Great workspaces for great work places. Come and experience the new unique office solutions just for you at your nearest Alshaya Office showroom.
Office furniture I Partitions I Workstations I Conference I Seating I Storage units I Auditorium seating I School furniture I Lab furniture
UAE: +971 4 6074200 | Kuwait: + 965 22242780 | Qatar: +974 44569229 KSA (Riyadh): +966 1 2570920 | KSA (Jeddah): +966 2 2611914 | KSA (Dammam): +966 3 8984889
Great workspaces for great work places. Come and experience the new unique office solutions just for you at your nearest Alshaya Office showroom.
Office furniture I Partitions I Workstations I Conference I Seating I Storage units I Auditorium seating I School furniture I Lab furniture
UAE: +971 4 6074200 | Kuwait: + 965 22242780 | Qatar: +974 44569229 KSA (Riyadh): +966 1 2570920 | KSA (Jeddah): +966 2 2611914 | KSA (Dammam): +966 3 8984889
ÆWO«— qLŽ sU_ WFz«— UŠU VðUJ*« s WKUJ²Ë …b¹d ÎôuKŠ ôuKŠ «uHA²«Ë UM{—UF …—U¹eÐ «uKCHð Æ…b¹b'« UM²KOJAð s rJðUłUO²Š« lOLł VÝUMð w²« «d³² «eON&
I
”—«b «eON&
I
«d{U× ·džË Èd³ UŽU wÝ«d I s¹eð «bŠË
I
«d9RË UŽUL²ł« ·dž YOŁQð I WO³²J q«u
+974 44569229 ∫dD | +965 22242780 ∫X¹uJ« | +971 4 6074200 ∫«—Uù« +966 3 8984889 ∫©ÂUb«® W¹œuF« | +966 2 2611914 ∫©…bł® W¹œuF« | +966 1 2570920 ∫©÷U¹d«® W¹œuF«
I
w³²J ÀUŁ√
CONTENTS
March 2015 VOLUME 11 ISSUE 3
10
DESIGN UPDATE
A round up of the latest design news in the MENA region and abroad, including a preview of Iris Yas Island and Leatherworld Middle East.
18
GLOBAL NEWS CID jets
to Germany’s Black
Forest region and reviews
10
36
new product collections by Hansgrohe.
24
TELL US
Indu Varanasi from i r design discusses sustainability in reality, and questions whether or not we’re doing it right.
26
INTERVIEW
Joakim de Rham, CEO of Swiss Bureau Interior Design, tells us about tapping into his own creativity.
36
CASE STUDY
From Dubai’s new Cove Beach to Propertyfinder Group’s new headquarters, CID checks out the latest interior projects from the region.
56
FEATURE CID goes
to Valencia, Spain
and visits tile and marble fair Cevisama. Check out our review of the show and the latest trends in the ceramics industr y. Following our show review, don’t forget to read what regional experts have to say about sustainability in the GCC.
90
OPINION
John Rowley from Fig Jam says a design’s concept is equally as important as sustainable fitouts.
56
Is he right?
6
MARCH 2015 | Commercial Interior Design
www.designmena.com
DESI�N DAYS �UBAI 16.� 20. 3. 2015, BOOTH NO. 22
RENE R�UBI�EK 2 E�PO WWW.E�PO2.CZ
COMMENT
Registered at Dubai Media City PO Box 500024, Dubai, UAE Tel: 00 971 4 444 3000 Fax: 00 971 4 444 3030 Web: www.itp.com Offices in Dubai & London ITP BUSINESS PUBLISHING CEO Walid Akawi Managing Director Neil Davies Managing Director ITP Business Karam Awad Deputy Managing Director Matthew Southwell Deputy Managing Director, ITP Digital Husni Khuffash Group Editorial Director Greg Wilson Group Publishing Director Ian Stokes EDITORIAL Editor Rima Alsammarae Tel: +971 4 444 3130 email:
[email protected] Reporter Aidan Imanova Tel: +971 4 444 3497 email : aidan.imanova@ itp.com ADVERTISING Sales Manager Teri Clarke Tel: +971 4 444 3679 email:
[email protected] ONLINE ADVERTISING Director Peter Conmy Digital Publishing Director Ahmad Bashour Tel: +971 4 444 3549 email:
[email protected] STUDIO Head of Design Daniel Prescott Senior Designer Anjana Jain PHOTOGRAPHY Head of Photography Patrick Littlejohn Senior Photographers Rajesh Raghav, Efraim Evidor, Boa Campbell Staff Photographers Lester Apuntar, George Dipin, Shruti Jagdeesh, Ruel Pableo, Ausra Osipaviciute, Kate Lewis, Danny Allison PRODUCTION & DISTRIBUTION Group Production & Distribution Director Kyle Smith Production Manager Basel Al Kassem Deputy Production Manager Nelly Mendes Distribution Executive Nada Al Alami CIRCULATION Head of Circulation & Database Gaurav Gulati MARKETING Head of Marketing Daniel Fewtrell Events Manager Michelle Meyrick Marketing Manager Dominic Clerici ITP GROUP Chairman Andrew Neil Managing Director Robert Serafin Finance Director Toby Jay Spencer-Davies Board of Directors Mike Bayman, Walid Akawi, Neil Davies, Rob Corder, Mary Serafin
Circulation Customer Service Tel: +971 4 444 3000 Certain images in this issue are available for purchase. Please contact
[email protected] for further details or visit www.itpimages.com Printed by Royal Printing Press
COMMENT
The wood effect
I
n February, I was fortunate enough to travel to Valencia, Spain for the world-renowned ceramic and marble trade fair known as Cevisama. As I walked through the fair, it became very obvious that a leading trend in the international tile sector is the wood effect, or in other words—making the tile appear as wood, with timber colours and grain pat terns painted onto the material’s surface. And why is that? Is it because today’s market is demanding more nature for indoor schemes? I think the answer is clearly yes. The modern consumer wants to connect to nature on a daily basis, minute by minute. With the persistent construction of taller and taller skyscrapers, it seems we are going fur ther away from our ancestor’s grounded realities. And to counter our slow detachment, the consumer today is reaching out to materials that remind him or her of our planet’s elements. Hence, the wood ef fect. and manufacturing agencies are gaining from the cur rent market trends, does that mean that tile and car pet suppliers are beginning to suffer? Earlier in 2014, I met with Interface’s superstar designer David Oakey. The creator behind the popular Net-Effect collection noted that there had been a global shift toward hard surfaces, from wood to cement. The demand for contemporary, clean spaces was on the r ise – leaving carpeting and mosaic tiling behind. He said: “In Europe for e xample and now in the states, real wood, fake we wonder if we’re going to go out of business.” Carpet and tiling companies have begun to produce material that imitates the look of concrete and wood. And this year, it seems the wood effect is in total control of the market. Companies from the United Arab Emirates to Spain are it work?
RIMA ALSAMMARAE
[email protected]
Subscribe online at www.itp.com/subscriptions BPA Worldwide Audited Average Qualified Circulation 6, 188 (July - Dec 2013) The publishers regret that they cannot accept liability for error or omissions contained in this publication, however caused. The opinions and views contained in this publication are not necessarily those of the publishers. Readers are advised to seek specialist advice before acting on information contained in this public ation which is provided for general u se and may not be appropriate for the reader’s particular circumstances. A n I T P Bs ui n es sP u bcl ai t i o n
The ownership of trademarks is acknowledged. No part of this publication or any part of the contents th ereof may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system or transmitted in any form without the permission of the publishers in writing. An exemption is hereby granted for extracts u sed for the purpose of fair review.
Dubai's secret nook
M a r c h Vl o . 1 1 I s seu0 3
Sustainable reality ARE WE AS SUSTAINABLE AS WE THINK WE ARE?
CHECKOUTDUBAI'SLATEST BEACHLOUNGEHIDDEN AMONGST ICONIC TO WERS
Published by and © 2015 ITP Business Publishing, a division of the ITP Publishing Group Ltd. Registered in the B.V.I. under Company number 1402846.
8 MARCH 2015 | Commercial Interior Design
Receive Commercial Interior Design every month. To subscribe, please visit: www.itp.com/subscriptions
Cover image: The Double Position Chair.
A nI P T u Bsisn ePu b licatio nF ebryu arVo l.1I su e02
Th is r eof theeE mra iti de sigenr HECK OUT W C HAT K HALI D S H AF AR HASTO S Y A
Sa vi a wng et r
LE ARN H OW K IT C HEN ND A BATHROOM DES IGNER S RE A OIN G G GREN
Byzantinerevival SEE HOWRAF FLES I ST ANB UL RE AC HED TO THE PA ST F OR INSPIRATION
o W rd D ln g ise p ta C r n e d rp T W o h t e IC E F M U T F e G L S P K O a H R N g lA V sd a N e rW E
A look back on Cevisama SEE WHAT'S NEW IN THE TILE INDUSTRY
www.designmena.com
DESIGN UPDATE
Iris Yas Island is larger than its Dubai and Beirut locations.
Iris branch sees revamp on Yas Island BOUTIQUE LOUNGE SEES THIRD LOCATION REVIVED AS ITS SIZE DOUBLES COMPARED TO DUBAI SITE Located in the heart of the developing Yas Island, the Iris restaurant and lounge has recently been updated by Lebanese designer Suzy Nasr, the visionary behind all of Iris’ locations. Having created the original concept located in Downtown Beirut, Lebanon, Nasr worked to continue the branch’s long standing tropical theme, while updating the overall look. “The main concept of Iris in general, whether it is the one based in Downtown Beirut, the Oberoi in Dubai or on Yas Island, is to create a tropical yet modern getaway, an environment that exudes a sense of harmony and balance. [It should try to be] simultaneously trendy yet cosy and comfortable UAE:
10 MARCH 2015 | Commercial Interior Design
with an edge. At Iris Yas Island, the theme revolves around a getaway [experience] rather than a beach,” explains the interior designer. According to Nasr, the new location on Yas Island differs from its counterparts in regards to its sense of range as well as space-wise. In contrast to the other Iris designs, than its two other locations, and due to the extra space, the third location consists of three longstretched bars, two of which are wooden while the remaining one is made of gold onyx. Hanging above the bars are the signature Iris light bulbs. Nasr says: “Iris Yas Island’s venue in its entirety, due to its
large space and size, allowed us to combine and incorporate Iris’ elements throughout the venue, such as adding an extra bar, adding extra metallic light bulbs, creating different seating such as high stool, bar chairs and lounges. “The view of the marina has also provided the venue with a calming effect, thanks to the design’s monochromatic soft look that exudes serenity and tranquillity yet is inviting and engaging. Any Iris-goer can marvel and revel in the atmosphere that is created thanks to the space’s design and they can still relax and enjoy themselves.” Iris Yas Island is furnished by a number a pieces that are comfortable and inviting. Maison Cle, the
branch’s exclusive manufacturing company based in Lebanon, supplied every piece of furniture allowing Nasr to customise the design down to every last detail. In addition to Maison Cle, the light bulbs that hang above the bar were provided by PSLAB. In response to the UAE’s humid climate, thermos wood was an essential element to the design. Nasr explains: “Heat and humidity can affect the durability and sustainability of the furniture, the results for thermos wood reduce the potential for shrinkage, wrap or twist. Thermo wood works perfectly for both the indoor and the outdoor areas, and it’s [eco-friendly].”
www.designmena.com
DESIGN UPDATE
In addition to the thermos wood, steel partitions and the special and consist of black steel to partitions came from the desire to create “contrasting elements with the space from the smooth yet Yas Island is complemented by the
www.designmena.com
of their corresponding views and scenery, from the sparkling city soother view of the marina seen at inviting, serene retreat that radiates
Commercial Interior Design | MARCH 2015 11
DESIGN UPDATE
Sharjah welcomes design by artist eL Seed’s latest work on Sharkah Bank Street.
INTERNATIONAL STREET ARTIST DESIGNS FAÇADE OF BUILDING IN SHARJAH UAE: Urban street artists eL Seed
The new work is part of Jedariya.
eL Seed’s work has occured across the world.
The artist next to his Sharjah work.
12 MARCH 2015 | Commercial Interior Design
has left his distinctive stamp on a building in Sharjah, UAE as part of an art project. The French-Tunisian has devel traditional script. He cites the Palestinian poet Mahmoud Darwish and the Iraqi artist Sundus Abdul-Hadi as and their courage in speaking His new work is part of Jedariya, a new live outdoor street art initiative by the emirate’s contemporary visual arts hub, the Maraya, and included a mural on the walls of a Sharjah Bank Street building. eL Seed drew crowds of spectators over the ten days it took to complete the design in Sharjah and said he found his inspiration in a verse by acclaimed Sharjah poet Ahmed Bu Snida. Although he grew up in France, eL Seed is ethnically Tunisian and currently lives in Canada. He was bought up speaking a Tunisian dialect and only learnt to speak Arabic in his teens. He says: “I never felt really French, and I really felt the need to get back to my roots. I thought a way to do that was to learn Arabic, so I found Arabic calligraphy. “I started creating my own calligraphy without any rules, because traditional Arabic calligraphy is very in the box with a lot of rules
that you need to know, so I started The 2011 Arab Spring – especially its impact on Tunisia – provided a catalyst for eL Seed’s work and he in the city of Kairouan. It was an interpretation of a traditional poem praising those who struggle against injustice. Following clashes of ideas between religious sects and artists in the country, he also painted the minaret of a mosque, including verses from the Quran, in the southern Tunisian city of Gabes. This project attracted some criticism although it was approved by both the city governor and the mosque Iman, Shaikh Slah Nacef. eL Seed explains: “This project was not about decorating a mosque – it was about making art a visible actor in the process of cultural and political change. “I truly believe that art can bring about fruitful debate. My goal is to bring people together which is why I chose these words from the Quran. everyone. I like the fact of democratising art. I hope it will inspire other people to do crazy projects and not eL Seed has worked alongside Louis Vuitton and his work has been auctioned to support a UNICEF charity drive led by football superstar Lionel Messi. His work has been displayed in Dubai, Doha, Paris, Berlin, Sao Paulo and Chicago.
www.designmena.com
DUBAI
LOS ANGELES
Project: W Los Angeles - Westwood Designer: Dawson Design Associates, Inc. Purchaser: Bray Whaler International
LONDON
www.alger-triton.com
DESIGN UPDATE
Aljoud Lootah completes new range EMIRATE DESIGNER ALJOUD LOOTAH HAS OFF ICIALLY COMPLETED HER NEW R ANGE OF FURNITURE PIECES
UAE: Emerging
Emirati designer Aljoud Lootah recently sat down with CID to discuss her upcoming range, Oru, inspired by the Japanese tradition of origami. Since we last met with her, the designer has welcomed Emirati design scene with her former design brand Niftee, which not only delivered graphic design schemes but also supplied corporate gifts and one-off furniture pieces, like the famed Unity Stool that was presented at Design Days Dubai in 2013. Today, Lootah has said farewell to her Niftee brand and has design studio under her namesake Aljoud Lootah.
Xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx A lamp made of teak wood.
The entire Oru collection.
14 MARCH 2015 | Commercial Interior Design
“Basically, when I decided to change the whole direction, I decided to go with my name and from then I thought that to introduce the new brand to people, I thought that I should go with a new line of products to show them what the new brand is all about,” says Lootah. “I started sketching some ideas and going through different concepts of design and different phases of design, concept developments, and it all came down to the fact that I really love geometric shapes and origami and things like that.” The designer notes that her pieces all start with a simple geometric form and as she begins sketching, each piece comes to life and takes on its concrete shape. Oru, meaning to fold in Japanese,
not only have sharp, cutting edges, but also contrasting volumes. The of each piece is offset by the soft colour choices. From eggshell white to pistachio green and soft pink, the pieces boast a number of pastel colours – which can be customised on account of the customer. Each piece in the collection boasts a hand-craft touch, which Lootah explains was her intent, as the old Emirati handwork appeals to the designer. The collection includes four products including a table lamp, chair, decorative mirror and a shelving unit. The materials throughout the collection are consistent and include Kvadrat fabric, teak wood and mirror.
Xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx
“I’m interested in form and function,” says Lootah. “I’m also interested in how aesthetics can Lootah’s new collection will be launched at this year’s Design Days Dubai, where visitors can familiarise themselves with the designer’s latest creations. Lootah explains that because of the materials used and the design and manufacturing process, the prices of the new pieces would be higher than that of the Unity Stool, exhibited years earlier. She says: “I am delighted to showcase at Design Days Dubai 2015...After almost six months of planning, it is exciting to see the Days Dubai...Its a great opportunity to debut the Oru Series at the fair.”
A chair design inspired by origami.
www.designmena.com
DESIGN UPDATE
Dubai prepares for Leatherworld THE GULF’S BILLION DOLLAR LEATHER TRADE MAKES WAY FOR NEW INDUSTRY EXHIBITION
UAE: With
the Gulf’s leather trade measuring at $3.9bn, the region has made way for a new industry platform, Leatherworld Middle East, to take place in Dubai during May 4 – 6, 2015. The new event will not only pave the way for leather manufacturers, suppliers and buyers, but opportunity and investment in the global leather industry. “I think the value in leather and what it represents in the GCC extends from the high propensity of consumerism in the Gulf, and the fact that leather has that real luxury element to it,” says Mohamad Sabri, head of business development, Messe Frankfurt Middle East, the organisers be-
hind Leatherworld Middle East. “Gulf residents love shopping and they strive to be up-to-date with the latest in global fashion and design rends, whether for clothing, footwear, accessories or interiors. “Leather and luxury go handin-hand, whether for handbags, shoes, wallets, belts, furniture, accessories, interiors and so on. Luxury retail in the Gulf region is now growing at a steady rate of 5%-8% annually, and the demand for high-end leather products will keep this growth curve on a steep upward trend.” According to a report by the Euromonitor International, the UAE holds the main share of the
Saudi Arabia is shortly behind as a big manufacturer of leather products with $1.1bn worth of imports and exports in 2013. The three day exhibition will be held in Dubai, as the emirate commands 30% of the Middle East’s luxury market, according to and is the second most important global destination for international retailers, after London. Sabri says: “Our aim is to make the inaugural edition of Leatherworld Middle East a huge success. The show has taken several years of meticulous planning to come to fruition and we are very proud to According to Sabri, the vision for Leatherworld Middle East is
two-fold. While the organisers aim to make the trade event the only one of its kind dedicated to the entire value chain of the global leather industry, the organisers are also striving to expand the leather industry within the Middle East and North Africa region. “I advise all designers visiting Trend Zone, a dedicated section at where tanneries will display the latest international leather trends, from leather colours and textures to new design innovations and eco leather. “This is a good opportunity for designers to see what else is in the market and to network with like-minded individuals.”
Xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx
Xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx
Leather retail covers everything f rom interiors to fashion.
The Gulf’s leather trade is valued at $3.9bn.
Xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx
The three-day exhibition will be held in Dubai.
16 MARCH 2015 | Commercial Interior Design
www.designmena.com
Live Life Worry Free with Sunbrella® Fabrics. Surround yourself with the world’s most beautiful, worry-free fabrics for furniture and accessories.
BREATHABLE
UV RESISTANT
WARRANTY
MOLD RESISTANT
EASY CARE
Furnishing Fabrics is the largest stockist of Sunbrella in the Middle East & Africa. Available at all leading furnishing showrooms across the gulf.
WATER-REPELLENT & STAIN-PROOF
GLOBAL NEWS
Into the woods AIDAN IMANOVA JETS TO GERMANY’S BLACK FOREST TO PREVIEW EXCLUSIVE COLLECTIONS AT DURAVIT’S DESIGN DAYS AND HA NSGROHE’S VIP FO RUM.
1
18
MARCH 2015 | Commercial Interior Design
www.designmena.com
GLOBAL NEWS
2
H
ansgrohe SE and Duravit AG are two global players in the bathroom and sanitary industry that produce complementary products. The two companies are based in idyllic valleys just next to each other in Germany's Black Forest region. Because of this close proximity and the complementary products, the two companies have collaborated on previews at the ISH Frankfurt exhibition for over 20 years. Traditionally every two years in the visitors (customers and media) from over 30 countries enjoy the coordinated programme of the Hansgrohe VIP Forum and the Duravit Design Days where the two companies showcase its upcoming products and innovations before the of
DURAVIT DESIGN DAYS Duravit wasted no time in teaming up with key players in the design industry to produce an array of joint collections and
www.designmena.com
1
L-Cube furniture 3
4
range conceived by Christian Werner.
stand-alone ranges, all representing this year’s key bathroom trend: individuality. “What are the current trends when it comes to identifying what our customers want?” Frank Richter, CEO of Duravit asks. “The answer is not easy because we are living in a society where lifestyles are becoming increasingly differentiated. However, there are common elements: spaces in which to relax or rejuvenate, and places that are an expression of our inner selves.”
novelties including two new collections by star designer Philippe Starck, new bathtub solutions, bathroom furniture, accessories, innovative shower enclosures and shower trays created with natural materials.
2
L-Cube is inspired by the concept of collage.
3
ME by Starck
Hansgrohe Talis
the new yearning for individuality in the bathroom. The people’s need are the focal point of the collection. That is why Philippe Starck focused solely on
Select with pull out spout for kitchen range.
4
Axor Starck V.
Commercial Interior Design | MARCH 2015
19
GLOBAL NEWS
5
has allowed him to give rich inspiration through elegance and simplicity,” says Albrecht von der Groeben, chief of international sales at Duravit. Starck offers a minimalist collection for private and public areas. A slim all-round rim that is also found in the toilet seats and urinals is a recurring design element. Due to this delicate edge, the washbasins have a light, almost rimless appearance while their inner basins are amazingly deep. The range also features bathtubs, shower trays and accessories all designed by Philippe Starck. designed by honesty and by rigorous ergonomics,” says Starck in a video presentation of the new collection.
L-Cube
5
Cape Cod designed by Philippe Starck for Duravit.
the new L-Cube bathroom furniture range conceived by German designer Christian Werner using the inspiration of a collage for the collection. The style, function, feel and colour scheme are determined by
20 MARCH 2015 | Commercial Interior Design
each user in accordance with their own personal preferences. The design character of L-Cube is of horizontal and vertical lines creates a functional and structured look. “The cupboard is nothing more than a box and I wanted to give it a certain lightness, to take away its weight. So I had this idea to separate the individual surfaces- in other words I made the joints relatively large to create the impression as if the individual surfaces video presentation about L-Cube. “With 30 different surfaces, the design scope is practically unlimited,” Groeben further adds.
Cape Cod The star collection of Duravit’s Design Days is Philippe Starck’s second bathroom programme called Cape Cod. Lo of the USA, Cape Cod’s sandy beaches and stretch of crystal-clear water and untamed nature was the inspiration for the collection.
The goal was to reinvent the bathroom by removing the barriers between nature and the indoors, where nature becomes a permanent part of the bathroom. “The choice of materials is very important,” says Starck.“It focuses on area: what is the story of this material?" Starck adds: “Then there is the question of sustainability. This cultural sustainability implies that you cannot use obsolete materials and you must use durable materials. This means you have to go back to your fundamentals. That is where we obtain real coherence and the type of minimalistic elegance in this Cape Cod series.” The collection is captivating in its authentic materials featuring real solid wood and an innovative ceramic formula that allows for especially thin and delicate wash bowls, available in three different shapes: round, square and tri-oval. Supporting the wash basins are the timelessly modern consoles that make a clever use of the contrast between the smooth chrome and four exclusive wood
www.designmena.com
Trinsic™ Pull-Down
FIRST OF ITS KIND. WITH M ORE CHO ICES THAN EVER. Cassidy™ Pull-Down
Addison® Single-Hole
Pilar® Pull-Down
TOUCH2O® TECHNOLOGY.
Five years ago, Delta® Faucet revolutionized the faucet industry with the introduction of Touch2O Technology, which allows you to start and stop the flow of water with a simple touch. Today, this smart, customer-preferred solution has grown to include nearly 50 styles and finishes. See more innovations—from faucets to showers to accessories—at worldwide.deltafaucet.com/international
© 2013 Masco Corporation of Indiana
UAE
KSA
OMAN
BAHRAIN
MAC AL GURG LLC Dubai +971 4 266 1291 Abu Dhabi +971 2 674 1171 www.algurg.com
SAFANA UNITED TRADING COMPANY Dammam +966 3 827 1120 www.alsiddiqtrad.com
MAC AL GURG LLC Muscat +968 2 4815688 www.algurg.com
NEBRASKA TRADING Bahrain +973 36 34 7413 www.nebraska-trading.com
SANITARY MATERIALS COMPANY Abu Dhabi +971 2 677 8818 www.sanitary-uae.com
QATAR
TAMEER FOR IDEAL HOMES LLC Muscat +968 2 456 8335 www.tameer.com.om
JORDAN
OCTOGONE Qatar +974 4 458 3961 www.octogoneqatar.com
LEBANON
TRENDS BY HAMMOUD Saida +961 702 00741
AL TAYSEER FOR TRADE & IND Amman +962 6 416 1447 www.altayseer.jo
GLOBAL NEWS
6
7
6
7
8
22
Hansgrohe VIP Forum
MARCH 2015 | Commercial Interior Design
AxorStarck V
www.designmena.com
GLOBAL NEWS
like a fountain spouting water. ishes due to Axor’s new Manufaktur, the brand’s exclusive service that ensures individualism in the bathroom. The range can be installed with either a joystick handle or a lever. Kitchen innovations
Hansgrohe and Axor have focused their attention on the kitchen space this year with the latest additions of the Select duced through the AxorCitterior Select kitchen mixers as well as Hansgrohe’s Metric Select and Talis Select ranges. opened and closed using the Select button located on the front end of the mixer while temperature and volume and water temperature at the previously chosen setting. This is both intuitive and practical: the technology requires neither
ment hidden in the cabinet below. spout increases the action radius to 50cm, which makes working in the kitchen that much easier. This allows or dirt to be rinsed out of the sink in one continuous sequence. Rainmaker
Hansgrohe’s Rainmaker overhead shower is especially appealing due to its white glass surface and gleaming metal. row chrome casing gives the overhead showers an exclusive look and makes them suitable for use in any bathroom environment. Commenting on glass as a current trend, Richard Grohe says: " Glass helps you segment the space because glass dissolves the borders and also dissolves space. It integrates into its surroundings very well. If you think of the bathroom,
Crane Composites fiberglass reinforced plastic (FRP) panels provide the commercial building market with an alternative cladding solution to traditional building materials with added benefits:
8
means if you make a product in the same material it disappears. Also glass is an architect’s best friend. And glass and water work very nicely together." The Rainmaker Select showers feature impressive precision and workmanship. An example is the glass plate with its more than 200 openings, each of which is cut out with the help of a precision laser. Hansgrohe developed the Rainmaker Select range together with its longstanding partner Phoenix Design.
Wall Cladding & Ceiling Solutions
www.designmena.com
Commercial Interior Design | MARCH 2015
23
TELL US
Sustainability in reality BY INDU VARANASI
T
here has been a lot said about sustainability; it is the catch phase and in-thing. Sometimes, it seems fashionable too. Everywhere from my neighborhood café to my ready-made apparel store is now ‘sustainable’. And yet , why is it that we consume more energy and more water each year; why is it that our landfills are higher, larger and deeper? Are we missing the point somewhere? The question today is of deep introspection: how do we live today? Our daily activities define the sequence of events which lead us to design spaces. Whether it is a home, off ice, café, that highend restaurant or o ur children’s school or college, we spend most of our time in these spaces. Should they be, then, designed to lead to sustainability? For urban dwellers and designers of spaces, I would like to bring attention to some of the aspects of our daily lives and how they affect us. The intent of this article is not to de-value the importance of the sus tainability s tudies or the standard certif ication processes; they are right in their own place. However, like anything, if change is required it needs to be from the us er, sensitive to the surrounding as design needs to be sensitive to the people who are to inhabit them.
1. LIGHTING Light helps us see, but how much light do we actually require? Do we have endlessly long corridors lit with down lights on beautiful sunny days? Do you f ind the lighting levels in shops so high that you squint to see the shiny products displayed? Do you wonder why your kid’s classrooms have light when enough natural light is brought in through the windows? Design is about anticipation and understanding the principle of lighting, the usage of space, what should happen in a best case scenario and what can happen in a worst case scenario. 24 MARCH 2015 | Commercial Interior Design
artificial light and must be utilitsed for particular usage patterns. Design needs to bring to the stakeholder’s attention the usage and behavioural patterns to ensure that places like board rooms, storage areas and ancillary spaces need to not have daylight factors versus work areas. The discussion is not directed towards types of artif icial lighting systems versus energy consumption as much has been written about it. It is about achieving sustainability through usage patterns.
Lighting design should take daylight into consideration as well as the duration of the habitation. Living in a region blessed with abundant daylight, it should be our duty to tap into this light source. Figure 1A is a simple example of capturing outside light conditions indoors to suit the user’s need. Adequate controls to increase or decrease the lighting levels through simple wiring or automation will ensure appropriate lighting conditions. The easy method of ‘daylight linking’ strongly influences the level of
2. HVAC SYSTEMS: AIR FLOW PATT ERNS AND TEMPERATURE CONTROL We all know and understand the importance of cooling systems in regions of hot climate. Heat makes people uncomfortable, unproductive and unhappy. So most of our buildings here are climate controlled. The question, then, is: How much cold is still comfortable? The general model of calculation is the Predicted Mean Vote (PMV). The PMV model stands among the most recognised thermal comfort models. It was developed using principles of heat balance and experimental data collected in a controlled climate chamber under steady state conditions. Climate is never steady, but human beings are known to be adaptive to the conditions around them. The PMV method is less ef fective at predicting thermal satisfaction than the increasingly and widely adopted adaptive method for predicting comfort conditions. Figure 1B demonstrates that it is not necessary for the buildings to be the coolest during the hottest months. Most buildings are maintained at a steady temperature of 18°C 22°C throughout the year (at least it feels so). It is this sensitivity of building conditions that design needs to wake up to. Reducing the difference between the outdoor and indoor temperature to ensure thermal comfort levels will lead to great savings in energy bills.
www.designmena.com
TELL US
The intent is to question the models and systems being used and challenge them to attain sustainability.
3. RECYCLABLE M ATERIALS: WHAT SHOULD BE DONE TO KEEP THEIR LIFECYCLE? Every supplier who comes to me as a designer shows me a certificate that this material is ‘Green Certif ied’. It passed all the tests of LEED/ ESTIDAMA,etc. It is necessary to know what happens in the lifecycle of a product. After the complete lifecycle of a product, such as carpets, fabrics, furniture, wood panels, gy psum and more, it is remove and replaced, and most end up as de-classified construction waste. Should there be methods to incentivise the ‘take-back’ of products, for them to be recycled in the appropriate manner so that it does not end up in land-fills? Yes, the cycle needs to be completed. In a world where the human population is bigger than it has ever been in recorded history, we are living a more comfortable life than most of our ancestors—and yet we have a great responsibility toward this planet and its sustainability. Perhaps the phrase ‘Sustainable Living’ should begin with a little introspection and a lot of change in usage patterns. It should be the duty of all designers and all stakeholders to understand the larger impact of the built-environment. Indu Varanasi is an interior architect based in Dubai and is the design director of a design consultancy, i r design.
FIGURE 1B
FIGURE 1A THE MENIL COLLECTION, HOUSTON, TEX AS, USA , 1981-861 ARCHITECH RENZO PIANO. CROSS-SECTION OF EXHIBITION SPACE WITH LIGHT-DIRECTING CEILING COMPONENTS
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS: M. Indraganti for sharing her doctoral research on Thermal Comfort.
REFERENCES: *Ecohouse Design guide by Sue Roaf *Designing for comfort at high temperatures by Sue Roaf, Fergus Nicol&HomRijal *Adaptive model of thermal comfort for offices in hot and humid climates of India by MadhaviIndraganti, RyozoOoka, Hom B. Rijal, Gail S. Brager *Daylighting in Architecture by Derek Phillips
80
45
Dubai 70
40
60
35
) C ( e r u 30 t r a e p m e 25 t r o o d t u O
) % ( y t 50 i d i m u h e 40 v i t a l e R
�
20
30
RH mean Tmax T.cpmfort T min Tmean
20
15
10
10
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
It is necessary to know what happens in the lifecycle of a product. After the complete lifecycle of a product, such as carpets, fabrics, furniture, wood panels, gypsum and more, it is remove and replaced, and most end up as de-classified construction waste.
Dev
Month
www.designmena.com
25 MARCH 2015 | Commercial Interior Design
INTERVIEW
1
26 MARCH 2015 | Commercial Interior Design
www.designmena.com
INTERVIEW
The design creative J OA K IM D E R H A M , C EO A N D CO FOUNDER OF SWISS BUREAU OF INTERIOR DESIGN, RECENTLY SPOKE TO RIMA ALSAMM ARAE ABOUT TAPPING INTO HIS OWN MENTAL POOL OF CREATIVIT Y AND HOW FAR HE’S COME SINCE MOVING TO DUBAI.
1
www.designmena.com
Commercial Interior Design | MARCH 2015
27
INTERVIEW
2
H 1
Joakim de Rham.
2
Swiss Bureau Interior Design just completed
aving grown up in Switzerland, Joakim de Rham was raised in a family passionate about architecture and construction. With a father who worked as an architect, de Rham and his brothers were provided with a foundation in the “At the age of 18, during my education, I decided to stop architecture and begin studying interior architecture. I am still very grateful to my parents for having accepted my choice, as it was
28 MARCH 2015 | Commercial Interior Design
Baccalaureate,” says de Rham. “Two years after my diploma and working on different projects in Swit zerland, I felt I needed to lear n more about to work with Sig Bergamin, one of the dence in my creativity by not being shy when creating. [He also taught me] to use a project ’s surrounding environment as a source of inspiration. Certainly, that was a big help for the rest of my career.” Once graduated from Ecole
d’Architecture Athenaeum Lausanne in 1995, de Rham was given the tools to forge forward as a professional architect estate developer who wanted to design in Lausanne. As de Rham rec alls working on this project, he notes that there was no room for mistakes and so as his sures common of a rigid client. important our profession is based on the quality of the service, transparency
www.designmena.com
WWW.DEKTON.COM
10 W
A
S R A E Y
T
R R A N
Y
n o i t c e l l o C L A R U T A N A R U A
R U O L O C
In order to become the number one in the world you have to play unlimited, you have to win on all surfaces indoors and out. For this reason, Dekton aspires to always be at the edge It is the number one option for indoor kitchens and bathrooms and outdoor surfaces of all kinds. Its physical features make it resistant, durable, aesthetic and versatile. DEKTON IS UNLIMITED.
F
CONTACT: Al Thuraya Tower 2 , 6th floor offi ce 24, Media City, P.O. Box 500717 Dubai , United Ara b Emirates CosentinoMiddleEast Ali Maarrawi, Middle East General Manager / Tel: +971 55 6252907 / Email:
[email protected] www.silestone.com / www.ecobycosentino.com / www.cosentino.com / www.scalea.es / www.sensabycosentino.com / www.dekton.com
COSENTINO PATROCINADOR OFICIAL
RAFA NADAL ACADEMY BY MOVISTAR
INTERVIEW
3
de Rham's design for Mirabaud Bank.
4
An interior scheme from Tecom, Dubai.
and honesty,” he ex plains. The interior architect had est ablished an interior design company in Switzerland with his partner Siavosh Adeli in 1999. Before relocating to Dubai, de Rham decided to hand over his portion of the company to Adeli completely. It would be three years before de Rham would set up his second company, Swiss Bureau Interior Design. In 2003, de Rham moved to Dubai. He notes that the emirate had already launched its 2010 vision and started Palm Island, Dubai Marina and DIFC. He says: “During some earlier visits in 2002, I was ver y impressed by what was already built and the quality of it. I felt Dubai was a vibrant city, as I felt in Sao Paulo. Dubai was, and still is, a cit y where interior architects have a lot of liberty in their creativit y, so it was not a On one of his earlier visits in 2002, de Rham met with Maher Al Zarooni, who not only taught de Rham the ways of the United Arab Emirates, but would eventually co-open Swiss Bureau Interior Design with de Rham. explains de Rham. “And I try to minimise the risks of too quick a growth. We are really focused on designing creative We have the chance at this stage to lenging us on the creativity level, it is not a question of size, but really of ‘what can we create new in this one?’ “We propose to our clients a turnkey with our preferred sub-contractors. We manage all the different phases and are phase for any unforeseen reasons. We are always in contact with the client and ready to respond to any of their wishes.” In 2014, Swiss Bureau Interior Design 1,500ft 2 to 500,000ft 2. According to de Rham, 2014 was a good year, business its turnover and it was able to go ahead
30 MARCH 2015 | Commercial Interior Design
3
with the hiring of new key collaborators. “Simplicity is the motive of each of our creations,” says de Rham. “My architects and I always try to simplify our design by not adding too much material, features, shapes, colours, etc. It is easy The interior architect also notes that each design area should boast its own creative identity that is in line with especially passionate about corridors. de Rham says: “I really like to spend time on corridors, to design something different, as this captures the essence Currently, Swiss Bureau Interior tion with de Rham’s previous partner Adeli, Swiss Bureau also recently won an international competition launched by the Ministry of Presidential Affairs in Abu Dhabi, and will soon begin working on the renovation of its main conference hall in the UN's Geneva location.
4
www.designmena.com
INTERVIEW
TECTUS®
the adjustable concealed door hinge.
high load capacities up to 300 kg maintenance-free slide bearing technology three-dimensional adjustability opening angle 180° wide variety of �nishes UL listed and Warrington approved model versions
SIMONSWERK Middle East
Dubai, United Arab Emirates Fon: +971-4-8857050 +971-4-3625652 Fax: +971-4-3908935 www.simonswerk.ae
www.designmena.com
Commercial Interior Design | MARCH 2015
31
INTERVIEW
I try to minimise the risks of too quick a growth. We are really focused on designing creative projects and to not repeat what we have already done on our previous projects. We have the chance at this stage to refuse some projects that are not challenging us. 5
5
Inside a DNA Clinic design by Swiss Bureau Interior Design.
6
Dubai's economic department includes geometric designs.
7
6
32 MARCH 2015 | Commercial Interior Design
www.designmena.com
Essence of a surface — Indoor Morgan Lovell, London
Location: London, UK N 51° 30' 26" W 0° 07' 39" Surface: I Naturali / Pietra di Savoia Grigia Laminam S.p.A Via Ghiarola Nuova 258 41042 Fiorano Modenese Modena /Italy Showroom: Via Mercato 3 20121 Milano /Italy www.laminam.it
Laminam Middle East Arjaan Tower, Office 805, Dubai Media City United Arab Emirates +971 44347172
INTERVIEW
7
8
7
34 MARCH 2015 | Commercial Interior Design
8
www.designmena.com
5 1 0 2
y n a p m o C g n i r u t c a f u n a M s c i m a r e C t s e g r a L s ’ d l r o W
S U M I X A M
S E L I T O T A N A L L E C R O P S E R G
w x e t e m a n c r o d 0 c n 5 e a d 1 r b h o t t a i s w s i e l n b i o a t i l . S o s y t n t e l a a a g n i m y e l a l d o r M e h c s r i t u o m P c w m i s s l x e 0 l a r 0 a M G 3 w
s e r d o n e i v f l i t g e a e o l b s h t t a t r o f n i i o u r o i e S t s t . n n c u t c i o d i a s e p n r i n e e i m h t m n g i i i d l n w t i c u d i t n n s o . o s e r i t g a j r s t a e t a i o c r u m u l i r e e s o p t h n n p x T e a a e
m o c . s c i m a r e c k a r . w w w | m o c . m a r e c k a r
@ o f n i
CASE STUDY
1
36
MARCH 2015 | Commercial Interior Design
www.designmena.com www.designmena.com
CASE STUDY
Dubai’s secret nook
COVE BEACH, A QUAINT NEW LOUNGE IN DUBAI’S J U MEIR A H B E ACH H OT EL , H A S RECEN T LY O PEN ED AND OFFERS A PURE AND HOLISTIC INTERIOR BY PROSPECT DESIGN INTERNATIONAL IDEA L FOR EAS Y-GOING BEACH LOVERS. 1
www.designmena.com
Commercial Interior Design | MARCH 2015
37
CASE STUDY
2
S 1
Cove Beach sits directly on the water.
2
Versatile seating welcomes guests.
alalah Facilities, the owners of a number of food and beverage venues throughout the UAE, aimed to create a new beach lounge that opened directly to the Arabian Gulf. The design team, helmed by Fady Chams, managing director of Prospect Design International, looked to maintain a pure, white and simple interior inspired by nature’s whimsical beauty. Aptly named Cove Beach, the new location is a sheltered nook located directly on the sand, hidden behind Jumeirah Beach hotel and facing the iconic Burj Al Arab. “When we sat down with the owners, the idea was to create something
38 MARCH 2015 | Commercial Interior Design
Dubai. The idea was to create a beach restaurant directly on the sand, and this was the perfect location to do it,” explains Chams. on this small plot of land, which is naturally shaped. You have the marina on one side and the public beach on the other. So we started with the interior design concept, which was the distribution we approached an independent architect to work out the str ucture.” Being able to work on the project’s layout before the architect was a massive advantage to the designers and
client. It allowed the team the chance to create exactly what they wanted, without structural restrictions. “It made our lives easier and the client was able to get what he wanted. We were able to translate what the clients wanted into a reality and the architect came and created the structure. It think it’s every designer’s dream, actually,” explains Chams. Upon entering the low-roofed Cove Beach, one is immediately welcomed by white, soft hues and natural materials like timber and seashell. The entrance houses the dressing rooms as well as a shop for beachwear. The narrow entrance hall leads visitors to the res-
www.designmena.com
18 - 21 MAY 2015 CELEBRATING 25 YEARS OF DESIGN For more information about exhibiting at INDEX and workspace at INDEX 2015, contact us: Tel: +971 (0)4 438 0355 Fax: +971 (0)4 438 0357 Email:
[email protected] /
[email protected] www.indexexhibition.com / www.workspace-index.com
CASE STUDY
3
3
The entire back wall is left open to the beach.
4
The material and colour palette is simple and pure.
taurant, which follows a square shape enlarged by openness to the outside. Timber screens that display oceaninspired patterns add context to the width of the room, while a long catwalk in the centre provides depth. At the front of the restaurant, is a bar, lit up from above by wooden light pendants from Secto Design. Behind the bar, a horizontal mirror is hung on those sitting. Facing the bar are blue cushioned seats that display soft, geometric shapes. “My inspiration was Greece,” re-
40 MARCH 2015 | Commercial Interior Design
counts Chams. “My wife is Greek and we go there every summer. I love it because every thing is white there and it’s part of the architecture. Even though here it’s modern, you have the touch of blue in the towels, the bar seats, the pillows and then everything else is whitewashed walnut wood. “It’s quite simple, even though it was very complicated to design until the very end. But again, it looks ver y simple and that’s what we wanted to achieve. We wanted to insist on the view as opposed to a loud design.” Cove Beach is thoroughly designed
is one of the space’s main design features: a series of organically shaped lights that encourage the direction toward the water. Chams says: “We have skylights that let the natural light come through the ceiling. We were able to create this because we participated in the design from the beginning and before the architecture was developed. The others like the spotlights and the recessed lighting—all the lighting, actually—can be changed easily. “There’s no particular reason for the
www.designmena.com
CASE STUDY
4
5
Secto Design lights 5
www.designmena.com
decorate the bar area.
Commercial Interior Design | MARCH 2015
41
CASE STUDY
6
A runway with a break-out light feature adds volume to the 6
space.
shape of the lighting feature. But we did want to round things out a bit, because so much of the layout has sharp angles. It continues the direction of the catwalk toward the sea.” While the restaurant’s chairs were supplied by Dedon, the tables and booth seating were designed by Prospect Design International. The tables are polished white wood with veneer inserts to add a bit of contrast. Decorating the booth seating are pillows by Deny Designs that display ocean imagery, like crashing waves and washed up pebbles. White, pearl and turquoise blue inspired by the window shutters in Greece, complete the colour range. The restaurant’s main design feature is the 4.5m height open windows located at the backend of the restaurant. Left open during the cooler months, the open windows encourage those relaxing to feel as though they’re outside. With the entire backside open to the outdoors, the restaurant connects with the desert and water just beyond its borders. Nothing divides the interior fr om the exterior, allowing visitors to easily traverse the two planes.
7
A low-height building sets the tone.
7
42 MARCH 2015 | Commercial Interior Design
www.designmena.com
The Middle East’s premier trade show dedicated to the leather industry
4 – 6 May, 2015 Dubai, United Arab Emirates
From exotic to extraordinary leather, discover design, variety and the latest trends It’s finally here. The first trade show in the Middle East dedicated to the leather industry will bring together leather suppliers and manufacturers from Europe, Asia and the MENA region, all in one place. Visit Leatherworld Middle East to meet suppliers who will present the latest international leather trends, from colours and leather types to eco leather, to suit all your design needs. Register your interest to visit at www.leatherworldME.com/VIF www.leatherworldME.com
[email protected] Tel. +971 4 389 4500
CASE STUDY
8
8
A narrow pool provides swimming options.
“We want people to feel that they are always outside, even during the summer months when it’s very hot outside,” says Chams. “The windows are all glass, so even when closed you have this feeling of being directly on the beach. And in the winter, when you’re sitting inside, the windows are open and the air is fresh from the outside.” Beyond the main restaurant space, Cove Beach includes a rooftop, a pool, a Rose Bar off to the side and its private beach seating. While the rooftop continues the main design theme, the Rose Bar adds a touch of quirk to the overall layout. Located outdoors off to the side of the restaurant, the Rose Bar is decorated by plush bougainvillea planted on top that drapes along the façade. The designers photographed the wild by tile designer DG Mosaic. The image
44 MARCH 2015 | Commercial Interior Design
of the bougainvillea was then used to adorn the façade of the Rose Bar, which is backlit at night. “In the Mediterranean countries, you have the bougainvillea everywhere, so we started with that ontop of the Rose Bar since you can see it fr om the rooftop will later drop down along the sides. It’s always very simple ideas—we’re trying to use something that already exists, transform it and make it look good.” While Pedrali chairs, barstools and beach seating was designed by Pr ospect Design International and outsourced for manufacturing. Sleek and contemporary outdoor showers by Myyour continue the modern approach to the classic Mediterranean feel of Cove Beach. According to Chams, the main challenge for the project was the basic fact
of building directly on the beach due to the natural restrictions of constructing near water. of all, you’re on the beach—there’s a low tide and a high tide. Also, you have restrictions from the municipality concerning where you can build and how far you can go with any kind of construction. Like the elevated platform for t he Rose Bar. So you have restrictions from the municipality as well as the natural challenges, like when you dig in the sand, you have to dewater the land—it’s pure construction challenges. “But at the end of the day, it’s the fact that you could be sitting at the beach and walk up to the restaurant holding your sandals—it breaks that high-end feel that everyone has here. You can sit and have a nice lunch, and not worr y about any thing.”
www.designmena.com
When great ideas come freely, don’t be bound to a desk. th inbuilt i, the esign et erinter is as indeendent as you. Set projects in motion from virtually anywhere with the HP Designjet T520 ePrinter, simlify your life and am lify your ideas. Find out more: h.commedesign et Call us on:
WiFi
Save money by trading in your old rinter
CASE STUDY
ONE OF THE REGION’S MOST USED PROPERTY PORTALS, PROPERTYFINDER, HAS REVEALED ITS NEW HE ADQUARTERS IN DUBAI’S MEDIA CITY DISTRICT. DESIGNED BY SWISS BUREAU INTERIOR DESIGN, THE NEW OFF ICE DISPLAYS A RELA XED CORPORATE IDENTITY THAT NOT ONLY TRANSLATES ITS STABILITY AND P OWER AS A COMPANY TO ITS VISITORS, BUT ALSO CREATES A COMFORTABLE FEEL FOR THE EMPLOYEES.
1
46 MARCH 2015 | Commercial Interior Design
www.designmena.com www.designmena.com
CASE STUDY
Property Found
1
www.designmena.com
Commercial Interior Design | MARCH 2015
47
CASE STUDY
2
W
1
2
48
hile immensely popular in the UAE for those looking to buy or rent property, reaching out across the MENA reg ion. In establishing its powerful regional with more than 100 employees, the of of
MARCH 2015 | Commercial Interior Design
“As a fast g rowing company, company, Prop company by maximising the work sta that will make them happy to come in to
always being aware not to use too much
www.designmena.com
Wedn W ednes esda day y 6th 6th Ma May Volume V of the Commercial Interior Design 100 Objects of Desire coffee table book will be back in 2015 and launched at a stellar gathering of Dubai’s interior design community in May of next year. Mark the date and ensure that you are a par t of this exciting and unique collection of the most inspirational pieces in the market. The book takes pride of place on the coffee tables of interior designers long after publication and the launch party gives a perfect platform to display your items to prominent local interior designers.
TO F I N D O U T M O R E A N D C O N F I R M YO U R P L A C E I N T H E B O O K A N D AT A T T H E L A U N C H , C O N TA TA C T T E R I C L A R K E O N + 9 7 1 4 4 4 4 3 6 7 9 O R E M A I L T E R I . C L A R K E @ I T P. P. C O M
CASE STUDY
3
3
Social areas along the windows allow for great views of the city.
4
Glass partitions make larger.
5
Timber walls and environment.
shapes and volumes that de Rham says are in harmony with the surrounding environment. Upon entering the space, visitors and staff alike are greeted a t the lift lobby where they are led into the reception area through a glorious wooden tunnel that displays the company logo on one side. At the end of the tunnel, the welcoming reception area, which is playfully shaped like a traditional house, captures your attention. “One can immediately start to notice a diversity of moods created throughout the main sales hall, is the contrasting calmness of a full length green wall,” explains de Rham. “A minimalism of elements is represented through the generosity of the full-length planes surrounding the sales hall.” variety of meeting hubs, with each establishing different ambiances, including an outdoor-themed meeting room, a chic framed wooden box which serves as the main meeting room, cushioned phone booths as well as informal meeting areas positioned along the windows
that boast impressive views of the city. A hidden door allows entry to the pantry area, which is a vast space that provides room for staff to socialise and relax. According to de Rham, giving the pantry so much space was an investment with a large return. He says: “One of the most interesting spaces is the pantry, which is really the it is where the staff can relax, play snooker or PlayStation—but it can also be used as informal meeting spaces. In this way, we have saved space by not creating small meeting rooms that are generally not used. Therefore, we can call it a hybrid space. This pantr y is a big investment in terms of surface, but at the end, the return is larger as it ensures the happiness of the staff to work in this environment.” are marked by the natural blend of ele theme. The green wall system installed by The Kontainer consists of handpicked plants, while green moss and soft oak parquet add sof t touches to 5
50 MARCH 2015 | Commercial Interior Design
www.designmena.com
CASE STUDY
4
www.designmena.com
Commercial Interior Design | MARCH 2015
51
CASE STUDY
6
7
6
52 MARCH 2015 | Commercial Interior Design
7
www.designmena.com
CASE STUDY
8
8
FAST FACTS ABOUT
The space consists of
PROPERTYFINDER’S NEW
OFFICE: 9 •
•
•
•
•
9
54 MARCH 2015 | Commercial Interior Design
www.designmena.com
SHOW REVIEW
Show review: Cevisama 2015
56
MARCH 2015 | Commercial Interior Design
www.designmena.com
SHOW REVIEW
O
ne of the world’ leading showcases in ceramic tiles, bathroom equipment, natural stone, tiles and more, Cev-
isama welcomed its 33rd international exhibition during the second week of February with a bang. From the quality of its exhibitors to the fair ’s ability to encourage and bring about business relationships, those who attended Cevisama Located in Feria de Valencia, Spain, Cevisama attracted over 600 exhibitors that displayed their work throughout the large exhibition area, which swept across 100,000m 2 and three different levels. While Cevisama is known for its ability to bring together hundreds of tile companies from around the world, it also showcases a number of impressive student projects and interior trends, w hich can be seen in the Habitat hall, adjacent to the fair. According to Cevisama chairman Manuel Rubert, and the fair ’s contest director Carmen Alvarez, this year’s edition overcame the 2014 one in terms of visitor walking through the entrance doors. Upon entering the fair, visitors were welcomed by the 10th anniversary exhibition of the Barcelona ceramic tile s tudies department, w hich displayed 20 ceramic projects provided by students of the School of Architecture at the International University of Catalonia. Promoted by the Spanish Ceramic Tile Manufacturers’ Association, the exhibition presented proposals developed by students who were tutored by the department’s teachers. The Spanish tile industry was valued at While France and Russia are the largest consumers of Spanish tiles, the highest growth in foreign sales occurred in North Africa and the Middle East. then it did in 2013, Libya and Morocco
THE WORL D RENOWNED CERAMIC AND MARBLE T RADE FAIR CEVISAMA WAS RECENTLY HELD IN ITS HOME OF VALENCIA, SPAIN, WITH HUNDREDS OF EXHIBITORS AND THOUSANDS OF VISITORS IN ATTENDANCE.
www.designmena.com
followed closely behind. And Jordan and Lebanon increased their imports of Span CID has
put together a list of top ten
exhibitors from the show, from tiles to student projects and furniture designs.
Commercial Interior Design | MARCH 2015
57
SHOW REVIEW
Argenta Part of a new vision forward, Argenta’s stand was the result of its developing communication strategy. The popular ceramics company not only merged aesthetic with function, but allowed it’s classic pieces to mix with its new. The collection it unveiled at Cevisama this year was Exclusive Marbles, which sees the application of different kinds of marble that come in three different sizes. From 75X75 to 90X90 and 45X90, the sizes available in Argenta’s new collection are quite large, and challenge the traditional size of marble slates. Pictured here is a grey marble that comes as part of Argenta’s Atlas series. The size of the slate is quite large compared to the traditional size, while the contemporary colouring of the marble allows it to evoke the sense of raw concrete.
Togama Togama has recently released a number of new products, such as the GEA r ange pictured here. The new textured glass mosaic collection is inspired by a Greek Earth goddess and represents art and raw material colliding. The sparkling new tile is created from glass, which allows the forms and textures of its natural material to shine through and add new dimensions to the mosaic. GEO is available in two colour shades of grey and brown. In addition to GEA, Togama also presented SILK which owes its title to its obviously silky texture and hygienic antislip. The latter collection consists of 44 varieties and is more matte when compared to its glistening counterpart.
58 MARCH 2015 | Commercial Interior Design
www.designmena.com
SHOW REVIEW
Ceramica Gomez The Spanish tile company Ceramica Gomez has been producing and exporting tile solutions since the early half of the 20th century. Today, its reach spreads to over 100 countries, and its presence continues to grow. While the company continues to produce traditional tile works that display ornate artwork, it also produces a number of collections that range from luxurious and glossy marble to tiles with more metallic sheens. Ceramica Gomez also creates tiles that are sustainable and resistent to various outdoor conditions, such as the ones used on the façade of the building pictured here. In addition to architectural ceramics, Ceramica Gomez has a number of other ranges ideal for outdoor pool and lounge areas. These are suitable for commercial projects.
Roca Tiles A division of the Roca company, Roca Tiles participated in Cevisama 2015 bringing a host of new tile collections for visitors to admire. Among other ranges, the company presented its Traveller series, which consists of large pieces that resemble stones such as quartzite, bluestone and slate. The Traveller series’ technical performance make it an ideal public use. Besides the Traveller series, Roca also showcased Legend, a collection that boasts soothing dynamics and serenity suitable for domestic environments. Like the stone pictured here from the Borneo series, Roca Tiles’ new ranges are harmonious with the current market demands.
60 MARCH 2015 | Commercial Interior Design
www.designmena.com
SHOW REVIEW
Capdell Located in the fair ’s Habitat zone housed in a building adjacent to the Cevisama fair, Capdell’s furniture designs are minimal and reminiscent of Scandinavian design. Each creation is simple in its entirety, yet contains small details that alter its concept. Ideal retail spaces, Capdell’s latest collections are right on target. The designs coincide with a maturingminimalist taste prevalent today. Also, they use light woods with soft textile colours like beige and sea grey, as well as more vibrant colours like this deep red. In addition to an array of seating designs, Capdell also provides tables and durable outdoor furniture. Each design by Capdell contains the company’s elegant and mature touch, which is in demand across global markets.
Muka Having also exhibited in Cevisama’s Habitat zone, Muka displayed a number of Scandinavian styled products fr om its Mikonos lamp, pictured here, to the Silla Reves chair. Each product contains beech wood with pops of assumes a dramatic shape that Muka is known for within its product range. The lamp’s opening sharply drops from one end to the other, which is countered by the opposing straight line, which top. The studio’s other products like the Taburete Balea table has long and slender legs that stabilise the graphite top. Taburete could also be used as a quirky seating solution.
www.designmena.com
Commercial Interior Design | MARCH 2015
61
SHOW REVIEW
62 MARCH 2015 | Commercial Interior Design
www.designmena.com
SHOW REVIEW
Proto-Ceramics As an ongoing experiment that centres on new material formations, Proto-Ceramics by Harvard Graduate School of Design included three models located in the main hall of Cevisama. Each model represented the ongoing research of the latest generation of thin, large-format ceramic tiles and illustrated the robust strength of the new material as a constructive component. Each model was shown in an abstract grid that allowed visitors to understand the material’s organisation. The experiment was intelligent and bold, and illustrated the forward-moving vision of the generation to come. Beyond the Proto-Ceramics, were two isles that showcased other student projects experimenting with different tile and ceramic applications for building exteriors.
Ole! by Fm The Spanish company originating from a town near Valencia is known for producing decorative lights for more than t wo decades. Ole! is the new design collection created by professional lighting engineers and fresh-minded management. Ideal for public areas and interior design projects, products by Ole! exhibit high-quality craf tsmanship and production. Pictured here is a vertical LED light mounted onto the wall. Its minimal presence allows it to function without imposing on its surrounding environment. Products by Ole! are clean and calm and r epresent the market’s current drive toward minimal aesthetic and maximum function.
64 MARCH 2015 | Commercial Interior Design
www.designmena.com
PREMIUM MEDIA PARTNER
HELPING YOU WIN MORE BUSINESS AT INDEX 2015
MAY ISSUE
COMMERICAL INT ERIOR DESIGN’S BONUS DISTRIBUTION AT INDEX WILL PUT YOUR BUSINESS IN FRONT OF T HE REGION’S KEY BUY ERS AND PURCHASING INFLUENCERS, THUS HELPING YOU WIN MORE BUSINESS • Your brand will be seen by 36,000+ design professionals • Reach thousands of buyers and purchasing influencers through our bonus distribution at INDEX 2015 • Stand out from the crowd and your competition, and drive traf fic to your stand • Get editorial coverage in our I N D E X P r e v i e w , thus making your marketing dollars go further while g aining that all important third part y endorsement • Connect with real buyers, as 96% of readers have used Commercial Interior Design to make purchasing decisions • Our BPA Audit ensures your advert will be seen by a measurable, qualified and clearly defined audience GET THE MOST OUT OF YOUR INDEX MARKETING PROGRAMME BY CALLING TERI TODAY Contact: Teri Clarke T: +971 4 444 3679 M: +971 50 451 2932 E:
[email protected]
SUSTAINABILITY
66 MARCH 2015 | Commercial Interior Design
www.designmena.com
SUSTAINABILITY
A NUMBER OF COUNTRIES FROM THE GCC ARE LOOKING FORWARD TO HOLDING INTERNATIONAL EVENTS IN UPCOMING YEARS, AND WITH T HE EXPECTED INFLUX IN TOURISM, MAN Y ARE BEGINNING TO GO GREEN IN BIG WAYS. CI D TALKS TO INDUSTRY EXPERTS ABOUT THE RESP ONSIBILITY OF DESIGNERS AND THE REGION’S APPROACH TO SUSTAINABILITY.
The green Gulf
1
www.designmena.com
Commercial Interior Design | MARCH 2015
67
SUSTAINABILITY
2
ith Dubai winning the
-
bid to host Expo 2020
dependent forum aimed at conserving
standards for modern, human experi-
and Qatar expecting the
ences, and it provides the basis for
and designers are now pressured to
predicted to reach alarming levels in
even in the selection of product ma-
and look for solutions to bigger-than-
W
World Cup in 2022, the
has become a centre for business,
According to Ross Jackson, gen-
“Sustainable architecture and 1
2
Samer Deeb, area manager, Middle
leading to the formation of organisa-
tions such as Estidama, the Abu Dhabi
be like, and which involves sustain -
68 MARCH 2015 | Commercial Interior Design
Environmental design sets new
Louise Pitt, marketing and CRM man-
Pitt adds: “In addition, the aspect
development teams develop new
www.designmena.com
PRESENTED BY
WEDNESDAY 16TH SEPTEMBER 2015 INTERCONTINENTAL DUBAI FESTIVAL CITY The 9th annual Commercial Interior Design Awards will once again bring together the Middle East’s design community to celebrate industry excellence.
Do not miss your chance to be part of the definitive awards ceremony for interior design professionals in the region.
www.designmena.com/cid-awards GOLD SPONSORS
SILVER SPONSORS
For more information on the CID Awards, please contact one of our team today. SPONSORSHIP Teri Clarke
Senior Sales Manager T: +971 4 444 3679 M: +971 50 451 2932 E:
[email protected]
NOMINATIONS
TABLE BOOKINGS
Editor T: +971 4 444 3130 E:
[email protected]
Events Manager T: +971 4 444 3328 E:
[email protected]
Rima Alsammarae
Michelle Meyrick
SOCIAL MEDIA PARTNER
MEDIA PARTNERS
SUSTAINABILITY
3
All the companies that
CID spoke
with this month are releasing a number of new products that coincide with sustainable measures taken across the GCC. RMD Boards, for example, is at the forefront of developing products that can be sustainable replacements for common materials that damage the environment. One such example is the wall coverings that are meant to replace marble and granite. According to Sagar Verma, president, RMD Boards, the products are easy to install, have aesthetic appeal and are priced at one-third the cost of conventional materials. 3
Sotria line by Delta Faucet Company.
Delta Faucet Company has also launched a number of sustainable ranges, like its H20kinetic technology, which creates a new shower
4
The In-Tank Meridian by Roca.
experience, as each showerhead and handshower, and contains an internal system that sculpts the wa ter into
70 MARCH 2015 | Commercial Interior Design
4
www.designmena.com
SUSTAINABILITY
5
a unique wave pattern, creating the feeling of more water without ac tually using more water. In fact, according to Jackson, the new products use between 20% and 40% less water than the industry standard. Jack son s ays: “ Delta F aucet Com pany places a high priority on products that address today’s environmental concerns, such as accessibility to water, water conservation and water quality. We invest in internal processes and systems that provide innovative solutions and ensure exceptional cus-
We are fully aware of what’s going on around the world—i.e. the melting of the glaciers, the swift weather changes, natural disasters—and we keep looking at it from a distance. We need to feel responsible and aware that we can make a change and that we need to make it [as soon as possible].
tomer satisfaction through designing products that improve the way people
5
The In-Tank Meridian by Roca.
www.designmena.com
interact with wa ter.” Many companies in the region
“Saudi Arabia is already imposing a
ects and live in a truly greener way, are we, as a communit y, approaching
are also getting involved in regional
sustainability in the right way?
initiatives. Roca for example, has
by all manufacturers fr om May 2015
participated in the World Future Energy
onwards. This will initially cause some
don’t have any proper studies done on
Summit in Abu Dhabi as well as organ-
human behaviour and how consumers
ised We Are Water, a foundation set up
become the r ule.”
are using different sustainable prod-
by Roca in 2010.
Deeb argues that in this region, we
While a number of organisations,
ucts. He says: “ We are implementing
According to Deeb, the sustainable
companies and individuals are deter-
other regions’ regulations and rules…
trend is unstoppable, and legislation is
mined to build more sustainable proj-
We’re still not making it clear that the
Commercial Interior Design | MARCH 2015
71
SUSTAINABILITY
environment is screaming at us to act, and we are moving so slowly. “We are fully aware of what’s going on around the world—i.e. the melting of the glaciers, the swift weather changes, natural disasters—and we keep looking at it from a distance. We need to feel responsible and aware that we can make a change and that we need to make it [as soon as possible].” While Deeb believes there is not enough information relevant to our region, others like Pitt arg ue that social initiatives that are being launched illustrate the region’s desire to be more eco-friendly. According to Pitt, sustainability is becoming more and more a key topic in our region, and she hopes that instead of tr ying to play ‘catch-up’, we continue to take the lead in design by building future sustainable cities. She says: “The formation of Estidama has provided the framework in the UAE and promoted a new mindset towards sustainability. The progress of society towards building sustainable future cities is in the hands of the Middle Eastern governments set ting the building codes and regulations, and also in the of sustainability sourced and produced products.”
6
6
The concealed cistern by Geberit.
7
The Sotria line by Delta Faucet
7
Company.
72 MARCH 2015 | Commercial Interior Design
www.designmena.com
Te definitive event for procuring world-class flooring, wall-covering, surface and finishing products.
Source products for your hospitality, leisure, retail, residential, medical, educational and commercial projects.
OVER
300
FREE
FREE
LIVE
EXHIBITORS
TO ATTEND
SEMINARS
DEMONSTRATIONS
Visit middleeastcovering.com for more information or to register for your free entry badge Official Registration Sponsor
Supporting Partners
Knowledge Partners
Foundation Partner
Co-Located with
Surface Design School Sponsor
Association Partners
Organised by
SUPPLIERS YOU SHOULD KNOW
Flowcrete Tell us about your company? Flowcrete is a specialist resin
What are your best selling products?
What projects have you been involved in? What sets you apart?
What trends do you see in walls
What projects have you been involved in?
Tell us about your company? What are your best selling products? 76
MARCH 2015 | Commercial Interior Design
www.designmena.com
SUPPLIERS YOU SHOULD KNOW
Muraspec Tell us about your company? Muraspec has been based in Dubai since 1994, providing world-class wallcoverings to the United Arab Emirates and beyond. We pride ourselves on being a British manufacturing success story, and most of our products are designed and manufactured at our production facilities in Kent. With over 125 years of British heritage, you’re in safe hands when you choose us. We have recently expanded our offer with an exciting new addition to our already huge product portfolio – Fardis. Designed for those looking for a residential-style look without compromising on design or quality, Fardis is perfect for homes, hotels and hospitality.
What are your best selling products? Only recently introduced, our Elan
collection is already a worldwide bestseller! Elan is a selection of natural and fabric inspired subtle embosses in a range of soft neutrals, from heathers and greys to beiges and blues in matte and Textiles and fabric-inspired in our offer. Customers appreciate the range we have to offer, with everything from real silks and printed suedes to linen-look embosses.
What projects have you been involved in? Our products can be found in some shops and residences. Recent high the Rixos Bab Al Bahr in Ras Al Khaimah, Hyatt Place Muraqqabat and all of the Centro Hotels by Rotana in Abu Dhabi and Dubai.
What trends do you see in the Middle East with re ishes are regular requests at the moment – everything from a subtle sheen to full-on foils and glitters! Our Splendore and new Allegri collections from Fardis focus on this look. Bespoke designs continue to grow in popularity as clients appreciate having something that’s unique to them. Our specialist teams can help customers to create their own image or artwork using our extensive wallcoverings offer.
PO Box 34625 T: +009714 3387399
F: +009714 3387401 E:
[email protected]. We’ll be showcasing the best of Muraspec and Fardis, including some fabulous new designs, at this 8, stand E337.
THE DIGITAL HOME FOR HOSPI TALITY PROFESSIONALS IN THE MIDDLE EAST
FOR ADVERTISING ENQUIRIES,, PLEASE CONTACT: J o h an na Olivera
Sales Manager n g Tel:: +971 4 444 3723 EE-mail::
[email protected] an .oli r i .
www.designmena.com
Commercial Interior Design | MARCH 2015
77
SUPPLIERS YOU SHOULD KNOW
Laminam Tell us about your company? We started out with an in-depth knowledge of the methods, techniques and products in our industry
doing things. The group we belong to has over forty years of knowhow and has always been known for its ability to innovate the manufacturing technology, processes, products and logistics in use in the ceramics industry. Laminam was founded in 2001 as the result of an idea that Franco Stefani, an innovator in the cer amic industry, wanted to develop, leading to the invention of this product and the creation of the technology needed to manufacture it. We started out with a patent protecting the technology used to make large yet slim ceramic slabs that led to the invention of a completely new product at the start of the twenty
industry. Today, Laminam makes large ceramic surfaces whose eclecticism and versatility is well known and that are used for many diverse applications, be it for traditional or cutting-edge buildings, interiors and design.
What are your best selling products? At Laminam, product research and technological innovation aim to achieve continuous improvements to the architectural quality of spaces and so the quality of life for those who use them. Ceramic has always been valued as a material because of its intrinsic
As well as working with designers and graphic designers to create patterns and textures at the cutting edge of aesthetics, Laminam has embarked upon several innovative partnerships with cultural institutions such as the of Florence, with the aim of creating accurate replicas of traditional covering materials like Arno stone and Carrara marble. Laminam’s research does not forget the company’s focus on the environment: natural raw materials, sustainable production technology, fully recyclable products.
and frost, as well as for its hygienic nature and ease of maintenance. This is why our slabs are the material of choice for most applications.
What projects have you been in? We worked on many international projects like Sheraton Hotel on
surface or other quartz surfaces as being the only one available in Silestone is a maintenance free surface that is nonporous, resistant to impact, stains and hard to get scratched. surface never seen before that can be used for exterior as well as all interior applications, from countertops to ventilated facades swimming pools since it does not get affected by chemicals. The product can take more than 400 degrees Celsius of continuous non-porous and resistant to impact. It also has different leather, denim, any solid colour, steel as well as natural stone patterns.
What projects have you been involved in? We’ve been
Ameti Train Station, Auckland, New Kazakhstan, among many others.
Laminam TEL: +971 4 4347172
Cosentino Tell us about your company? As a Spanish multinational, Cosentino Group, the manufacturer of the world’s leading quartz surfaces brand present for two years in the Middle East through our regional
Our huge and varied own stock in Jebel Ali, plus the strong support recommended fabricators in the region allow us to better serve the current customers and the thriving demand in the area.
What are your best selling products? Silestone is the only quartz stone surface with a patent built-in bacteriostatic protection with silver technology that inhibits the growth of bacteria. Silestone also stands out from any other solid
78 MARCH 2015 | Commercial Interior Design
Al Arab, Etihad Aspetar Hospital
Airport, the Louvre Museum, the Vancouver Olympic Village, Telefonica Flagship Store and Wembley Stadium among many others.
What trends do you see in the Middle East? There’s a preference for big format tiles, the thinner the better, with
you wish for, the answer is a reality
Visit our websites: www.silestone.com www.dekton.com www.facebook.com/ CosentinoMiddleEast www.cosentino.com www.designmena.com
SUSTAINABLE DESIGN & OPERATIONS SUMMIT
HOTELIERS ATTEND FOR
FREE
Contact
[email protected] to register today!
WEDNESDAY 3�� JUNE 2015 GROSVENOR HOUSE, DUBAI PANEL DISCUSSIONS, WORKSHOPS, CASE STUDIES & KEYNOTE ADDRESSES www.hoteliermiddleeast.com/conferences/sustainability EXHIBITOR
MEDIA PARTNERS
For more information on the Hotelier Middle East: Sustainable Design & Operations Summit 2015 please contact one of our team today: SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITIES
SPEAKING OPPORTUNITIES
REGISTER TO ATTEND
Stephen Price Sales Director T: +971 4 444 3246
[email protected]
Louby Maktari Conference Director T: +971 4 444 3578 E:
[email protected]
Amanda Elisha Delegate Manager T: +971 4 444 3463 E:
[email protected]
PRODUCTS
New on the market DOUBLE POSITION CHAIR The Double Position Chair from Alex Petunin for ArtTech consists of various sitting positions that change the function of the chair. Sitting on the front leg, anyone can use the Double Position Chair as an arm chair, while when it’s leaned on the back leg, the product becomes a lounging piece. If the user decided to remove the front leg, the Double Position Chair can rock back and forth. The chair’s versatility is complimented by its mid-section which contains three different voids. These holes can be used to store books and magazines. An extra touch are the colourful stripes painted inside the holes as well as on the legs.
ALE X PE TUNI N TEL: +7 921 943 1620 www.alexpetunin.com
www.designmena.com
www.designmena.com
PRODUCTS
LUMINOSE The adorably quirky lighting design from Elizabeth Zimmerer and Marton Lente not only has personality, but was handcrafted out of the couple’s passion for animals. The table lamp consists of a head, which acts as the light source, while the lamp’s body is made of eight pieces to give shape to the animal. The legs of Luminose are adjustable, inviting the user to get playful. From sitting to bowing, Luminose can perform many positions while offering a direct light source. Luminose is made of wood
like metallic silver, black, white and natural wood.
ELIZABETH ZIMMERER AND MARTON LENTE E:
[email protected] www.lumino.se
BIOMIMICRY This 3D printed sofa from designer Lilian van Daal is a sustainable design that consists of natural structures and organic shapes. With 3D printing technology, Daal was able to create complex structures from one material in one factory. Produced by 3D Systems Benelux, Biomimicry is a soft seating solution for those who are environmentally aware and eager to test out the latest technological advancements. While the fourlegged chair only comes in white, it’s material displays dynamic patterns. The futuristic aesthetic of Biomimicry allows it to be an ideal choice for those who appreciate risks and experimentation.
LILIAN VAN DAAL TEL:+31 633825479 www.lilianvandaal.com
www.designmena.com
Commercial Interior Design | MARCH 2015
81
OPINION
Challenging the notion of ‘green’ BY JOHN ROWLEY, INTERIOR DESIGN MANAGER, FIG JAM
W
hat happens when your client has the dual demand of creating a space that’s on trend and delivering a project that’s sustainable? While green maybe trendy, trendy isn’tnecessarily green. In an era of fast changing trends led by the ever increasing speed of the next ‘it’ on social media, one phenomenon that has stayed the course is the demand for design that’s sustainable. It’s easy to understand the correctly it creates brand equity and, well, it’s cool to be green right now. In the rush to use LED lighting, be LEED and reduce the carbon footprint of your project, there is also one further element to sustainability that’s is often undervalued: the concept. While the value of the concept has long been understood in the design process, its impact from a sustainability point of view has been drastically underestimated. In the era of heightened consumer sophistication, brand positioning is ever more important as is understanding how your brand is received. I speak about brands and interiors almost as one, because I believe that your interior is now no longer a space that merely facilitates your brand but is more an extension of your brand. Today’s customer will pick up on any ismatch or disconnect between the message conveyed by the brand and the interior, causing a loss of brand equity and as a result, customer loyalty is diminished. The consequence is acceleration in
82 MARCH 2015 | Commercial Interior Design
customer disaffection and shorter periods between the refurbishment of the interior space. Taking action to safeguard against the follow the next trend is the one sure way to increase the sustainability of the interior. From that point of view it’s critically important the interior is conceptually linked to and in keeping with the values of the brand. A well-rounded interior concept that tells a story and by extension creates brand equity will in turn increase customer loyalty and add value. From a sustainability perspective brand loyalty is as important as
their environmental impact. concept that is trend based is an easier proposition to sell as it allows you to show that your research is done and you understand the market. The true challenge for today’s interior designer is to give the client a relevant solution while limiting passing fads and insuring that any trends incorporated are consistent with the values of the brand. When this happens you have a project that is truly sustainable.
A sustainable design by Fig Jam
www.designmena.com
UnitedOfficesys Creation is our passion
Creating beautiful workspace is our passion OFFICE FURNITURE, SEATING SOLUTION, WORKSTATION, FURNITURE PROJECT, INTERIOR FIT OUT, LAMINATE FLOORINGS, CORPORATE GIFTS, CORPORATE ART & CULPTURE.
Furniture from Japan, Italy, France, China, Thailand,Germany, Korea, Malaysia & USA. P.O Box: 7410, Zabeel Road, Karama, Dubai, U.A.E, T: +971 4 3370131, 3370268, For Abu dhabi enquiries +971 50 284 78 78
