Close

Urban connoisseur: Hazem K. Aljesr

The Cities Boutique founder talks about what makes a good design investment.

Hazem Eljesr

Known for hand-picked, intuitive selections of global designs, Cities Boutique was founded by Lebanese-born Hazem K. Aljesr. After starting his career with revered British designer Tom Dixon, Aljesr earned a solid reputation with his first boutique location in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, and solidified that reputation with his two Dubai showrooms. Following the recent introduction of two new design brands, Gardeco and Seletti, at the renowned concept store, Aljesr spoke with id about his creative process and the keys to learning how to identify meaningful design.

Hazem Eljesr

Hazem K. Aljesr, founder of Cities Boutique

What is your design philosophy?

I find form and function to be equally important; however, the key is something more than the most straightforward meshing of form and function. I’m very much a proponent of Eames’ idea that it is the details which make the design. My time at Tom Dixon really cemented and validated this philosophy. I saw how this abstract idea could become a reality, and result in a successful business.

As one of Dubai’s design visionaries, what were your challenges?

While I appreciate the sentiment, I can’t say that I have been one of the leaders that has transformed the design sector in Dubai. I’ve just been lucky to be a part of this ongoing process. I find the idea of changing the status quo to be an appealing one, and I have always found the transformation in Dubai to be inspirational. The biggest challenge has always been on an individual level: getting people to understand the importance of design and why it matters.

Cities Boutique

How does Cities truly differentiate itself?

It’s always been important to find the underlying core and change with the times, not with the trends. Our diversity also plays a role. We carry popular creations, hold exhibits and host designers. But we also take part in design fairs, so we are relatable to people on all different levels.

Who is your favourite designer? Architect?

My favourite designer: Nada Debs. Her ability to fuse cultures and styles in such an accessible and appealing way is amazing. Cities is incomplete without her creations. My favorited architect: Oscar Niemeyer. He was a real pioneer of modern design; his rounded edges created from hard materials resulted in an amazing fusion that still has an impact today.

How does design lead to cultural understanding and diversity?

Design is educational, but it also exists to document where we are in terms of cultures and diversity. It’s a fine line between cultural appropriation and cultural appreciation but, somehow, many of these design brands are able to surmount it and present something new and appealing that acknowledges our differences and diversity, but also shows our commonality as well.

Why is top-tier design an important investment?

When we look at good, top-tier design, we are looking at the past, present and future simultaneously. Top-level design represents a standard to aspire to, and as it trickles down we see it replicated and disseminated in mass-produced designs, so one top-tier creation has an effect on the design sector as a whole and connects us across cultures, classes and countries.

citiesstore.com

The Latest

Designing Movement

RIMOWA’s signature grooved aluminium meets Vitra’s refined design sensibilities

A Sense of Sanctuary

We interview Tanuj Goenka, Director of Kerry Hill Architects (KHA) on the development of the latest Aman Residences in Dubai

Elevated Design

In the heart of Saudi Arabia’s Aseer region, DLR Group has redefined hospitality through bold architecture, regional resonance and a contemporary lens on culture at Hilton The Point

Turkish furniture house BYKEPI opens its first flagship in Dubai

Located in the Art of Living, the new BYKEPI store adds to the brand's international expansion.

Yla Audace collection

Yla launches Audace – where metal transforms into sculptural elegance

The UAE-based luxury furniture atelier reimagines the role of metal in interior design through its inaugural collection.

Step inside Al Huzaifa Design Studio’s latest project

The studio has announced the completion of a bespoke holiday villa project in Fujairah.

Soulful Sanctuary

We take you inside a British design duo’s Tulum vacation home

A Sculptural Ode to the Sea

Designed by Killa Design, this bold architectural statement captures the spirit of superyachts and sustainability, and the evolution of Dubai’s coastline

Elevate Your Reading Space

Assouline’s new objects and home fragrances collection are an ideal complement to your reading rituals

All Aboard

What it will be like aboard the world’s largest residential yacht, the ULYSSIA?

Inside The Charleston

A tribute to Galle Fort’s complex heritage, The Charleston blends Art Deco elegance with Sri Lankan artistry and Bawa-infused modernism

buddha bar dubai marina

Design Take: Buddha Bar

We unveil the story behind the iconic design of the much-loved Buddha Bar in Grosvenor House.