Design Middle East January 2019

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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

January

CENTRE OF

ATTRACTION Architect Manuel Clavel Rojo talks about his first project in the region – miX Dubai at Emerald Palace Kempinski and the mystery behind the golden egg that sits in the centre of the space, spanning all three floors of the restaurant

First Look: DEWA AUDITORIUM

IRD Design’s latest project, the new DEWA auditorium is inspired by the ripple effect

2019

The design classic LS 990 in metal – aesthetics in their most elegant form.

Genuine. Gold.

LS 990 IN GOLD

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

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

Commercial director Delphene Fletcher delphene@bncpublishing.net +971 52 1193077

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

Editor Roma Arora roma@ bncpublishing.net

Welcome The best thing about the New Year is that it gives us fresh hopes, aspirations, and wants. For 2019, I want to see buildings and designs, which are inspiring and more human-centric.

The idea should not be to create something luxe, best, or out-of-the world but the focus should be on making a place including plants and outside views, nature, and less artificial.

Be it office, house, commercial or retail project, humans and their expectations should be the core of design, structure, and materials. Let’s hope for the best!

Our first edition of 2019 features some of the newest and remarkable projects in the region. Spanish architect Manuel Clavel Rojo graces our January cover as he talks about his first project in the UAE, miX Dubai at Emerald Palace Kempinski. Rojo also tells why he has used a colossal Fabergé egg in the middle of the restaurant.

Moving on to project section, we have DEWA’s new auditorium designed by IRD Design. Based on the ripple effect of water, the designs are free-flowing interpreting the dynamics of movement. In OP-ED section, Sumaya Dabbagh, Chair of RIBA Gulf Chapter, stresses the idea of making good cities. Also, James Marvin Skaines, director at PNC Architects, lists top trends that should be part of our buildings.

It's a brand New Year and I have my personal wish list too. Currently, I am crushing on the Nido chair from Spanish brand, Sancal.

Art director Ifteqar Ahmed Syed

Roma Arora Happy New Year!

Marketing executive Mark Anthony Monzon mark@bncpublishing.net Photographer Ignacio Soto Conde

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Contents JA N UA RY 2019

18 24 IN THIS ISSUE…

28

18

Cover Story

24

OP-ED

26

Interview

28

Project

Architect Manuel Clavel Rojo talks about his first UAE project—miX Dubai

Sumaya Dabbagh on importance of good architecture and sensible designs

Viktor Udzenija shares his career journey and current projects

DEWA'S new auditorium is designed to play with the senses

54

Wish List

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January 2019

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Contents JA N UA RY 2019

42

34

48 34

Feature

Expo 2020 pavilions to watch out for!

42

Decor Review

48

Trends

Eve Penthouse & Lounge is dreamy and spectacular

Architect James Marvin Skaines lists top trends for the buildings of future

REGULARS 5

Editor’s Note

16 Newsmakers 54 Wish List 58 Events 60 Pick of the Month January 2019

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NEWSMAKERS

Pantone’s Colour of the Year 2019 is Living Coral!

Vibrant, yet mellow Pantone 16-1546 Living Coral embraces the warmth and nourishment to provide comfort and buoyancy in the continually shifting environment. The life-affirming coral hue energises and enlivens with a softer edge. The beautiful colour represents the fusion of modern life, is a nurturing colour that appears in the natural surroundings and at the same time displays a lively presence within social media.

According to Leatrice Eiseman, executive director of the Pantone Colour Institute, said: “Colour is an equalising lens through which we experience our natural and digital realities and this is particularly true for Living Coral. With consumers craving human interaction and social connection, the humanizing and heartening qualities displayed by the convivial Pantone Living Coral hit a responsive chord.”

The colour emits the desired, familiar and energising aspects of colour found in nature. In its glorious, yet unfortunately more elusive, display beneath the sea, this vivifying and effervescent colour mesmerises the eye and mind. Lying at the centre of our naturally vivid and chromatic ecosystem, Pantone Living Coral is evocative of how coral reefs provide shelter to a diverse kaleidoscope of colour.

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January 2019

The exhibition features nearly 100 artefacts that demonstrate the skilful craftsmanship, bold imagination, and ingenious handiwork of Zhejiang’s folk artists

Hala China hosts Silk, Tea, and Celadon exhibition at City Walk Dubai Hala China, a joint initiative by Meraas and Dubai Holding, hosts ‘Silk, Tea, and Celadon: An intercultural dialogue on the ‘Silk Road’, as part of the year-long activities aimed at enhancing trade and cultural relations between Dubai and China.

Running from December 18, 2018-January 15, 2019, the month-long exhibition showcases some of the most iconic symbols of Chinese culture and tradition. The event is being organised in partnership with the Zhejiang Provincial Department of Culture and Tourism, which is renowned for being China’s cultural centre and the birthplace of the country’s ancient celadon pottery tradition.

The exhibition is supported by the People’s Government of Longquan of Zhejiang Province, the China National Silk Museum, and China National Tea Museum. Notably, the exhibition will feature nearly 100 artefacts that demonstrate the skilful craftsmanship, bold imagination, and ingenious handiwork of Zhejiang’s folk artists. This includes silk clothing and fashion, teaware, and tools used in traditional Chinese tea ceremonies, as well as exquisite celadon ceramics.

Speaking on the event, Sheikh Majid Al Mualla,

Chairman of the Board of Directors at Hala China, said: “China is home to the world’s most coveted cultural traditions that have a deep-rooted connection with its centuries-old history of trade.

We believe this combination of commerce and culture presents a valuable opportunity for Dubai and China to build lasting synergies, giving us a greater understanding of the value our two nations deliver to each other. This is the essence of the Hala China initiative and what it aims to achieve.”

He added: “We are especially pleased to engage with the officials of the Zhejiang region for this special event and are hopeful it will set in motion new opportunities for meaningful partnership with each of the provinces of the People’s Republic of China.”

Sally Yacoub, chief malls officer, Meraas Holding, said: “We are pleased to host yet another remarkable event from the Hala China calendar at City Walk, which offers the ideal setting for celebrating Chinese culture and lifestyle experiences. The silk, tea, and celadon exhibits offer a rare glimpse of China’s social landscape that we believe will draw strong interest from Dubai’s multinational resident and tourist population.”

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Breitling showroom at The Dubai Mall

Breitling’s new retail store is a salute to industrial design!

Premier watch brand Breitling opened a retail store in The Dubai Mall which is every bit contemporary and designs are an ode to the industrial architecture. The new boutique features the brand’s ‘Premier Collection’ which is unveiled for the first time in the Middle East. Aed Adwan, managing director, Breitling Middle East, India, and Africa said: “Following the opening of our regional head offices in Dubai earlier this year, Breitling’s new industrial-chic boutique concept is set to offer a truly immersive experience to the Middle East’s eclectic watch community.”

The design of the boutique is inspired by a mid-twentieth-century industrial building as a nod to a time when the brand’s timepieces and intelligent measuring tools earned Breitling a

formidable reputation. A hand-painted mural, unique artefacts like aircraft propellers, and a full-sized pool table combined with bespoke furniture vividly bring to life the worlds of ‘land, sea, and air’. The new boutique is home to the entire Breitling range of timepieces, including

the brand-new Premier collection, as well as, the recently introduced Superocean Héritage II Chronograph 44 Outerknow, and the Navitimer collection. The uniquely-designed boutique welcomes guests into a relaxed and creative environment.

January 2019

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NEWSMAKERS Heimtextil will present over 2,900 exhibitors that will be showcasing new designs and trends for 2019/2020

The design destination!

Heimtextil brings together the best of designs, innovations, and leading experts under one roof.

‘Interior.Architecture.Hospitality’ at Heimtextil, Germany from January 8-11, 2019, is the unifying force behind the unique offer for interior designers, hospitality experts, and designers. Hall 4.2 serves as the focal point for these highlights. In addition to the Interior.

Architecture.Hospitality Expo, trade visitors can also look forward to a range of high-calibre lectures and expert guided tours.

At the world’s largest trade fair for home and contract textiles, visitors from the contract sector

will not only find a unique variety of textiles for various applications but above all international expertise on their functional characteristics as well as application examples for innovative construction projects and individual planning.

This offer is summarised under the title ‘Interior.

Architecture.Hospitality’. Architects, interior designers, and hospitality experts can inform themselves about the latest trends and solutions in first-rate lectures. Renowned industry experts will guide visitors through the trade fair from a user’s perspective. And a varied supporting programme offers the opportunity for discussion

among colleagues and to garner inspiration.

Also, worth seeing is the presentation of the expo and lecture area in hall 4.2. The topics for the lecture programme were developed in close cooperation with the industry experts from AIT Dialog. Together with AIT and other industry partners such as the Allgemeine Hotelund Gastronomie-Zeitung (AHGZ), the Bund deutscher Innenarchitekten (bdia), hotelforum management, and worldarchitects.com.

Members of the Chamber of Architects and Town Planners of Hesse can accrue training points for participating in the lectures.

Zaro Architects completes FunNations' office at Business Bay Workspaces are getting more informal and collaborative these days and that’s exactly what Zaro Architects stressed upon in their recent project. Hazem Al Zaro, principal at Zaro Architects along with his team worked for the FunNations' office at Business Bay, Dubai. They have created a collaborative workspace that embodies the creative essence of the start-up. The event technology

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January 2019

service foccuses on making it easier to organise parties and gather people together. Zaro shares: “The design incorporated uplifting greenery with a rustic leather touch that turns a structured and formal office space into a semi-formal and joint environment.”

The challenging small office space pushed the limits of the project to adopt a responsive design that blends well

FunNations office, Business Bay

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Fornebu Senter station's East entrance

Zaha Hadid Architects and A_Lab to make two metro stations in Oslo Zaha Hadid Architects to build two stations on the new Fornebubanen metro line. Zaha Hadid Architects and A_Lab have won the architectural competition to design the Fornbuporten and Fornebu Senter stations, two of the six stations planned for the new Fornebubanen metro line in Oslo.

One of Europe’s fastest growing cities, Oslo’s population has increased to more than a million people living within its urban area defined by forests and mountains to the north, east and west, and by the Oslofjord to the south. Accommodating this growth without impacting the protected natural habitats that surround the city, the redevelopment of Oslo’s decommissioned airport on the Fornebu peninsula will create a community of 6,000 new homes together with civic, cultural and corporate developments providing up to 25,000 new jobs.

The new 8km Fornebubanen metro line will run in a sub-surface tunnel connecting Majorstuen interchange station in Oslo’s city centre to Fornebu Senter on the peninsula. The Fornebubanen line will include six new stations: Skøyen, Vækerø, Lysaker, Fornebuporten, Flytårnet and Fornebu Senter from where the journey to Majorstuen in the city will take approximately 12 minutes. The entrances at either end of the new Fornbuporten station define two distinct civic spaces at street

level. To the south, a layered, orthogonal pavilion and public piazza extend the Cartesian geometries of its surrounding urban fabric. To the north, an oval canopy sits within the natural landscape of the community park in which it is located. These contrasting geometries continue below ground to merge along the length of the station’s platforms. Both entrance pavilions reflect the full spectrum of scattered light that varies with the ever-changing Oslo sky.

Atmospheric lighting throughout the station fluctuates in tune with the time of day to enhance passengers’ well-being. Inspired by Norway’s mountainous landscapes and fjords that have been eroded over millennia, the Fornebu Senter station’s design carves canyons and spaces for the flow of people. Echoing this concept of reimagined glacial landscapes, public plazas at

street level transform fluidly into entrances at either end of the station, becoming meeting places for their new community with a distinct architectural identity. Gianluca Racana, director of Zaha Hadid Architects, said: “It is an honour to be selected by the jury to build two stations in this design competition with many talented architectural practices. The Fornebubanen will be a vital new transport link for the city.”

Geir Haaversen, general manager and founder of A_Lab, said: “People have been waiting for the Fornebubanen for a long time. The design of these stations will be crucial for the development of their locations.” The competition jury assessed anonymous proposals from 14 different teams, stating the design of Fornebu Senter station demonstrated a vibrancy and enthusiasm for designing civic space.

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COVER STORY

The dream

project In conversation with Spanish architect Manuel Clavel Rojo, principal and founder of Clavel Architecture and Interior Design, as he talks about his first project in the region-miX Dubai for Michelin-starred chef Alain Ducasse at Emerald Palace Kempinski

By Roma Arora Photographs by Ignacio Soto Conde 18 |

January 2019

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The gigantic Fabergé egg inside the main dome of Emerald Palace Kempinski runs across the three levels of the restaurant

F

our years ago, architect Manuel Clavel Rojo was given the commission to create the best and the most luxurious restaurant for internationally acclaimed chef Alain Ducasse, which also happens to be his first in the region.

It's a dream project for Rojo and clearly, he has created something rare, unbelievable, and a masterpiece! He has installed a huge Fabergé egg in the middle of the restaurant, the lower

part of it is floating in the central void of the main and VIP restaurant (6th and lower roof level) and its outer shape and material responds to structural and sensorial matters respectively.

Egg represents the mystery of life, the surprise element, and the real design wonder can be seen at the miX private dining area on the top level where only a privileged few can ascend in a golden private elevator.

Rojo recalls: “Ducasse wanted a design which

is elegant and luxurious, something which is understood by people coming from different cultures and countries. After many brainstorming session, we decided on weaving a design story around this oversized golden Fabergé egg (20m height per 10m diameter). The biggest challenge for us was to create a space within a given space as this building was not designed by us. It’s a very big limitation, we had to do everything according to the given construction.”

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COVER STORY

CREATING AN ICONIC DESIGN: Manuel Clavel Rojo

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January 2019

It’s the first project for Rojo in this region and one of the most challenging as well. Rojo says: “It required technical and architectural brilliance to fit something as enormous as this in an already given structure. Different parts of Fabergé egg were built in different parts of the world. They were shipped in containers and assembled here.”

For Rojo, creating the right atmosphere with the right design is key to a successful F&B project. He explains: “You might be creating the best of designs, but if the atmosphere is not warm, welcoming, and inviting, it just defeats the whole purpose of the place.”

His focus was same here too, creating the right ambience and atmosphere. He expands: “We wanted to give this place a perfect atmosphere and lighting plays the most important role.

Light is designed to be soft to make guests feel comfortable. For any restaurant project, dishes are the real hero. So, the targeted architectural lighting concentrates on dishes, not on guests and there is a flexible system where the position of lights can be changed according to different furniture arrangements.”

The recently opened miX Dubai is lavish and luxe space that serves French cuisine with local and international influences. It spreads over three floors, with unparalleled views of the sea and Palm Jumeirah. The restaurant is split into three distinct areas. The top level of the restaurant is a hidden gem with chef’s table. This is an exclusive and reserved space with dedicated services, a terrace, and a central table for 12 guests. “One can actually unfold the secrets and witness how the egg actually looks from inside and magically blends with the dome of the hotel. We have used gold extensively like on flooring, walls, and elevators to give it a luxe feel.”

The miX private dining area, also known as the member’s club is connected with the miX restaurant in the lower level. This is a privileged area, with only 10 tables. Again, guests can contemplate amazing views, enjoy a private bar or exclusive access to the stunning restrooms. “Architecturally, it’s a cylindrical space of 190sqm just below the main dome of the building. The main feature is the convex curved golden shape of the egg hung from the centre. It took us a long time to get the colour of the egg and finished right and I am happy it turned out very well. Also, in this area of dining, gold chains are used for breaking the spaces in a contemporary yet warm way.”

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It required technical and architectural brilliance to fit something as enormous as this in an already given structure. Different parts of FabergĂŠ egg were built in different parts of the world. They were shipped in containers and assembled here.

January 2019

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COVER STORY

The top level, known as the chef's table

On the lower level, the miX restaurant is inspired by the Islamic Mocárabe, a flowing ceiling of transparent acrylic tubes covers the 500sqm dining room in a single gesture. Here you can also see the oversized golden egg, floating in the middle of the space and is the feature that presides and bring its energy to this area. Rojo highlights: “We worked with the elements of the Arab culture like contemporary mocárabes are used extensively for creating the ceiling. Walls disappear using a rhythm of mirror layers, white volakas marble, and purple carpets

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January 2019

have been used to achieve a flowing dialogue of continuities and qualities.”

“Another highlight here is that space is given a playful twist by creating an artificial landscape of material relations where tables are conceived as islands, ceiling as a black reflecting sky. The metallic curtains across this floor surrounding the whole area gives a contemporary interpretation of desert tents running over a continuous ceramic mosaic flooring,” shares Rojo.

Moving onto miX Bar and Lounge, which is a more intimate, an informal area where guests can

enjoy a wide selection of wines and an eclectic cocktail menu, in a casual setting. “With of-themoment counter top seating, the sleek area gives off a laidback vibe, reminiscent of cosmopolitan cities around the world. It’s dark with dim lighting and gives a different feel as compared to the other areas of this restaurant. We have given a casual setting to this area. The idea is to celebrate food, the interiors, and this place.” Beyond the dining hall, the terraces with lovely alfresco setting allow to sit in an exterior space surrounded by amazing views of Dubai skyline from the Palm. The terrace

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You might be creating the best of designs, but if the atmosphere is not warm, welcoming, and inviting, it just defeats the whole purpose of the place. is a flexible space that can be adapted according to the weather and uses required by the hosts.

Rojo has launched his dream and he wants everyone to see and feel it. Rojo signs off saying: “We have executed this project in a way that from down to up, the level of privacy increases. It clearly depends upon the guests the kind of experience they are looking for. But be whatever floor you’re on, you would always find a glimpse of this magnificent Fabergé egg in gold, either in the centre, or you in the centre, or it would be simply around you.”

See it to believe it!

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OP-ED

“Build cities that reflect our identity, culture, and values!”

Sumaya Dabbagh, principal at Dabbagh Architects and Chair of RIBA Gulf Chapter, describes on what qualifies to be a good architecture and an effective design

G

ood architecture improves our lives. It creates better buildings and stronger communities and makes better use of the earth’s limited resources. Architecture has a responsibility not only to create good buildings but also to create the spaces between the buildings that make up our cities.

Our cities, which had developed during the '60s, '70s, and '80s were modest cities, predominantly low-rise and often followed the historic fabric as in Bur Dubai area, which was part of the JR Harris’s masterplan. Then in the 1990s, they started to grow exponentially as

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well as indiscriminately. But by the late '90s a shift became apparent, where well-designed and executed buildings started to appear in our cities. Buildings such as the Kingdom Tower and Faisaliah Tower in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia and Emirates Towers and Burj Al Arab in the UAE created a reference and established a benchmark. They demonstrated how a welldesigned building could add value to the endusers and the developers, as well as the city.

Today, high-quality buildings have become more common in our cities but they still represent a small proportion of our built environment. The large majority reflects design and construction

Sumaya Dabbagh

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standards that are primarily commercially driven, where the emphasis is on the return on investment rather than quality, sustainability or the impact on the city that is generated by these buildings.

Further, the fast pace of development of the last 15 years has attracted more architects and professionals from various corners of the globe, creating disparity in standards in the profession as well as cultural relevance to the design.

As a result, offerings of architectural services can vary tremendously from one practice to another depending on its background, employedtalent, and intention.

In order for us to produce better architecture and improve our built environment and cities, it is imperative that we establish a set of core values for the profession that creates consistency in standards and quality of design and construction.

We must also nurture our local talent to build cities that reflect our identity, culture, and values.

As architects and developers, we must recognise and embrace the responsibility inherent in the task of creating our built environment. The Royal Institute of British Architects acknowledges this responsibility. It provides a tightly-regulated profession with high standards of education and through its strict code of conduct promotes and champions integrity, professionalism, excellence, creativity, and innovation.

In recognition of the need to help improve standards in the Gulf, the RIBA with the support of its Gulf members established the RIBA Gulf Chapter in 2009.

The Gulf Chapter’s objectives are to bring awareness to these values and help improve the standards of practice in the Gulf. It has set out to fulfill its objectives from the top down through its diverse members, and from the bottom up through education.

In 2016, in recognition of the contribution of International members, the RIBA International Prize was launched. The prize awards projects, which demonstrate visionary, innovative thinking, and design excellence and make a distinct contribution to the communities they serve within its local context. Now in its second cycle, we hope that more and more

Faisaliah Tower in Riyadh

As architects and developers, we must recognise and embrace the responsibility inherent in the task of creating our built environment.

projects from this region become awarded this prestigious prize. Through education, the RIBA is working with local universities to bring them up to RIBA standards through its validation process.

As a result, earlier this year Abu Dhabi

University became the first validated School of Architecture in the Gulf region. Others are moving closer to this.

Ultimately, with the mentoring of RIBA, we can create well-planned, sensitively designed, and sustainable developments.

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INTERVIEW

Creating

timeless designs!

Viktor Udzenija, principal architect and CEO at Viktor Udzenija Architecture + Design, talks about his current projects and the importance of everlasting designs

Viktor Udzenija sitting on his design piece, Little Rocker

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A stunning residential project by Viktor Udzenija in Jumeirah, Dubai

Tell us something about your What were some of the key professional journey from influences that inspire the design London to Dubai? and structures you make?

After finishing my studies in Munich (Germany), I was picked up by my then professor architect Richard Horden, who used to work with Lord Norman Foster for many years and got me recommended to join the office of Foster + Partners in London. After several years in the headquarter offices in London, I got offered to move to Dubai to overlook the construction and delivery of the Index Tower in DIFC. During the years spent on the Index Tower, I had fallen in love with Dubai and upon completing the project decided to stay in the country and set-up my own studio.

During developing a project design, I am influenced by many important factors, be it the environment which is always one of the most crucial factors, where the building is located, what are the characteristics of the given location in terms of weather, sun path, views, and surroundings. The client’s brief is very important as it indicates how the building will be used, who will use it, etc.

What do you feel is your practice’s strongest skill and how have you worked to develop that over the past years?

I love working on all scales of designs—be it a large commercial development or a tower, or an interior space of a residence all the way to a piece of furniture or a light object. I don’t like to set limit when it comes to my creative process. One of my first individual pieces of furniture design was the Little Rocker. A rocking horse carved out of a solid block of marble. It was shown at Design Days Dubai with Carpenters Workshop Gallery, and later at the very first retrospective exhibition of best designs from the Middle East titled ‘Wasl’. I am currently working on several new designs for a luxury residential project, which we are soon delivering in

We strive to come up with new and unique designs for every project. I focus on designs that are timeless in both their aesthetic interpretation and the materials used that will age well over the time. We give the highest regard to elements of sustainability as well. Developing designs that are taking into consideration all of these aspects whilst also ensuring great attention to detail and quality is something that is at the core of our practice.

You have an inclination towards product designing as well. Tell us something about it and the pieces you have designed so far?

London as well as a new range that will be shown in an upcoming gallery exhibition.

Talk us through a few of your current projects.

We are soon delivering our first F&B project. It is the new Marea restaurant in DIFC, Dubai, this two Michelin star Italian restaurant is expanding and we were chosen to design the first new concept outside of NYC. The project is well under construction and will hopefully open early spring 2019. At around the same time, we will be delivering our first ever project in the UK, super luxurious private residences at Knightsbridge in London. One of our key projects underway is mixed-use retail and residential development in Prague in Czech Republic. We are very excited to be expanding our reach outside of the Middle East region, which just shows us how much our work approach is appreciated.

What kind of changes do you want to see in design and architecture in this region?

I think the most important change that we as architects are keen on developing is the appreciation for our craft and expertise. Sustainable design is also a factor that is slowly becoming more apparent in this region. We can’t ignore the environment and our impact on it and vice-versa.

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PROJECT

The

Rippleeffect IRD Design’s latest project, the new DEWA auditorium has a dynamic design that plays with the senses

For lobby, the external glazing was covered to encourage dialogue by using laser cut screens allowing the daylight to seep through

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January 2019

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I

RD Design was assigned the auditorium project for DEWA before the structure was even built. Every place requires a different and a unique design. For the new auditorium project for DEWA, IRD Design envisioned this auditorium as a dynamic area to convey a feeling of dynamics as found in the ripple of water, and the circular pattern it represents. Indu Varanasi, architect and founder of IRD Design, says: “We wanted to create different feelings throughout the changing scenarios such as the welcome area, the waiting room, the presentation hall, and lastly the exit.”

The auditorium for DEWA was assigned to the IRD Design before the structure was even built. So, the design team carried out some initial studies to ensure that the auditorium was fit for purpose. Varanasi explains: “We wanted to make sure that everything is fine before starting off with the design process.

Our initial analysis included, testing the sight lines and therefore we had to work closely with the architects and structural engineers to modify the balcony levels for beam clearances, the removal of columns to ensure visual sight lines which resulted in changing the concrete structure to a steel structure.”

Varanasi says: “The flooring carpet is cleverly used to differentiate the seating areas and the circulation areas. The circulation carpet is treated with a gradation of blues going into greys; the same blues are picked up in the rear of the auditorium and its ceiling. When the space is completely lit with all the internal lights, the auditorium glows in a blue tone, which gradually changes as the stage setting changes from blue to white."

Spread over the three floors the lobbies cater to various activities taking place within.

Giving them more purpose besides forming hybrid zones and welcome areas. These beautiful sterile spaces create a dynamic vibrancy. The graphics chosen for the lobbies are to attune to nature and the essence of living.

Appreciated for its simplicity the lounge brings diverse elements together. Limited by the dynamics of the established architecture, such as low ceiling heights and a high narrow skylight, IRD Design utilised both in an optimum way to accentuate their design intentions. “The purpose of the lounge is to create moments of rest before or after an event. We have translated the calmness and luxury of space into a place where people can comfortably meet,” adds Varanasi.

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PROJECT

The back-end of the atrium was treated in special 3D wallpaper plaster, which engages with eye movement to create different patterns

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In the VIP lounge, the walls are treated with 3D laser cut Islamic patterns, which vary in thickness from the back wall adding a dynamic expression together with the LED wallpaper

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PROJECT

This circular pattern showcasing the ripple effect of water is carved into the wooden slats adding a static element to the venue and the circular LED light set at various intensities enhance the dynamic element, suggesting movement

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January 2019

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FEATURE

Pavilions future As Expo 2020 nears and the excitement for the event is reaching its peak! This is how some of the remarkable pavilions will look like for the grand show

of the

Design of the Poland Pavilion is inspired by migrating birds

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Marta Sękulska-Wrońska

Poland Pavilion

Design house WXCA and Bellprat will design Poland pavilion for Expo 2020 that will feature an ‘open, tree-like modular structure’ The winning design for the Poland Pavilion is inspired by Poland’s wildlife. An “integrated” exhibition with “kinetic flocks of birds floating over visitors’ heads” will be part of the project.

Marta Sękulska-Wrońska, managing partner at WXCA, said: “Poland is the key breeding ground for migratory birds in Europe. The pavilion, imaging a cloud of birds in flight is designed to create a strong, expressive, memorable picture.

The richness of wildlife, diversity of landscape, and the strategic location in the centre of Europe make Poland the most important breeding ground for European migratory birds. Inviting visitors to accompany

this journey and observe the abundance of Polish avifauna is an opportunity to develop an intriguing, multi-layered story about the beauty of Polish nature, international cooperation, mobility, and exchange of ideas.”

Birds are a symbol for lightness, clean air, flying flocks of birds convey a sense of connectivity and adaptability and nest building finally implies daring temporary and natural architecture in the Polish tradition of wooden constructions.

Wrońska further added: “In contrast to the usual lively and entertaining atmosphere of world exhibition, we would like to create a mood of tranquillity, contemplation, attentive observation of wildlife. Polish Pavilion will be the place where visitors can rest in the shade of the vast roofing, soothe the senses, relax and reflect on the coexistence of mankind and nature.”

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FEATURE USA Pavilion will show the strengths of its nation through design

USA Pavilion

Colorado-based Curtis W Fentress of Fentress Architects will execute the design of the USA Pavilion for the Expo 2020. Inspired by mobility, travel, movement, and sustainability, USA Pavilion would showcase the very best of their nation’s cultural and commercial achievements It would clearly, be one of the most admired pavilions at the expo. Fentress’ designs are based on the things that are important for the entire world. He said: “Today we’re looking at an Expo that is related to mobility, movement, travel, sustainability–things that are very important to the world today. We have designed this building to be circular in form with slants fashioned to project a sensation of movement, making the viewer feel like the building itself is in motion.”

Fentress wants to showcase the strengths of his country. He further explained: “Once you enter the building, it opens up to what the United States stands for: We are an open, accessible country

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Curtis W Fentress

where you can live to create ideas. It showcases all the things we are doing in America: developing technology and concepts that are going to move us forward in the future. Designing this pavilion is a tremendous responsibility-one we take very seriously as we will be showcasing America and American ideas to over 25mn people expected to visit the Expo 2020.”

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Inspired by the white blanket of snow which covers the Finnish landscape in winter, the Finland Pavilion resembles a white tent made of snow

Finland Pavilion

The Finland Pavilion takes inspiration from Finnish nature and design “Snow Cape� is the name of the building with which Finland is going to present itself at the Expo 2020 in Dubai. The Finland Pavilion building team consists Expomobilia, JKMM Architects, Factor Nova, Beyond Limits, and Five Currents responsible for the planning and construction of the pavilion. The concept, planning, and execution of the Finnish pavilion building is being undertaken by JKMM Architects (Helsinki, Finland) and Expomobilia AG (Zurich, Switzerland). JKMM Architects with help of Five Currents and Factor Nova has put together the design concept for the building and Expomobilia, as global general contractor, is looking after the overall planning and project management in the implementation process.

The partners Factor Nova (Finland), Beyond

Limits (UAE), and Five Currents (US) have an advisory and support role across all phases of the project from design to delivery.

The pavilion building is incorporating visually both Finnish and Arabic cultures. The exterior of the pavilion is white as snow with an entrance that gives an impression of arriving in an Arabic tent.

The snow in the exterior blankets the interior full of surprises for the visitor. In the middle, the calm and natural gorge provides a peaceful escape from the noise of the expo world, while the exhibition itself is providing an abundance of experiences and information about continuous innovation and sustainable solutions.

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FEATURE

Dutch Pavilion

The design of the Dutch Pavilion is based on the theme of, ‘uniting water, energy and food’. A consortium of Dutch and international companies have been selected to design and build the pavilion The Dutch Pavilion will be designed by the consortium that comprises Expomobilia, V8 Architects, Kossmann.dejong and Witteveen+Bos. With a pavilion featuring a unique circular climate system that showcases the Netherlands’ innovative strength, the Dutch campaign and its participation in Expo 2020 will help to capitalise on opportunities not only in the Gulf region but also further afield.

The pavilion’s unique design gives visitors a powerful sense of the connection between water, energy, and food. A circular climate system —a biotope, essentially – provides visitors (tourists and business people alike) with an intense sensory experience. The Netherlands is also setting a sustainable example in terms of the building itself. It will be constructed entirely from locally available construction materials, so as to minimize transportation. The interior, too, will feature only rented materials, which will be returned or repurposed at a new destination when the pavilion is dismantled. In this way, its ecological footprint will be minimised.

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The pavilion will seamlessly match the Netherlands’ chosen theme of ‘Uniting water, energy, and food’

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DÉCOR REVIEW

Majestically

Eve! Yours,

Eve Penthouse & Lounge is all about mystique, attitude, and glamour

By Roma Arora Photographs by Ignacio Soto Conde 42 |

January 2019

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E

ve Penthouse & Lounge is strikingly beautiful and brings together the best of contemporary designs and industrial architecture. Sitting on the 34th floor of the Hyatt Regency Dubai Creek Heights, Eve offers unrivalled views of the city. Eve is not set up as a normal lounge venue but more of a personal space, which really sets it apart from the competition. It gives a homey vibe at the same time a feeling of grandeur and opulence. Eve is inspired by a female Gatsby-esque mystique character who loves to party and is a glamorous host as well. This space tells her story in the most spectacular and designer way.

Vipin Khattar, general manager at Eve Penthouse & Lounge, says: “There was a lot of attention placed on the details of the design: from the quirky wallpaper, velvet sofas in purple, mosaics tiles, gold bathroom, artworks and photographed framed on the walls, to several types of marble, wood, and brass accents used throughout the space for a creating a luxe yet playful environment.�

Eve looks like a royal penthouse inspired by the art deco and mid-century modern era. Ceebo Shah and Khalid Sharan from the Dubai-based interior design firm Creative Clinic did a splendourful job in creating this dreamy place.

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DÉCOR REVIEW

In the living room, the padded walls and a fireplace provide a soothing ambience

Bar area is decked up in gold and glamour

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January 2019

The casual outdoor setting offers magnificient views of the city

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Vipin Khattar, general manager

One of the best things about this place is the way it has been split into several sections like there's a living room with a fireplace, pool table, padded walls and a majestic chandelier, a dining room style bar area with mirrored ceilings and antique brass mirrors and brick walls give a chic industrial look; and an indoor and outdoor garden area with relaxed seating arrangement.

There’s one area for every mood!: “Working with a space like this, you always need to take into account that the venue will not always be full, and how to maintain the flow and energy when this happens. The idea was to combine the space into one cohesive venue, but split it into zones, just like

The idea was to combine the space into one cohesive venue, but split it into zones, just like home.

– Vipin Khattar

home. Up to 169 guests can revel in the enticing atmospheres of three remarkable areas, each possessing its own distinct aura, yet all blending seamlessly into one another. We created smaller enclaves and each zone could be curtained off if needed,” adds Khattar.

So, how about an evening at Eve?

THE EXOTIC MENU

Clearly, one of the hidden treasures in old Dubai, Eve offers traditional as well contemporary food options. Whether it’s warm salmon ceviche in sweet potato purée; Dakgangjeong, a deep-fried chicken in sweet spicy; charcoal vada pao; steamed chicken dumplings; and tacos baja are a few must-try dishes. Pair your meal with an amazing line-up of mocktails; you can also raise a toast to classic bloody marys and vintage martinis to an enviable grape collection, there’s a lot to choose from!

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COVER THE CITY

Unlocking the Power of Digital Signage Advertising

WITH YOUR ADS

Visit www.lifeonscreen.com

TRENDS

future

Rethinking the

of cities!

James Marvin Skaines, director at PNC Architects, pens down the trends that will define the future of buildings

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3D Printing Though 3D printers are a relatively new technology, it is now progressing as a faster, more sustainable alternative to traditional methods of construction with a growing number of projects. The technology involves using building-sized printers that inject layers of material such as cement onto a digitally marked framework to form the exterior and interior walls and roof. Additives to the cement help it solidify far faster, and the entire construction process can be completed in days instead of months, reducing waste material by up to 30%. Thus, offering a faster, more cost-effective way to construct buildings With a global skills shortage in construction, 3D-printing could revolutionise the industry – not only by reducing the number of people on-site, but by increasing productivity as work can continue outside of typical hours.

James Marvin Skaines

Passive technology Passive technology is the maximised use of natural sources of heating, cooling, and ventilation to create comfortable conditions inside the buildings. It controls environmental conditions such as solar radiation, cool night air, and air pressure differences to drive the internal environment. Passive design technology does not involve mechanical or electrical systems and shall create buildings that consume less energy. The key to designing a passive building is by taking advantage of the local climate (micro-climate) and therefore, climate characteristics and classification can help in identifying approaches from site planning and initial analysis. Climate and comfort are the two fundamental measures in passive design that require attention. Passive design is a major part of the environmental design and approaches utilising several techniques and strategies that can be employed to the buildings in all types of climates around the world such as orientation, ventilation, shading devices, thermal mass, insulation, daylighting, and so on.

In simple terms, a shallow building orientated perpendicular to the prevailing wind with openings on both sides will allow sunlight to penetrate into the middle of the building and will enable cross ventilation. This should reduce the need for artificial lighting and may mean that cooling systems and mechanical ventilation are not necessary. In taller buildings,

stack ventilation can be used to draw fresh air through a building, and in deeper buildings atriums or courtyards can be introduced to allow light into the centre of the floor plan.

The smart home and Internet of Things (IoT)

the

Technology escalates our living standards from automation, lighting control, whole home AV, home security, automatic home appliances to creating the perfect atmosphere. Smart Homes and IoT mutate directly our living standards— features not only provide comfort but redefine a way of living. A smart home allows its owner to be aware of its status and energy efficiency management anytime, anywhere.

Urban farming—hydroponic garden Food security and healthy living could be a potential factor for a trend towards urban farming and residential hydroponic gardening. In addition to providing some varieties of vegetables and herbs in an urban home, hydroponic gardening and even small natural soil terrace garden can add an ambience of greenery and warmth to the urban home. Architecture today with very little effort and cost can respond to a need for food security by converting internal walls into hydroponic green walls and open terraces into herb and vegetable gardens.

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TRENDS

Moving home closer to work Architects and planners must look into practice to respond to social progress. One major social issue needing addressing is the proximity distance between the major workforce in most of our cities and where this workforce lives. Many workers clog the highways with one and two hour commutes to and from work and home. Besides the impact of pollution on our environment, the toll on the worker and family life is immense.

A clear trend responding to this work/home displacement to design and build residential buildings within office zones and on the edges of industrial zones is crucial in urban planning and master planning. The savings in infrastructure cost alone could easily offset the development cost to this trend.

Pedestrian cities are the cities of the future Cities of today are characterised by wide roads, parking lots of the size of football stadiums, and more. As we embrace this trend, our cultures become more sedentary and rates of obesity and heart disease increase. However, in recent times, people are becoming more conscious of its negative impact and are making efforts to undo decades of urban propaganda. As a result, there

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has been an evident increase in cities striving to become pedestrian friendly. Walking is the simplest, most cost-efficient way to improve a city's economic and environmental viability, and it creates healthier, happier residents. Giving importance to walking can help designers build more inviting streets and allow cities to prioritise their people over cars. Walkable cities are better for the for the environment, people’s overall wellness, and positively impact levels of wealth.

Greening industrial buildings A trend to look for ways to green our environments for aesthetic reasons as well as creating a more sustainable living environment is essential for architecture to respond.

Large industrial buildings in industrial areas are prime areas for this trend response through the simple introduction of a second skin of a lightweight mesh where creepers can climb and eventually, cover dead blank walls with living green walls providing oxygen and removing carbon monoxide from the environment.

Smart homes and Artificial Intelligence (AI) Imagine walking into your home at any time of day and your home automation system

recognises your temperature and heart rate and determines what you need to drink, your refrigerator dispenser then delivers a drink to your great satisfaction. At the same time, your audio system turns on music to suit your mood and your AC and lighting adjusts to manage your body temperature and activity. Advances in AI and home automation are rapidly changing our built environment and this trend will only continue to evolve and change the way we live.

Architecture today must embrace and lead in these advances.

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SHOW REPORT

Trends,

technology and innovation!

The STONE Industry Fair in Poland showcased innovative trends and enthralled the visitors with exciting products

D

esign, architectural, and construction industries are closely interlinked with one common factor and that is the usage of different kinds of stones. From the very outset, STONE Industry Fair has been addressed to everyone, for whom stone constitutes the basis or part of economic activity – stonemasons and representatives of the construction industry, architects, and designers. The fair took place at Poznan Congress Centre in Poland from November 14-17, 2018 and emphasised greatly on coherent cooperation of the stone and architectural industry. The fair events took place in four exhibition halls and were participated by over 220 exhibitors, and the number of professionals who visited the exposition exceeded five thousand.

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SHOW REPORT

The exhibitors presented inspiring expositions from natural stone, specialised equipment for cutting and stone processing, as well as products for cleaning and maintenance of stone surfaces.

Concurrently with the STONE Industry Fair was held the GLASS Industry Fair, with focus on glass elements, which perfectly match stone designs.

Traditionally, the two fair events were the place of presentation of many technological novelties: state-of-the-art machinery and equipment for processing of natural stone.

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There were events developed especially for the professionals from the stone and architectural industry, which aimed at allowing their representatives to establish closer business relations. One of such key events was Arena STONE. Arena STONE is a platform dedicated to professionals from the stone industry, architects, designers and owners of design offices. On the occasion of 2018 edition of the STONE Industry Fair, the platform was held

for the first time, ultimately however it is to become an integral part of the fair, contentrelated, inspiring and allowing for presentation of innovative solutions using stone and glass.

Its program included lectures of the industry experts and presentations of the well-known and recognised around the world designers who use natural stone in their works. Among the lecturers, it is worth mentioning famous Italian designer, Raffaello Galiotto, who held a presentation entitled “MARMO 4.0. Experiments

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The fair is participated by companies extracting and importing the natural stone as well as producers and distributors of stone processing machines and devices

in natural stone�, world-renowned mosaic creator, Giulio Menossi, chief editor of a German industry website www.stone-ideas. com, Peter Becker and, Polish artist creating mosaics, Lubosz Karwat.

All of the presentations attracted great interest of the visitors, which proves that the events addressed to the stone and architectural industry are incredibly necessary on the market and interesting for the professionals from both fields.

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WISH LIST

New beginnings Refreshing ideas to start off your New Year

Regal romance!

Gladiator sofa set has a charming design and is adorned with metal accents. The sturdy frame is wrapped in velvet fabric with deep tufting on the backrest and the seat Availability: Across all the Pan Emirates stores in the UAE

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January 2019

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In full glory!

The President collection from Barovier&Toso is characterised by varying glasswork and original pendant fabrication Availability: Archiade Atelier, Building 3, Dubai Design District

The colour effect SJĂ„LVSTĂ„NDIG lamp shades are a cheerful and playful addition to your living areas Availability: IKEA, Festival City Mall, Dubai

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WISH LIST

Frame it Nendo’s first design for Flos Gaku is a frame (this is the meaning of ‘gaku’ in Japanese) hosting and interacting with lamps and a variety of matching objects, which is conceived as something in between accessories and furniture Availability: BinHendi Enterprises, Rheem Tower, 17th floor, Dubai

Design icon The limited edition Imola chair by BoConcept is introduced in an all-black velvet fabric and a matt black structure lacquered leg Availability: BoConcept, Jumeirah 3, Beach Road, Dubai

Chic meets elegance John Lewis' newest range, Collectors House celebrates modern luxury Availability: Robinsons, Mall of the Emirates

Inspired by details!

The ballerina flower vase is handmade and comes in semigloss lacquer finish Availability: www.in-doi.com

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January 2019

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Take a bow!

The wooden seat is every bit traditional and inspiring Availability: Dwell, Marina Mall, Abu Dhabi

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EVENTS

THE MONTH AHEAD

Trade fair dates for your diary…

EVENT IN FOCUS Heimtextil 2019 January 8-11, 2019 Frankfurt, Germany

It is the biggest international trade fair for home and contract textiles. The first trade fair of the year for its sector, it is a climate and trend barometer for the new business year. Organised by Messe Frankfurt, it’s a great networking place for wholesalers, designers, furniture and bedding stores, interior decorators, interior architects, architects, hotel outfitters and many other decision-makers come to Heimtextil every year in January. In addition to highly promising newcomers, many well-known major exhibitors will also be returning in 2019.

Top Drawer

January 13-15, 2019 London, United Kingdom With exclusive access to the latest trends and an expertly curated selection of over 1,000 design-led lifestyle brands from the UK and abroad, Top Drawer is the perfect source of inspiration to help you create and define your story for the new season. Top Drawer gives the opportunity to maximise profits from a unique mixture of new and established designers and international brands. The event includes five sectors to buy from, including gift, children's stationery and greetings, home and fashion.

IMM 2019

January 14-20, 2019 Cologne, Germany It’s an annual that present the trends that will be shaping the furniture and interiors sector – and the products that are good for business. At the imm cologne, one will find a unique variety of interior design ideas for every room, every style, and every requirement – from the basics all the way to designer items and luxury furnishings. More than 1,450 exhibitors across 55 countries are participating in 2019 show.

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DesignTO

Toronto, Canada January 18-27, 2019 Formerly Toronto Design Offsite Festival, is Canada’s largest cultural celebration of design with over 100 exhibitions and events forming Toronto’s design week. Going into its 9th year, the festival transforms Toronto into a hub for creativity, taking design, and art out of the studio and into the urban sphere, bringing people together to celebrate contemporary culture. The event provides opportunities for emerging talent and engages the community with exceptional and accessible public programming.

www.design-middleeast.com

#leadersinarchitecture

www.archmena.com

8th Annual International Architecture Summit DUBAI, UAE Leaders part of the 2019 edition:

Frank McGoldrik

Global Design Principal, AEDAS

Markus Rutschmann

Branch Director, O B E R M E Y E R PLANEN + BERATEN GmbH

Ignacio Gomez

Design Director Middle East, AEDAS

Jamil Jadallah

CEO, National Engineering Bureau

Marlon van Maastricht

Head of Urban Planning & Landscape Architecture, OBERMEYER PLANEN + BERATEN GmbH

Fadi Jabri

Executive OfďŹ cer, Principal CIS, MENA, India Nikken Sekkei

Sponsors:

Jamal Salem

Steve Woodland

Jonathan French

Middle East Regional Director, DLR Group

Principal Director & Creative Director, The Cox Group

Principal Director & Regional Chair, Middle East, Woods Bagot

Roger Wilson

Sotiris Tsoulos

David Manfredi

Stephan Frantzen

Mustafa Chehabeddine

Managing Director, Perkins+Will

P&T Architects and Engineers Ltd (Dubai Branch), Group Director

Design Director, RMJM Dubai

Design Principal, KPF

Endorsed by:

Director, Design & Consultancy, Parsons Corporations

Richard Fenne

Principal & Studio Chair, Woods Bagot

Angus Robertson

Regional Director Buildings MENA, Stantec

Ian Purser

Director of Architecture, Pace

Joe Tabet

Founder, JT+Partners

Media Partners:

For more information, please visit www.archmena.com or send an e-mail to registration@intlbc.com

PICK OF THE MONTH

Jungle all the way!

Sancal’s Jungla collection has been inspired by nature in its wildest state, its vibrant colours, in its randomness, and in its impossible forms. Designer Rafa García has added a dining chair to the Nido product family and with a design that is as simple as its predecessor. Just like the original lounge chair, a nest, serving as a refuge and protection for a large number of species has been the inspiration. The seat or ‘nest’ is supported by a handcrafted ash wood frame or metal feet in a black-matte finish.

The upper part provides ‘branches’ into which the comfortable seat is fixed.

The chair’s versatility can be found in the feet options: two ash wood types (available in 19 different colours), a metal version in a black epoxy finish or a swivel and heightadjustable variant.

Availability: Designitch, Warehouse #12, Street 24A, Al Quoz Industrial 1, Dubai, UAE

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Great starts, make great stories.

Complete business solutions.

Our business is trust.

CONNECT AIR When lightness designs space

Connect Air is designed by award winner designer Robin Levien to be stylish and efficient at the same time. Its thin rims and curved lines create a light and airy environment. The revolutionary Aquabladeâ„¢ flushing technology and the plethora of ceramic, furniture and bathtub solutions provide an innovative, relaxing and enjoyable space. Its wide selection of combinations and sizes give you the possibility to be modern and express yourself. Connect your desires, lighten up your home!

QATAR: MOHAMMED YOUSUF KAFOOD & SONS Doha +974 4 463 7777 www.kafood.com IRAQ: AL TAIBOON GROUP Baghdad +964 7 901 364026 www.altaiboon.com

KUWAIT: ALSHAYA TRADING Co. W.L.L. Kuwait +965 2 266 0900 www.alshayatrading.com LEBANON: ETS. ABDULRAHIM DIAB S.A.L. Beirut-Unesco +961 0 186 8146/7 Beirut-Jdeideh +961 0 125 4294/5/6 www.abdulrahimdiab.com SALAMEH CERAMICA Beirut +961 1 852 285 / +961 1 851 385 www.salamehceramica.com

SAUDI ARABIA: AL-GHAMDI CO. FOR SANITARY WARES Riyadh +966 11 4646279 Jeddah +966 12 6696263 Dammam +966 13 8340248 www.amghamdi.com BAHRAIN: MARMARA TRADING Co. Bahrain +973 1773 7735 www.marmaratrading.com

IDEAL STANDARD GULF FZCO Jebel Ali, Dubai, P.O. Box 261559, United Arab Emirates, Tel. +971 4 804 2400, www.idealstandardgulf.com IDEAL STANDARD DESIGN BATHROOM CENTRE Jabal Ali Bldg., Al Quoz 3, Sheikh Zayed Rd., Dubai, P.O. Box 38430, United Arab Emirates, Tel. +971 4 309 6000

OMAN: MAIN DISTRIBUTOR BAHWAN BUILDING MATERIALS LLC Muscat +968 2 465 0000 www.suhailbahwangroup.com DISTRIBUTOR ALSHAYA UNITED LLC Muscat +968 2 461 9681/3/4 www.alshayatrading.com

UAE: SULTACO Dubai +971 4 338 5929 Abu Dhabi +971 2 633 4425 Al Ain +971 3 763 1609 Sharjah +971 6 575 9878 www.sultaco.com JORDAN: AL MUNA Co. Amman +962 6 554 8851 www.al-munaco.com

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