Design Middle East March 2020

www.design-middleeast.com

March 2020

Over the past four decades, Sobha Realty has dominated the real estate sector in the region. Carrying the legacy forward, Francis Alfred, managing director and CEO, talks about the ethos and ethics of the brand that makes it stand out from the competition

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Contents M A RCH 2020

20

18 IN THIS ISSUE‌ 20 Cover Story

Francis Alfred, managing director and CEO of Sobha Realty, talks about the brand it is

16

Interview

18

OP-ED

28

Feature

48

Project

Andrea Molteni, talks about the first flagship store— Molteni&C|Dada in Dubai

Austrian Commissioner General Beatrix Karl , discusses the impact of Expo 2020

The successful fit-out firms creating a mark in the region's industry

Design tour of a stunning villa in District One, Meydan by Innova Italia

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Contents M A RCH 2020

48

12 REGULARS 5

Editor’s Note

12 Newsmakers 43 Events

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March 2020

52 Decor Review 60 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.

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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

Welcome This is a very special month indeed; we will be hosting the 3rd edition of Design Forum, on March 25, 2020, at Fairmont The Palm.

We have a great line-up of panel discussions and some amazing industry speakers will be gracing the event. This year, we wanted to highlight the issues that are currently on our minds—like do we need more legacy projects and why? How big data is influencing the design industry, and the increasing gender pay gap that needs to be addressed! All this and lots more. Design Forum is a great socialising and idea-sharing platform, do join us and register now!

Francis Alfred, managing director and CEO of Sobha Realty, graces the March cover as he talks about Sobha Hartland and how backward integration concept is the biggest strength of the brand.

This edition also features the leading fit-out firms that are creating success stories in the region. According to the recent reports, this year UAE is expected to lead in the share of interiors and fit-out spend in the GCC region, at 42% of the total. That’s amazing how the fit-out suppliers are playing an important role in the success of the design and construction sector. Plus, there are other exciting articles—features, interviews, and projects in this edition.

Roma Arora

aaron@bncpublishing.net

Marketing Executive Aaron Joshua aj@bncpublishing.net

Digital Media Producer

This time, I am crushing over Comptoir 102’s exhibition called ‘Disrupt’ featuring award-winning artists Paola Paronetto and Jochen Holz.

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.

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March 2020

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Newsmakers

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Summertown Interiors delivers another sustainable project—Sanofi HQ in One JLT

Sanofi HQ, One JLT

Summertown Interiors recently completed the fit-out of Sanofi’s new headquarters in Dubai.

Located in One JLT, Jumeirah Lakes Towers, the French multinational pharmaceutical company’s new 2,500sqm workplace has an inviting ‘indoor, outdoor park-theme’.

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Working in partnership with the Bluehaus Group design team and CBRE project managers, Summertown met the client’s fit-out ambitions to create a sustainable, collaborative, social workspace for its employees – to achieve Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design

(LEED) certification. Features of the new workplace include a variety of collaboration areas, biophilia, a mix of modern and sleek meeting zones, innovative workstations, a lightfilled stylish cafe and a welcoming reception experience.

Marcos Bish, managing director of

Summertown said: “It was a pleasure to work on the Sanofi project – at Summertown we pride ourselves on our commitment to delivering highend sustainable projects, working alongside architects, designers and project managers to fulfil our clients’ goals and support LEED projects.”

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NEWSMAKERS

H2R Design gives modern feel yet timeless design to the Third Avenue Boutique The overall furnishing style at Third Avenue Boutique is contemporary; however, classic shapes and textures were used to further support the lush atmosphere

H2R Design adds contemporary dining concept Third Avenue Boutique to their prestigious portfolio of projects.

H2R Design was commissioned to design Third Avenue Boutique, a quintessentially stylish fine dining restaurant situated in The Dubai Mall’s luxurious Fashion Avenue extension. The awardwinning design studio was tasked to design a contemporary hotspot offering fashionable gourmet and showcasing exquisite handmade chocolates, and the brand’s own range of perfumes. In addition

to the Third Avenue Boutique’s spacious interiors, the design also had to incorporate the venue’s distinct feature, the mall’s largest terrace overlooking the worldfamous Burj Khalifa and fountain views.

The design aesthetic of Third Avenue Boutique is wholly contemporary from the shopfront glass façade with large scale gradient, respectfully classic to its metal arches, to the layered ceiling panelling.

Marbled flooring, with the most extravagant natural stones, covers

the ground as a luxurious and cultural symbol of architectural refinement. Carrara White and Armani Grey stones were used to display refined taste. Alternate marbled coloured patterns where placed angled to space to create depth, and a dynamic feel and movement.

The team incorporated a Piet Mondrian inspired wall of vertical and horizontal line compositions to strengthen asymmetries.

Characterised by a rigid geometry of squares and rectangles, that are striking in their simplicity, the

rich Mondrian style black ribbed wood panelling was designed to pronounce the complexity and character of the space while the gold accent strips create definition.

The design also features a brass metal cornice. It was purposefully used by the team as brass metal adds a touch of elegance and industrial style but with a very eclectic appeal. Given that the floor is a U-shape layout with two plots merged, having a bold and strong element like brass metal travelling across the whole restaurant connected both spaces.

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NEWSMAKERS

The chandelier is comprised of approximately 35,000 cut beads in three shades of blue

Woods Bagot gives resort-like design to JBR’s all-new ‘La Vie’ The development centres around the concept of contemporary waterfront living

Preciosa stuns with shell installation at Atlantis, The Palm Atlantis, The Palm located on the Arabian Gulf and with views to the Dubai skyline, underwent a refurbishment under the creative eye of HBA Dubai. Preciosa Lighting was closely involved; creating lighting for seven different spaces throughout the large property.

The spiralling shell located in Plato’s Coffee & Tea Lounge is unmissable. Inspired from the sea, the installation is designed by Preciosa designer Petr Kořínek in collaboration with HBA Dubai.

“The biggest challenge for me was to find a technical solution which would work in this case,” said Kořínek.

“My intent was to show the pure beauty of a shell which everyone recognises from nature. Our team was able to solve the most crucial aspect so the metal frame is almost invisible, which was important to the client,” added Kořínek.

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To create the illusion of being underwater, about 4500 almond trimmings on 180 hanging points float around the shell.

Preciosa took a number of unexpected design decisions when creating this light. The skeleton of the chandelier was shaped manually, making it a true original. The shell itself is atypical; due to its internal spiral created to make the body as thick as possible. When producing the shell, the inside layer of beads was done first, followed by the second outer layer.

Kořínek explained: “Such a design is much more complicated for production than the typical chandelier we are asked to design.

We are really lucky to have so many skilled workers here in Preciosa–not every company would be able to create and build such a 3D shaped shell fixture.”

With the successful launch of La Vie, the luxurious waterfront residential tower in the heart of the thriving Jumeirah Beach Residence (JBR), Woods Bagot announce the development’s stunning architecture and interiors have been designed by the company’s Dubai studio, featuring 36 levels of premium apartments with sea views, luxury amenities and a private beach club.

Perfectly situated in JBR’s seafront location, La Vie completes the JBR skyline, serving as a capstone for this highly visited, iconic destination in Dubai. The new development will comprise 269 units with one to four-bedroom apartments and penthouses. The design emphasises a series of contemporary spaces that seamlessly flow from the interior to the exterior. Designed to enhance the resident and guest experience, a range of deluxe amenities will come to life including a spacious gym with exquisite beach views, two grand lawns, a dedicated children’s play area, three beautiful swimming pools and direct beach access.

Matthew Engele, Woods Bagot principal and Middle East design leader, said: “The design of the La Vie celebrates the journey to the beach, and promotes indoor and outdoor living using contemporary interiors and generous balcony terraces that command magnificent and expansive views out to the Arabian Gulf.”

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NEWSMAKERS

Radisson RED debuts in the Middle East

Havelock One also installed waterproof layers, new steel structure, thermal insulation, sun reflective solar coat paint, complete MEP, foot rail, antique mirror, and the aluminium façade

Bold art-pieces and installations are used as a part of the design theme

Set to be Radisson Hotel Group’s newest kid on the block of rapidly expanding brands across the Middle East, Radisson RED is coming to Dubai this February. Art Lab has worked on the designs of the hotel with a selection of local artists.

Located at Dubai Digital Park, in Dubai’s first-ever smart city project built with the latest AI and IoT technologies. Radisson RED Dubai Silicon Oasis brings RED’s forward-thinking style to the desert. Presenting a playful twist on conventional hotel stays, culinary hangouts with a casual feel, buzzing social scenes, integrated technology and bold design personality, it comprises 104 contemporary designed rooms, 8 suites and 59 apartments made with millennial nomads in mind.

The first Radisson RED in the Middle East, Dubai residents and visitors alike can expect RED signatures such as laid back service for an easy atmosphere, multiple social hubs throughout the hotel,

Havelock One delivers nature-inspired F&B project—Clay in Bahrain

design concepts that tune into the local and meeting spaces delivered with contemporary flair. The connection is key, so every Radisson RED guarantees high-speed WIFI, digiwalls, I-Work stations and TV streaming devices.

F&B is flexible ­ – from buzzing round-the-clock social spaces to grab and go concepts for cravings that turn up unexpectedly.

Stuart Birkwood, Radisson RED Dubai Silicon Oasis’ enigmatic curator commented: “We can’t wait to unleash the RED brand onto Dubai’s exciting hospitality market.

We love our location in Dubai’s first smart city and we look forward to Dubai Digital Park growing around us into the epicentre of the UAE’s advancing technology. RED brings innovation, fun and a fresh approach to the city’s social scene – with artwork created by local talents and integrated technology such as our digital social streaming content wall. Roll on opening day, when we paint Dubai RED.”

The gastronomic community in Bahrain is rejoicing: Nikkei cuisine is making a foray into the country and it offers more than just the usual dining experience. In January 2020, Clay, the newest restaurant concept by Food Fund International (FFI) opened its doors at the funky The Terminal building in Adliya, Manama’s bohemian neighbourhood.

Havelock One Interiors was responsible for creating this new Japanese- Peruvian hotspot, completing the turnkey fit-out and inhouse manufacturing of the restaurant’s select pieces of furniture and design features.

The restaurant does not only satisfy the appetite but also provides an escape, albeit momentarily, from the trappings of modern life.

Inviting guests into a cosy environment at the crossroads of nature and ethno-pluralism, the restaurant’s warm and distinctively earthy colour scheme offers the right setting for a relaxed evening.

“We were delighted to have the opportunity to work with FFI’s inhouse design team. Their restaurants boast of interior designs and décor that enliven the senses and prepare the palate for the exquisite cuisine they serve,” says Jihad Raad, division director, Bespoke Hospitality Manufacturing and Fit-Out in Bahrain at Havelock One. Covering 7,500sqft on the fifth floor of The Terminal building, Clay certainly lives up to similar brand qualities. The restaurant features natural materials, wooden furniture, and the combination of parquet flooring and marble lets guests feel at ease and be grounded in the moment.

“Our joinery and upholstery department in Bahrain produced the intricate wood carvings and the tufted banquettes that allow guests to talk comfortably while dining,” adds Raad.

The craftsmanship of Havelock One’s glazier and metalworking teams can also be seen in the kitchen and bar countertops, and the doors and windows in textured and tinted glass, offering hypnotic views of the city.

A standout feature of the restaurant is a hand-painted ceramic mural depicting traditional Japanese art and a mesmerising ceiling art with hanging clay balls and paper lanterns at the bar area.

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INTERVIEW

LUXURY HAS A NEW ADDRESS! Andrea Molteni, director of product development at Molteni&C|Dada, talks about the first flagship store in Dubai and how design scene is becoming more global

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INTERVIEW

Tell us something about the brand?

The brand was founded in 1934, by my grandfather, and we have been in the design business ever since. We have four different companies that are active in all fields of interior design, from residential furniture with Molteni&C, to kitchens with Dada, to office furniture with Unifor and Citterio. We have always aimed at being at the forefront of technical innovation combined with timeless design elegance.

Is this your first flagship store in the region?

It is actually the first one with our new partner— Vivente Luxury Living. We have been active in the past in the region but surely this next step is the most important so far. We have found a partner that fully shares the view of the brand and we are sure that this will bring great results.

The new store is gracious and fluid, providing guests with the opportunity to experience a The new flagship Molteni&C|Dada store in Dubai

sequence of evocative settings. It is located on Jumeirah Street, Umm Seqeim. The whole interior design range is represented to enable visitors to satisfy whatever home interior requirements they may have, from kitchens to dining rooms, living rooms to bedrooms and plenty of premium interior accessories - each carefully styled showcasing a wide array of products. Its open architectural plan serves as a perfect backdrop for the latest Molteni&C|Dada offerings. Collections include designs by Vincent Van Duysen, Rodolfo Dordoni, Ron Gilad, Foster+Partners, Jean Nouvel and Patricia Urquiola, among others.

What do you think about the furniture market here when compared to other countries?

Today, I believe that the design scene is becoming more and more global. Surely local markets might have specific needs or tastes, but I am always more convinced that a real global

take on design taste is what the future will hold. Having said this, the Middle East market is proving to be more and more at the forefront of design, especially looking at the quality and level of residential projects.

Are you developing some special products for the Middle East region?

As I said previously, today we design and develop products for a global design-savvy clientele, therefore the products are designed and engineered to match a global taste. We pay special attention to selecting a wide range of finishes, colours, textiles, and materials in order to give to possibility to match local tastes and personalise the product offer.

Decode some design trends, which are here to stay?

For sure we think that one of the most effective aspects of products and design will be quality.

For a long period, the design industry is been hungry for novelty effects, maybe forgetting a little that furniture is durable and long living goods. A table should be designed to last in time, both in design aesthetics and in product quality. Also, I think that a trend that will stay for the long term will be the integration of furniture and design items in the architecture and interior design space. A furniture is a tool to actually define interior space, rather than objects that fill an empty room.

How important is sustainability for you?

Sustainably is surely an aspect that we have in mind when we design products or think about our manufacturing processes. For us, designing and manufacturing in a sustainable way is doing so in an “intelligent� way, and we have been doing so even before this aspect was used as a marketing tool. The use of mechanical fixings, sustainable and recyclable materials, the reduction of waste and energy for producing goods is always been at the core of our design process.

How important is e-commerce for the brand?

Concerning the e-commerce, it is a project that will be launched next year only for specific product categories and in specific countries.

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OP-ED

THE IMPACT OF EXPO 2020

Austrian Commissioner General Beatrix Karl on how the Expo 2020 will affect the local market and design industry in UAE

The Austrian Pavilion

The United Arab Emirates has been growing to become a centre for business opportunities as well as a trendsetter in many industries over the past number of years. Year-on-year, Dubai has become a touristic hub that it doesn’t come as a surprise that the World Expo takes place in this booming city in 2020. Unrivalled in its magnitude, Expo 2020 is bringing millions of visitors from the world over to catalyse change for a brighter future.

Not only will Expo 2020 Dubai enable the UAE to enjoy an influx of tourists from all nations and industries, but it also warrants the creation of new jobs, counting on an economic boost of

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AED122.6bn from a six-month event. This mega opportunity will foster UAE's position on the international map of setting standards for an inclusive, tolerant and cosmopolitan community.

It will also propel a disruptive change for SMEs in Dubai; a core component of the UAE economy, not to mention that the pre-Expo phase alone will be supporting up to 12,600 job-years. It is expected that more creative businesses will be making Dubai their home thanks to the changes the UAE has made in allowing 100 per cent foreign ownership in certain sectors and reducing fees and penalties. This will create a more diverse and resilient economy that fosters

innovative and sustainable solutions to our planet’s problems.

As we are a few months away from the start of the Expo 2020 Dubai, we are already seeing how the design industry has become more creative than ever. Many countries are putting their best foot forward and connecting with their best architects, product and interior designers for sustainable and green pavilions. Over the years, the design has evolved to become a powerful tool for change, as opposed to stylish aesthetics.

Living up to the spirit of the Expo 2020 Dubai theme “Connecting Minds, Creating the Future”, the Austrian pavilion brings together the best

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OP-ED

Arab and Austrian practices and innovative construction methods into an intelligent, resource-efficient architecture. Austria will introduce an unusual concept: 38 interlocking cones blending on a 2,400sqm pavilion to form a harmonious structure.

The cones are between six and 15m high, cut off at the top and plastered with clay on the inside. Using the world's oldest building material and an intelligent ventilation concept with wind towers, the Austrian Pavilion will naturally provide a comfortable atmosphere, thanks to the creative realisation of querkraft architects. A total of 100 Austrian companies will

be present at Expo 2020 Dubai for the design and construction of the Austrian pavilion and in its dedicated exhibition, the iLab. Expo 2020 Dubai will be an event of imaginative installations and never-beforeseen exhibits. The power of design will touch on all verticals of F&B, hospitality, leisure and public space, blending functionality with material and craftsmanship. This is the time for design companies to take advantage of the new business opportunities being made available to them, especially for the interiors and fit-out sectors to showcase their innovative technologies and functional ideas.

Beatrix Karl

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COVER STORY

A MAN OF PRINCIPLES: Francis Alfred, managing director and CEO of Sobha Realty

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COVER STORY

A STRONG FOUNDATION Francis Alfred, managing director and CEO of Sobha Realty, talks about Sobha Hartland, the importance of sustainability, region’s real estate market, backward integration concept, and more

By Roma Arora

Established in 1976, as an interior decoration firm in Oman by PNC Menon – a visionary entrepreneur, Sobha Realty has grown its presence with developments and investments in the UAE, Oman, Bahrain, Brunei, and India.

Over the last four decades, the company has grown into an international luxury developer committed to redefining the art of living. With such a strong foundation and brand value, comes great responsibility; the responsibility to maintain the reputation, the responsibility to deliver excellence, the responsibility to offer great customer service, and much more!

These are the goals of Sobha Realty and Francis Alfred, managing director and CEO of the company swears by it. Alfred oversees the geographical expansion and diversification of the company’s real estate development business. Alfred has over 19 years of experience

and expertise in real estate development, design management, project management, construction management, and manufacturing.

Alfred is a go-getter and understands the significance of corporate reputation, which gives the brand a competitive edge over others in the market. Alfred explains: “What sets us apart is our intuitive design philosophy that combines great craftsmanship and introduces innovative ideas within each of its developments. At Sobha Realty, we understand the importance of time and plan accordingly. We have a philosophy where we pay attention to detail and after four decades in the field, the company has inverted the luxury paradigm by offering the simplicity of design and generosity of space.”

Sobha Realty is not just building the apartments or villas, the aim to build healthy and prosperous communities that improve people’s lives today

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COVER STORY

and shape a more sustainable future for their families. Alfred believes that their task is to offer an experience that enhances their lifestyle. He shares: “The real estate market no longer entails the simple provision of empty space but is all about providing a living experience. Residents want to enjoy an ideal living experience characterised by comfort and convenience, with schools, dining, and retail outlets incorporated into the community. At the Sobha Hartland development, we value the importance of enhancing the overall living experience and have designed the amenities and spaces to offer the best of community lifestyle. At Sobha Hartland, we already have the convenience of two established international schools, and going forward, plan to have a selection of retail and F&B amenities, and a boardwalk along the canal.”

Sobha Hartland is one of the most prestigious residential projects from the brand and a benchmark for others. Villas at Sobha Hartland are all uniquely designed around private courtyards found in the local culture. “Space is luxury” so the design of the Forest Villas places these courtyards adjacent to ordinary interior spaces and transforms them into spacious indoor-outdoor living areas by the use of lift and slide glass units.

"Another unique aspect of the design in the Forest Villas is the use of double-height volumes that permits natural light in making each room seem even larger. In addition, we have built a clear storey skylight into the master bedroom ceiling to bring additional light into internal space," says Alfred. Further design elements include a private elevator, all double glazing, and acoustic insulated pipes. Additionally, acoustic padding is placed between floors to offer soundproof within the rooms and the exterior of the houses resulting in 80% noise reduction, thus adding to the feeling of calm serenity.

Through this project, Sobha Realty has redefined community living that offers enough space for residents to build a home dedicated to creating serene spaces that shape human lives.

Apart from the amazing design elements, the brand takes pride and keeps sustainability at the core of its main objectives. Sobha Realty is committed to planning, constructing, and managing communities that conform to global sustainability guidelines. Alfred is a great advisor of sustainability, he discusses: “At Sobha Hartland,

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The lavish interiors of the Creek Vistas apartments

we have more than 8000 trees being planted, as an effective strategy, to reduce overall heat island effect, thereby creating better ambience to living habitats and contributing to optimise the energy, in turn reducing the carbon footprint of the development. We have ensured the usage of only the most energy-efficient and long-lasting light fixtures available in the market, which are LED fixtures, which use 75% less energy. We also use advanced energy-efficient VRF AC technology and chillers, and solar hot water system.”

Not just this, furthermore, Sobha Hartland also carries eco-friendly features within its buildings from natural stone cladding to recycled rubber insulation, water-saving plumbing fixtures. Significantly, the doubleglazed thermal and acoustically insulated windows and Rockwool insulated walls ensure a minimum of 60% reduction in solar heat gain.

These environmentally-friendly features offer

users optimised comfort and superior quality of life, making Sobha Hartland a truly large-scale sustainable urban district.

This project is getting such an overwhelming response and Alfred couldn’t be happier. He says: “Post our successful handover of Greens Phase-I (Nov 2018) which has set a new benchmark of quality in the industry, we have witnessed a remarkable success, surpassing the total sales target of AED2bn, with more than 1500 units sold in our flagship Sobha Hartland development. This is a very strong testimony for the signature Sobha quality and the success of our flagship project – Sobha Hartland.”

The region is going through an economic slowdown. While there have been concerns about an oversupply of residential and commercial properties in the market, affecting investor sentiment and real estate prices, there have been numerous initiatives implemented by

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COVER STORY

Open and green spaces are promoted by Sobha Realty

the government to uplift the momentum. Alfred has full faith in the UAE government legislation.

He strongly feels: “The UAE leadership has been actively executing government legislations and initiatives that are established to help create an economic environment that is conducive to business and encouraging international investment. As far as international interest is concerned, we have witnessed an impressive number of keen investors coming from Asia, India, and Saudi Arabia and we are confident that this will continue to remain in the long term. The high uptake from investors across the portfolio has supported the launch of more projects within the masterplan, further consolidating the company’s position and driving Dubai’s perception as a popular global real estate market.”

The visionary leadership of the country has always proactively intervened to ensure that the industry isn’t largely affected by any global

Francis Alfred

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COVER STORY

The breathtaking Forest Villa

Water Canal Villa

Garden Houses

or regional challenges. “We believe the UAE is placed in an attractive position, encouraging investments into the real estate, with multiple factors contributing to its leadership position as one of the global real estate hubs. Whether it comes from proactive government legislation or the versatility of the offerings in the market, in our perspective there is an optimistic sentiment among our investors and a positive trend being witnessed,” says Alfred.

Another remarkable aspect of Sobha Realty is that it works on the concept of backward integration. Backward integration in real estate is a one-its-kind model in the world, pioneered by Sobha Realty for the past 25 years, with a track record of delivering more

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than 100mnsqft of construction globally. At Sobha Realty all aspects of real estate including design, construction, manufacturing, landscape, and facility management are done with inhouse companies. Alfred ensures that Sobha’s unique backward integrated real estate model is seamlessly functioning by delivering the signature Sobha quality to our customers across all our developments. He explains: “In Dubai Sobha’s Design studio (PNC architects) there is more than 70 employees including master planners, architects, MEP design engineers, structural design engineers, and interior designers who have been designing all Sobha projects from concept to detailed engineering.

Sobha Construction has more than 3500

employees who do all the construction for Sobha Realty projects and have specialist teams for civil, MEP, and interior work. Sobha’s manufacturing facilities include in-house companies for façade works and Joinery works. We bring the expertise of all our in-house companies to focus on every single aspect of the development. “ This further allows the brand to have a stringent control on the quality, which in turn gives their customers a fine combination of precision and

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COVER STORY

aesthetics. “It is how we ensure quality at every stage and add value to our product,” adds Alfred.

Some of the projects that have been launched by the company so far in Sobha Hartland are apartments including Hartland Greens, Creek Vistas, One Park Avenue, Creek Vistas Reservè, and Villa clusters including Forest Villas, Gardenia Villas, Garden Houses, which provide a variety of options for end-users to choose from. Sobha Hartland also has to offer an array of luxury

apartments, fully loaded with lifestyle amenities and breath-taking city views, which are scheduled to be launched during Q2 2020.

Alfred decodes the realty trends. He says: “Mixed-used developments are a growing trend in the real estate market, with projects offering residents a compelling and comfortable living experience with easy access to amenities. We have also seen that today’s customers are more informed and conscious than ever before in

choosing the right real estate developers with a track record of delivering high-quality buildings and developments when it comes to one of their biggest investments in life.”

Alfred is positive as he anticipates a strong resurgence in the real estate market. “Our plan is to focus all our energy and resources towards advancing Sobha Hartland, and all the projects within the master development, which is set for completion in 2025,” signs off Alfred.

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FEATURE

FIT-OUT FIRMS AT THE FOREFRONT The fit-out firms leading all the way in the region Fit-out is the backbone of the design sector and is a highly competitive field as well. According to the recent reports, this year UAE is expected to lead in the share of interiors and fit-out spend in the GCC region, at 42% of the total. The stats also show that the GCC building construction market’s

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outlook is finally positive and highlights that interior design and fit-out are closely tied to the overall health of the economy. Design Middle East presents the fit-out listing featuring the leading firms in the region based on their projects, annual turnover, and other remarkable achievements

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FEATURE

ALEC FITOUT

Laurent Farge, General Manager

Mobility Pavilion

ALEC FITOUT, part of the ALEC Group, specialises in the fit-out and refurbishment of cultural, immersive, and luxury mixed-use developments and five-star hotel & resorts in the MENA region.

Utilising their in-house network, they offer a complete interior solution fulfilling the need for project management, engineering, value engineering, design-build, procurement, and fit-out all under one contractor to the highest standards of workmanship.

Laurent Farge, general manager of ALEC FITOUT, has been with the company since 2008, bringing with him 24 years’ experience of delivering luxury interior fit-out projects in Europe, the Levant, and the GCC. Over the years, Laurent has played a crucial role in the growth and development of

ALEC FITOUT across the region.

The firm has recently been awarded the fit-out package for all guestrooms and suites at the new Mandarin Oriental, Wasl Tower in Dubai. Their team is looking forward to delivering a world-class solution for the project team that includes Wasl as the client, and Arabtec as the main contractor.

Across the road from the Mandarin Oriental, Wasl Tower site, the team is busy completing a major fit-out package at the Iconic Skyviews Tower by Emaar. The scope includes Address Hotel Guestrooms, Address operated Serviced Apartments, and also the “Sky Collection” – luxury apartments above the Bridge Deck joining both towers at level 56.

In Dubai Marina, another luxury residential

project is underway, Marina Gate, for Select Group. The project included three residential towers with ALEC as the main contractor.

Marina Gate consists of Residential Towers I and II, of which both are complete, and serviced apartments through Jumeirah Living at Tower III. ALEC FITOUT is contributing to Expo 2020 too with the team executing a variety of large-scale exhibition fit-out contracts, including Mobility Pavilion, KSA Pavilion, Opportunity Pavilion, as well as building the ENOC Pavilion.

ALEC FITOUT’s order book is healthy for 2020, and the aim is to secure new projects within the UAE post EXPO, as well as in KSA, where the company has recently established business and is fully registered.

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FEATURE

HAVELOCK ONE

Syed Kashif Akhtar, Group Managing Director 1954 Cinema in Kuwait

Since 1998, Havelock One Interiors has established itself as a leading turnkey fit-out service provider in the Middle East. It specialises in interior contracting and the manufacturing of bespoke joinery, decorative metal works and elaborate shop-fittings, supplied for high-end projects across sectors.

Being driven by the aspiration to deliver exceptional quality through the power of thoughtful precision, Havelock One supports its sophisticated clients with dedication and care. They deliver superior services and products for hospitality, F&B, retail, commercial, government, entertainment, and select residential projects.

Syed Kashif Akhtar, group managing director is heading the company since 1999.

Some of its current projects include: UAE • EKart by Emaar Entertainment • Turnkey fit-out of VOX Cinemas, a kids entertainment zone and 15 stores/restaurants, including Debenhams, west elm, Pottery Barn,

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Charlotte Tilbury, The Cheesecake Factory, Asha’s, Starbucks etc. (some of them turnkey fit-out and manufacturing, some fit-out, some manufacturing and supply) at The Galleria Al Maryah Island in Abu Dhabi • Turnkey fit-out of VOX Cinemas, Nakheel Mall • Manufacturing and fit-out of different duty free projects at Abu Dhabi and Dubai International Airport Bahrain • Joinery and FF&E supply for new resort project, including installation • Turnkey fit-out and manufacturing for Hilton Garden Inn • Turnkey fit-out and manufacturing for Clay restaurant KSA • Seven F&B projects, including Babel, P.F. Chang’s, Asha’s, Starbucks (some of them turnkey fit-out and manufacturing, some just fit-out, some

manufacturing and supply) at Ajdan Walk, Al Khobar • Three turnkey fit-outs for in Al Khobar, Jazan and Dammam for two different operators • Five restaurants in Riyadh, Jeddah and Al Khobar for two different brands Kuwait • Turnkey fit-out of and manufacturing for Hilton Garden Inn • Turnkey fit-out/renovation for two 5* hotel • Turnkey fit-out for Chinese restaurant • Turnkey fit-out of VIP boxes for sports academy • Turnkey fit-out of and manufacturing for two cinemas, including 1954 Film House In 2020, Havelock One will open its new 300,000sqft. state-of-the-art factory in Askar, Bahrain. This will help them in tapping more into the hospitality and commercial sectors.

The annual turnover of Havelock One is $160mn approx.

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FEATURE

Clay Restaurant in Bahrain

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FEATURE

SUMMERTOWN INTERIORS Marcos Bish, Managing Director Summertown Interiors was the first fit-out contractor to occupy LEED Gold certified interiors in the UAE and has also been awarded the LEED gold certification for its existing building; operations and maintenance (LEED EBOM). All projects are executed in accordance with the internationally recognised ISO 9001:2015 quality management system.

Some of the latest projects by the firm include Swiss global automation and instrumentation company—Endress & Hauser office.

Summertown Interior executed the 1,300sqm fitout projects and the scope of the fit-out included a reception that incorporated a display area for demo equipment, collaboration zones, various size meeting rooms, open plan workstation area, a large multi-functional meeting room and large

Sanofi HQ

pantry recreation space. Another recent project is of Sanofi and Summertown worked closely with designers Bluehaus Group to ensure the fit-out incorporated both the greenery to emphasize a park theme and various collaboration and social

zones under the LEED guidelines.

Headed by Marcos Bish, Summertown Interiors is currently working on a design and build project for The Takeda Pharmaceutical Company expected to be completed in April 2020.

AL SHAFAR INTERIORS (ASI) Dimitri Papakonstantinou , Managing Director ASI is the interior fit-out subsidiary of construction conglomerate ASGC established in 1997. Having a state-of-theart woodworking factory in DIP as well as the in-house capability for the majority of the fit-out trades gives ASI an advantage and competitive edge in the market.

Dimitri Papakonstantinou is the managing director at ASI who joined the firm in 2018.

ASI has done some amazing works for the Sustainability Pavilion for Expo 2020, and then there are other five other pavilions we’re involved in like Ukraine, Australian, and Azerbaijan. They have made separate departments to just focus on Expo 2020 projects for the next eight-nine month.

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Australia Pavilion

The brand invests heavily in technology as well. They have a company in their group called Analytica, which has been assisting ASI with innovative systems and software.

The year 2020, seems promising for ASI as

they’re doing some interesting project with Emaar. They are currently, working on the fitout of Address Creek Harbour project, and an H2B Hotel at Dubai Trade Centre, which should be finished by mid-2020, two Aloft Hotels with ASGC, and looking forward to other projects like Marsa Al Arab Hotel.

ASI wants to position itself as one of the top three fit-out contractors in the region. The next part of their business strategy is to look towards regional expansion with many countries in this region, such as KSA being the obvious example. ASGC has been in Egypt and been working there for the past 10 years and there are projects in Europe that they are looking at with main contractors.

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FEATURE

BOND INTERIORS

Saad Moaswes, Managing Director

The Opus by Zaha Hadid for Omniyat

Known to be one of the largest fit-out companies in the region, Bond Interiors has always been dedicated to the highest quality in interior contracting, furniture manufacturing, and joinery works since 1986. With over 2,000 employees and 550,000sqft of sustainable purpose-built inhouse production facilities which include joinery, glassworks, MEP, solid surface, metal works, upholstery, signage and civil works; Bond Interiors has had the advantage of achieving high standards of workmanship, quality, cost-effective and on-time project handovers in the sectors of hospitality, retail, F&B, healthcare, aviation, corporate, banking, and

VIP private residences. Headed by Saad Moaswes who is the managing director and founder, the company has expanded across seven different international locations—Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, Philippines, India, China, and Italy.

With a surge in projects due to Expo 2020, Bond Interiors’ strategically implemented expansion has reached its next stage with the newly added marble division, thus increasing the in-house fitout services to nine in total. These services along with the substantial investment in state-of-theart technology and cutting edge equipment puts the company ahead of the most competition to

efficiently handle complex and increased number of projects. On a greener front, concentration is also focused on the effective inclusion of LEED accredited methods, environment-friendly products and incorporating conventional as well as new inventions in interior contracting.

The company has received several industry awards over the years. Some of its latest projects are The Opus by Zaha Hadid for Omniyat, Jumeirah Beach Hotel, SLS Dubai Hotel & Residences, St. Regis - The Palm, Sensasia Spa – Kempinski Hotel MOE, and Al Tadawi Hospital, amongst others.

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FEATURE

Dubai Expo Village

ABANOS

Kamal Farah, CEO Abanos is one of the largest and most reliable holistic interior fit-out and joinery companies in the UAE, with a track record of delivering highquality and tailor-made projects, all fabricated at its state-of-the-art production facilities.

Established in 1985, the company has expanded steadily since its early days, now operating throughout the UAE and GCC markets and employing over 1,000 dedicated people – all hand-selected from various parts of the world.

As part of the company philosophy, Abanos undertakes interior fit-out projects from concept to completion, offering professional services to architects, designers, building contractors and all other clients to produce custom-made and standard joinery components, supported by cutting-edge manufacturing facilities. Abanos has extensive experience completing projects in a wide variety of fields, including five- star hotels, high-rise towers, royal palaces, shops, banks, offices, department stores, hospitals, schools, public spaces, and private residences.

Abanos operates a 22,000sqm facility in Dubai Investment Park, with state-of-the-art machinery for wood cutting, moulding, carving, veneering, laminating and painting, capable of meeting the ambitious requirements of clients across a

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diverse range of sectors. With a manufacturing facility of 15,000sqm and warehousing facilities of 7,000sqm coupled with an investment in modern machinery, the company can handle various large projects simultaneously and is capable of meeting international standards of quality and lead times.

Kamal Farah is the CEO of Abanos and under his vision, the company is making such remarkable progress. Some of its latest projects are the Dubai Design District (D3), Etihad Museum, and the Studio One Hotel. Currently, the fit-out firm is also working on the Dubai Expo Village 2020 project

by DWTC, Address Residences by Emaar, Opera Grand, and UNA Apartments to name a few.

Abanos is also currently expanding its facilities in Jebel Ali that will increase its production and storage capacity. Some of the projects in our pipeline are Sunrise Bay, Act 1, and Act 2.

For 2020, and the year ahead, the firm is welcome challenging, one-of-a-kind projects that have been a cornerstone of Abanos and continuing their path towards digitisation, automation, improving our systems, and processes through the adoption of Lean Principles and BIM. The annual turnover for Abanos is between AED200-250mn.

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FEATURE

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FEATURE

SWISS BUREAU INTERIOR DESIGN Joakim de Rham, CEO & Co-founder

Swiss Bureau provides a wide range of design and build services for their clients in a variety of sectors, including commercial office, residential, hospitality, and F&B. Joakim de Rham, a Swiss interior architect and his local partner, Maher Al Zarooni, founded the company in 2003.

As CEO & Co-founder, Joakim de Rham leads the Swiss Bureau team towards excellence in creativity, design, and project management. His experience in the industry has taught him valuable lessons on how the quality of service, transparency, and honesty are fundamental to any client relationship and successful project.

Swiss Bureau has completed many design

and build projects in the region within the past year, bolstering its interior fit-out expertise and portfolio. Among some of their noteworthy projects is the recent completion of three design and build projects for Hira Industries. Liechtensteinche Landesbank, Revonic, and their award-winning project for Property Finder are among others to mention as they await the grand reveal of the newly built offices for Nissan and Nestle.

As they continue to export their services outside of the Emirates, the team is especially excited about their expanding KSA portfolio as well.

The firm’s annual turnover is AED70,000,000–AED100,000,000.

Hira Industries project

A&T GROUP INTERIORS Tareq Khalafawi, CEO & Co-founder Celavi Dubai

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Since their founding in 2009, A&T Group Interiors has worked with a remarkable range of local and international clients in a diverse array of markets. They have grown and evolved handin-hand with the technology and economic shifts, which equips them to tackle any project challenge that comes their way.

Tareq Khalafawi is the CEO and co-founder of the company.

Besides the UAE, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and Kuwait both remain a highly attractive market for the group. They’re also looking forward to the continued opportunity to play a part in contributing to the successful implementation of Vision 2030.

Some of the current successful commissions of the group are CeLaVi in Address Sky View Towers in Dubai; L’eto Café in KSA; Pai Thai Restaurant in Al Qasr Hotel Madinat Jumeirah; Farzi Café, Mall of the Emirates; Saya Braserrie Cafe in City Walk, Dubai; and more!

The annual turnover for A&T Group Interiors is AED90mn.

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FEATURE

GDM INTERIORS

Vishal Motwani, Managing Director

SensAsia Urban Spa

From its humble beginning four decades ago, GDM Interiors has seen meteoric growth and scaled new heights with every passing year. Awarded with the ‘Award of Excellence in Innovative Fit-out at the Qadat Al Tagheer Awards’ in 2019, GDM Interiors is strengthening its blueprint in the UAE market, in the fit-out industry.

GDM Interiors is a UAE-based multidisciplinary fit-out company, with immense expertise in offering concept-to-completion fit-

out services for retail, commercial, hospitality, office spaces, and residential. Under the leadership of Vishal Motwani, GDM Interiors has flourished and scaled new heights of success.

GDM Interiors has an exciting portfolio of prestigious projects like Africa Capital, Nando’s, HP, Magic Planet, ZOOM, The Nail Spa and others that are spread across the F&B, residential, commercial, and hospitality sectors. Their team of more than a hundred highly skilled and

experienced employees backed by ultra-modern state of the art workshop helps them to deliver complex projects of multinational brands with stringent focus on quality, timely delivery, and complete satisfaction of their clients.

The company is collaborating with many renowned architects, and interior designers to create bespoke spaces, using both contemporary and non-contemporary materials. The firm has plans to expand into Saudi Arabia and Oman.

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FEATURE

FINASI

Ahmed and Hisham Sultan, Owners

Finasi has established itself in 1969, as a quality-led and trust-worthy interior, furnishing, and fit-out provider, with operations in Europe, Middle East and Africa.

The Company has delivered projects to numerous blue-chip companies, hotels, restaurants, retail boutique, residential and private clients, as well as government and semi-governmental.

Twins Ahmed and Hisham Sultan are leading the business today, creating modern and efficient design across the various divisions of corporate operations on famed Italian Design innovations.

The success and solid reputation of

Finasi is based on its partnerships with globally renowned brands, the inhouse teams of specialists, quality, and above all, comprehensive service.

Some of its latest projects include GAIA in DIFC, a Greek-Mediterranean restaurant with a modern palate and captivating charm. Then there is Scientechnic HQ located on Etihad Road, Dubai.

Finasi is also of interior design fit-out works of Netherland Pavilion, Norway Pavilion, Finland Pavilion, and Uganda Pavilion.

Finasi’s annual turnover is constantly above AED100mn.

GAIA Restaurant

DEPA Kevin Lewis, CEO Dubai Opera

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Depa is the world’s leading provider of interior solutions and has delivered projects in 43 countries, including iconic projects such as Burj Al Arab, Burj Khalifa, Atlantis the Palm, and Dubai Opera House. Depa has its state-of-the-art manufacturing facilities in Germany, Singapore, Egypt, UAE, Malaysia, and China.

Depa is a publicly-listed company and employs thousands of people worldwide.

Kevin Lewis is the CEO of the company.

Depa to work with industry-leading firms such as Zaha Hadid Architects, Fosters + Partners and Santiago Calatrava. The technical requirements of these complex projects play to Depa’s strength in BIM

engineering and project management.

Depa has completed some of the prestigious hospitality projects like W the Palm, Hotel and Residences, Mandarin Oriental Hotel Dubai, Intercontinental Hotel Dhaka, Kempinski Hotel the Palm, and Address Fountain Views Downtown Dubai. The company also has expertise in social and transport infrastructure interior solutions; it is currently delivering two iconic metro stations in KSA and an airport in the UAE. The fit-out firm is also working on three large projects for Expo 2020.

Depa had a turnover of 1.8 billion for the year 2018.

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FEATURE

AL TAYER STOCKS Ian Milford, CEO

W Abu Dhabi - Yas Island

Launched in 1998, Al Tayer Stocks is an interior and building contracting company, offering a full range of services across all industries inclusive of the corporate office, hospitality, education, entertainment, retail, healthcare, residential, and F&B. Ian Milford is the CEO of the company. Some of its recently completed projects include the refurbishment of the 1540 guest rooms and six suites at Atlantis the Palm Refurbishment; The Founders Office in Abu Dhabi; WeWork, Hub 71 in Abu Dhabi; Yas W Hotel, Abu Dhabi, refurbishment of

various F&B facilities within the world’s largest W Hotel; Dreamscape, Dubai; Ferrari Maserati showroom, Dubai; and others.

The company is currently working on: • PricewaterhouseCoopers, office fit-out – five floors within Emaar Square • Google Head office Innovation Hub, Media City Dubai, fit-out – high-end office for the technology giant • American School of Dubai – construction of a new 235,000sqft, 600 pupil school building for one of Dubai leading education providers.

• The Cove, Abu Dhabi – construction of the new beachside development at Al Hudayriat Island in Abu Dhabi.

• Dubai College, Dubai – New sports building including swimming pool and theatre.

ATS Interiors division will be launching in Saudi later in the year, focussing on cinemas, corporate offices, and entertainment. They are also developing new technologies within the business to improve all aspects of our project delivery.

The annual turnover of the company is over AED800mn.

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FEATURE

INC INTERIORS Sean Nicholson, CEO

INC Interiors have had an active presence in the UAE since 2008 delivering full turnkey interior solutions including design, construction, IT works, and furniture supply Sean Nicholson is the CEO of INC and has been in the UAE for over 15 years now. His expert knowledge of the industry together with the support from his senior management team ensure that the company is consistently growing and adapting which has seen us recently completing projects such as Hilton HQ Office, Etihad Credit Insurance, KidZania and Deezer amongst others. The firm is currently

working on some notable projects such as KPMG, Amazon, Coca Cola, Ashurst, Amadeus just to name a few.

Due to the increase in demand of commercial spaces in the Middle East by global blue-chip companies of which the majority are our existing clients, INC has recently expanded our Dubai office and opened a new office in Riyadh to service that part of the region INC is actively bidding on a number of projects for Expo2020 and are very much looking forward to potentially working on such a prestigious worldwide event.

Deezer

DUFIT Elio Gebrayel, Founder & Managing Director Le Cercle showroom located on Jumeirah Beach Road

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Headed by founder/managing director Elio Gebrayel a successful entrepreneur, Dufit Interiors is an innovative interior fitout company that specialises in turnkey hospitality, retail, healthcare, and commercial sectors.

As their business develops across UAE, Dufit is entering Saudi Arabia and Africa market for the future until 2030 with a mission to take on some challenging projects and deliver them successfully.

This dynamic company has worked with big giants such as

the region like Nakheel, Emaar, and Emirates Group to name a few. The latest projects include some of the most prominent restaurants in the city along with the refurbishment of Skyteam Lounge in Dubai Airport.

Dufit’s latest project completed was Mirage Boutique one of the finest porcelain and ceramic tiles and slabs manufacturers, located in the heart of Dubai Design District. Then there is also the Coffee Island, the largest European coffeehouse from Greece located in Nakheel Mall.

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FEATURE

DESIGN INFINITY

Geetha Nayak, Managing Partner Established in 2012, Design Infinity has built numerous, notable strengths in the commercial fit-out industry. The company, comprising over 350 staff, specialises in large-scale fit-out and design projects – many of which are for high-profile clients across the UAE with an excellent track record of completing them on time and to a high-quality standard. Since the formation of the company, Design Infinity has maintained a steady growth rate of approximately 30% year-on-year, with a team that includes interior specialists, as well as in-house experts for MEP and IT. The company operates a large joinery factory that covers more than 30,000sqft. along

with separate divisions for glass and metal works. branches in Abu Dhabi and Sharjah and 30,000sqft joinery factory in Dubai Investment Park, Design Infinity is headed

by Geetha Nayak who is the managing partner in the company.

The last 12 months have been the most productive for Design Infinity as they have worked with top most clients in the industry.

Some of the most successful projects include Dubai Health Authority, BRS Ventures, DEWA Training Centre, Aqaar, Dubai Development Authority, and many more.

They are also looking to expand in other regions and intend to have joint ventures in Saudi Arabia and Kuwait.

Design Infinity's latest project—Black Goose, the brand new sports bar and lounge in Sheraton, JBR Dubai

PINNACLE INTERIORS Joseph Charles, Founder and Managing Director Vibrant and contemporary Dyson office in Jumeirah Lake Towers

Pinnacle Interiors’ achievements encompass the completion of a diverse range of design and build projects in healthcare, commercial, retail and hospitality sectors.

Their team includes some of the most highly qualified, skilled and experienced consultants, estimators, quantity surveyors, architects, and designers, project delivery and site managers, along with procurement specialists, all of whom work together to complete projects successfully and ensure the satisfaction of our clients with a transformational fit-out.

Joseph Charles is spearheading the company with an experience of over 26 years. Pinnacle Interiors is working with several private, semi-government and governmental organisations in UAE. Current projects include a wellknown healthcare provider in Dubai, renowned developer in Dubai, and government offices in UAE.

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FEATURE

EMKAY INTERIORS Michel Khoury, Managing Director

DMC Management Office

Established in 2004, by Michel Khoury, who is the founder and acting managing director, Emkay Interiors is an interior contracting company specialised in the fit-out and construction of modular buildings for commercial and corporate projects. As an architect with over 20 years’ of international experience, Khoury’s expertise and technical knowledge along with competent managerial skills have played a pivotal role in the growth of the company for almost two decades.

Aside from commercial and corporate sectors, Emkay has numerous prestigious projects that are nearing completion in other sectors namely

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healthcare, F&B, and education.

Emkay’s dedicated in-house teams supported by stateof-the-art manufacturing facilities are highlyskilled in all aspects that are essential to quality construction and fit-out. Turnkey services along with MEP, are additional areas of specialization that Emkay is renowned for.

Some of its latest projects are Chingon Restaurant in Business Bay, Baytak Building in Media City, American Hospital Clinic in Al Barsha, and DMC Management in Media City.

Some of Emkay’s ongoing projects are American Hospital Clinic in Al Khawaneej Last

Exit, Arada Sales Center in Sharjah (designed

by Zaha Hadid Architects), Emaratech Offices in Media City, Bulgary Manson interior works, Blossom nurseries in two locations, and Dubai Production City 4 Buildings.

2020 has already started quite favourably for Emkay Interiors with a number of ongoing projects. With many more in the pipeline and the date to the Expo nearing, Emkay is confident of a rise in projects especially in the hospitality industry due to the increased number of people projected to visit the country during the span of the event.

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EVENTS

THE MONTH AHEAD

Trade fair dates for your diary…

EVENT IN FOCUS Melbourne Design Week March 12-22, 2020 Melbourne, Australia

In 2020, Melbourne Design Week explores the role of how design can shape life from big-picture thinking around global events to transforming the routines of everyday life. Melbourne Design Week explores the potential of design to shape life through five themes. Melbourne Design Week builds upon the success of its 2019, program through continuing its exploration of Victoria’s rivers, waterways and oceans with Open House Melbourne under the Waterfront program. This year Melbourne Design Week has expanded to over 300 events, but it holds to its core a Melbourne attitude rather than an aesthetic, in this expansion. This attitude is a responsibility for design to imagine and create better ways of doing things. You do not need to be a designer or from Melbourne or Victoria to have this attitude.

Collectible

March 5-8, 2020 Brussels, Belgium Collectible, a unique fair dedicated exclusively to 21st century contemporary collectible design, whose third edition will be held from March 5-8, 2020, in the centre of Brussels in the Vanderborght building.

Conceived as a unifying platform and an exclusive meeting point in the heart of Europe, Collectible brings together renowned international galleries and designers, all at the forefront of creativity, selected by a committee composed of distinguished figures from the world of design.

Arctic Design Week

March 16-22, 2020 Lapland, Finland The task of Arctic Design Week is to promote northern design expertise and business, while inspiring designers, students, scientists and artists.

Arctic Design Week enlivens town culture with local characteristics. Already organised for the 12th time focusing on Arctic design, we are developing Arctic Design Week in line with international concepts to serve business life and townspeople even better than before, creating a commercial venue and get-together event that promotes responsibility of design buyers, sellers, developers, and customers alike.

Design Forum 2020 March 25, 2020 Dubai, UAE

Get ready to witness the who’s who of design industry participating in one of the most popular knowledge-sharing and networking platform— Design Forum 2020 presented by du. The event which received an overwhelming response last year with 400+ attendees and 20+ speakers is back again.

Design Forum will take place on March 25, 2020, at Fairmont The Palm. There will be exciting panel discussions and presentations at the event which will be attended by designers, architects, fit-out suppliers, developers, retailers, and more!

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EVENT PREVIEW

DISCUSSING DESIGN

Gear up for Design Forum 2020, and here’s what’s in store this year…

Get ready to witness the who’s who of design industry participating in one of the most popular knowledge-sharing and networking platform— Design Forum 2020 presented by du. The event which received an overwhelming response last year with 400+ attendees and 20+ speakers is back again. Design Forum will take place on March 25, 2020, at Fairmont The Palm.

The Middle East and North Africa region (MENA) is a hub to awe-inspiring structures, outstanding designs, and creativity beyond words. Dubai will be hosting the biggest show in its history, Expo 2020 that will bring together more than 190 countries and will give them a platform to showcase their creativity, innovation, and partnership globally.

With more and more nations now revealing their unique pavilion themes and content plans, all this put Dubai right up on the world map of design and

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architecture. The Design Forum 2020 will present an opportunity for the attendees to get acquainted and explore some exciting industry topics such as:

Why we need more legacy projects in the region?

Ever wondered what will happen once the Expo 2020 is over? What happens when the scope of the work of pavilions, hotels, and other developments has been delivered, Are legacy projects like District 2020 vital for economic development as they will result in job and investment creation. Do we need more of these for continued growth? We invite experts to share their opinions on legacy projects.

How big data is transforming design and architecture!

With big data, architects can estimate costs

more efficiently. Big data isn’t just changing the architecture industry, it’s changing the attitude of others towards it. More and more people want buildings that can provide information and big stores of data. Companies are asking for data reports to improve the performance of their assets.

How well is the region in tune with this aspect?

Gender pay gap in the creative industry!

It’s everywhere in the world and even RIBA takes keen interest to encourage practices to report to help address the Gender Pay Gap across the profession. Do women in the design industry feel that they there’s a great imbalance in pay between men and women and this needs to be addressed?

Let’s find out the reasons of this behaviour from the experts and solutions to solve this problem.

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EVENT PREVIEW

SOME OF THE SPEAKERS AT DESIGN FORUM THIS YEAR ARE :

DIANE THORSEN DESIGN DIRECTOR, GENSLER

LAILA AL-YOUSUF DESIGN DIRECTOR | PARTNER, SAY STUDIO

SAYJEL VIJAY PATEL CTO, DIGITAL BLUE FOAM

KEREM CENGIZ MANAGING DIRECTOR LWK & PARTNERS, MENA

KRISTINA ZANIC OWNER AND CEO, KRISTINA ZANIC DESIGN CONSULTANTS

FOUNDER, LIGHTIFIED & SMITH TAIT LIGHTING CONSULTANTS

RUPERT TAIT

STEVE KIERNAN GENERAL MANAGER, BOND INTERIORS

MARIJA KRSMANOVIC STRINGHETA SENIOR ARCHITECT, RMJM

RASHA ALKAD FOUNDER / PRINCIPAL ARCHITECT, STUDIO KAD

VICE PRESIDENT, MENA HEAD OF CONCEPT ARCHITECTURE, AECOM

JANUS ROSTOCK

ELLEN SØHOEL FOUNDER, XBD COLLECTIVE

MARIANNA PICCOLO FOUNDER, MY PICK ONE

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FOCUS

COMING TOGETHER OF CULTURE AND LEISURE Reviewing the progress of Al Safiyyah Museum & Park in KSA powered by our intelligent partner—ProTenders Al Safiyyah Museum & Park The project's scope of work consist of a museum and park located south of Al Masjid Al Nabawi, Madinah, Saudi Arabia. The project includes three main parts including the cultural park and the exhibition area, commercial, underground museum, leisure, and associated facilities. The project will also include landscaping works of the plantation of palms distributed in an engineering way between the floors in the form of terraces surrounded by ponds and water fountains overlooking the garden, cafes, restaurants and shops to create an attractive environment for visitors to the region.

Al Safiyah Museum & Park

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www.design-middleeast.com

FOCUS

COMPANIES INVOLVED • Buro Happold • Al Madinah Al Munawarah Development Authority • Samaya Holding • Madinah Municipality • Sanaya Investment Group • Atelier Bruckner GmbH • olaiman Abdullah El Khereiji Consultants (SAK) • X Architects • Openfabric

FACTS

TIMELINE

BUDGET

• Oct 2020: Construction Start

$210m PLOT SIZE

4,419M2

• Sep 2020: MEP Contract Award

• Specialised Engineering Consultants • PMK International • Rider Levett Bucknall • Tenable Fire Engineering

• Aug 2020: Main Contractor Contract Award

• Jun 2020: Main Contractor Tender Submission

• Apr 2020: Main Contractor Tender Release

Consultancy • LightAlliance • JLL • Mace Macro • ThyssenKrupp • Green Consulting

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TALKING POINT

FROM EXPO 2020 TO FUTURE LEGACY Gerard Evenden, Senior Executive Partner – Head of Studio, Foster + Partners, discusses the Mobility Pavilion Project at Expo 2020

Gerard’s interest in innovation, materials and new building techniques, is evident in his global experience and demonstrated by award-winning projects across the world. Added to his resume of designs is the Mobility Pavilion at Expo 2020 Dubai.

There are three Thematic Districts in the Expo 2020 site, reflecting the mega-event’s three subthemes of Opportunity, Mobility and Sustainability. Construction of the districts was completed in May 2019.

The three petal-shaped Thematic Districts are central to the design of the masterplan and are connected to the central Al Wasl Plaza, set to be the next iconic structure of Dubai. Each features Country Pavilions and is anchored by a Thematic Pavilion relating to the theme of that district. The

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Thematic Districts also include a variety of F&B options, performance spaces, innovation galleries and art installations and outdoor gardens.

Each Thematic District is distinguishable by shapes and colours that give them distinct characteristics: the Sustainability District uses circles and green shades; the Mobility District uses triangles and blue (for water or movement), and the Opportunity District is based around squares and warm sand colour. The shapes are on one hand abstract, but they also have roots in Islamic geometry.

Inspiration “This started in Shanghai and the journey that started to produce a pavilion, then we were asked

could we move that pavilion to a later date and luckily it came earlier enough in the process for us to make it move and it ended up in Abu Dhabi.”

The Mobility Pavilion will provide visitors with an exciting and thought-provoking experience, demonstrating how mobility has driven mankind’s development throughout our existence - from our very first steps out of Africa until the interconnected digital world of today. The pavilion addresses the new mobility technologies transforming the way we live, learn and play through the creation of Smart Cities using the likes of Artificial Intelligence, Big Data, robotics, machine learning, and autonomous transport.

“We were then approached to enter the competition for the Mobility Pavilion. We are

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TALKING POINT

Gerard Evenden

of the building. So they can filter around the three sub-themes around the building.”

Sustainable Project

obsessed by the relationship between what’s happening in mobility, the environment and construction of buildings and we thought that was a fantastic subject,” said Gerard.

A feat of design, architecture and engineering, designed by Foster & Partners, symbolising the movement, consisting of seven stories and unique interior features. The ribbed and curved shape of the Mobility Pavilion was designed by award-winning British architectural design and engineering firm Foster + Partners.

“We were then approached to enter the competition for the mobility pavilion. We are obsessed with the relationship between what’s happening in mobility, the environment and construction of buildings and we thought that

was a fantastic subject.

We want a building that goes beyond the Expo 2020 Dubai and has a legacy and how did we plan to achieve that? There were three sub-themes to the Mobility Pavilion which were physical, digital and unified and so those three sub-themes created a tri-fold building,” Gerard explained.

Due to the size of the area, Gerard explained how the pavilion would allow tens of thousands of people to move around the pavilion.

“The great thing about the trifold building is that you can create a central hub. If we move people up through the central hub to reach the top of the building. So it avoids people having to strain their energy to get to the top of the building and we allow them instead to filter down from the top

The project’s main contractors are ALEC Engineering and Contracting and with sustainability being the forefront of the Mobility Pavilion they were tasked along with Fosters + Partners to come up with a sustainable design. Due to the Mobility Pavilion being one of the largest projects in Expo 2020, it would be generating waste each day that in several ways could harm not only the neighbouring project but also the environment.

“When it comes to constructing buildings you are generating a lot of carbon. So as we go through the carbon counting in the building and as we move this building from Expo mode to Legacy mode, what we didn’t want to do was to create excess carbon. We want to limit the amount of carbon that goes into the building,” said Gerard.

The project has achieved the gold rating certification from Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED). LEED considers the Mobility project to be a great contributor in implementing a sustainable site, energy savings, water efficiency, carbon emissions reduction, and improved indoor environmental quality.

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PROJECT

BIG

The outdoors are lush green and has pool area

& Beautiful

Silvia Ceccarelli, GM of the design firm Innova Italia gives us the tour of her latest residential project at District One, Meydan in Dubai Silvia Ceccarelli comes originally from Rome (Italy), where she established Innova Italia with her husband in 2009. For her, the design is her way to express her art and enjoys working closely with her clients to produce the best results. “We need to create a strong relationship with the client since the beginning when we exchange reference pictures and preliminary sketches. To get to know each other’s tastes, it’s a process that takes a bit of time, but it’s important to create an interior space that reflects the client’s personality.”

Ceccarelli shares: “We had a great chance since the beginning of our adventure, to develop many high-end residential projects like villas and prestigious apartments. Innova Italia’s approach is to consider each project

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as tailor-made, we always develop our design considering all the possible details, to get exactly what we expect from the final result.”

Her recent completed six-bedroom villa project at District One spell luxury and grandeur. The dominating area of the villa is the entrance hall, it’s a double-height space that connects the living and dining area with a suspended kid’s living area. Ceccarelli says: “We underlined the vertical direction of this space with two very long chandeliers and kept a bright colour palette. One guest bedroom is located on the ground floor, while the other five rooms are on the first floor. For the rooms, we played with the colours to get a warm environment and a vibrant contrast between each side of the room."

Ceccarelli was hugely inspired by the

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PROJECT

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PROJECT

The suspended chandelier is the highlight

Silvia Ceccarelli, GM of the design firm Innova Italia

interplay of colours and materials for this project. She explains: “I would say I got my inspiration from the vibration in colours and materials, and in gradual contrast of both.

The idea was to give a different look and personality to the room walls and elegantly decorating the areas using eye-catching furniture and accessories.”

Ceccarelli enjoyed using different materials in different areas of the room. She says: “For the entrance hall, we used large statuario marble slabs opposite to a neutral colour wallpaper. The wallpaper itself is interrupted by thin steel profiles in order to create a “rhythm”. For the rooms, we mostly played with wallpaper of different colours and textures. All the furniture has been selected amongst prestigious Italian brands.”

One of the biggest challenges she faced while executing this villa was to turn a big white empty space, that was completely impersonal and boring and turn it into a cosy home for a family. “It was a challenging yet exciting deal for me to do this perfectly.”

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Bold use of colours in the bedroom

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PROJECT

Living area oozes warm and cosy vibes

The room is brightened by vibrant sofas and rug

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DÉCOR REVIEW

AN OASIS OF LUXURY IN THE DESERT In conversation with HE Marwan bin Jassim Al Sarkal, executive chairman, Shurooq, about their nature-inspired property— Al Badayer Oasis in Sharjah

Can you brief us about the Al Badayer Oasis property?

Al Badayer Oasis by ‘Mysk by Shaza’ is a luxurious, eco-friendly boutique retreat located in the heart of central Sharjah’s Al Badayer desert. A picturesque desert resort, it is the third gem in Shurooq’s ‘Sharjah Collection’ and offers a fully integrated hospitality experience in the heart of a tranquil desert. With 21 rooms and 10 tents, this intimate campsite delivers the 'Arabian castle' feel. Guest facilities include two restaurants – a pan-Asian restaurant and an international allday dining restaurant. A fully equipped health

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club and a luxurious indoor pool.

The property comes with a host of adrenalinepumping activities or adventure seekers.

Ultimate desert experiences can be had with dune bashing, 4 X 4 trips, quad biking, horse riding, desert safaris, and camel tours. For nature lovers, the retreat can organise tours to explore the UAE’s local wildlife, falconry displays, and indulgent nights of spectacular stargazing.

What inspired the creation of this property?

The soul of Al Badayer Oasis rests in the

culture, traditions and natural environs that set Sharjah apart. Its location in an enchanting desert locale is reminiscent of the way our ancestors set out to build their earliest settlements and began what we today call ‘the Emirati way of life’. Designed like a real oasis, this natural desert retreat draws on our Emirati heritage and sets the mood for a different kind of relaxation for guests. The inspiration for this property was prompted

by Shurooq’s vision to contribute in thriving UAE’s ecotourism industry. We wanted to bring to life meaningful connections

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DÉCOR REVIEW

Indoor pool

between our guests and their natural surroundings in a way that satisfies even the most discerning traveller.

What are the main takeaways in terms of design, quality of service, and cuisine from a customer experience point of view?

The resort’s architecture is the quintessential representation of a calming, luxurious, Arabian oasis set amidst uninterrupted views an expansive desert. Naturally, therefore, vernacular elements in terms of desert-inspired

design, materials, texture, and colour have played a big role in its construction.

Known for its dramatic “desertscape” and the Big Red Dunes, Al Badayer is the ideal spot for adventure, wellness and a classic taste of Emirati culture. Guests can expect every modern comfort in our upscale deluxe-king and deluxetwin rooms or the more traditionally styled one-bedroom king and two-bedroom twin tent accommodations. Quality of service by the retreat’s operators, Mysk by Shaza, meets the highest international standards.

Dining is a spoilt-for-choice affair at Al

Badayer Oasis. With a touch of local charm, the contemporary styled Al Madam lays out an extensive spread in international and regional fare while the speciality restaurant, Nizwa, seeks out the cuisines of the destinations on the Silk Road to satisfy the guest’s palate.

What are the design highlights of this property?

Its very location in the heart of the sprawling Emirati desert, and resemblance to ancient caravanserais which once served as the breeding grounds of cross-cultural interaction,

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DÉCOR REVIEW

HE Marwan bin Jassim Al Sarkal

sets the colour palette and architectural design tone for Al Badayer Oasis. There is a harmonious interaction between the structural and ambient aspects of the area as authentic elements symbolising traditional Emirati homes come to the fore with spacious, internal courtyards. The central plaza leads to an amphitheatre and an Emirati traditional watchtower, where events and activities take place during the day and in the evenings.

Nestling perfectly within their spectacular natural settings are glam camping tents for guests who like to experience the traditional Bedouin lifestyle. These tents are informally arranged within the desert setting with private outdoor swimming pools that complement the retreat’s architecture.

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What qualities do you think make this property stand out?

How, according to you, is the hospitality industry evolving?

Shurooq’s commitment to environment-friendly and sustainable practices is evident in Al Badayer Oasis and is what makes this property stand out. Several initiatives are in place to reduce waste and conserve resources. For instance, the retreat’s water conservation measures consist of a water recycling process that makes use of efficient technologies and piping channels to recycle water for multiple uses in and around the property.

Apart from an energy-efficient lighting system, other green actions at Al Badayer Oasis include low consumption of plastic and the use of recycled materials in the various amenities and services provided to guests.

Over the past few years, an increasing number of players in the hospitality industry has been investing in sustainable eco-tourism in a meaningful way. With tourists too becoming more aware of the impact of their travels on the local environment and communities, there is a greater demand for responsible, ethical and sustainably developed destinations.

The non-traditional tourism projects perfectly align with Shurooq’s commitment to promoting responsible tourism by offering authentic, local experiences, and its vision to set new benchmarks for eco-luxury destinations. We have come a long way in materialising this vision with our Sharjah Collection brand – a trio of

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DÉCOR REVIEW

eco-retreats, namely Al Faya Lodge, Kingfisher Lodge, and Al Badayer Oasis – purposefully located in key locations throughout Sharjah.

Through the eco-oasis of Al Badayer, Shurooq aims to advance responsible tourism practices and wildlife conservation in the UAE and Sharjah.

To drive tourism growth, Shurooq is investing heavily in environmentally responsible luxury hospitality in natural areas that conserve the area’s environment and natural habitat, as well as improve the welfare of local people.

What are your expectations in Sharjah's investments in tourism during 2020?

Al Madan Restaurant

2020 appears to be a promising year as it will be marked by the launch and development of several tourism and hospitality projects across the emirate. In December 2018, we opened the Khorfakkan Beach project, the first fully integrated beach project in Sharjah’s eastern region that is redefining tourism and business experiences for visitors and tourists and has allowed investors, retail businesses and SMEs to tap into new markets to drive economic growth within the city of Khorfakkan. Shurooq’s conservation, preservation, and restoration initiatives are attracting global designers, developers and investors who are looking to bring their innovations and architecture into Sharjah. This year, we further our role in intensifying the emirate’s investments in tourism in a way that preserve and promote Sharjah’s cultural and historic heritage in a modern, contemporary manner.

By developing projects that enrich and promote authentic, cultural and eco-tourism, Shurooq will continue to contribute to Sharjah’s global tourism ranking along with the Sharjah Commerce and Tourism Development Authority (SCTDA), and contribute to its Sharjah Vision 2021, attracting a total of 10mn tourists by the year 2021. It will also facilitate the access of local and global brands to Sharjah’s tourism sector through strategic partnerships. We’ve already seen great success in this area by successfully bringing the world’s largest festival for art and entertainment, Fringe, to Sharjah and the UAE. This is a brand new investment in 2020, by Shurooq to promote tourism and culture in Sharjah.

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SHOW REPORT

ENGAGING MINDS

Highlights of the IFI Design 2050 – Technology Design Education congress held in Dubai

It was a major event and the who’s who of the industry along with the international design forces joined their hands to make IFI Design 2050 – Technology-Design- Education congress a huge success. The event supported by DUBAI –Dubai’s Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing, (DTCM) in collaboration with the UAE’s Association of Professional Interior Designers (APID) was held from February 25-28 2020, at Park Hyatt, Dubai. Over 1,000 leading international and regional designers participated in this major four-day event for the design industry, where a major new international design competition will be launched. The event witnessed over 300 international delegates from 65 countries. Some of the keynote speakers at

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the event were Ashley Hall, Professor of Design Innovation, Royal College of Art London, UK; Arturo Dell’Acqua Bellavitis, Professor and Dean, Milan Polytechnic, Italy; Rosanne Somerson, President Rhode Island School of Design, Rhode Island, USA; and Dr Ibrahim Karim, the cofounder of BioGeometry.

Shashi Caan, IFI CEO, said: “The International Federation of interiors, architects, and designers is a professional body for architect, interiors, and designers. All professions have one professional body that helps them to bring them together, to raise the bar of education, set standards, network, and engage in a lot of other activities.

IFI is such a world body for designers and architects. APID is a very long-standing and

important member. We’ve been to Dubai before as well. We come together with APID to uplift the discipline, to cause public awareness, and also to take some important initiatives together. “ Caan further explains: “The general assembly happens once every two years, it’s a bi-annual meeting with members only.

Because the meeting requires travelling of members from all across the world, we also combine with our congress and a series of other events for the development of the industry. When IFI comes to any particular country or city, the idea is to get that member and city, and their industry the maximum spotlight for their benefit and progress.”

The event highlights topical issues such as

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SHOW REPORT

sustainability and environmental concerns. This year they focussed on Dubai and covered three important aspects –design, technology, and education.

HE Farida Abdullah Kamber Al Awadhi, the first Emirati woman interior designer at the helm of APID for over a decade said: “We had eminent and influential speakers participate in the Congress.

This was a unique opportunity for designers in this region to experience first hand their vision for the profession as we move forward.”

Several prominent and highly influential local designers also particiapted in the panel discussions and shared their views on interior design. An IFI Interiors Education Policy Development workshop was also be held.

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HE Farida Abdullah Kamber Al Awadhi

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Basin: IpalyssÂŽ vessel Fitting: Connect Air vessel mixer

PICK OF THE MONTH

Glass creations by Jochen Holz

Paper Clay collection

by Paola Paronetto

Unconventional and inspiring Comptoir 102, UAE’s popular lifestyle concept store and home to distinctive pieces from the global world of design and art, is back this year for another exciting edition of Art Dubai. Taking place between March 25-April 15,2020, Comptoir 102 will showcase stunning creations from award-winning artists Paola Paronetto and Jochen Holz featuring one-of-a-kind pieces exclusively made for the concept store.

The collection, titled, “Disrupt” – Paper Clay and Glass Blow, celebrates the coming together of the designer’s asymmetrical shapes, textures, and forms of paper clay and glass blow with a modern and quirky twist to it. The works of the designers, though different in their texture and forms, both have a combined love of aesthetics and carry a fragile, somewhat minimalistic note.

Price: AED500–AED6000 Availability: Comptoir102 102 Beach Road, Jumeira 1, Dubai

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