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We highlight designs from the UAE Designer Exhibition to Tashkeel's exhibition
While many of the world’s design events went virtual this year in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, the fifth iteration of Dubai Design Week – a festival that has quickly become one of the most sought-after events on the arts calendar in the Emirates – presented a combination of physical exhibitions and outdoor installations, bringing together international works and regional talent in addition to an online showcase of brands and talks, making the event accessible to a global audience.
Although many of the event’s extensions remained, this year’s Dubai Design Week focused less on beautiful distractions and more on hard realities – an approach that felt necessary in the wake of our current situation. Designers and architects responded to calls about the changing dynamics of public spaces and social interaction, the challenges of the current built environment on climate change and the environment, the social politics of the design industry and sustainable alternatives to traditional materials.
A greater focus on locally-based designers also provided a deeper insight into the development of design in the UAE, where Emirati and expat designers and artists showcased works that explored local materials and techniques as well as themes such as identity, locality and context.
At a time when the global design community is working harder to respond to social and environmental issues, the 2020 edition of Dubai Design Week further confirmed the growing influence of the Middle East on the design map, and of a community that is questioning norms and exploring its own potential.
Here, identity highlights some of the most thought-provoking, exploratory and collaborative works that were showcased at this year’s Dubai Design Week.
Read more: Christopher Benton’s ‘How to Be at Rest’ installation challenges traditional perceptions of design
The project combines both commercial office spaces and industrial warehouses
Paul McClean and Michael Webb explore the art of liveable modernism in their latest Rizzoli book
Kettal’s Pavilion H blends aesthetics and functionality
Held in partnership with Saudi Arabia’s Architecture and Design Commission of the Ministry of Culture, the fair will take place at JAX District from 20-23 May.
Baituti Home develops Zuha Island’s most inspiring design projects
Versace Home announces the grand opening of its boutique at Dubai Mall Zabeel
Designed by Aline Asmar d’Amman, the Dream of the Desert train seamlessly blends modern elegance with the rich heritage of Saudi Arabia
OBEGI Home designs a breathtaking mansion on Jumeirah Bay Island through thoughtful curation and bespoke elements
The strategic partnership officially signed during Milan Design Week, will enable collaboration, knowledge sharing, industry networking, and joint initiatives.
This Dubai Hills villa by MWM Studio integrates comfort, functionality and refined aesthetics
Bespoke design and a strong curatorial process define this duplex at The Lana Residences, Dorchester Collection in Dubai
Step into Revolver designed by Yasmine Farahmandy of Y Design Interior.