modern couch, a modern kitchen or modern lighting, excessive ornamentation is losing favour. Velvet and linen fabrics feature abstract and geometric patterns in both neutral and vibrant colours and a perfect choice for the summer season.”

When it’s hot outside, sometimes you just need to retreat to cool off. Neutrals can create a cool calm interior that can take the heat out of the day. Shukla further adds: “Go natural, bring the outdoors in and take inspiration from nature.

Cool greens, yellows, and calming neutrals can give your home a lovely fresh feel for lazy summer days and nights. Symmetry creates a sense of order and calm, but too much of this good thing can make a room feel static. So, shake things up. If your furniture is arranged symmetrically, hang wall art asymmetrically, or go free-form with the furniture and let your artwork add grounding symmetry.”

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Adorning with artwork Home decoration doesn’t mean one has to go overboard. Instead, change up a few key pieces and colours to freshen up your home.

One of the easiest ways to brighten up a dull way is by adding a pretty painting. The beauty of the paintings is that can blend beautifully with any of the décor settings. Be it an abstract one, art deco, figurative, neo classical or even a pop art, the artwork can instantly jazz up your spaces in summers. Artist Leena Kewlani emphasis: “Paintings bring so much positivity, vibrancy, and personality into a home. Fire coloured paintings placed against a white wall bring a whole new life into the room, whereas

Leena Kewlani

sea colours bring in calmness, and earth colours bring in the aura of cosiness. Also, the paintings you should invest in should reflect your personality. It should be something you would look at every day, and just smile.”

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ROUNDTABLE

Customers competitors, challenges

&

Design Middle East had yet another exciting round of discussion on workspace furniture-current market trends, competition, satisfying customer’s demands, and how the brands are sustaining despite the innumerable inexpensive duplicate products coming into the market. We invited the spokespersons from the leading office furniture companies in the region to share their views and highlight the matters of the workspace furniture industry

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Our esteemed panellists: Eric Berchtold,

director, Middle East & Africa, USM

Monika Steilen,

director corporate communications Europe, Steelcase

Gilbert Grino,

marketing manager, Bafco

Grace van Beusekom, country manager, Middle East & North Africa, Humanscale

Lucy-Anne Perrin, area manager, Bisley Middle East

Paul Todd,

commercial director, The Furniture Practice Middle East

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ROUNDTABLE Trends in workspace furniture Eric: Trends that we are seeing in the office furniture in the region consists of blending international and local designs focusing on communal community spaces. Additionally, sustainable design with a strong focus on quality and durability. With regards to ergonomics in the office space, USM’s Kitos tables are designed with maximum functionality and maintain their captivating design.

Monika: The modern employee is demanding a more creative and innovative space to be more productive and efficient in his/her work.

According to our research, we are finding today’s office spaces are more commonly incorporating elements like biophilia, ergonomics, personalisation, and informal spaces.

Gilbert: A happy employee results in higher productivity, thus better profits for the business.

Our focus this year is to improve the workspace for everyone in the office and not just heavily focus on a grand reception or CEO room.

Grace: Ergonomics, biophilia, and smart control are all important factors to take into account when looking to create ‘healthy and happy’ spaces. Allowing employees to adjust to their surroundings rather than expecting them to adjust to it. This is done by incorporating natural elements into the design of interiors, often with a local twist and advanced technological changes to meet the needs of employees. For instance, individual light and temperature can be controlled through smart apps and occupancy sensors.

The key trend in the region is changing and employees are certainly inclined towards more collaborative working spaces that have a hospitality/coffee shop feel alongside the traditional working desks.

– Paul Todd

Lucy-Anne: The terms ‘ergonomics’ and ‘wellness’ and ‘well-being’ are used quite frequently in the market now. Bisley recently commissioned its own research into well-being in the workplace and found out that employees appreciate their own personal space in the workplace; we now use these findings when specifying our lodges.

Paul: The key trend in the region is changing and employees are certainly inclined towards more collaborative working spaces that have a hospitality/coffee shop feel alongside the traditional working desks. We have also seen an increase in height adjustable desks and a general focus on well-being.

To remain competitive and effectively innovate, organisations must become more agile and accelerate the flow of information and cycles of learning to take risks and make better, faster decisions.

– Monika Steilen

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Role of technology Eric: The morphing differentiations between spaces, both work and home, was the focus of our stand at the recent Salone Del Mobile in Milan in April 2018. From a product perspective, USM introduced electricity to its most iconic design with the launch of the USM Haller E in 2017 that features dimmable lamps in either warm, cool white or alternatively can accommodate USB chargers for mobile devices.

Monika: When designing solutions, we always consider three things: people, space, and technology. This is one of the reasons why we partnered with Microsoft last year. Together we introduced ‘Creative Spaces’, an immersive ecosystem that brings together space and technology to help people generate new ideas and move them forward.

Gilbert: Technology is one of the key reasons why we invented ergonomic chairs. Without desktops and landline telephones, we won't have any reasons to be fixed on the desks that we are sitting on right now.

Grace: Technology creates a world built on choices that allow users to modify settings as per individual preference.

Lucy-Anne: Technology such as 3D scanning are fantastic tools which eliminate error and saves time, but it also makes a consumer want everything else faster!

Paul: Smart technology is a key driver in everyone’s lives, both at home and work, so there is a level of expectation from us all on what we consider basic requirements of power, highspeed Wi-Fi and data, no matter where we are, either at a desk or in the coffee shop.

The challenging part!

Eric: In such a multi-cultural, transient market, it takes real effort and time to maintain relationships in the industry, keep up with trends that the market wants to see, and communicate your brand’s news and personality in a way that leaves a lasting impression.

Monika: To remain competitive and effectively innovate, organisations must become more agile and accelerate the flow of information and cycles of learning to take risks and make better, faster decisions. So, we have to do both: We need to find our own ways to innovative faster and better and we have to help our customer to be better by providing valuable products, applications, and services. The LINC, our new Learning + Innovation Center in Munich, will help us with that.

Technology is one of the key reasons why we invented ergonomic chairs. Without desktops and landline telephones, we won't have any reasons to be fixed on the desks that we are sitting on right now.

– Gilbert Grino

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ROUNDTABLE Gilbert: Few clients recognise that, unlike other countries where another manufacturer can just call another local manufacturer for missing materials. In the UAE, everything has to be planned properly for any business operation to flourish.

Grace: Our clients are no longer restricted to purchasing products in one place. Consumers have the ability to order anything from anywhere in the world. We have to constantly widen our horizons as companies are now sourcing products globally instead of locally.

Lucy-Anne: For suppliers, I find that they are faced with a lot of price constraints and face demands of dreaded “price engineering”.

This then trickles down to the manufacturers, sometimes making us sell ourselves short.

Other constraints that many dealers face is trying to please all the brands, which are featured in their portfolio. This is where manufacturers need to support their dealers, dealing with correspondence on time and being there when support is needed.

Paul: One of the main challenges in the current market for most suppliers is cash flow due to lower deposits and an increase in credit terms.

How to survive the competition?

There are a lot of brands in the region fighting for market share but as the Middle Eastern market matures, we are seeing more appreciation for legacy brands like USM that reflect a level of design expertise and history.

– Eric Berchtold

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Eric: The USM Haller System is a design classic, and the brand is known for delivering highend modular solutions. This is something that really helps us to differentiate from other competition in the market. There are a lot of brands in the region fighting for market share but as the Middle Eastern market matures, we are seeing more appreciation for legacy brands like USM that reflect a level of design expertise and history.

Monika: Competition is a healthy thing; it challenges us and inspires us to move forward and keep innovating and introducing the best office solutions to the market. Without competition, companies can get stagnant and stuck in their old ways.

Gilbert: For any consumer-driven economy, competition is always healthy and benefits the clients since they have competing companies pushing product development boundaries.

Grace: It’s always a good thing to have healthy competition; it helps us create more innovative products, which keeps our users up to date with the latest equipment in the market.

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Lucy-Anne: I don’t think that the competition is too fierce, good competition raises everyone’s game! We have players in the market who can supply similar products to Bisley but we pride ourselves on building strong relationships with our clients so if a competitor comes along, we can remain confident that our brand would still have the edge in terms of quality, service, design, and brand.

Paul: Every country and every industry has competition, which will vary from time to time in how competitive it is. At present, competition is fierce resulting in a reduction in margins but this always rights itself over time.

Dealing with replicas!

Eric: USM systems are technically complex and very difficult to duplicate. At USM, we laser engrave parts of our systems with our brand to ensure authenticity and we brand each of our ball joints of our Haller System with our logo, something that differentiates our products from the counterfeits that are in the market. Furthermore, we aim to point out all of our differentiating factors to customers and partners alike in order to enable them to be able to pin point those differences when looking at different systems.

Monika: Just as in other industries we are also facing this problem. Our legal department is visiting major furniture fairs in the three regions (Americas, EMEA, and APAC) and actively monitors the market. Our extensive dealer network also helps us to identify potential cases.

Gilbert: Educating your customers is very important. Like, we continuously educate our clients that not all that looks shiny are metal.

It is understood that there are duplicates, which are cheaper and easier to obtain.

Our way of dealing with this is by highlighting the quality of our product, and our values of manufacturing and design.

– Lucy-Anne Perrin

A lot of products are actually electroplated plastic that has a short lifespan and brittle when exposed to sunlight.

Grace: At Humanscale, we maintain a level of quality that makes it difficult to duplicate.

You might see a good attempt at copying the aesthetics of a product, but from a functionality and longevity standpoint, they hardly ever come close to our quality.

Lucy-Anne: It is understood that there are duplicates, which are cheaper and easier to obtain. Our way of dealing with this is by highlighting the quality of our product, and our values of manufacturing and design.

Paul: We emphasise the value and quality of our products that benefit from genuine manufacturer warranties in addition to the service and back up we offer as a dealer.

You might see a good attempt at copying the aesthetics of a product, but from a functionality and longevity standpoint, they hardly ever come close to our quality.

– Grace van Beusekom

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FEATURE

Fit-out focus Fit-out done by ASI for the hospitality project

Regional industry experts highlight the growing demand in fit-out projects in the tourism and commercial sectors owing to the upcoming mega events

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A

ccording to a recent report by Faithful+Gould, the UAE fit-out sector is forecast to reach $973.4mn by 2022. Despite recent challenges in the market due to fiscal pressure from falling oil prices, there doesn’t seem to be any slowdown in the project awards, with investment rising by $2bn from 2016. The entire GCC, especially the UAE and Saudi Arabia, have witnessed a growth in real estate and infrastructure projects, owing to the Expo 2020 and Vision 2030 respectively.

One of the leading fit-out contractor in the region, ALEC Fitout, is currently working on a variety of projects on site, Tom Gilmartin primarily in the hotel, retail, and residential sectors. Tom

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Gilmartin, business development manager at ALEC Fitout, says: “Earlier this year, we completed Marina Gate Residencies Tower 1, where our scope included the complete fit-out for 399 units (apartments, penthouses, and villas). Our team is on site for Tower 2 and Tower 3. Upon completion, the Marina Gate luxury residential development will have approximately 1,400 units.

“Providing complete fit-out and refurbishment solutions for hotel guestrooms and public areas is our core business. We are currently delivering five-star hotels’ fit-out and refurbishment projects for key clients and operators such as Meraas, Emaar, Waldorf Astoria, Address Hotels, and One&Only Resorts.”

Owing to the impressive line-up of projects, Gilmartin points out that the company targets continued turnover and profit growth in its business year-on-year. “We have a strong order book for this year and are targeting works now for 2018-19 completion.”

Within the GCC, hospitality and leisure still remain a key growth area, particularly in the run up to the Expo 2020. Currently, there is an increased focus on refurbishments as clients look at reinventing space rather than building new structures. Last year, the region saw several awards for hotel refurbishment projects to cater for the growing demand from both international and regional tourism.

One of the reputed names in the fit-out market, ASI, has recently expanded to accommodate more design and turnkey projects. Yasser Al Sakka, Yasser Al Sakka general manager, ASI says: “Our list of current projects includes high-rise developments in Dubai’s Jumeirah Lakes Towers (JLT), including five-star signature hotel and residences; residential buildings at the Bluewaters project; a couple of luxury high-end villas in Palm Jumeirah; the prestigious Dubai Arena project; Mediclinic Hospital; Green Community villas; a high-end fashion retail in new Dubai Mall extension; and an ongoing fit-out interior works negotiation for classified five-star hotel.

“Our list of projects keeps on growing and year-on-year, our fit-out business growth is steady with periods of upsurge. Nevertheless, we are expecting a 15-20% rise for our industry by end of 2018 as our country gears up for Expo 2020.”

We are expecting a 15-20% rise for our industry by end of 2018 as our country gears up for Expo 2020.

– Yasser Al Sakka

According to market analysts Ventures, the interiors industry for the residential sector is valued at $3.6bn, followed by hotels at $2.1bn, commercial real estate at $1.1bn, retail at $872mn, hospitals at $410mn, and education at $339mn.

Dimitri Papakonstantinou, managing director at Plafond ME, mentions: “As there is currently a fair amount of activity around the Downtown and Dubai Creek Harbour areas, the majority of these projects are focused on the residential and hospitality sectors. As main contractors and clients try to keep costs down and reduce duplication of margins, many of the trades are split into single trades with only more specialised areas such as lobbies, restaurants, spas, etc. being tendered as complete interior design fit-outs.

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FEATURE

Fit-out works carried out by Plafond ME for Demoiselle By Galvin Dimitri Papakonstantinou

“As we deliver both single trades and turnkey fit-outs, we have received a fair amount of enquiries on both. Some of the other projects which we are seeing a reasonable amount of RFP's are Expo 2020 related works as well as retail, food and beverages (F&B), and lounges for the Midfield Terminal in Abu Dhabi.” The company is currently working on the full fit-out of the Opus Hotel, serviced apartments, and front of house (FOH) areas. Papakonstantinou points out that this is one of the company’s key projects for the year and is due for completion early 2019. Other projects that the contractor is working on is the Museum of the Future, Al Maryah Mall, Mohammed bin Rashid (MBR) Library, Wafi extension cinemas, and One the Palm.

In the run up to the important events being held in the region, industry experts opine that value engineering is a leading trend in the regional fit-out market. Gilmartin says: “ALEC Fitout has extensive experience in successful delivery of high-quality solutions at a cost-effective budget through the effective use of value engineering and design optimisation – our estimation, technical and design teams work closely with the client and consultant teams in order to achieve their budget without impacting the quality or aesthetic of the finish. It is important to note, however, that the formal approval of value engineering items can impact on the program and as such, wherever

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possible, value engineered savings should be agreed in advance as part of the bidding process.”

Agrees Papakonstantinou from Plafond ME. He also mentions: “As the market still remains very competitive and with both developers and contractors being cost conscious, value engineering is a key element to winning works.

This often varies from change of material specification to a more fundamental re-design. I believe the main focus will still be on residential and hospitality projects this year with some of the

Expo 2020 related fitout works only starting later in the year or early next year.”

In the upcoming years, with price decrease in real estate and with the region preparing for Expo 2020, it is expected to see high demand for residential and commercial properties. Sakka concludes: “Subsequently, there will be more market for fit-out and interior firms along with new real estate projects and refurbishment of existing and facilities.”

Marina Gate project by ALEC FITOUT

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TIPS & TRICKS

Selecting the right

thermostat!

T

here are certain things every homeowner in the UAE expects their property to feature, and air conditioning is definitely one of them. But now, as a generation used to instant connectivity, it’s not only about cooling, it’s about having the ability to control and adapt it whenever and from wherever. One of the most important elements of choosing a new thermostat for many is also the design. Previously thermostats and programmers were overlooked and ignored because people become frustrated when they engage with them or hid them in a corner due to their design.

Lionel Guicherd-Callin, head of EMEA product marketing at Nest Labs, tells us the key things to look for when looking for a new thermostat.

Remote Control Smart thermostats connect to your Wi-Fi allowing homeowners to adjust the temperature from another room, or turn up the cooling on

your way home from work, via your laptop, mobile or tablet - and in some cases even smartwatches or voice assistants.

Don’t cool an empty home Using motion sensors and even your mobile phone’s location, some smart thermostats can even turn themselves off when your home is empty to stop wasting energy. And use that same mobile phone location to cool your home before you get home.

Creating a schedule Often thermostats are difficult to programme, and so is often only done once installed, which means schedules are incorrect or outdated.

Intelligent thermostats use machine learning to create personalised schedules automatically, based on the homeowner’s preferences - and continuously adapts that schedule.

Understand your energy bill Nobody likes surprises, so most thermostats

Lionel Guicherd-Callin

also enable you to track your daily energy usage via a mobile app in an easily digestible format - such as hours on versus kilowatt hour (kwh) used. This can help you learn when you use more energy such as at the weekend or Monday nights, and how to use less.

A smarter home A smart thermostat should also work with other products such as lights, locks, and even smoke alarms, whether from the same company or from third parties. Creating meaningful interactions to create a more thoughtful home - for example being able to turn off the air conditioner in the event of a fire.

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DÉCOR REVIEW

M

aximum

exican Luchador’s interiors are as colourful and amazing as the cuisine itself

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Text: Roma Arora | Photography: Hayder Al-Zuhairi

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T

he masculine entrance of Luchador, which is a wall full of bright wrestling masks, blend beautifully with the Mexican-inspired quirky ideas in the seating area. Located on the 11th floor of Aloft Palm Jumeirah, Luchador is an eclectic Mexican concept restaurant. The inside is a bright happening place for celebration and full of social energy. Every element brings the food culture of Mexico City to life, enhancing the story of the concept, and bringing a perfect contrast to the design.

The dining area features hanging lights, colourful chairs, Aztec motif flooring, and striking wooden ceiling with bulbs, giving that extra dramatic touch to the overall warm and comforting setting. One of the highlights of the restaurant is the Mexican-inspired urban art, which adorn the walls of the restaurant, be it the fierce owl painting or the bold Mexican masks highlighting the interior spaces. Those who prefer alfresco setting can enjoy the amazing views of the Arabian Sea overlooking iconic landmarks including Burj Al Arab, Burj Khalifa and the Palm.

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DÉCOR REVIEW

Max Wiegerinck, general manager at Aloft Palm Jumeirah, says: “Luchador celebrates Mexican entertainment at its best. Wrestling is Mexico's most iconic sport and is a way life, freedom, and good times. The lighting at Luchador plays a key role in creating ambience and atmosphere.

The art used on the walls reflect the rich cultural heritage of Mexico City through depictions of luchadore, works by Frida Kahlo, and pre-hispanic imagery and symbolism.”

The rustic industrial design is jazzed up

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with the splash of colours used across the restaurant. “We ensured that the pops of bright colours indoor with the wooden elements of the alfresco area make it easy on the eyes. It also plays with the mood of the guest. The timber elements of the design create the rustic and warm feeling. The restaurant serves authentic Mexican food with a modern touch using key ingredients all imported from Mexico,” shares Wiegerinck.

Luchador has a resident DJ and live band that further elevates the Latin American spirit.

What to try!

Luchador serves up signature tacos, guacamoles, ceviches, and carnitas to pack a punch for the taste buds. Starters like ‘Salmon Guacamole’ and ‘Ensalada Tropical’ prepared with ponzu, quinoa, citrus wedges, and fresh cheese are not something to be missed. For a hearty main course, indulge in the ‘Pulpo En Su Tinta’ a unique composition of Octopus with red grape, squid ink, creamy rice, banana chips and avocado puree.

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Innovation to enhance

lifestyle & environment

*Mascryl (Stone)

MAS Paints & Chemical Industries, Sharjah, UAE T: +971 6531 1777 | info@mas-paints.com | mas-paints.com

WISH LIST

Picture perfect Create a lasting impression with lampstand globe and a velvet sofa Availability: www.adamsbro.se

When Cool meets cosy Give your living spaces a facelift with chic summer trends

Joyful seating The Lipstick is an art deco inspired swivel chair that brings the femininity of the boudoir to any living space Availability: www.munnadesign.com

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Limited edition CLICrocker glass chair show how comfort and material beauty go hand in hand Availability: www.pelidesign.com

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Playful luxury Impeccable setting for the iconic homes Availability: Bottega Veneta Boutique, Mall of The Emirates

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WISH LIST

When space matters Wall bed that turns into a sofa is a great innovation Availability: www..practical-furniture.com

Trendsetter is here Unique armchair by designer Marc Ange with atypical design evoking the strange and elegant form of a spider Availability: www.sunbrella.com

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What a contrast!

'X-Bench' is an informal floating seat upholstered with recycled coffee bean jute sacks on a clear acrylic base Availability: Objekts of Desire, Al Kuthban Building, Exit 43, Sheikh Zayed Road,

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High on style Judy armchair by designer Frank Rettenbacher comes with a backrest in beech plywood, covered with natural or black painted oak or in natural painted canaletto walnut Availability: Super Studio, Dubai Design District , Building 6, Unit R09

Inspired by bee wings!

Handmade cabinet made of wood and high-quality resins, finished with a luxurious shade of translucent black lacquer Availability: www.verteramo.it

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EVENTS

THE MONTH AHEAD

Trade fair dates for your diary…

EVENT IN FOCUS Designmonat Graz 5 May – 3 June 2018 Graz, Austria

In its 10th year now, Designmonat Graz, or Design Month Graz, brings together the energy of the creative industry for a month, transforming the second largest city in Austria into a urban design zone. It offers space for innovative projects, thereby sharpening the perception of the importance of design. This year’s theme is tolerance, highlight the emotions felt by a viewer and how one expresses it. As a UNESCO City of Design, Graz seizes a wide range of opportunities to network, and in particular expresses this during the Design Month of Graz through intensive exchange with the design partner cities from the UNESCO Network of Creative Cities.

Romanian Design Week 18-27 May 2018 Bucharest, Romania

Held every year in May, Romanian Design Week is a 10-day festival that promotes design as a pad for cultural, social, and economical growth. Set up and run by The Institute (an organisation providing an ‘ecosystem for creative industries in Romania’), its aim is to showcase Romanian talents across fashion, architecture, graphics, product and furniture, multidisciplinary and game design. Besides the main exhibition, Romanian Design Week map includes connected events, hosted by design studios, design showrooms, creative hubs, boutique stores, art galleries, all united under the appreciation for great design.

Clerkenwell Design Week

22-24 May 2018 London, United Kingdom Clerkenwell claims to be home to more creative businesses and architects per square mile than anywhere else on the planet, making it one of the most important design hubs in the world. To celebrate this rich and diverse community, Clerkenwell Design Week created a showcase of leading UK and international brands and companies presented in a series of showroom events, exhibitions and special installations that take place across the area. The 2017 edition saw 34,128 attendees and over 300 exhibiting brands. Fringe is another relevant part of the event, for architects, with many architecture practices hosting various screenings, receptions, talks, and exhibitions.

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NYCxDESIGN

11-23 May 2018 New York, USA NYCxDESIGN showcases over a dozen design disciplines through exhibitions, installations, trade shows, panels, product launches, open studios, and more. And, like design itself, NYCxDESIGN is everywhere, with events taking place across the city’s five boroughs. The event is brought to life by New York City Economic Development Corporation (NYCEDC) in conjunction with a steering committee of leading members of New York City’s design community. Among the shows and festivals under the NYCxDESIGN umbrella are BKLYN Designs, Collective Design, the International Contemporary Furniture Fair (ICFF), Design Pavilion and Wanted Design.

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SUPPLIER FOCUS

Lights that promote well-being!

Oliver Dietrich, vice president export sales, Luctra, on how a good light ensures a well-balanced daily rhythm What is the biggest lighting trend?

For people working all day in an office environment and don’t get enough of natural daylight, biological effective artificial light is the answer and at the moment, a big trend in the lighting market. When designing the office environments, the focus is more and more on the needs of the employee and we see that the integration of this biodynamic light creates an impact on the lighting market. Even when the Middle East region is blessed with bright sunny days, the daylight is often being kept outside by covering the windows because of the climate.

Next, to this, a lot of offices have no daylight access. The awareness and interest in biodynamic light, basically the light that has an impact on your biorhythm – is growing.

Who are your end users?

Our end users are mainly formed of companies

who care about the well-being and health of their employees. Our aim is to reach those companies through our partners and to help them to create more healthy and productive human centric workplaces. A place where every generation feels at ease and is in control of their workspace. A place where technology supports them without being too much in the foreground. A place where their creativity and productivity is supported and which has a positive impact on their well-being.

What are the new launches in 2018?

At the INDEX fair in Dubai, we have presented for the first time, our new floor lamp VITAWORK that has been designed to illuminate complete rooms via direct and indirect lighting. The LEDs built into the lamp head provide energy-efficient illumination via a light panel with either symmetrical or asymmetrical light distribution. It’s available with

Oliver Dietrich

three different light flux intensities, depending on the size of the room, for optimal adaptation to the room size.

What are your expansion plans for this region?

With our in Germany based company, we have started our business in the European market. The GCC area is a growing market when it comes to creating office designs that engage sustainability, well-being and employee engagement. Next, to our expansion in the European market, our aim is to further establish our business in the GCC area.

Contact: E: middleeast@luctra.eu P: +49 2371 662 225 W: www.luctra.eu

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PICK OF THE MONTH

The showstopper When luxury is on your mind, then something exquisite and grand must be the focus. Like this Notre Dame showcase in curved glass by Italian artist and designer Vittorio Livi, founder of Fiam Italia and VeblĂŠn Luxury Edition. The showcase with a precious structure and body in smooth or engraved glass is a stunner. The top and base in black painted wood leave the scene to the elegance and brightness of a cabinet characterised by soft shapes. Showcase in 6mm curved glass with two fixed 8mm glass shelves can be a centre of attraction for any kind of living area.

Door with lock, structure, and shelves is available in smoked and bronze glass.

Price: AED22,880 (approx.)

Availability: www.veblen.eu

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May 2018

www.design-middleeast.com

Our design requirements are simple: Timeless, but not boring. Elegant, but not square. Modern, but not trendy.

LS 990. Timeless since 1968.

Thank you for 50 years of trust.

JUNG.AE

JUNG Middle East DMCC Office 3001, Saba Tower 1. JLT, Cluster E. Dubai, United Arab Emirates. +971 4 368 7275. info@jung.ae