Copyright © 2025 Motivate Media Group. All rights reserved.
Local Industries' entire collection is available for purchase at the store
Since 2011, Palestinian architecture duo Yousef and Elias Anastas – founders of AAU Anastas, based in Bethlehem – have been working with artisans in Palestine on their furniture arm, Local Industries, which mostly comprises seating such as stools, benches and chairs. Local Industries focuses on a collaborative approach, and the conception and production of each piece forms a continuous dialogue between the architects and the local artisans. In addition to breaking the cycle of having to source low-quality furniture at cheaper prices, Local Industries offers highly functional furniture to an international clientele, complete with local know-how.
“This endeavour aims to reassert the value of local Palestinian labour without freezing it into a traditional and obsolete role or mindlessly imposing alien standards to its method of work,” the brothers explain.
While production continues to stem from the architects’ base in Bethlehem, Local Industries has opened its first store in Jordan’s capital, Amman. The store is located in a warehouse space in Sweifieh Village, with the design honouring its original function: the construction features rough finishings, and chairs are displayed on a wall of shelves or arranged within the space as free-standing objects. The new Amman store is selling Local Industries’ entire collection as well as pieces from its new series, such as ones from the Crocodile Collection.
“Local Industries is taking a new direction with the opening of stores as a reaction to increased shipping costs post-pandemic,” Yousef explains.
The Amman store is setting a precedent for more stores to follow in 2022, as well as partnerships with various retailers such as Studio 7 in Doha and BEYYN in London. Its’ upcoming collection will be revealed in spring, designed in collaboration with a number of designers selected by the Anastas brothers.
RIMOWA’s signature grooved aluminium meets Vitra’s refined design sensibilities
We interview Tanuj Goenka, Director of Kerry Hill Architects (KHA) on the development of the latest Aman Residences in Dubai
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
Located in the Art of Living, the new BYKEPI store adds to the brand's international expansion.
The UAE-based luxury furniture atelier reimagines the role of metal in interior design through its inaugural collection.
The studio has announced the completion of a bespoke holiday villa project in Fujairah.
We take you inside a British design duo’s Tulum vacation home
Designed by Killa Design, this bold architectural statement captures the spirit of superyachts and sustainability, and the evolution of Dubai’s coastline
Assouline’s new objects and home fragrances collection are an ideal complement to your reading rituals
What it will be like aboard the world’s largest residential yacht, the ULYSSIA?
A tribute to Galle Fort’s complex heritage, The Charleston blends Art Deco elegance with Sri Lankan artistry and Bawa-infused modernism
We unveil the story behind the iconic design of the much-loved Buddha Bar in Grosvenor House.