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DesignFeaturedTrade Fairs

The identity Guide to Downtown Design

Here are the most exciting exhibits to look forward to at the 11th edition of the fair

Cosentino

Cosentino will be presenting its creative concept, ‘Moon Gate’, designed by Kuwaiti Babnimnim Design Studio. The studio is renowned for innovative and sustainable surfaces, and this installation offers a shifting perspective that symbolises the cyclical nature of life and celebrates interconnectedness. Reimagining the traditional moon-like doorway, the concept features a free-standing circular gate that appears to rise from the ground, reflecting the “circular nature” of Cosentino’s sustainable cladding materials, Dekton and Silestone. Its artistic composition is made up of three creative components: circular cutouts, intricate wooden joinery and rectangular monolithic walls. Its seamless effect is created by combining earth-coloured tiles with textures that include flute, matte, high gloss and suede – emphasising the shifting perspectives through the moon gates. Other notable features include plants that flow from passageways, sculptural pieces made from offcuts that depict the moon’s phases, furniture from Cassina and lighting design from Vibia. The installation’s permeable design fosters a free-flowing atmosphere, allowing for a kaleidoscope of views both inside and outside as visitors walk through the portals on all four sides.

de Gournay

Known for exquisite, hand-painted and hand-embroidered wallpapers, de Gournay will debut at Downtown Design this year. Presenting an intimate lounge concept showcasing a dedication to detail and craftsmanship, the brand will host tailored programming in a thoughtfully curated environment.

Finasi

Finasi will present the “Living Lounge Loft”, a concept born from the collaboration with renowned Italian brand Cappellini. The installation integrates Finasi’s bespoke kitchen and wardrobe solutions with Cappellini’s iconic furniture to create a refined space. At the heart of the Loft is a luxurious, spacious island kitchen designed with a custom approach and crafted locally. It showcases a carefully curated selection of materials and finishes, exceptional versatility and optimized storage solutions – all within a fully functional and inviting environment. The ‘Living Lounge Loft’ features a standout glass-tinted wardrobe that enhances storage capacity in a refined and multifunctional manner. This unit not only acts as a separator but can also be utilized in various spaces, including living areas, dressing rooms, and wardrobe units. Completing the Loft’s aesthetic are exceptional collections from Cappellini, including the Cloud, a two-sided bookshelf in white polyethylene, designed by Ronan and Erwan Bouroullec. Also, on display, is the Proust Geometrica Armchair crafted by Alessandro Mendrini, a cult favorite that blends vibrant color blocks with exceptional comfort and the Revolving Cabinet by Shiro Kuramata, a mobile sculpture made from glossy red acrylic plastic material, featuring 20 rotating drawers. Lastly, Jasper Morrison’s Oblong Plus Modular Seating System has been reimagined in its architectural system to enhance flexibility and ergonomics, offering adaptable seating solutions for any layout.

Lasvit

Lasvit’s installations draw inspiration from the natural beauty of desert landscapes, inviting visitors on a captivating journey through light and shadow. The brand’s booth will feature two standout pieces. ‘Wadi’ by Martin Gallo, a dynamic lighting installation that combines water and sand to create intricate caustic light effects, capturing the serene beauty of desert landscapes. Alongside this, ‘Miles’ by Yabu Pushelberg offers a refined collection that merges art, design and light, delivering a touch of modern elegance to contemporary interiors. 

Fioravante

Exhibiting for the first time at Downtown Design, Fioravante is a Dubai-based brand specialising in marble-inspired interior design pieces and furniture, rooted in Italian craftsmanship. The brand’s design approach focuses on transcending boundaries and celebrating the uniqueness and creative processes of the artists and designers they represent. Each piece is a contemporary expression of artistry, blending creativity with individuality. Fioravante’s design philosophy merges research, tradition and avant-garde innovation to create works that not only showcase creative flair but are also rich in character. The brand produces unique items and limited editions in collaboration with international designers, combining traditional craftsmanship with contemporary aesthetics. 

At Downtown Design, Fioravante will unveil its ‘Altrove’ campaign, featuring the VIA collection. With a strong focus on brand and visual identity, ‘Altrove’ refers to a universe of imagination. The collection demonstrates the duality between the two materials, marble and glass. While one is bold and powerful, the other is fragile and minimal.

Natuzzi Italia

Natuzzi Italia will debut the Memoria sofa, designed by Karim Rashid, at Dubai Design Week 2024 as part of its new Circle of Harmony collection. Memoria stands out in the collection with Rashid’s reinterpretation of fluid, enveloping lines, making it a focal point in any living space. Its design incorporates organic contours and delicate curves inspired by the soft hills of Apulia, blending contemporary aesthetics with a sense of harmony, togetherness and comfort.  “For Natuzzi, I wanted to create a space of curves and fluidity that could welcome people,” says Rashid. “A sofa is a meeting of people, friendship and intimacy, after all. Memoria was born from long and meticulous research, where the intent was to create a sofa unique in comfort and pure in appearance.”

Kidzink

For the first time ever, Kidzink will be showcasing new products crafted from a groundbreaking material made entirely from waste fabrics generated at their factory. This material is currently in the process of being patented and will make its debut at Downtown Design. Aligned with their commitment to sustainability, this collection will be styrofoam-free and FSC-certified. By integrating a circular design process, the company aims to advance eco-friendly practices in educational environments, offering furniture that supports their mission to create sustainable, impactful learning spaces. Kidzink will also power the popular Maker Space at Dubai Design Week and host select workshops at the space.

Quooker

Quooker’s booth will display the iconic Front tap in Gunmetal and Rose Copper. These stylish finishes blend seamlessly into modern kitchens, adding not only functionality but also a touch of elegance to any space. Additionally, the company will be showcasing a completely redesigned stand that captures the spirit of innovation, sustainability and luxury. The booth concept intends to be an immersive experience in which guests may interact with the Quooker devices and refresh themselves with sparkling, cold or boiling water directly from the tap.

Interiors From Spain

Interiors From Spain is showcasing renowned brands such as Ape Grupo, EsPattio by Forma5, Inbani, Isimar, Lladró, Ondarreta, Point, Porcelanosa, RS Barcelona and Vibia at their booth. The design concept ‘El Patio’ captures the essence of Spanish design while blending it with the vibrant culture of the UAE. Inspired by the historical connections between the two regions, Dubai-based Spanish designer Kristina Bråteng, CEO and Founder of B8 Architecture, has crafted a space that honours this rich cultural heritage. “It feels rewarding to create a space where the aesthetic sensibilities of both Spain and the UAE can converge, highlighting the shared values and appreciation for beauty. Our design is inspired by the Andalusian patio, which is a beautiful representation of this union,” notes Bråteng. Key elements such as arches, water features and lush greenery are quintessential to Spanish design and form the backbone of the installation. The inclusion of a pergola adorned with vibrant bougainvillea captures the essence of Mediterranean living, adding colour and life to the space.

Perennials

At Downtown Design, Perennials will showcase its latest collection with Timothy Corrigan called Perennials by Timothy Corrigan. The collection features three fresh fabric designs – Leaping Leopards, Les Fleurs and Stripe Du Jour – as well as new colourways in existing favourites, like Feel the Heat and Go For Baroque. Woven from fine 100% solution-dyed acrylic yarn, Perennials‘ fade-, mildew- and UV-resistant materials are able to stand up to life’s everyday adventures without sacrificing great design, making them uniquely suited to fit beautifully with any indoor or outdoor setting. identity will also be holding a panel on 7 November with the region’s leading designers.

Poltrona Frau

With an emphasis on sustainability at its booth, Poltrona Frau will present an impressive array of timeless designs at Dubai Design Week, showcasing collaborations with esteemed designers such as Faye Toogood, Draga & Aurel and Sebastian Herkner. Among the featured items is the Squash armchair, which blends contours with a striking sculptural design. Developed by British artist Faye Toogood, Squash offers a unique invitation to explore Poltrona Frau’s creative design philosophy. Made with a sturdy Polimex frame, the Squash chair offers a modern interpretation of classic furniture design, balancing comfort with creativity.

Obegi Home

Returning to Downtown Design, Obegi Home is showcasing an impressive array of the world’s most coveted international brands at its booth. Among the featured brands are Antonio Lupi, Booma, Emmemobili, Gabriel Scott, Poliform, Paolo Castelli, Porada, OKHA, and Tribù. The exhibition will also showcase collaborations with renowned designers such as Jean-Marie Massaud, Stefano Bigi, Carlo Colombo and others in the installation, visitors will be guided on an immersive journey.

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