Design Middle East Aug/Sept 2019 issue

What makes Qasr Al Watan as one of the greatest landmarks of the modern era. French designer Xavier Cartron who has worked his magic on the iconic project tells us why the world is smitten by this architectural wonder

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August/September 2019

Palace of the Nation

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

Contents

A u g u s t / S ep t e m b e r 2 0 1 9

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26 IN THIS ISSUE… 16 Cover Story

Interior designer Xavier Cartron talks about creating an iconic landmark­—Qasr Al Watan

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24

Interview

26

OP-ED

28

Suppliers

38

Feature

In conversation with Mohamed Khaled from Armstrong Ceiling Solutions

Juan Hildebrand, Schwitzke, discusses innovative changes in retail design

List of leading bathroom and kitchen suppliers in the region

How landscaping is changing the look and feel of any given project

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

Commercial director Delphene Fletcher delphene@bncpublishing.net +971 55 9910706

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

Welcome It’s exciting times ahead for the design and architecture industry. Soon, we will be witnessing the INDEX exhibition that brings together interior designer, architects, suppliers, product designers, and artists under one roof and the whole aura is amazing. October is one of my favourite months, it brings the change in the weather and my most-loved event of the year— Design Middle East Awards. Yes, the second edition of these Awards will be held on October 23, 2019, at Sofitel The Palm, Dubai. So, hurry up and send your nominations soon.

Moving on to this issue, we have a spectacular cover with the UAE’s newest landmark— Qasr Al Watan, Abu Dhabi as the lead. We spoke to the French designer Xavier Cartron, the magician behind the success of this project. This edition has an interesting listing that features the leading bathroom and kitchen suppliers as they share their latest launches and expansion plans. Plus, we have a feature on landscaping trends and how it has become an integral part of the design in the region. Catch all this and more in our bumper Aug-Sept issue.

Editor Roma Arora roma@ bncpublishing.net

Art director

This time, my heart is all for the Blanche one-seater in velvet from 2XL. Clearly, my wish list is growing.

Aaron Sutton aaron@bncpublishing.net

Marketing Executive

Happy reading!

Roma Arora

Vince Celestial vince@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

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

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August/September 2019

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Newsmakers

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Significant investment is made in IT and voice technology at Ouspace

Kerten Hospitality launches co-working space— Ouspace in Jeddah Specialist mixed-use operator Kerten Hospitality has opened its first Ouspace in the Middle East, with the launch of its serviced offices and business club in the dynamic city of Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. Kerten Hospitality is a division of Ireland-based Kerten, focussing on operating mixeduse projects: branded residences, serviced apartments, hotels, serviced offices, gourmet burgers, and F&B. Ouspace Bakheet, located in the Bakheet headquarters, is an 850sqm holistic co-working office space and business club

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August/September 2019

offering tailor-made office spaces for entrepreneurs, freelancers, remote employees, and corporate businesses of all sizes for short- and long-term let. With premium, techsavvy, and elegantly designed facilities, Ouspace is curated to offer the best office solutions to meet the needs of individuals and corporates, encouraging collective growth.

Spread over two floors, Ouspace Bakheet is open, flexible, and convertible, with private and shared office spaces, a business lounge, meeting zones and event rooms, as well as multipurpose

social areas and a premium café to encourage connections and collaboration between members.

The club is accessible 24/7, with office attendants, business support, postal services, event planning, advanced technical assistance, and round-the-clock helpdesk provided.

Marloes Knippenberg, CEO of Kerten Hospitality, said: “As the largest economy in the Middle East and North Africa, with GDP forecast to grow by 2% this year, Saudi Arabia is becoming an increasingly attractive base for multinationals, small businesses

and start-ups seeking to do business in the Middle East.”

Knippenberg further added, “Ouspace Bakheet enables national and international businesses, from large corporates and SMEs to freelancers and entrepreneurs, to establish themselves in the market quickly, with minimal overheads and flexible packages that allow them to scale their office space up and down as needed. In addition, our stylish design, technology focus and commitment to holding community events provide our ‘Ouspace citizens’ with extremely attractive workspaces.”

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NEWSMAKERS

Emaar to build first 3D printed home in Dubai’s Arabian Ranches III

3D printing is environment-friendly with sustainable home construction techniques significantly lowering waste and noise pollution during wall construction

Setting a new milestone in residential property development, Emaar Properties has announced plans to build its first 3D printed home in Dubai’s Arabian Ranches III. This is the first step towards Emaar’s ambition to be a leading adopter of advanced construction technologies.

Following a global competition, in which the world’s leading 3D printing technology providers participated, Emaar has awarded the contract to 3D print a model home in Arabian Ranches III. The construction will be facilitated using a local contractor with the goal of building in-country competencies in 3D printing for the property sector.

Building the first 3D printed model home underlines Emaar’s commitment to adopt

innovative construction methods to build faster and at a lower cost while achieving the higher design and architectural flexibility. Emaar’s use of 3D printing technology will also promote the sustainable use of resources by reducing waste of construction materials and noise pollution.

Upon completion, the 3D printed model home will serve as a reference point for investors to further understand the concept and appreciate the value add that advanced technology brings to the real estate sector.

Mohamed Alabbar, chairman of Emaar Properties, said: “As the pioneer of integrated communities in Dubai and the trendsetter in the region’s property sector, our plans to embrace 3D printing of homes is an integral part of our

digital-first and customer-first strategy. Through this, we are not only positioning ourselves as an early adopter of advanced technology but also creating long-term value for our customers as 3D printing brings numerous advantages such as reduced cost of construction, more efficient use of materials and higher levels of sustainability.

With 3D printing technology, to be implemented locally using international expertise, we are also supporting the vision of the leadership to build ‘Smart and Sustainable Cities’ that are tech-driven and meet the aspirations of the new generation of customers. It will also help accelerate the innovation ecosystem in Dubai, inspiring start-ups to contribute towards advanced construction technology.”

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NEWSMAKERS

Roy Posey, Wilson Associates

Neil Serridge is elected as the RIBA Vice Chair for the RIBA Gulf Chapter

Roy Posey is the new design director at Wilson Associates, Dubai Global interior architecture design firm Wilson Associates is pleased to announce that Roy Posey has joined the Dubai studio as design director.

In his new role, Posey will oversee the studio’s design initiatives, projects, conceptualisation, and staffing—serving as a vital mentor to the growing Middle East-based design team.

Bringing with him over 15 years of design experience, Posey will also represent the rapidly expanding studio at a host of industry events in and around Dubai.

Posey began his career in interior design conceiving restaurant and bar interior spaces, as well as high-end residential interiors.

Leveraging that expertise, he brings a wealth of industry knowledge and a fresh perspective to Wilson Associates, following his previous leadership roles for noted international interior design firms such as Keane, where he was head of design; Hirsch Bedner Associates, Dubai; and the Honest Group.

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Posey is recognised throughout the industry for implementing functional design strategies, uniquely optimised for the needs of both leisure and business travellers. He is known for creating thoughtfully designed guest rooms and public spaces that encourage brand loyalty for his clientele. For Wilson Associates’ Dubai studio, Posey is currently working on the following hospitality projects: Westin Hotel Ras Al Khaimah; Pai Thai, a Thai restaurant within the Al Qasr Hotel in Dubai; and a large hotel on the new The Island development in Dubai.

“I’ve recognised Wilson Associates as a worldclass, luxury hospitality interior architectural design firm for many years,” said Posey. “I’ve kept an ear to the ground on their latest work and commitment to design excellence and was thrilled to learn that a spot opened up at the firm’s Dubai studio. I am grateful to have joined such a creative design team and look forward to furthering our reach in the region.”

Neil Serridge, Benoy

Neil Serridge, associate director in Benoy’s Dubai studio has been elected RIBA Vice Chair for the RIBA Gulf Chapter. The role will see him co-ordinating RIBA’s presence at leading events in the Middle East region, including Cityscape, Dubai Design Week, and Design Middle East’s Design Forum.

The primary purpose of the role is to promote RIBA within the Middle East and highlight the added value RIBA charted practices bring in terms of design excellence across the construction industry.

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NEWSMAKERS

UAE’s first material library, Colab opens in d3 Colab also serves as a gallery, event and activation space, and networking hub in its bid to bring the entire creative community together

The four-day event will be held in conjunction with CIFAC at Cairo International Convention Centre in December 2019

Over 120 exhibitors to showcase at 5th Cairo WoodShow Cairo WoodShow, North Africa’s leading platform for wood and woodworking machinery, with 120 exhibitors from across 25+ countries and 7,000 visitors, is gearing up to organise its 5th edition at Cairo International Convention Centre from December 5-8, 2019. Held under the patronage of the Egyptian government, the event will be held in conjunction with Cairo International Furniture Accessories & Components & Semi-Finished Products Show (CIFAC). At the four-day long Cairo WoodShow, companies from wood and woodwork machinery spectrum will assemble in the heart of Egypt and showcase their latest products and innovations, while CIFAC will give exhibitors an opportunity to exhibit innovative wood accessories.

Global wooden furniture market size from commercial applications is projected to witness over 6% compound annual growth (CAGR) from 2019 to 2025, according to reports. This brings more confidence to the investors as well as professionals to take part in the Cairo WoodShow, which has become a leading platform for wood and woodworking machinery experts and companies from different parts of the world. It should also be noted that residential building applications dominated the global wooden furniture market share, accounting for over 66% of the global demand in 2018.

Residential uses include upholstered, non-upholstered, bedroom, kitchen cabinet, and dining room. Strong growth in the real estate sector, rapid urbanisation, and rise in per capita incomes are among the key factors driving the industry share. Taking into consideration these positive developments, Cairo WoodShow functions as the gateway to thriving wood trading in North Africa, offering access to more than 7,000 quality trade professionals from the North Africa region, and beyond. With Egypt having its wood-based furniture domestic production valued at $750mn, and over 3,800 companies registering with the Egyptian Furniture Export Council, Cairo WoodShow has already found a niche market among buyers and experts in Africa and MENA region.

Colab, the first purpose-built material library in the UAE, is now open in Dubai Design District (d3). Located in Building 1b, Colab is a social business venture that functions primarily as a material library and inspiration and learning centre.

This space aims to elevate design across the region by offering a platform to showcase the latest materials and design trends from across the globe whilst highlighting excellence in regional design as well. Colab, in partnership with Material ConneXion, the leading materials-driven design authority and partner of the most innovative brands in the world, is hosting the first Innovation Walls in the UAE at d3. Curated by Material ConneXion’s team of experts, the Innovation Walls are a physical manifestation of Material ConneXion’s consulting expertise, tangible material samples, and cross-industry insight, incorporating a range of materials on the cutting edge of technology and sustainability.

Richard Wilson, creative director, Colab, says: “Materials come first. What’s more, designers should care about their design as much as the materials they choose. With this in mind, we want to help the design community understand better the importance of material selection. Through our partnership with Material ConneXion, we hope to use their materials intelligence to help the industry innovate. By offering access to some of the best material solutions and by providing an insight into tomorrow’s opportunities, we hope to act as a catalyst for new material and product ideas.”

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Cover Story

Qasr Al Watan's unique design features classical Islamic architectural motifs such as the arch, dome, and ornate tile work with interwoven patterns

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August/September 2019

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Cover Story

The unbelievable grandeur!

Make some changes in the itinerary if you’re planning to visit UAE, as there is the newest landmark that is grabbing all the attention— Qasr Al Watan in Abu Dhabi is a tribute to Arabian culture, heritage, and artistry. In conversation with the French interior designer Xavier Cartron, the man behind the breathtaking and immaculate design of the wonder of the modern era

T

here’s something spectacular about UAE, after giving monumental buildings such as Burj Khalifa, Burj Al Arab, The Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, Louvre Abu Dhabi, and many others, there’s a new landmark, which the world is talking about.

Recently, the travel and tourism website, www. hotelandrest.com, has chosen Abu Dhabi's Qasr Al Watan as one of the 20 greatest contemporary culture and arts landmark in the world.

Out of this world, it just seems as if it’s unreal but it’s there in real, and brimming with pride.

Translated as the Palace of the Nation, Qasr Al Watan showcases the cultural and historical heritage in a new civilised style.

So, what is Qasr Al Watan? According to its official website: “Qasr Al Watan is more than a palace, it is a unique testament to the spirit

of the United Arab Emirate's people and its leaders. The palace invites the world to share our culture, knowledge and inspiring journey.

Qasr Al Watan is more than just a palace, it is an enriching interactive journey in a contemporary setting that reveals and reflects on governance, knowledge, and craftsmanship.”

Set amidst the 380,000sqm Presidential Palace compound, it took 150 million hours of work to build the exquisite palace. Solid maple wood with hand-carved designs detailed with 23-carat gold, has been chosen for the doors due to their light in colour and durability. The patterns have been carved by hand and each door took 350-man hours to make.

The interior design work for this project was divided into five main packages and other ancillary packages. Apart from The Great Hall, designer

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Cover Story

The Presidential Banquet

Xavier Cartron’s scope of work also included the main reception building, supreme council, presidential library as well as the presidential wing.

Cartron is a happy man and the world is showering so much love for the work he has done on this commission. This project is not the first project in the region for Cartron. In fact, he has many achievements all over GCC, especially in Saudi Arabia. Cartron is ecstatic the way people from all over the world are appreciating this architectural wonder. Qasr Al Watan is also nicknamed as the ‘Versailles of the Middle East’.

The adventure for Cartron began 10 years ago in 2009 with a contest. His mind-blowing ideas, creative mind, and French know-how captivated the jury and he won the contest to work on this palace.

Cartron gushes: “Qasr Al Watan is a unique project without something equivalent in the region. It was clearly, one of the most challenging projects as well. One of the main challenges was to understand the scale and proportions. For example, the main lobby is one hectare and the

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highest point is 60m. We decorated 2300 rooms.

Another thing to keep in mind was the nature of the project, this governmental building is the official reception and conference building of the country, has the Supreme Council Hall, as well as the Offices for H.H. the President, H.H. the VicePresident, H.H. the Crown Prince, and top state officials. All this required special studying.”

Cartron has taken cues from the rich Arab culture and heritage to create something as magnificent as this. Cartron comments: “The design showcases a strong Emirati identity by the way of overall harmony of colours, like a shade of ivory, beige (reminiscent of the sandy beaches of the Persian golf course), of ochre yellow (inspired by the desert of the peninsula), and finally different shades of blue initiated by the turquoise waters of Abu Dhabi.

Not just this, but also, in the use of ornaments inspired by the whole culture of the Arab world, these arabesques are the visual expression of decoration. This design was based on classical proportions structuring the overall proportions

of the project.”

The Palace of the Nation opened its door for the general public in March 2019, and it has become a monumental landmark for the country. Designing such a big project was not an easy task, but Cartron knew what the client wanted. For Cartron, client’s brief holds utmost importance. He shares: “I am passionate about my work whatever the project, any style, any scale. I don’t care about my signature, on the contrary, I like variety. I do not try to adapt the projects to my design; I prefer to adapt my design to the project. Listening and understanding the scope of the client is the key to my success and is one of the reasons for the plurality of our projects. I take inspiration from the relationship I have with my clients. It is essential to understand their request to start working.”

The Presidential Palace Abu Dhabi is divided into various zones like The Great Hall, which features central dome, archways, and stunning mosaic patterns. The most arresting feature of The Great Hall is its central dome, standing 60m

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Cover Story

DESIGN MOGUL: Xavier Cartron believes in the power of timeless design and architecture

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Cover Story

The Central Dome

above the ground and boasting a diameter of 37m, this meticulously crafted dome is one of the largest in the world, and a true marvel to behold.

Cartron worked closely with Mirodec Gulf to achieve the glorious look of central dome featuring stained glass panels and decorative glass panels.

Another zone called the Spirit of Collaboration, which is a meeting area where entities such as the Federal Supreme Council, the Arab League and the Gulf Cooperation Council come together to express ambitions, set agendas, and map the way forward. One of the highlights here is the chandelier. Designed to absorb ambient sounds in the room, this magnificent fixture comprises 350,000 crystals. Weighing an impressive 12 tonnes, this three-layered chandelier had to be assembled within the room due to its massive proportions.

Qasr Al Watan also features Presidential Gifts Exhibition and Presidential Banquet Hall. The Presidential Banquet boasts an impressive 149,000

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assortment of crystal, bone china and silverware that has been custom-made for Qasr Al Watan.

Qasr Al Watan Library is aimed at preserving and sharing centuries of Arabian knowledge and culture with the world. It features a collection of 50,000 books from various ages of Arabian scholarship, this library is an expansive space where history and knowledge help inspire and mold the future.

The ‘Al Barza’ majlis is the largest room in Qasr Al Watan after The Great Hall, the designs here are inspired by the UAE’s historical heritage and features the Brazilian granite pillars (Sodalite), a rare and valuable material covered with semiprecious stones.

There are other huge attractions at the palace as well and various dining options available for the visitors.

Cartron is in awe of the Middle East, its fascinating culture, and the wonderful buildings in this land of the desert. He is studying other projects, but not like Qsar Al Watan. “We are working on a hotel resort in the Sultanate of

Oman, also private villas in Kuwait and Saudi Arabia (architecture and decoration). Now, Dubai is a very important place for the design (interior design and architecture). There are many iconic projects that I personally like the Louvre Museum in Abu Dhabi which was built

by Jean Nouvel that is associating modernity in a local architectural tradition, its approach is timeless.”

Cartron is focussing on creating architecture that is responsible and sustainable. He is a fearless and a creative designer who works towards his passion and not mere trends.

“Our interior and exterior architecture must be responsible. We are currently working on positive energy buildings. I do not believe in trends; I think that design has to go back to its sources: an honest and natural conceptual approach, respect for the environment, an awareness of the sustainability of projects and cultural knowledge of its use is highly important.

This is my vision for my career that I wish will not be registered as ephemeral,” Cartron signs off.

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Interview

Look up to the ceiling!

Mohamed Khaled, sales director, Armstrong Ceiling Solutions, Middle East, talks about the trends, challenges, and technology Could you tell us more about the brand and its presence in the region?

Armstrong Ceilings has been established for more than 150 years and offers multimaterial ceiling system solutions that help to enhance comfort, building efficiency, and overall performance for our customers. Our regional head office and showroom in Dubai not only display the various materials and custom solutions but also offer local support and engineering to turn companies’ ideas into realities. This year, our focus is to grow our presence in the Middle East. We recently launched a distribution service in the Middle East to reduce lead times for the supply of ceiling solutions. The gives contractors a cost-effective service as they only need to pay for what they need at the time and not a percentage of the overall project value, allowing them to complete projects more quickly.

What are the upcoming trends?

Open-plan spaces: These are becoming increasingly popular as they flood rooms with natural light and airflow. Open spaces, where light can still pervade and that take advantage of ceiling systems that ‘zone’ noise, provide individuals with the space to focus without taking them out of the room.

Smart sustainability: In 2020, we should notice a rise in companies investing in natural and recyclable materials to achieve an ecofriendly building. We are already seeing projects

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Mohamed Khaled

use biophilia to make a sustainable difference: The Green Planet in Dubai is a perfect example of this. We are proud to have supported the project in their journey towards sustainability.

Natural light: There is an increasing demand to create ceiling solutions that provide natural light, which in turn, can create an illusion of more space. From creative ceiling designs to floating

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Interview

parks. Some of the projects we are currently working on include Jeddah Airport (KSA), Kuwait University (KWT), Al Rajhi Bank (KSA), BDF Cardiac Center (BHR) Kuwait Municipal Council (KWT), amongst others. This diverse range of projects strengthens our portfolio and presence in the Middle East, we are starting to see a demand for sustainable ceiling solutions.

How technology is enhancing the customer experience in your field?

The Green Planet, Dubai

ceilings and canopies, these ceiling solutions can all meet the demand for natural light.

Elaborate on the challenges that come along?

One of the major challenges in this region is the integration of the various services, i.e. light, air diffusion, and speakers. This is why our preengineered TechZone system has been so successful. We have teamed up with industry leaders in lighting and air diffusers to assure fit and finish. TechZone allows the customer to specify technical fixtures with confidence, knowing that all components will fit perfectly.

Apart from this, there are two categories of challenges— logistical and physical. The first is all about the demands of the client and the supply chain – it’s always more complex during refurbishment or renovation around working buildings. The second surrounds the environment and conditions the project faces.

Another major challenge is disruption. School life continues regardless of the construction team and hospitals need to keep operating around the clock – productivity waits for no one.

Faced with rigid timescales and working hours,

flexibility is crucial. Teams must work together to agree on timings and activities, setting out a clear logistical plan – including contingencies.

It’s also important to bring in the installation team early to survey, prepare, and work through potential issues in advance.

What kind of projects are you doing here?

We are doing all kinds of projects within healthcare, education, transport and theme

I believe technologists need to work with designers and architects to ensure that these smart buildings look as good as they perform – this is where ceilings play a vital role. Recent trends highlight that technology should be invisible. Therefore, when creating spaces, we have to ensure that technology is concealed.

Ceilings must blend the technology into space itself, whether that’s through monolithic systems shaped around technological features, or the use of canopies, baffles and floating ceilings to hide equipment within the ceiling space

Do you work sustainably?

Here at Armstrong, sustainability is a key focus and 70% of our products are C2C certified. We understand that many companies want to create a greener building and ceiling systems play a major role in effective energy consumption.

Our sustainable ceiling solutions contribute to BREEAM, LEED, and a range of other green building rating tools.

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Op-ed

The evolution of retail design Juan Hildebrand, managing director, Schwitzke, on how shifting consumer behaviour is leading to innovative changes in retail design

R

etail design in the Middle East is developing to meet consumers’ changing needs, and the dynamic has shifted far away from an online vs. in-store shopping experience. Now, it seems like brands are combining both dynamics to come up with creative strategies for selling to customers.

Here are some factors that play a crucial role in developing retail design:

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Customers’ changing attitudes towards shopping To begin with, customers are changing their views on shopping—while some prefer the comfort of online shopping, others like going on a journey across different stores to find the perfect item.

However, when designing a retail environment, customers who visit retail stores can be divided into two distinct categories. The first type includes customers who know exactly what they

want and where to look for it. This is when they’re influenced by like-minded communities or did some research online as to what they want to buy and where they can find it.

On the other hand, you have undecided buyers and shoppers who go around looking for inspiration, whether it is self-indulgence or gifting. These consumers want to experience feelings of discovering something new. To cater to them, the product assortment needs to be

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Op-Ed

set in a distinctly inspirational environment. It’s important that retailers must remember that not every visitor is looking to buy something. Many of them are just wandering around, trying to gain inspiration for their next look. This is when a welldesigned retail space can lead to conversion.

Combining e-commerce and traditional retail Brands need to realise that they can’t compete with the speed, efficiency, and convenience of online shopping – if they try to, they’re setting themselves up for failure.

They need to combine both aspects to give

customers a holistic experience.

Greater use of artificial intelligence technologies and integrating smart home devices is enhancing the digital environment every day. Nonetheless, it still holds untapped potential to completely integrate this with a physical retail environment in an impactful way.

Creating authentic, sustainable, and relevant spaces To convince consumers that they are a reflection of a modern business with forward-thinking practices, brands need to invest in creating authentic spaces that are relevant to the

experience and sustainable at the same time.

From colour palettes to building materials, from reclaimed décor to energy-efficient lighting fixtures – they all play a role in defining a brand’s identity.

Staff members and visitors favour sustainable environments more because they extend the dwelling time and increase wellbeing in one way or another. Unlike before, brands aren’t interested in quick conversions anymore. Now, potential customers are invited inside stores to sample things and interact with products. Think of the Apple stores, their public space approach is a great example of this retail philosophy.

Social validation Trust any retailer to admit how critical it is for their customers to trust them. Using techniques like user-generated content and reviews, audience loyalty can increase. Free and accessible platforms like Instagram and YouTube give brands exposure via user-generated content like images, stories, video reviews, and unboxing therapy videos. In an era when word of mouth influences buying decisions, users’ comments about a brand ultimately impact future buyers. In contrast, satisfied customers who post a positive experience are a brand’s best ambassadors, because they’re trusted by the community and are “real people”.

DNA, Amman

Roomours, Riyadh

The do good, feel good factor Due to the new generation’s demand for better business practices and sustainable products, brands are leveraging the ‘Do good, feel good’ phenomenon by integrating it with their practices. Many brands get certifications from fair trade organisations and other bodies to show to consumers that the product doesn’t come from exploitation.

Whether it’s fair trade, non-animal tested, or even affiliated with an NGO. Take the TOMS’ ‘One for One initiative, for example. It gives buyers the satisfaction that whenever they buy a pair of shoes from the popular brand, an impoverishedchild also gets a pair. Similarly, whenever they sell eyewear, some of the profit is channelled towards sight restoration in developing countries.

As responsible designers, we are committed to preserve the environment and contribute to a sustainable society.

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Suppliers

Bathroom and kitchen suppliers at the forefront

Bathroom and kitchen areas are the heart and soul of any living space. Kitchens have increasingly become an entertainment area and bathrooms are no less than a style statement. From traditional to modern and every style in between, here's a list of the top kitchen and bathroom suppliers in the region leading all the way

Ideal Standard products are designed with smooth geometric lines that adapt easily to any environment, and the fittings are equipped with water saving technologies that offer the perfect water experience without the need to compromise.

About the brand For more than 100 years, Ideal Standard is focussed on innovation and design to provide customers with products that deliver functionality, convenience, and an enjoyable experience. Working closely with architects, designers and construction companies, Ideal Standard aims at positively shaping the future of modern living. popular products in the region Ideal Standard’s Tesi range is a wonderful example of a supremely functional form exhibiting exquisite beauty. The ceramic

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Latest launches In December 2018, Ideal Standard announced its long-term partnership with renowned design studio Palomba Serafini Associati and it proudly presented the first ranges resulting from this cooperation at ISH 2019, in Frankfurt.

This comprises a range of unique ceramics and fittings, as well as furniture and a bathtub, and in a bold move we see a return to the use of colour to align with modern interior requirements.

Expansion plans The brand is always working on innovations to create both public and private bathroom solutions that can respond to the lifestyle needs of today and tomorrow with a new vision on form and function.

Annual turnover Ideal Standard looks back at a successful fiscal year, registering sales of €760m and 9,000 employees operating in more than 100 different countries.

Ideal Standard has always been moving the industry forward with significant innovations. We are proud of how far we’ve come and we look forward to continuing our journey with our customers, partners, and employees. Together we’re shaping the future of modern living.

Ahmed Hafez, CEO, Ideal Standard MENA www.design-middleeast.com

Suppliers

RAK Ceramics

About the brand Specialising in ceramic and gres porcelain wall and floor tiles, tableware, sanitaryware, and faucets, RAK Ceramics has the capacity to produce 116mn square metre of tiles, 5mn pieces of sanitaryware, 24mn pieces of porcelain tableware and 1mn pieces of faucets per year at its 22 state-of-the-art plants across the Middle East and Asia. popular products in the region Larger sized tiles continue to grow in popularity and RAK Ceramics’ Maximus super-sized slabs collection is designed with this trend in mind. The Maximus slab revolutionises the design and architecture world by opening up new perspectives in tiles applications that were previously unimaginable.

Latest launches RAK-CLOUD, was first unveiled at Cersaie 2018 is the result of RAK Ceramics’ first

collaboration with the Italian designer Giuseppe Maurizio Scutellà. RAK Ceramics has also introduced RAKVARIANT, a modular collection designed by renowned Italian design duo Daniel Debiasi and Federico Sandri.

Expansion plans The company recently opened its first flagship showroom in Birmingham, UK, 250sqm in size and featuring a dedicated tile and sanitaryware area showcasing its latest products. Saudi Arabia is also one of RAK Ceramics’ key markets and this year the company is investing in new showrooms in Riyadh and Jeddah.

Annual turnover RAK Ceramics is a publically-listed company on the Abu Dhabi Securities Exchange in the United Arab Emirates and on the Dhaka Stock Exchange in Bangladesh and as a group has an annual turnover of approximately $1bn.

Ceramics is becoming very competitive and this is positive for us.

When you look at the consumption of carpet, natural marble, natural granite, or wood over the past 10 years, it’s clear we are gaining market share.

As we celebrate our 30th birthday, we continue to push the boundaries in ceramics production. Our portfolio places ‘integration’ at its heart and is completely in line with our vision to become the world’s leading ceramics lifestyle solutions provider.”

Abdallah Massaad, RAK Ceramics’ Group CEO

August/September 2019

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Gaggenau About the brand Gaggenau is a manufacturer of high-quality home appliances and acknowledged as an innovation leader in design and technology “Made in Germany”. The company, with a history dating back to 1683, has revolutionised the domestic kitchen with its internationally acclaimed products. Gaggenau has been a subsidiary of BSH Hausgeräte GmbH in Munich since 1995, and is currently represented in more than 50 countries with 22 flagship showrooms in major cities around the world.

Expansion plans Gaggenau aims to cover different luxury residential projects in Dubai’s most prestigious areas and to increase the opportunities to introduce the brand to the luxury kitchens of the future. Gaggenau is fully concentrating its efforts on the UAE. The brand wants to solidify their position and stamp their mark in Dubai & Abu Dhabi, which aligns with its solid marketing strategy.

Annual turnover BSH Middle East has had a consistent growth showing a positive performance of +12.5% in the same period (2019 vs 2017).

popular products in the region Gaggenau’s coffee machine integrated with aroma-brewing technology, ovens, induction cooktops with ventilation integrated into the island, Vario Cooktop are some of the popular products in this region.

Latest launches Touch-to-open refrigerators and freezers with stainless steel interior and TFT touch display is the latest brand has launched. Another amazing product is the CX full induction cooktop with surface sensors adapting to the size of the cookware material, pot, pan, and tray.

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During the last two years, we faced multiple issues, coming all together and at the same time (VAT implementation, Saudisation, oil prices erosion, thus affecting the confidence of consumers to invest and purchase like they were inclined to previously. Business has continued moving forward positively but transactions in luxury goods have been affected due to political and social instability. Although, the UAE and luxury are still very much aligned, we will continue to monitor and build upon the behaviour of this consumer-profile.

Tomas Alonso, CEO of BSH Home Appliances Middle East

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SANITARYWARE & tILE DIVISION, Alshaya Enterprises About the brand The Sanitaryware and Tile division from Alshaya Enterprises is specialised in professional bathroom fixtures, tiles and natural stone that bring spaces to life with a complete full solutions.

Latest launches The brand has some new partnerships and also extending and strengthening their current partnerships with major brands such as Geberit, Vitra, Duravit, Hansgrohe, Delabie, and Dornbracht into new countries within the GCC, these are showcased in their A&D centers across the GCC.

We see the market currently on the rise in the retail segment, projects within the GCC are very price conscious however the major brands are becoming more aggressive so the end-users and designers still get the design intent originally envisaged.

Clients in both segments are becoming more and more brand-orientated for reliability in the product, this going hand in hand with the Alshaya Enterprises long standing reputation in the market.

Michael Box, regional manager (UAE, Oman, Qatar), A&D, Sanitary Ware Division

ROCA

fully-owned ROCA factories which are prepared to start supplying locally produced bathroom products to projects in the GCC. Annual turnoveR It's close to 1,8 billion EUR of which an important share is originated in the division which englobes Europe, Middle East, and Africa.

About the brand ROCA is a family-owned global manufacturer of bathrooms and tiles with presence in over 170 countries and 80 fully owned factories in 19 countries, founded in the year 1917, in Barcelona, Spain. popular productS in the region The most popular products are the wall hung WCs with concealed cistern and basin and furniture solutions.

Latest launches Latest from the brand is the exclusive ROCA coating —´Everlux´, thanks to its sophisticated PVD finish provides a high resistance to scratches and impacts and is available in a wide variety of matt or glossy colours. The glossy colours are shiny black, rose gold, gold, and chrome, whereas the matt colours are brushed black, brushed rose gold, gold, and stainless steel.

Expansion plans Expansion plans are always considered on a global scale and target fast growing markets with large populations. Recent expansions have taken place in Turkey and previously in Egypt, as both countries have

The current state of the region´s market is unique as never before the region has faced the level of challenges we currently face in having to move towards a sustainable economy and sustainable society in general, but not so different from the challenges the world faces as a whole. For this reason it´s more important than ever to be ambitious with regards to new designs to ensure that the new creations which come off the drawing board of architects and designers aim to reach new levels of sustainability while maintaining or even improving the quality of life of the public in general.

Victor Schoone, country manager Middle East and South Asia, ROCA

August/September 2019

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PORCELANOSA About the brand PORCELANOSA Group is today a major reference in both the Spanish and the International market. With over 45 years of experience, the brand is present in almost 150 countries worldwide. With nearly 1,000 establishments located throughout the world, PORCELENOSA offers bathroom furnitures, tiles, bathtubs, tap, and other accessories. popular products in the region XLIGHT Premium, the 120x120cm and 120x250cm porcelain tiles and mosaic tiles are in demand.

Latest launches PORCELANOSA has international collaborations with Foster & Partners and Zaha Hadid. This year, the brand has launched a collaboration with Spanish architects Ramon Esteve, one of the most international Spanish architects and the collection is called LIGNAGE. Expansion plans PORCELANOSA has focussed on its sales of 2019, in Dubai and Abu Dhabi. In 2020, the brand is planning to expand the sales team and cover all the UAE with an aim to provide customers the best service.

Our eight factories based in Spain cover a full range of products, from tiles, sanitary ware, and natural products. Due this range, our approach in the market is focussed on architects, interior designers, contractors, and developers.�

Pablo Pesudo, country manager, PORCELANOSA Dubai 30 |

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SieMatic About the brand Since its founding in 1929, SieMatic has dedicated itself in the realisation of individual interior design solutions. The deisgns are based on company’s three themes – PURE, URBAN and CLASSIC – with constantly evolving reinterpretations in more than 60 countries worldwide. latest launches SieMatic has launched its new PURE collection. Characteristic of the new SieMatic kitchen concept in the PURE style collection are generously sized, tinted glass surfaces used in conjunction with sophisticated lighting integrated into cabinetry as a design element.

Functional luxury is now trending, and that applies for kitchens as well.

Our clientele look for refreshing and stimulating ideas from brands such as SieMatic that expand the realm of design with colours, forms, volumes, and materials that until now were only mainly available to create an atmosphere in living rooms. The most frequent settings are soft lighting, frameless cabinets using rich wood tones or soft-closing handle-free deluxe shelves. SieMatic offers these and more options that can beautifully and cleverly maximise the storage and efficiency of any kitchen.”

Matthias Hemeier, business manager, Al Gurg Living

Smeg About the brand For almost seven decades now, Smeg has created electrical domestic appliances with a special focus on design, dedicating particular attention to aesthetics, ergonomics, and functionality. The distinctive Smeg style and elegance is the result of collaboration with designers of international fame who have designed products that redefine contemporary living, reliability, safety, and attractiveness. Today, the Smeg brand is recognised as a point of excellence adding pride to the 'Made in Italy' tag. popular products in the region Smeg’s Dolce & Gabbana range, Fab28 refrigerator, and small appliances are in popular here.

Latest launches An interesting drip filter coffee machines in four different colours, D&G’ Smeg blender, and Union Jack 2 slice toaster are amongst the latest launches.

Expansion plans The brand is Introducing sinks and mixers as a new category in Q4. It is also introducing new colours to the small appliances in January 2020; rose gold and gold, and also expanding the D&G x Smeg range for its customers.

Since the relaunch of Smeg in 2014, there has been tremendous growth for the brand in the market in all distribution channels. In spite of adverse market situations in the last couple of years, a niche and design driven product range backed by focussed marketing activities has ensured Smeg is maintaining a steady growth path in Better Life retail stores, department stores, select online channel and Power retailers. This gives us the confidence to introduce a much wider portfolio of product categories to the UAE consumers and we are working on making the daily chores fun with these design-centric products.

Mark Nammour, general manager, Better Life

August/September 2019

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Kitchenhaus

About the brand For over 100 years, the Alshaya family has supported the GCC construction industry through Alshaya Enterprises, a leading interiors solution provider. Kitchenhaus is the specialised division and solution for residential kitchens by Alshaya Enterprises.

Kitchenhaus can provide full-scope tailored solutions for any size project on full supply and install basis, be it from the most luxurious villa development all the way to budget-orientated high-rise residential apartment towers. popular products in the region The brand is witnessing that most of their customers prefer their German kitchen solution, which has been the focus for Kitchenhaus in the past decade, however, their Italian kitchen solutions, that were added to the product portfolio in 2018, are gaining increasing popularity.

There is a tendency for modern styled kitchens with flat doors in neutral and timeless finish variations of white and grey as well as wooden finishes in earthy tones as the trend colors for 2019.

Customers are looking for high quality products at affordable prices on the cabinetry solutions, whilst adding value to the kitchen with exclusive worktops,

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appliances as well as sink and mixer taps using some of the most famous brands worldwide.

bathrooms and storage solutions, all under the theme ‘More Than Just Kitchens’.

Latest launches Besides new material systems, front finishes as well as design elements for their German and Italian kitchen solutions on annual basis, the brand’s kitchen specialists work to utilise the versatile cabinetry solutions in different areas of the house, such as living rooms,

Annual turnover As part of Alshaya Enterprise’s 2020 strategy, the brand is planning to double the number of existing retail showrooms for Kitchenhaus in the next five years. The ambition to become the market leader for residential developments with continued double-digit growth year-on-year.

Despite challenging market conditions, all the way from the current oil price situation, e-commerce impact on the traditional showroom business, to the overall worldwide economic outlook, we believe in the region, and we believe in significant growth opportunities across the GCC with our Kitchenhaus as part of Alshaya Enterprises.

Marc Hoffmann, general manager GCC, Kitchenhaus, Alshaya Enterprises www.design-middleeast.com

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La Cornue

About the brand The brand was inspired by the Paris metro, after Albert Dupuy realised there was a more efficient way to heat an oven in 1908, resulting in the original vaulted oven from La Cornue. Over the years, this oven was further developed to incorporate gas and then later electricity.

In 1964, the focus shifted to include beauty and excellence with the Château range that set the benchmark for future La Cornue products.

Latest launches La Cornue launched new induction units for the Château range. The Château range of cookers consume less power, providing customers an exceptional product to fit into modern homes or

classical homes; made from the highest quality materials – cast iron and stainless steel, bronze or copper and then covered in enamel. Each 'Château' cooker is entirely handmade. With customisable choices of configuration, colours and trims, there are no less than 8,000 options available to design a bespoke cooker to suit individual requirements, desires and appetites. The brand has also launched new induction units for the Château range, models 90, 120, and 150. To match the aesthetics of La Cornue, these units are designed as a single block of four to five induction plates with a sleek design without separating modules.

The world of luxury is moving towards experiences and steering away from just purchasing goods for their utility value. Our target clientele go beyond the product and brand, and are interested in the original DNA of the brands that Al Gurg Living offers to them. With La Cornue, the focus on cultural roots, societal context and history not only preserves and enhances the heritage; but also helps tell a unique story and find enthusiasts for the brand, increasingly in countries far from its origins.

Matthias Hemeier, business manager, Al Gurg Living

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Duravit

About the brand Founded in 1817, in Hornberg in the Black Forest, Duravit AG is a leading international manufacturer of designer bathrooms. In cooperation with high-profile international designers, the company develops unique bathrooms that enhance the quality of life for users on a sustained basis. Duravit's product portfolio comprises sanitary ceramics, bathroom furniture, bathtubs and shower trays, wellness systems, showertoilets, tap fittings, and accessories as well as installation systems.

Most popular products in the region Duravit is universally recognised for its long tradition and outstanding expertise in the field of ceramic processing. A great example of this DuraCeram. With the Luv series from Cecilie Manz different sizes of oval above-counter basins made from DuraCeram impresses with the subtle lines, generous inner basins, and clean

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edges. On the opposite, the architectural design of the DuraSquare washbasins, hand rinse, and above-counter basins is seamlessly linear and finished with a high level of precision.

Latest launches Latest from the brand includes two new bathroom series from sieger design, Viu/XViu and Happy D.2 plus, and the accessories series Starck T also available in the trend colour black matt. The new SensoWash Starck f generation is amongst other numerous technological innovations.

Expansion plans Duravit has managed to build strong brand equity in the region due to its professional attitude and high level of commitment in the market. Especially with the introduction of the Duravit faucets, the brand has managed to show that they understand holistic bathroom design.

Passion, commitment, and innovation are the main pillars for our daily activities that allow us to be optimistic regarding the differently sized opportunities that are available in the region.

Toni ElKadi, head of projects-Middle East, Duravit www.design-middleeast.com

SupplierS

Geberit

About the brand Geberit operates with a strong local presence in most European countries, providing unique added value when it comes to sanitary technology and bathroom ceramics. The production network encompasses 29 production facilities, of which six are located overseas. The Group is headquartered in Rapperswil-Jona, Switzerland.

optimised drainage system for highrise buildings is generating a lot of interest in the region as well.

Most popular products in the region Geberit introduced the first concealed cistern in 1964 and since then has sold and installed more than 70 million pieces worldwide. Geberit concealed cisterns are available in different heights to fit every bathroom and are equipped for installations requiring electrical connections.

Annual turnover The Geberit Group posted good results in the first half of 2019. Overall, sales decreased slightly by 0.2% to CHF1,627 million in the first six months of the year. However, currency-adjusted sales improved by 3.1%. Operating cashflow increased by 3.3% to CHF501 million, which corresponds to an improvement in the operating cashflow margin of 100 basis points. Net income rose by 0.9% to CHF365 million with an increase in return on sales of 20 basis points. For 2019, management expects to achieve currency-adjusted sales growth of 3 to 4% and an operating cashflow margin of 28 to 29%.

Latest launches Some of the brand’s recent innovations include the compact shower toilet, Geberit AquaClean Tuma, and the washbasin connector Clou. Geberit SuperTube, space-saving hydraulically

Expansion plans The objective for the Geberit Group in 2019, is to perform strongly across the entire product range and in all markets and, as in previous years, to gain market shares.

The company is constantly developing its products, systems, and solutions and as the market leader in sanitary technology, keeps setting new standards. Innovative investment is crucial, our research and development teams have their finger on the pulse, harmonising functionality, aesthetics, and of course impeccable design.

Gabriel Nassar, managing director Rep office Gulf, Geberit

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project

The Nail Spa office, Sheikh Zayed Road

Nailed it!

GDM Interiors’ latest project is all about minimalism and positive vibes

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he workplace culture is changing and so are the designs. GDM Interiors have recently delivered The Nail Spa office project on Sheikh Zayed Road and they created an energising and positive working space for its valued client.

“The flamboyance of the ‘trend’ has to be optimized to match the personality of the customer and the practicality of the design. The interiors of the office are designed keeping in mind the minimalist treatment while maintaining the fluidity and interactive nature of the space. Usage of glass

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walls helped to make the space brighter allowing natural light, and the glass partitions enhanced the appearance offering privacy and sound insulation wherever needed. The placement of plants across the area naturally enriched the environment giving it a fresh and calming effect.

In today’s world, the success of a business is synonymous with its appearance for which an appealing commercial fit-out is important, and an aesthetically enriching ambience is the primary focus. In alignment to its motto of ‘Delivering Excellence’, GDM Interiors, leading fit-out

contractor in the UAE collaborated with TNS for the complete interior and fit-out project for Nail Spa’s new office. The skilled team of GDM Interiors from consultants to office designers and fit-out experts worked closely with each other to create a commercial space that reflected the brand’s value and their story.

Simultaneously, the presence of eco-friendly and sustainable furniture, and lighting enhanced the look of the place and created a space that the TNS team could use more positively and productively.

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project

Large window brings in ample natural light

Glass partitions create privacy and provide excellent sound reduction

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Mushrif Village by desert INK

Breathtaking landscapes Landscapes are the soul of any given project. Leading experts tell us why?

By Roma Arora

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t’s amazing how brilliant and wellplanned landscape activities put together a project and makes it a unit. It seems as if landscaping makes everything look appealing and more than it’s an asset for any project. The landscape industry is undergoing a huge change presently. There is a shift in thinking and perception from the landscape

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as mere 'window dressing' or beautification to a valuable resource, which can deliver huge benefits to its inhabitants. In the hospitality industry, in particular, the landscape is now a massive selling point and hoteliers place a huge emphasis on the outdoor spaces and they rightly want them to work hard for their investment.

More than just aesthetics!

It's not enough to simply look good. Landscape architecture in urban areas is the thread, which stitches a project together. Duncan Denley, managing director, desert INK, says: “No building stands in isolation; it is connected to the wider world through the landscape.

Footpaths, lighting, signage, bridges, roads,

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gardens, plants, plazas, shade structures, trees, and water bodies help to connect our built environment into a cohesive whole. Not to mention the things we don't see below the ground, such as water connections, sewerage lines, electricity cables and drainage conduits, which if not carefully orchestrated by a landscape architect, can lead to spaces at ground level which are completely inhospitable to humans and only used by vehicles.”

Resorts like Nikki Beach by Desert Group are increasingly structured around the outdoor space and it is used intensively to deliver value to the hotel experience.

People often think of landscape architecture as a way to ‘decorate’ spaces or is all about ‘greenery’ in urban areas. Shalini Bhatnagar, CEO, Fiona Environs, comments: “Landscape architecture is much more than just aesthetic benefits. It provides the essential infrastructure that does much more. It promotes the creation of healthier cities that provide livable neighbourhoods, with more people spending time outside, working and playing in natural environments. This encourages a healthier lifestyle within communities. In more technical terms, landscape architecture consists of creating green roofs that reduce building heating and cooling costs, provide wildlife habitat, and reduce urban air temperature, which in turn reduces the urban heat island effect.”

Landscape by: desert INK Architecture and interior design by: ANARCHITECT Photography by: Fernando Guerra

Duncan Denley, desert INK

Challenges in the region Due to the harsh and extremely hot climate of the UAE, landscaping is not an easy task.

The region in general faces challenges with weather, such as extreme heat that can be felt over the summer months, which limits the usage of outdoor spaces. Paula Wehbeh, head of Broker Channel and marketing at Ellington Properties, shares: “It’s important for landscape designers to recognise the success of the UAE’s earlier vernacular architecture and how designers dealt with these extreme conditions.

Through smart design and expert knowledge of materials, earlier UAE inhabitants were able to create both internal and external environments that could be used throughout the year. This approach to design is of particular importance when landscaping is in design process stages.”

Bhatnagar feels that the application of

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Ellington Belgravia II

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various landscape techniques has to be used that result in world-class design solutions that can withstand and will flourish in the arid climate. She suggests: *Exposure to desiccating winds: Ameliorative measures need to be applied to provide shelter for both humans and flora and to create external environments that substantially improve local micro-climates and minimise blown sand and dust. *Water table: Problems need to be addressed at an early stage so that irrigation water application does not adversely affect the situation and that plant material is provided with an excellent opportunity to establish and mature. *Saline ground conditions (if applicable): Associated with the high water table, this

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Paula Wehbeh, Ellington Properties

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Landscape project by Fiona Environs

Nikki Beach Resort & Spa by desert INK

normally results in extremely saline ground conditions and therefore plants will need to be salt tolerant. *Cultural considerations: Appreciation and understanding of local traditions and customs is a vital consideration in order to understand how to design for future residents.

Technology plays a major role There have been massive steps forward in the technology applied in the landscape industry in recent years. Automatic irrigation systems are increasingly sophisticated, applying water only as and when plants require water using moisture sensors connected to a digital controller. The irrigation system at Dubai Hills, which Desert Group constructed, can be controlled by a smartphone and operates with

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incredible precision. Denley explains: “At desert INK we specify sub-surface irrigation by default, which applies the irrigation water below the soil surface, at the plant root zone, rather than at the surface where huge quantities are lost to evaporation. There have also been fantastic advancements in terms of soil creation. There are now companies, which collect food and vegetative waste and turn this into nutritious compost. This replaces the requirement to ship in organic matter from overseas.”

Wehbeh believes that technology is a boon. She stresses: “Through the use of new technologies like Revit and other BIM applications, engineers can better understand the levels of impact a building or structure might have on a landscape in terms of design and energy consumption. As with any new technology, issues can be faced in the implementation stages and some cases aren’t fully understood or utilised.”

The use of native plants Urban landscapes create, restore and preserve urban parks, squares and other public spaces.

Sustainable urban strategies are responsible to the environment and healthy for communities by reducing carbon, cleaning the air, recycling water, moderating extreme temperatures, increasing energy efficiency, restoring habitats and creating value through significant economic, social and environmental benefits.

Good planning is crucial in urban landscaping.

Bhatnagar shares: “It is important to use native plants in a region like the Middle East. These plants thrive in the right environment. Without them and the insects that co-evolved with them, local birds cannot survive.”

There are various benefits of using native plants. Denley describes: “Native and adapted plants typically require fewer inputs like fertiliser re-application, trimming and are less susceptible to diseases, pests and such costly challenges, simply because they are perfectly at home and adapted to environment, rather than supported by substantial amounts of water, fertilisers, pesticides, and human intervention. For our The Block project, we coupled a creative approach to hardscape design with an intelligent selection of plants too. Our use of native plants such as Leptadenia

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Shalini Bhatnagar, Fiona Environs

has dramatically reduced water use on site.

Grasses were also used alongside semi-lush plants such as Pandanus for their lower water consumption.” desert INK’s Sustainability Pavilion has been their flagship project. This project would help shift the paradigm of landscape design in the UAE and the wider region. Specifically, our commitment to using purely native and adaptive plants on such a large scale makes this vision so strong and unique. Almost 200 plant species were specified which are endemic or arid-adapted. Many of these plants are native

to the UAE and Gulf too," says Denley.

He further adds: “We developed this palette with the guidance of our expert growers in Wahat Al Sahraa nursery; they sourced seeds directly from plants in the deserts and mountainous regions of the UAE before trialling and propagating the plants in their facilities. We have seen this landscape go from a theoretical vision to now into full-scale commercial production. Because of these efforts, we can now expect to see a huge variety of landscapes on show at the Expo 2020 that would not have been possible just a few years ago.”

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Event preview

Dose of design

What to expect from INDEX this year…

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he 29th edition of the GCC design community’s main show, INDEX is set to take place from September 17-19, 2019, at Dubai World Trade Centre as a part of newly launched the Middle East Design and Hospitality Week (MEDHW)2019.

MEDHW will set the stage for the multi-million-dollar growth expected in the GCC’s design and hospitality sectors by offering exhibitors and visitors a comprehensive and highly specialised platform for industry leading discussions,

knowledge-sharing, B2B introductions, and B2C interactions. The seven events that make up MEDHW are INDEX, The Hotel Show, WORKSPACE, The Leisure Show, Surface Design, FIM, and INDEX Home.

According to Ventures Onsite, ‘GCC building construction projects expected to be completed across all sectors are forecast to be worth $74.9bn in 2019. Interior design and fit-out industries are expected to thrive as the demand for new residential properties, hotels, schools and hospitals continues to grow.’

Ventures Onsite also indicate that, the value of GCC hotel projects, expected to be completed in 2019, is worth $13.3bn and the overall interiors and fit-out spend in the region’s hotel sector is an estimated $3mn this year.

Tony Crinion, Portfolio Director, dmg events said, “The interior design and fit-out industries in the region are set to experience a positive wave of demand, and our intelligence partner Ventures Onsite predicts the UAE and KSA will be the highest spenders in these markets in the Middle East. It was an opportune time for

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Event preview

us to present a conclave of all events that address design and fit-out requirements across all sectors in the GCC.” A highlight in the design community calendar, the event will look to host over 500 exhibitors who are all hoping to avail the continued growth of the GCC interiors and fit out markets.

The main focus will continue to be on residential and hotel projects in 2019, in the UAE specifically, with some of the Expo 2020 related fit-out works commencing early this year.

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The hospitality sector is expected to hold the majority of total spend on interior design and fit-out this year’ explains the Ventures Onsite’s Interiors Market Report.

Talking about challenges that designers face when working on projects in the hotel sector, Pallavi Dean, founder of Roar, explained that delivery of products within tight timelines is of paramount importance.

Husain Roomi, co-founder of H2R Design, added: “sourcing materiality that we can push

boundaries with, and that positively surprise the environment."

In addition to the Hospitality sector, according to Ventures Onsite, ‘the UAE and KSA have undertaken major renovation and refurbishment programmes, respectively, to upgrade old public buildings using sustainable products and smart technology’. While appreciating the positive business climate, Husain Roomi opines that “every space/location requires its own research, develop-

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Event preview

Here’s a teaser of what you can expect to see and experience at the show this year.

A masterpiece from the 1700s Commissioned in 1737 by Count Heinrich von Brühl, Prime Minister under King Augustus III the ‘Swan Service’ is a magnum opus created

by Johann Joachim Kaendler and Johann Friedrich Eberlein. The visually powerful symphony of forms, colours, and displays of light inspired by the Greek mythology of water took five years to complete.

A 19th-century award-winning design ‘Lilies of the Valley’ is award-winning artistry that dates back to 1861 when it was first created by Ludwig Gruner a professor at the Dresden Academy of Arts. The following year it received a gold medal at the London World Exposition.

A movement-based olfactory experience Presenting 31 design brands from across the globe, Ventura Projects returns for its second edition in partnership with INDEX. Visitors will get to experience highlevel craftsmanship, technology as well as delve into a scent installation by Dutch scent collective SOM Tales of Perfume. The installation titled ATMOS is made out of deconstructed botanical perfume. ment and approach based on its context and brand ethos."

INDEX is at the forefront of promoting the next generation of interior designers in the region. Opining on looking ahead for the GCC’s design and fit-out industry, Mustafa Khamash, managing directo of Kart Group, said: “I believe that young designers are our future and as veteran designers, we all have a role to play in discovering and nurturing this talent."

Companies participating at INDEX Dubai are Belair, Bloomr, Caimi Brevetti, Creative Closets, CUF Milan, Gie El, Indus Heritage Trust, Le JAHAAN, Quadrifoglio Sistemi D'Arredo, Ceramiche Refin, Seteria Bianchi, Vg - Vgnewtrend Jupiter International S.R.L., VZOR, Lunares, and Meissen the oldest porcelain manufactory in Europe to name a few.

INDEX will showcase décor items and installations that boast unique craftsmanship, historical lineage, innovation, and technology.

Light and sound lanterns The portable lanterns from Elstead Lighting include speakers with Bluetooth connectivity. The stylishly designed versatile lanterns feature dimmable 7W LEDs allowing the user to match lighting to the mood, and the speakers can connect to any Bluetooth device.

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awards preview

Middle East

Presented by

23rd October 2019 | Sofitel, the Palm, Dubai /designmiddleeast

Platinum Sponsor

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Gold Sponsors

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Hosted by

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AWARDS PREVIEW

Great celebration awaits…

T

he Design Middle East Awards presented by du are back again. The second year in running and we promise you that it would be bigger and better this time. The awards are all about the celebration of the creative best and foremost from the region’s design industry. The awards will honour the best of designers, architects, projects, design, and architectural companies. The award ceremony with various categories will strive to recognise the individual excellence, company strengths, and project success and the leading design experts will form a jury and be part of the selection procedure. Nominate now to stand a chance to win at the Design Middle East Awards 2019.

Individual awards • Interior Designer of the Year • Architect of the Year • Young Talent of the Year (includes designer and architect) • Project Manager of the Year • Lifetime Achievement Award

Company awards

• Architectural Firm of the Year • Interior Design Firm of the Year • Fit-Out Firm of the Year • Decor Retailer of the Year • Boutique Firm of the Year • Specialised Manufacturer of the Year

Project awards • Best Retail Project of the Year • Commercial Project of the Year • Residential Project of the Year • Design Education of the Year • Landscape Project of the Year • Lighting Project of the Year • Sustainable Project of the Year

• Hospitality Project Design (hotels) • Hospitality Project Design (includes restaurants, bars, and clubs) • Innovation in Design Award • Healthcare Project of the Year • Interior Fit-Out Project of the Year

How to Nominate • Click “Submit Nominations’ on the homepage • Complete nomination details, such as name of company or person you are nominating • Answer all of the required questions clearly • In your submission, be sure to include details showing why your entry deserves to win over others.

• Collate all your supporting documents to a single pdf file no larger than 10MB and send it across to awards@bncpublishing.net • Any queries can be e-mailed to roma@ bncpublishing.net • Nomination end date: September 19, 2019

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AWARDS preview

Know our judges To keep the process fair and impartial, Design Middle East has created a jury of five members who will help us in deciding the winners based on the documents submitted by the companies. Here is the list of our eminent judges that are part of the panel this year

Sumaya Dabbagh

Chair of Riba Gulf Chapter Sumaya Dabbagh is the founder of Dabbagh Architects with diverse experience in architecture and interior design spanning over 20 years. Following an education at Bath University under the guidance of the late Peter Smithson and Sir Ted Happold, Dabbagh began her career in London and Paris in the ’90s. Her return to the Gulf region was part of a quest to gain a deeper understanding of her own identity, a unique mix of influences and sensitivity towards both Western and Middle Eastern cultures.

Stephan Frantzen

Design Director, P&T Architects and engineers Stephan Frantzen is the design director of P&T Architects and Engineers, Dubai office. He has significant experience in the design of master plans, large mixeduse developments, hotels, office towers, and residential developments. Having joined P&T in Hong Kong since 1990, he moved to the Dubai office in 2008 to work on projects throughout the Middle East, Africa, and beyond.

George Katodrytis

Head of the Dept. of Architecture, American University of Sharjah An architect, professor, and RIBA member involved in practice, teaching, and research. He studied and taught at the AA in London. He published widely on contemporary architecture, urbanism, cultural theory, and digital media. He has lectured and made presentations in the UK, USA, Russia, Estonia, Finland, Czech Republic, Thailand, Turkey, and the UAE.

Kerem Cengiz

Matthew Engele

Kerem Cengiz has had over 20 years of international experience across all aspects of real estate development. Cengiz’s outstanding work and leadership have helped him secure many significant and high-profile projects in the UAE, GCC Region, and internationally against other globally recognised international practices. This has earned him and his team the “Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Business Award for Innovation” in 2017, as well as “The Queen’s Award for Enterprise: International Trade” in 2009.

Matthew Engele is an awardwinning architect and principal with over a decade of experience in the Middle East, Europe, and the USA. Since joining Woods Bagot Dubai, Engele has led some significant and notable projects including the Dubai Design District (d3), St Regis Hotel in Marrakesh, and Mulberry Park Heights in Dubai Hills.

Managing Director, LWK & Partners, MENA

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Principal & Regional Design Leader, Woods Bagot

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Talking point

Master bedroom at the hotel

Luxury is in each detail Here’s what plush Rixos The Palm Dubai Hotel & Suites has new to offer

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www.design-middleeast.com

Talking point

Rixy Club

R

ixos The Palm Dubai Hotel & Suites rebranded this year and the UAE’S first luxury multi-concept resort now offers 316 rooms and suites, with the Luxury Suite Collection adding four prestigious categories that combine the spacious layout and homely touches of a private residence, alongside the resort’s unparalleled service and amenities.

The Luxury Suite Collection comprises of 82 suites, conveniently located in a dedicated building adjacent to the existing hotel. Guests looking for exclusivity and privacy can choose from a collection of two, three, four and five bedroom family suites, ideal for larger groups,

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Talking point

and multi-generational families seeking the ultimate holiday sanctuary.

Guests staying in the Luxury Suite Collection also benefit from their very own exclusive facilities, including an expansive swimming pool, stylish beach bar and authentic Turkish allday dining restaurant, Turquoise. Taking luxury to a new level, guests can also take advantage of the property’s pioneering Ultra All-Inclusive offering, as well as enjoying access to the resort’s extensive facilities, which include a total of 11 restaurants and bars.

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Luxury features in the new collection of suites include spacious living and dining areas, private balconies offering mesmerising sea views and Dubai skyline vistas, exquisite marble bathrooms with deep-soak tubs, separate butler or maid’s rooms, and sumptuous décor that reflects the look and feel of luxury residences. Furthermore, generous outdoor areas range from large private balconies and verandas to garden areas complete with BBQ areas, sun loungers and playgrounds. Taking luxury to the next level, the four-bedroom penthouse suite comes equipped

with its very own private outdoor jacuzzi, while the four and five-bedroom Pool Suites come with their very own private swimming pools, and exclusive butler service.

The Luxury Suite Collection also extends exclusive benefits to its guests including private check-in, special spa treatments, VIP amenities on arrival, in-suite breakfast, complimentary afternoon tea, a private BBQ dinner experience, complimentary local tour and two-hour use of non-motorized watersports, plus much more.

www.design-middleeast.com

Talking point

Living room of the five-bedroom suite

Living room of the four-bedroom suite

Guests are also spoilt for choice when it comes to dining with nine additional eclectic restaurant and lounge outlets, with Italian fine dining at L’Olivo Ristorante, Toro Loco Steakhouse, and Aqua & More Seafood Restaurant.

The hotel has unlocked a new level of adventure and entertainment with its all-new Rixy Kids Club. This summer, the colourful sanctuary invites the luxury hotel’s junior guests to dive into all things creative, imaginative and memorable. From sushi

making at the culinary workshops to exploring the sandy beach with archaeological activities, Rixy Kids Club curates a dynamic itinerary to cater to all interests.

Toddler Town (0-4 years) Parents with children under 4 years of age are welcome to recharge at Toddler Town’s Baby Chamber, an air-conditioned changing room where mothers can freshen up and feed their babies in privacy. With professional nannies and certified babysitting service on-site,

parents can leave their children to catch their forty winks at the nap room.

Junior Town (5-12 years) With plenty of activities, every child’s interests are catered for, from art, science, brand new colourful waterslides and splash zone in the outdoor shaded pool, and the UAE’s first inhotel amphitheatre dedicated to kids. There are some exciting programmes for children like drama and theatre, athletes, culinary classes, painting lessons, and brainiacs classes.

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Wish list

Seal it with simplicity!

Style inspired by colours, warmth, and chic living

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www.design-middleeast.com

Wish List

Prim and proper Renew and experiment with frame table, bookshelve, Leporello stools, Joe&Ema centerpiece, ackfruit vase and Factory lamp ph. Fabrizio Bergamo Availability: www.ghidini1961.com

Let there be light The simplicity of Malvasia lamps is what an elegant room needs Availability: www.fabbian.com

Magic of prints For a perfect table setting, try these bespoke Peter Pilotto designed plate in bone china Availability: www.matchesfashion.com

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Wish list

Colour blast African table/homeware that will prove a gorgeous and colourful addition to your living space Availability: Kulture House, 106 Jumeirah Beach Road. Jumeirah Beach Road, Dubai

Technology at its best MODO freestanding mixer with its deep moonshaped slots, is studied and offered for a more ergonomic and precise flow regulation Availability: www.quadrodesign.it

Little joys Make your high tea party more fun with these printed plates and coffee cups Availability: www.silsal.com

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www.design-middleeast.com

Wish List

Making a statement Wood speaks the language of warmth, like this table Availability: SELVA, 727 Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai

Attention to detail Bathroom accessories for the exclusive and the most demanding ones Availability: www. bertocci.it

Eyes on you GRETA wall lamp bring together the Hollywoodian imagination and the contemporary style Availability: www.marioni.it

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Events

The Month Ahead

Trade fair dates for your diary…

EVENT IN FOCUS INDEX

September 17-19, 2019 Dubai, UAE Launched in 1990, INDEX Exhibition is the Middle East & North Africa’s largest gathering for the design community. This is the ultimate design show, connecting architects, interior designers, developers, and procurement professionals with new brands, trend-setting start-ups and the biggest international names in the interior furnishings and fitout scene across all industries.

This year in 2019, as part of Middle East Design & Hospitality Week, INDEX joins forces with The Hotel Show, INDEX Home, The Leisure Show, Workspace, FIM & FM Expo to create the biggest community gathering and supplier showcase the region has ever seen.

Paris Design Week

September 6-15, 2019 Paris, France The ninth annual Paris Design Week, scheduled to overlap with Maison&Objet Paris, will take place in September 2019.

Paris Design Week is an itinerary uniting 300 participants that all proudly promote first-rate design in Paris. At a time when new collections are popping up in stores and the new concepts for the autumn season are being launched, the event brings together the talents and forces of retailers, galleries, showrooms, hotels, and restaurants to share their experience in design and creation with the public.

Detroit Month of Design

September 1-30, 2019 Detroit, USA To honor Detroit’s designation as a UNESCO City of Design, the entire month of September is marked as the Detroit’s Month of Design. Programmed

by Design Core, Detroit Month of Design is a citywide celebration of creativity that gathers designers and the greater community to celebrate Detroit’s role as a national and global design capital. Every September, partners across Detroit— from emerging studios to established companies and educational institutions— come together to show off their latest works and ideas.

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Helsinki Design Week

September 5-15, 2019 Helsinki, Finland Helsinki Design Week presents the new faces and phenomena of design, promotes design internationally in collaboration with various partners, and offers city citizens through design a forum to participate in for developing and discussing the city and its culture.

The festival programme contains around 230 events every year, and includes both events targeted for professionals and the general public.

www.design-middleeast.com

The perfect ambience.

Health and wellbeing, nature and sustainability form the basis of the keynote theme ATMYSPHERE at the world’s leading trade fair for floor coverings in 2020.

Discover the latest product trends and interior design solutions. Be inspired.

Make contacts among leading manufacturers from all over the world.

10 – 13 January 2020 Hannover ▪ Germany domotex.de

s g talk n i r u t rs Fea ed tou d i u g ral and itectu h c r a on topics

The World of Flooring

Deutsch-Emiratische IHK · Tel. +9714 4470 580 · info@hf-uae.com

Pick of the month

Upping the glam quotient It’s time to spruce up your living space with Blanche one-seater. Every home needs an accent chair and being quirky pays off. The plush Blanche oneseater from 2XL Furniture & Home Décor will make for a perfect addition with its spectacular design and vibrant tone. The embracing curves make it just the comfy lounge chair you would want to sink into after a long day.

Amit Yadav, head of marketing, 2XL Furniture & Home Décor, says: “Soft in texture with a velvet finish and rounded like a cocoon, this cozy armchair is perfect to glam up any corner. Whether used as a statement piece in the living room or in the bedroom, the chubby chair sits pretty in every space. If you have a nook lacking some personality then the Blanche could be the ideal addition.”

Price: AED2,141 Availability: www.2xlme.com

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Elevate your work performance.

Get the all-new Samsung Galaxy Note10+ with our Business Mobile Plans at zero upfront. du.ae/note10business

“Don’t be afraid to steer away from neutrals and be more creative by opting for something bolder and a bit more fun.”

@maspaints

Aleena Waqas