Design Middle East April 2020

UNDERSTANDING THE DESIGNS AND CREATIVITY OF BEIRUTBASED STUDIO BORGI | BASTORMAGI

E-CREATIVITY FROM HOME Here's how some leading companies in the region are remotely engaging people with their e-learning sessions, online events, virtual art tours, and webinars during this challenging time

www.design-middleeast.com

April 2020

Exploring

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

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

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

Visit bauporte.com and get inspired!

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

Contents A PR IL 2020

28 12 IN THIS ISSUE‌ 28 Cover Story

How leading companies are using online platform to learn and engage amid COVID-19 outbreak

20

20

Profile

22

Talking Point

36

Focus

Exploring the journey and creations of Beirut-based design studio Borgi | Bastormagi

Finding out more about the new luxury home and lifestyle brand by Japanese designer Kenzo Takada

Chris Graham, consulting partner, ESRAR Real Estate Consultancy, on how the branded residential living will have a significant role to play in the real estate market

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Contents A PR IL 2020

38

REGULARS 5

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April 2020

Editor’s Note

12 Newsmakers 38 Pick of the Month

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

preciosalighting.com

Give good hygiene a hand The fastest most energy efficient HEPA-filtered hand dryer1

User friendly Tested to withstand real washroom scenarios, the durable design uses ‘time of flight’ sensors that accurately detect hands in 0.25 seconds to activate air and reduce waiting time.

It is also our quietest Airblade to date.2

HEPA filter Fleece-lined glass fiber HEPA filter captures 99.95% of particles,6 including bacteria and viruses, from the washroom air.

10 second dry time7 Ergonomic drying angle and Curved Blade™ design follow the curves of your hands to remove water quickly, for fast, comfortable hand drying.

1

Dry time and energy consumption calculated for Max mode.

Dry time was determined using Dyson test method 769 based on NSF P335 to a measurement of 0.1g residual moisture.

2

Average loudness (measured in sones) compared to Dyson Airblade™ hand dryers.

3

Compared with other Dyson airblade models.

4

Measured in Eco mode.

5

Average electricity price US$ 0.1/kWh for the US market, as of May 2019. For calculations visit www.dyson.ae/calcs.

6

HEPA filter tested to EN1822-5, by an independent testing laboratory, under prescribed test conditions.

7

Dry time determined for Max mode using Dyson test method 769 based on NSF P335 to a measurement of 0.1g residual moisture.

Sustainable design Straight line configuration allows for simpler air flow paths, meaning less energy consumption3. And efficient aerodynamics means the Dyson digital motor draws up to 87% less energy 4 than a warm air hand dryer.

Lowering costs to just $19/ year to run in Eco mode.5

Dyson digital motor V4 Using digital pulse technology, the Dyson digital motor V4 spins up to 75,000 times a minute in Max mode.

Find out more 04 350 7877 dysonprofessionalmea@dyson.com www.Dyson.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

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

Editor Roma Arora roma@ bncpublishing.net

Art director Aaron Sutton aaron@bncpublishing.net

Marketing Executive

Welcome Honestly, none of us has ever experienced what is happening around us right now. It's scary, crazy, and everything beyond my thinking.

COVID-19 has jolted and shaken our world, our environment, our power. What I have realised amid all this madness is that how it's important to slow down, think, and count your blessings for this amazing life. It's fragile and amazing. Spend time with your family and make memories. A big shout-out to all the health workers, supermarket workers, delivery persons, first responders, truck drivers, and other essential workers for keeping us safe and sound.

Thank you all!

In our April issue, the cover story is about how the virtual platform is becoming a new norm to learn, educate, and do the business.

Leading companies share their online activities and how they're keeping the momentum going at this challenging time. Moving on, we are also exploring the design sensibilities of Beirut-based design studio Borgi | Bastormagi in this edition. Headed by Nada and Etienne, studio's new collection called ‘Shaping 90’ reflect their interest in challenging gravity and redefining balance. Plus, there are other exciting reads and latest happenings in the design industry.

As my father always says, 'This too shall pass' #StaySafe #StayHome

Roma Arora

Aaron Joshua aj@bncpublishing.net

Digital Media Producer Ahmad Khader ahmad@bncpublishing.net

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

jo@bncpublishing.net

T +971 504402706 All rights reserved © 2019.

Opinions expressed are solely those of the contributors.

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

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

Images used in Design Middle East are credited when necessary.

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

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

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April 2020

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Newsmakers

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Dubai Chamber urges private sector to implement remote working for employees’ safety, business continuity

In a video message to the private sector, Hamad Buamim, President and CEO, Dubai Chamber of Commerce and Industry, called on Dubai’s business community to cooperate with the relevant government authorities in implementing preventive and precautionary measures to counter the spread of COVID-19.

He urged the private sector to ensure the safety and health of its employees by asking them to stay at home and work remotely.

In his message to the business community, Buamim announced

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the launch of the campaign, “Be Safe. Work Smart”, in light of the UAE Government’s appeal to its citizens and residents to stay at home to help fight the spread of COVID-19 and the launch of the #stayhome movement.

Buamim also highlighted the important role that the business community can play in supporting the efforts and measures put in place by the government to keep the society and private sector safe, to act with responsibility and professionalism to protect employees and to ensure business continuity.

The campaign is an invitation to the private sector to support ongoing government efforts and to lead by example by adhering to the guidelines and directives issued by the relevant authorities.

Dubai Chamber has already implemented a remote work plan, in coordination with relevant authorities. The regularity of daily operations and services has been taken into account, anticipating any difficulties that may affect the functioning of business operations.

Employees have been provided with the latest

technologies, and solutions to all barriers have been identified, in order to maintain business continuity.

The smart services provided by the chamber include certificates of origin, attestations, membership services, studies, research and reports, business and legal services, issuance of ATA Carnet, Dubai Chamber’s CSR Label, and Business Groups and Councils groups services, in addition to the services available to economic and professional bodies.

The smart services provided by Dubai Chamber when it comes to membership include the issuance, renewal, and amendment of membership. For ATA Carnet, members can access services concerning issuance, renewal as well as replacement.

The chamber’s smart legal service provides legal representation and information, while members can get ratification of signatures, copies and stamps through the smart attestation services.

Business Groups and Councils can benefit from the authorisation and renewal of permits, while those looking for information and business intelligence on various parameters can access case studies and research reports.

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NEWSMAKERS

Expo 2020 likely to postpone by one year due to COVID-19 Expo 2020 Dubai has convened a second virtual meeting of its steering committee, with representatives of the countries taking part in the event, as part of ongoing consultations that the impact of COVID-19 will have on global preparations of Expo 2020 Dubai.

Participating countries briefed the steering committee on the global precautionary measures that have to be taken to ensure the health and safety of all those involved in the preparation of this mega event.

The steering committee reviewed with grave concern the major impact that the spread of COVID-19 is having on global public, social, and economic health. The members reaffirmed their solidarity with the international community as it navigates through the ramifications that have resulted from this unprecedented global crisis.

Expo 2020 Organisers re-affirmed the United Arab Emirates commitment to working hand in hand with its international partners to deliver a World Expo which holds true to its founding purpose: providing an inclusive global platform to address shared challenges and seek solutions in the spirit of international cooperation and global solidarity. The global platform that Expo 2020 will provide will be needed more than ever.

The committee collectively agreed to explore with the BIE, the World Expo governing body, the possibility of a one year delay to the opening of Expo 2020.

The Bureau International des Expositions (BIE), will now work with its Member States and Expo 2020 Dubai organisers to establish a change in dates. A final decision on postponement can only be made by the BIE’s Executive Committee and the General Assembly. Article 28

Expo 2020 organisers will continue to assess the situation and consult closely with all stakeholders in Dubai, the UAE, and internationally

of the BIE Convention stipulates that a change of dates requires a two-thirds majority vote from the Member States of the Organisation.

Elaborating on the decision, Her Excellency Reem Al Hashimy, UAE Minister of State for International Cooperation and Director General, Expo 2020 Dubai, said: “The global situation is fast-moving, and remains unpredictable.

Over the last several weeks, we have been consulting with key UAE and international stakeholders to review the ongoing impact of COVID-19 on our plans and preparations for Expo 2020 Dubai.

“While they remain firmly committed to Expo 2020, many countries have been significantly impacted by COVID-19 and they have therefore expressed a need to postpone the opening of Expo 2020 Dubai by one year, to enable them to overcome this challenge. The UAE and Expo 2020 Dubai have listened. And in the spirit of solidarity and unity, we supported the proposal to explore a oneyear postponement at today’s Steering Committee meeting. We look forward to welcoming the world, which we are certain will only come out of this pressing challenge stronger, and more resilient than it ever was.”

“We will follow due to BIE processes on making the decision to delay Expo 2020. We remain firm in our collective commitment to deliver an Expo that’s true to its time and to our shared, urgent priorities. We believe that in light of this global challenge, humanity needs to come together to remember what unites us. That remains the collective ambition of all those involved in this Expo,” she added.

Dimitri S. Kerkentzes, secretary general of the Bureau International des Expositions (BIE), welcomed the Expo 2020 organisers’ approach and the Steering Committee’s recommendations. He said: “The World is facing extraordinary and unprecedented circumstances and we all expect the challenges to continue in the months to come. Today’s agreement by the organiser and the members of Expo 2020 Dubai’s Steering Committee to explore options for a one-year delay to the opening of the World Expo is welcome. In the spirit and in accordance with the Paris Convention of 1928, any decision on the World Expo needs to be collaborative. and agreed upon collectively in a vote of the countries that form the BIE. We will move forward in supervising the process to follow in accordance with the rules

and regulations of the BIE convention.”

“I am confident that we will collectively overcome the challenges caused by this global crisis. The UAE’s decision to support a one-year postponement demonstrates pragmatism, openness, and commitment to delivering an Expo that lives up to our shared ambition. We retain full confidence in the UAE’s ability to host a World Expo that inspires and delights millions when the time is right.”

Pyung-oh Kwon, President and CEO of the Korea Trade-Investment Promotion Agency (KOTRA) and Commissioner General of the Republic of Korea at Expo 2020 Dubai, said: “It was heartening to see all the participants of Expo 2020 coming together with a strong message of solidarity and support. World Expos are a place where the world comes together to showcase the best of humanity, and at what is a difficult time in many places, it is more important than ever that this Expo comes to life in the best possible way and at an appropriate time. We are thankful for the proactive approach of the organisers and their full support.”

Erik Linquier, Commissioner General of France at Expo 2020 Dubai, said: “We applaud the Expo 2020 organisers and the UAE for their openness, dynamic engagement, and support to participants in these extraordinary circumstances we are all facing. Gathering humanity in one place to celebrate all the things that unite us is something that will be more necessary than ever once this pandemic passes. We remain fully committed to playing our part in making this a truly memorable World Expo that can be experienced and enjoyed by anyone, and so we fully agree with today’s collective decision to explore the best options for our Expo family.”

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NEWSMAKERS

Video Doorbell 3, Chime and Chime Pro will be available for purchase in June 2020, from Amazon.ae, Jumbo, Sharaf DG, and Virgin Megastore

Ring introduces next-generation battery-powered video doorbells Ring, whose mission is to make neighbourhoods safer, unveiled its new, next-generation Video Doorbell, Ring Video Doorbell 3. With improved motion detection and enhanced dual-band wifi, alongside the features Ring users know, love and trust, including a 1080p HD camera and two-way talk, Ring Video Doorbell 3 is the latest addition to Ring’s Video Doorbell lineup. Ring also announced the redesigned Ring Chime and Chime Pro for users who want to hear their Ring notifications inside their homes. All three new devices will be available for purchase in June. “At Ring, we are continuously pushing the boundaries on bringing the most innovative devices and features to our customers,” said Jamie Siminoff, Ring’s founder and Chief Inventor. “Now, with near zone, users can receive the alerts they care most about. With Ring Video Doorbell 3 and the all-new Chime and Chime Pro, we’re excited to continue bringing customers even more choice when it comes to

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their home security options while keeping user privacy and control front and centre.”

Next generation video doorbell Ring Video Doorbell 3 builds upon the great features of the Ring Video Doorbell 2 to now also include a new, adjustable motion zone, called near zone, that can detect motion within five to 15 feet of the front door, as well as enhanced dual-band 2.4Ghz/5Ghz wifi for improved connectivity. With Alexa compatibility, users can simply say, “Alexa, show me the front door,” to see their Ring Video Doorbell 3’s Live View or say, “Alexa, answer the front door,” to begin speaking with whoever is at their door. And with Linked Devices, available across all Ring products, users can link their doorbell to compatible Ring Cams to create an integrated, whole-home security system.

Hear alerts loud and clear The newly designed Ring

Chime

and

Chime Pro provide customers with audible notifications throughout their homes; and Chime Pro includes a built-in nightlight, as well as a wifi extender to improve and expand wifi connectivity across users’ Ring Doorbells and Cams. Both new Chime devices are compatible with all Ring Doorbells and Cams and provide real-time audio notifications when a Ring device detects motion, or when someone rings the doorbell, ensuring users never miss a moment.

Home security you can control Privacy, security, and control are foundational to Ring. Ring Video Doorbell 3 includes Privacy Zones, which allow users to exclude areas of the camera field of view from the video recording.

Similar to all of Ring’s Doorbells and Cams, Ring Video Doorbell 3 features toggles that allow users to turn off video or audio recording for an extra layer of privacy, at any time.

www.design-middleeast.com

NEWSMAKERS

Sanjay Puri Architects gives a fragmented and organic layout to an Indian school

CallisonRTKL to create a Happiness Index to measure livability of buildings Companies will soon be able to test and benchmark their offices, with CRTKL planning to launch the new index in the coming months

The school derives its character from the organic old cities, with an informal layout, interspersed open and enclosed volumes

Mumbai-based Sanjay Puri Architects has created an amazing school based on the concept of openness and sustainability.

Imbibing the organic character of Indian villages and old cities, the Rajasthan School in Nagaur is a low rise three-level school with open, enclosed and semi-enclosed spaces of various volumes.

Taking cognisance of the desert climate of its location with temperatures in excess of 35°C for most of the year, each of the classrooms is north oriented to derive indirect sunlight.

The auditorium, primary school, and administration space occupy the Southern side of the plot opening into a large sheltered open area towards the north beyond which the secondary school classrooms, library and cafeteria are located.

The semi-sheltered courtyard has multiple angular pathways, connecting the two parts of the school with landscaped play spaces that foster engagement.

Traversed by a series of linear trapezoidal frames and sun-

breakers, this focal area has a constantly changing shadow pattern depending on the sun’s direction throughout the day. The layout is intentionally fragmented allowing open landscaped spaces to be interspersed with the school’s learning spaces.

The entire school opens towards a multi-purpose playground and athletics track on the Northern side.

The entire circulation is through open naturally ventilated corridors traversing and skirting the focal semi-sheltered landscaped court in the centre. Angled vertical walls act as sun breakers to reduce heat gain from the East, West and, South sides generating cooler internal spaces.

Entrance view The complete electrical power requirement is generated by the residual energy. The complete electrical power requirement is generated by the residual energy of a cement plant nearby. In addition, the entire water is recycled and reused. The building by its design is thus extremely energy-efficient.

As governments in the MENA region are focussing on developing citizen well-being, happiness is becoming a new currency recognised by regional entities across all industries and sectors including the creative industry from design to architecture. CallisonRTKL (CRTKL), a global consultancy specialised in architecture, design and technology, are creating a “Happiness Index” in partnership with culture coaching company DH Global, and leading Egyptian developer DMG Mountain View.

In light of recent global events, the world is experiencing landslide disruptions across economies, with travel and leisure proving to be particularly vulnerable. More people have also been working remotely or from home, and now more than ever the ‘happiness’ of society has become critical, with regional governments taking action to support business, ensuring citizen-well-being remains at the heart of building strong communities.

The index aims to measure and sustain happiness. As part of the collaboration, CRTKL is working together on a pilot project in Egypt with Mountain View’s ‘Happy HQ’ being used as a case study for happiness design principles in action.

"We are committed to improving the lives of all. We perpetually seek out innovative design-led answers that enhance the quality of life for citizens. To do this, we focus on the challenges each one of us faces in our daily lives, and through the application and adoption of emerging urban technologies as well as life centred design thinking we deliver solutions that enhance the happiness and wellbeing for all,” said Matthew Tribe, executive director at CRTKL. The Happiness Index is a data-driven process, which benchmarks staff happiness in the workplace and outlines pathways for better place-based and culture-based performance. The project creates a comprehensive measurement by which buildings can be judged and guided by the index.

Tribe added: “We are highlighting the fundamental truths which guide employee happiness, and are outlining hundreds of pursuits, or actions, which can be taken to satisfy these. The index operates with the main objectives of designing places, developing people, and defining culture.”

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NEWSMAKERS

Recipes are cooked to perfection through the addition of a multicore temperature probe to both the 400 and 200 series

Gaggenau launches new generation combi-steam ovens Gaggenau reveals the new and technologically advanced combi-steam ovens in its 400 and 200 series. The brand brought the first combi-steam oven into the private kitchen in 1999, creating the ideal conditions for steam cooking – a unique combination of using humidity with hot air to deliver health-conscious cuisine. Fifteen years later Gaggenau launched another pathbreaking innovation with its fully automatic cleaning system, completely dispensing the tiresome chore of manually cleaning the oven.

Adding to the ovens with fixed water connection, Gaggenau now brings the automatic cleaning system to tank models in the 400 series as well as for the ovens 200 series with a fixed water connection. By simply using a cleaning cartridge the ovens’ water supply effortlessly descales and removes any heavy soiling from the cavity interior. The innovative cleaning system is able to clean the entire oven with unrivalled hygiene, leaving it effortlessly pristine in less

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than four hours. With the introduction of a fixed inlet and outlet water connection to the combisteam ovens 200 series, both series now offer fixed water connection and water tank options.

The combi-steam ovens with a fixed water connection allow users maximum ease of use, through the ability to prepare cuisine in a carefree way. The introduction of fixed water connections in both series ensures that freshwater is constantly available – a vital feature when cooking for long periods of time using the ovens’ sous-vide functionality. The combi-steam ovens with water tanks offer versatile convenience – the tanks are easier to access and are equipped with intelligent sensors which alert the user to the needs of the tanks, whether this is freshwater running low or the wastewater tank requiring to be emptied.

The new combi-steam ovens also work perfectly in parallel with Gaggenau’s vacuuming drawer, creating perfect conditions for preparing food for gentle yet outstanding sous-vide results.

The temperature probe offers the most accurate temperature reading on the market, with a variance of one degree within a certain range.

The probe features three temperature sensors and continually revises the estimated cooking time based on the sensors readings, ensuring that high-quality results are achieved during each use.

Managing Director of Global Brand Gaggenau, Dr Peter Goetz, comments: “Two decades of refinement and innovation has brought us to our new combi-steam ovens 400 and 200 series.

Our technological leadership has enabled us to create an appliance which offers perfect cooking results without restrictions while adding to the aesthetic of the kitchen. We believe that having the ability to cook like a professional is a statement of luxury that those who find enjoyment in culinary require. As the leaders of innovation, we look forward to continuing as the pioneers in both steam cooking technology and healthy food preparation.”

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NEWSMAKERS

Armstrong launches new colour guide for the spring season Armstrong Ceiling Solutions continues to create exciting, vibrant spaces in the Middle East with the release of their new commercial guides for both coloured and black ceiling solutions.

Committed to designing human-centric spaces, Armstrong Ceiling Solutions enhances the customer experience by offering highquality, engineered solutions in a multitude of colours and materials including mineral, metal, mesh, floating ceilings, and suspension systems.

The guide recommends using light-coloured ceilings to achieve bright and social retail, reception and restaurant spaces and using dark

hues or black ceilings to encourage contrast for cinemas, lounges and concert spaces.

This includes black ceiling solutions as a timeless, easy-to-maintain option that creates a sophisticated and intimate atmosphere for contemporary spaces.

As the need for increased wellness in spaces grows, colour can play an essential role in determining the design and personality of a space, which directly affects occupant mood and productivity. According to digital marketing experts, WebFX, 84.7% of people say that colour is the primary reason they buy a product.

Michelle Nicholl, marketing & digital communications manager at Armstrong Ceiling Solutions commented: “Our product range is very versatile, offering huge diversity in design and tones.

Our coloured ceiling solutions can also be adapted to meet the acoustic demands of any space. We believe that this offering will enable us to provide our customers with more flexibility than ever before.�

With the release of the new guides, Armstrong Ceiling Solutions delivers functional, sustainable and colourful solutions across the EMEA region for diverse commercial sectors including leisure & hospitality, education, healthcare, office and retail.

Each guide provides in-depth insight and detailed recommendations on the use of vibrant ceilings, fit for the purpose of any project

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NEWSMAKERS

Sobha Realty launches Al Ola Residences in Creek Vistas Reservé Tower The tower features multiple amenities such as a gym, dedicated swimming pools and pool decks for adults and children, yoga and meditation zones, lawns, play courts, and a barbecue area

Jyotsna Hedge

Sobha Realty announced the launch of its Creek Vistas Reservé Tower, the latest project in Sobha Hartland, the eight-million square feet luxury freehold master development situated in Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum City in Dubai.

The launch follows the high uptake for residential units in the previous Creek Vistas towers by Emirati nationals and Arab buyers seeking well-developed and strategically located homes that offer panoramic views and are close to the city’s top attractions and shopping centres. The towers present an appealing investment opportunity for Emirati buyers, who accounted for 35 per cent of all investors in Creek Vistas towers. In a unique gesture of appreciation, Sobha Realty has named the top three floors of the G+3P+33 tower Al Ola Residences. Al Ola means ‘high rise’ in Arabic.

Jyotsna Hegde, president of Sobha Realty, said: “Sobha Hartland has proven to be very successful in drawing the strong interest of Emirati, Arab

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and international buyers. Our strategically located projects, including the new Creek Vistas Reservé Tower, reflect Sobha Realty’s unique and intuitive design philosophy and embody our purpose of redefining the art of living while setting new benchmarks in quality and luxury.

At Sobha Realty, the living experience is taken into close consideration in every element of the design and execution, to ensure superior levels of comfort and convenience for our residents.”

The 33-level tower offers panoramic views of Downtown Dubai and the Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary. The residential tower comprises 330 one-bedroom units ranging from 487 Sobha Realty Launches Al Ola Residences in New Creek Vistas Reservé Towersq ft to 558 sq ft across four different configurations and two-bedroom units ranging from 800 sq ft to 937 sq ft across two different configurations.

Underscoring Sobha Realty’s vision of luxury living, the design of the modern and aesthetically pleasing layouts across the units ensure both privacy

and comfort. The eco-friendly design also boasts sustainability elements, such as long-lasting light fixtures, energy-saving chiller technologies, solar panelling, natural stone cladding, recycled rubber insulation, and water-saving plumbing fixtures.

The Sobha Hartland development consists of upscale apartments, premium villas and highend townhouses, including Creek Vistas, One Park Avenue, Garden Houses, Canal Villas, Gardenia Villas and Forest Villas. With 30 per cent of the land dedicated to greenery, Sobha Hartland offers a lush green haven in the heart of the city. The master development is set for completion in 2025.

Scheduled for handover in March 2023, Creek Vistas Reservé will offer a unique concept in urban living through an attractive design, high-end fittings and amenities and a strategic location. With prices starting from AED876,000, Emirati and GCC nationals can benefit from a number of offers including instalments of AED5,999 every month.

www.design-middleeast.com

NEWSMAKERS

Hormann launches fast doors suitable for high temperature changes

An important feature of the door is the air curtain that ensures the flow of air from the warm side of the opening, to enable a reduction in humidity in case there is ice formation

Hormann’s new Iso Speed Cold 100 door is the optimum solution for all areas with hightemperature differences, thanks to its heated panels and special seals between the building structure and the ground. It is perfect for use as a high-speed door in cold-storage halls or to save energy in production and distribution areas.

It can insulate refrigerated or cold store areas even if the temperature is down to –28 °C. This low maintenance springless door has a depth of 100 mm and a stucco-textured surface on the interior and exterior, with a Grey white base on RAL 9002, which can be changed to almost 200 different colour bases.

The double-skinned door leaf is foam-filled with CFC free polyurethane (PU) rigid foam, therefore giving it exceptionally high strength and making it possible to attain the highest thermal values in conjunction with an all-round sealing frame.

Darius Khanloo, managing director, Hormann Middle East & Africa, says: “The Iso Speed Cold 100 door is characterised by its high thermal insulation and fast opening speed. The door with its 100-mm-thick sections with thermal break offers excellent insulation of up to 0.57 W/ (m²·K). This is perfect for all cold storage areas.

We work very closely with companies that have cold storage requirements and this door is a result of our interaction with our clients and listening to their needs.”

The standard Iso Speed Cold 100 is equipped with the ‘Hormann Smartcontrol’, which helps to monitor and analyse the functions of the door and collect all information related to it such as error messages, and door travel, in an online portal. The information is then used by Hormann team for fast and simple troubleshooting, thus minimising costs of on-site service visits.

This quiet door has a maximum width and height of 5000 mm and it is resistant to water penetration and wind load. Iso Speed Cold 100 doors use sturdy flat belts to guarantee 500,000 cycles, making them cost-effective.

Another stand out feature of the door is the 3D laser scanner for monitoring motion that ensures that the door automatically opens and closes when a moving object is detected. The door opens when it detects a vehicle moving towards the door and closes when a vehicle moves away from the door.

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PROFILE

Nada Borgi and Etienne Bastormagi

URBAN INSPIRED

Exploring the journey and designs of Beirut-based Borgi | Bastormagi

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April 2020

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PROFILE

Pivot S mirrors

Beirut-based design studio Borgi | Bastormagi is headed by Nada Borgi and Etienne Bastormagi as they share many interests and a matching professional journey. Trained as architects and urban planners, they both worked in large practices before establishing their own individual architecture studios.

Borgi | Bastormagi was founded in 2017, when Nada and Etienne were invited to participate in Milan’s Fuori Salone with their [me]rror project, an installation designed to reflect fragmented body parts. Both Nada and Etienne live and work in Beirut, drawing inspiration from their surroundings and daily lives. Fusing tradition with modernity, their designs are influenced by everyone’s attempt to find moments of balance and harmony amidst the chaos of the city.

In their free time, they used to spend long hours in cafes drawing in their sketchbooks. Drawing nights eventually became more focussed on product design. Etienne’s artistic background and Nada’s interest in designing through narratives drafted the vision of Borgi | Bastormagi.

Their creations hold an urban dimension, while putting the user at the centre of the design - they aim to question the relationship between body and space, suggesting different behavioural patterns and offering playful experiences that defeat gravity and equilibrium. The choice of materials is based on Borgi | Bastormagi’s inclination for minimalistic forms and techniques.

Recent projects include a three-piece furniture collection named Hyphens which was showcased at Maison & Objet in Paris in September 2019, and a range of objects designed for the Sursock Museum Store in Beirut. At IMM Cologne 2019, Nada and Etienne presented Beirutitude: Design & Architecture in Revolutionary Times, a talk exploring design processes in Beirut’s current political landscape.

Nada and Etienne’s new collection called ‘Shaping 90’ reflects their interest in challenging gravity and redefining balance. With Shaping 90 the design duo re-thinks the corner by proposing three multifunctional pieces for daily use – the Fillet shelving unit, the Pivot series of mirrors and the Bevel light.

The urban landscape is a key source of inspiration for the studio. With their latest designs, Borgi|Bastormagi explore corner conditions and guidelines in the urban realm applying similar processes to their pieces.

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TALKING POINT

JAPANESE DESIGNER KENZO TAKADA LAUNCHES HIS NEW HOME AND LIFESTYLE BRAND K三 Know all about this exciting brand

(L-R) Engelbert Honorat , kenzo Takada, and Jonathan Bouchet Manheim

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TALKING POINT

K三, pronounced ‘K-3’, is a new luxury home and lifestyle brand founded by world-renowned Japanese designer Kenzo Takada.

The K三 collection was unveiled on January 17, 2020, in Paris at Maison & Objet, the leading home decor fair connecting the international interior design and lifestyle community.

To celebrate this launch, Kenzo Takada has also opened the first K三 showroom, at 242 Boulevard Saint-Germain, 75007 Paris on the same day, as part of the Paris Deco Home circuit.

K三 is a colourful ode to life; with the support of his team, the French at heart Japanese designer has conceptualised an extensive, yet meticulously

curated collection, including chairs, sofas, tables, rugs, bed linens, home textiles and accessories. To help bring his extraordinary vision to life, the designer enlisted the know-how of leading Italian heritage brands, including luxury bed linen brand SFERRA. This vision has been inspired by Eastern and Western aesthetics with a modern twist.

Therefore, as part of the brand’s visual identity, most pieces bear a kintsugi mark, a tribute to the Japanese savoir-faire.

The Japanese designer expertly weaves together the organic and geometric forms and patterns. Within this collection, Takada has fashioned together three underlying themes:

Sakura, Maiko, and Shogun.

Inspired by nature, the Sakura theme creates an overall feeling of harmony and tranquilllity with intricate floral motifs. The oneiric theme boasts hints of gold with a subtle pastel palette of pink and yellow.

With vibrant reds and pinks, illuminated with touches of gold, Maiko blends geometric lines and organic shapes. This theme echoes the delicate and refined spirit of the Maikos; these young Geishas in the making are renowned for their kimonos, and their delicate red and white makeup.

Shogun powerfully evokes solemnity, with dramatic black and ivory monochromes. This

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TALKING POINT

Sakura theme

graphic and geometric theme brings a sharp flair to interiors, whilst encapsulating modernity and sophisticated elegance.

Featuring a myriad of vivid colours and bold patterns, Takada’s designs are reflective of his joyful creative universe.

For this new venture, Takada is serving as the artistic director and has enlisted a vast team of experts to work alongside him. Jonathan Bouchet Manheim has been Takada’s managing partner since 2013, and has been at the forefront of K三’s development. Engelbert Honorat is also working closely with the Japanese designer as his creative assistant. Wanda Jelmini has provided her extensive interior design knowledge and experience.

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COVER STORY

E-CREATIVITY FROM HOME

It’s new for everyone but somehow it seems the world is understanding the need of the hour—to stay at home and deliver the best! UAE businesses have also made sure to come out with unique and novel ideas using online platform to keep the momentum going. Here are some companies who’re doing exceptional works with their innovative and engaging online activities

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COVER STORY

CONSENTINO

Cosentino Middle East, which has announced the launch of Cosentino e-Events – an online events platform, aimed at connecting practitioners in the design industry. Under this initiative, Cosentino Middle East plans to host Lunch n’ Learns, panel discussions, case study presentations, and fun knowledge sharing sessions that will benefit the industry and boost camaraderie. Hosted on Microsoft teams, the sessions will be live and also allow guests to interact with the featured speakers and panellists.

The company is holding regular sessions on key topics where leading experts from the

design industry share their views.

Talking about the initiative, Miriam Llano, Middle East marketing manager said: “In these times of social distancing, we have had to temporarily close our doors and pause all our events that used to hugely benefit the design community. Since then we have been thinking about ways to keep the community connected.

The idea behind launching Cosentino e-Events is to bring the events to wherever the designers are – in the comfort of their homes or workplaces.

We are committed to our role as a catalyst for innovation, growth and meaningful interactions in the industry.”

Miriam Llano

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COVER STORY

HAVELOCK ONE Syed Kashif Akhtar, group managing director at Havelock One Interiors, on how the company is steering through these times of uncertainty.

Any unforeseen global challenge tests an organisation’s resilience and readiness. The current COVID-19 outbreak is no different.

At Havelock One Interiors, we immediately knew that only a thorough risk assessment and the right infrastructure in place would enable us to mitigate the threat to our people and our business.

The company digitsed its processes and operations a while ago, which pays off now, as everyone needs to be more flexible and agile.

In terms of our action plan, Havelock One formed a COVID-19 task force, a centralised response team, consisting of crucial internal contributors like IT, HR, admin, HSE, finance, internal auditing as well as myself and the group operations director. Together, they looked at all stakeholders, as well as macro and micro economic factors to consider, right now and in the future. The company introduced immediate health and safety campaigns and measures, across our sites, offices and factory. Whether it be testing for temperatures, distributing additional PPE, increased sanitisation at all facilities or allowing for remote work, Havelock One makes sure that their teams and affiliates safe.

Then, Havelock One thought about our external stakeholders: How do we ensure business continuity across all our markets?

We looked at our supply chain, suppliers and sub-contractors, and at our clients. How can we support these parties or come up with alternative sourcing strategies to minimise the impact on our current projects and deliverables?

Subsequently, the idea was to adjust our budgets and financial outlook while keeping tight control on our immediate business commitments. The employees have been very

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Syed Kashif Akhtar

supportive of Havelock One’s COVID-19 business continuity strategy, and in turn, the company provides continuous guidance and safety measures to help them protect themselves, their co-workers, and families. Cleary, they have introduced rather radical changes to their work set-up, which as a result, leave Havelock One well prepared for the short- and long-term future of our business.

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COVER STORY

CUNDALL

Richard Stratton

Cundall has launched a global campaign to help the business community to stay connected while working from home to share the knowledge that will be useful and valuable to all. The campaign called #CundallChallenge #OneLessonLearned will entail Cundall’s staff to challenge each other within the company and beyond to share their top one lesson learned and publish it online within 48 hrs.

As the world is looking to adapt to the changing marketplace, Cundall wants to spread the message of support by offering advice on how one can improve yourself in the workplace, whether that is methods for improving communications in meetings, design tips, or achieving career ambitions.

The brand will be promoting the one lessons learned remotely from MENA, UK and Europe, Asia, and Australia. Richard Stratton, managing director MENA & Partner at Cundall, said: “With recent changes in how we operate as a business, it is essential for all of us to stay connected and share with each other to create a strong business community. We are all in this together and by collaborating, we can make this challenging time better for all.�

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COVER STORY

DUBAI INSTITUTE OF DESIGN AND INNOVATION (DIDI)

Even the education institutions are making the best use of the virtual platform. Like Dubai Institute of Design and Innovation (DIDI) has adopted a digital bootcamp-style format for the extracurricular contest that challenges students to solve real-world problems by merging visual literacy, digital fluency, and strategic proficiency.

Participation in Project Design Space has grown year-on-year with more than 4,500 students from 100 UAE schools taking part. And with schools adopting online learning due to exceptional circumstances, Project Design Space remains in full swing thanks to the adoption of

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Mohammad Abdulla

virtual communication and video conferencing.

The switch was praised by Nike, LEGO Middle East, Emirates Nature-WWF, RAKBANK, and Dubai Festival City Mall, who have set diverse design challenges ranging from interior design to digital transformation for competitors from grades 5 to 12.

Mohammad Abdulla, president of DIDI, said: “We are focussed on supporting the UAE’s knowledge economy by developing students with hybrid skills who can thrive in a world where today’s jobs may not exist in the future. Project Design Space plays a vital role in demonstrating to students and parents that design matters more than ever before and switching to a digital bootcamp reflects our commitment to help students unleash their creative innovation.”

Urszula Bieganska, head of marketing at LEGO Middle East and Africa said: “DIDI’s digital bootcamp will ensure every student who invested time after school on Project Design Spaces receives the recognition they deserve, and we are thrilled with this commendable decision. Our strategic collaboration with Project Design Space matters because it is through initiatives like these that we encourage our youth to develop their creativity and put it to use in solving various types of challenges, and this is what The LEGO Group is well known for. We look forward to contributing to continued growth of the UAE’s innovative education design industry.”

Project Design Space’s revised format will see students send a video submission of their prototype to faculty members, who will review each submission digitally. The top 10 teams will receive detailed feedback from DIDI faculty via video.

A virtual open-house session are happening during April and May on a virtual collaboration platform with DIDI faculty for students to tweak their designs ahead of the final.

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COVER STORY

Faisal Al Hassan

WAREHOUSE421 Warehouse421, the home-grown arts and design centre has launched its virtual experience and online programmes featuring a series of video lessons, podcasts, book readings, community talks, and curatorial tours, enabling audiences to remotely engage with regional narratives in art and design.

The online sessions started in March 2020, Warehouse421 conversations launched its first episode ‘Art and Artists in Times of Disruption’, tackling the current interruptions in the local art ecosystem and the various ways that livelihood in the arts can continue during times of disruption.

The podcast is available through Warehouse421 website, YouTube channel, and Spotify, and will soon be accessible through all podcast platforms.

Commenting on taking Warehouse421 online, Faisal Al Hassan, manager of Warehouse421 said:

“Learning and artistic experiment is at the heart of Warehouse421’s mission, and we wanted to provide an avenue for the creative community, be they practitioners or audiences, to engage with art and design digitally while they are safe and social-distancing.

“Through this virtual experience, we hope that regional creatives can continue to develop their artistic practices, connect with one another, and engage with art and design in new ways.”

In April 2020, the digital program will continue to engage with members of the Warehouse421 community, sharing their tips on staying well, connected, and productive when socialdistancing. April will give creative practitioners the chance to watch video workshops on patternmaking, sewing, and jewellery making and

designing, and the public can watch curatorial overviews of space’s current exhibitions.

On April 1, audiences were able to tune into Munira AlSayegh and Hashel Al Lamki discussing the curatorial themes spanning The Cup and The Saucer, whereas, on April 5, curator Murtaza Vali spoke about The Stonebreakers, the show inspired by the historical and ongoing importance of maritime trade to the development of the port cities of the Arabian Gulf.

Warehouse421’s digital initiative will continue with an April podcast episode featuring Artist Hashel Al Lamki and Curator Munira Al Sayegh, moderated by Sara Bin Safwan, as they hold a Monday Meeting, a cornerstone of their process of developing the centre's current exhibition, The Cup and The Saucer.

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COVER STORY

IKEA With the extra hours everyone is spending at home, now could be the right time to revamp your space. Want to add more colourful touches to your living room, get your bedroom more organised or even make more space in your kitchen? IKEA has got you covered with its recently launched online home planning & interior design services.

IKEA consultants will help you create the

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perfect room setting and choose the right product design that suits your needs and meets your style. The platform offers free digital consultation from IKEA’s experts for kitchen, wardrobe, and storage space planning.

Meanwhile, the Interior design services start at AED250 and will let you to have a one-on-one conversation with a professional to help you make your perfect home.

All you need to do is visit the IKEA website or call to book a one-on-one appointment with one of the designers, which you can do from the comfort of your home. IKEA’s priority is always the health and safety of its employees and customers and during this critical time it is taking all necessary health precautions as advised by the World Health Organisation to ensure everyone’s well-being is safeguarded.

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FOCUS

THE RISE OF LUXURY BRANDED LIVING

Chris Graham, consulting partner, ESRAR Real Estate Consultancy, on how the branded residential living will have a significant role to play in the real estate market Since the turn of the millennium, the influx of the world’s leading international hotel operator brands has seen Saudi Arabia’s hospitality offering continue to broaden at an impressive rate. Unsurprisingly, with the massive national infrastructure development, robust economy, strong domestic demand, and increasing openness and outreach programme to attract overseas visitors under the stewardship of the Crown Prince, world-famous brands are eager to plant their flags in the Kingdom’s super-prime locations with luxury hotels and residences.

Whilst the associated branded residential real estate market is still at an early stage with only a handful of branded developments being launched (e.g. Kempinski, Paramount/Damac, Ascott), this is expected to become a significant growth sector in the real estate market. With such a large domestic concentration of high net worth individuals, an increasing number of expatriate workers coming to live and work in the country, and the imminent opening up of the market to foreign lifestyle investors, conditions are highly favourable for the expansion of the branded residence concept along with the many benefits that it offers. A notable example is Amaala on the Red Sea, which is attracting every leading hospitality brand to compete for the prime hotel and residential opportunities that will be offered

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Chris Graham

in this 6* wellness and lifestyle resort.

“Branding real estate creates an aspirational model that reflects the prestige and kudos associated with a luxury brand, facilitating standout in an increasingly competitive and crowded marketplace, in which consumer expectations continually rise,” explains London-based real estate marketing specialist Chris Graham of Graham Associates, author of a leading new report on branded residences, who hosted a workshop on the subject at the recent Saudi Arabia Hospitality Investment Conference in Riyadh.

Branded residences first appeared around a century ago in New York, yet today it seems surprising that they did not become an established model until the 1980s – and, even then, they remained a niche segment of the luxury real estate market targeting a privileged HNWI audience.

These premium homes are in the best locations and associated (and usually co-located) with a 5* hotel, which provides a range of ‘at home’ services and luxury amenities to its neighbouring residents.

Not much has changed in terms of the overall concept during the past 35 years; however, since the turn of the millennium, the growth of branded residences has been truly astonishing. Between 2002-2012 the number of hotel brands offering residences increased tenfold, whilst the number of branded schemes has almost tripled in the last decade and is forecast to grow by a further 27% in the next three years. “This remarkable growth has been driven by wide-ranging and proven benefits for developers, operator brands and purchasers,” observes Graham. “I describe this as an unusual “win-win-win” scenario, in which all of the parties can benefit.”

Mirroring the increase in global wealth that has simultaneously multiplied the number of HNWIs since the new millennium, the growth is also evident in the variety of brands as well as global locations. Graham highlights how market

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FOCUS

participants have expanded beyond traditional hotel brands, now spanning a wide variety of sectors (and which he accurately predicted will continue to broaden). Companies licensing their brands to luxury residential real estate now include automotive manufactures (e.g. Porsche, Aston Martin, Lamborghini), interior designers (such as YOO), “Starchitects” (renowned global architects like Gensler, Foster+Partners, WATG), fashion and jewellery (high-end consumer brands such as Bvlgari, Versace, Missoni, Fendi,

and Armani), restaurants (e.g. Nobu and Hard Rock) and media/entertainment companies (e.g.

Paramount, Walt Disney, Fashion TV, and now high-end publisher Condé Nast).

The preferred choice of accommodation among wealthy Saudi families is villas, increasingly residents and ex-pats are embracing the convenience of high-rise luxury living, which has spurred the growth of luxury residential towers in major cities across the Kingdom. Although most are not branded, they have introduced the

concept of lateral elevated living and are paving the way for luxury branded condominiums in the region, mirroring the extraordinary growth seen in neighbouring GCC countries.

Most branded residences offer owners a comprehensive range of integrated hotel-style services (and, increasingly, experiences), which include 24-hour concierge and security, transport, secure parking, porters, communications and entertainment systems, cleaning, babysitting, in-home dining, laundry and even shopping and fridge-stocking services. Smart homes are becoming universal. With the high demand for wellbeing, access to an on-site gym and fitness centre is now standard, usually with a spa and associated treatments, swimming pool, sauna and steam rooms. Other premium facilities regularly include a cinema/screening room, private entertaining areas, golf simulator, kids’ and teens’ clubs, residents’ lounge, library, wine storage and, with the rise in home working, access to business centres and meeting rooms.

Homeowners can also benefit from the option to rent out their properties through a managed rental programme (there is evidence that branded residences achieve both higher rental income and stronger resales prices).

So, does having a renowned 5* name over your door really justify the higher price tag?

“Well, if you look at the astonishing growth in the number of branded residences around the world, clearly large numbers of wealthy homebuyers consider that the numerous benefits that they deliver are indeed worth the extra cost,” says Chris Graham. “Fundamentally, luxury brands provide reassurance in terms of quality, design, maintenance, service and management of the residences; buyers know what they can expect.

An established brand’s involvement implies a superior level of protection against risk, giving added confidence to buyers.” He points out that this is particularly relevant when buying an off-plan property, as purchasers know that it is likely to be completed, equipped, furnished and managed to the high standards that are commensurate with that brand. “It is all about peace of mind, which is a rare and valuable commodity in this day and age.”

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PICK OF THE MONTH

K-array’s RAIL light track with integrated invisible audio is here RAIL is a new light track with integrated invisible audio technology and high-performance lighting in one sensorial design element.

The RAIL is a 1.2m line of warm, homogeneous LED by NICHIA from Japan with full-range cone drivers. Designed by Tuscan manufacturers K-array, the RAIL comes with a host of options to adapt to a variety of needs and applications such as contemporary offices, hotels, retail, showrooms, residential projects, luxury yachts, and cruise ships.

Indirect lighting is also available to provide a unique solution for integrators and designers when both quality sound and light are essential without compromise.

Availability: www.k-array.com

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