With over 240 companies and professionals taking part and almost 50 spaces designed, this edition was its best one yet. Settings changed rapidly, from restaurants to hotel lobbies, living rooms to listening rooms, and terraces to experimental vitrines. The spirit of collaboration between local studios and brands across the spaces exhibited a true sense of community, and the versatility of difference materials were appreciated in its thought-provoking applications. Some of the trends we observed included the emergence of volcanic and mineral tones in interiors, textured wallpapers, the use of raw construction material, the presence of clay in different capabilities, and recycled materials such as plastic, wood, cork, and textiles. Here were the most interesting exhibits:

Arcos’ Threshold Vestibule by Studio Lucas and Hernandez-Gil 

Cutlery brand Arcos team had their pieces embodied in two vertical totems that were created out of leftover metal dies from the Arcos knife manufacturing process. The exhibit used colour as a structural tool and geometry as a language. 

Sixtypro’s Savia kitchen 

This exhibit featured natural root wood as a protagonist with terracotta-toned lacquers. Copper details introduce warmth and reflections that evoke the hearth of the kitchen and the handcrafted metalwork. Countertops and technical elements are integrated with a contemporary aesthetic that prioritises visual continuity and fluid forms. 

Kaldewei Space’s Gentle Strength bathroom by ILV* Isabel López Vilalta

Kaldewei’s space included a truly innovative bathtub that warms up and offers chromotherapy as well as sound therapy through programming on your phone.

LAUFEN’s Sensory Balance public restrooms by Studio DIIR

Through the interplay of light, materials, and water, LAUFEN’s space exhibited a sense of calm. Constructive precision and material honesty generated a timeless environment where serenity, intimacy, and understated luxury coexisted in perfect harmony.

Demark Thailand’s Warmest Sun Loft by Trimode Studio

Bamboo, teak, rain tree wood, sustainable fabrics and metals were used in this exhibit organised through the Thailand’s Ministry of Commerce. The unique use of materials and craftsmanship really stood out, with our favourite pieces being the bar cabinet, partition  screens, and decorative lamps made of paper.

Neolith’s Library Hall Between Surfaces and Words by Personalk

The design reveals a different perspective on Neolith, showcasing its ability to harmonise with other materials. The space invited you in with warmth; filled with books, cherished objects, old photographs, and shared memories. 85% of the wall coverings and all of the furniture used in the space can be reused.

La Redoute’s Dressing Room La Loge de Josephine by Top Design Studio

Inspired by the world of Josephine Baker, this intimate space was intelligently styled. Curved volumes, a palette of burgundy and deep greens, natural wood and stone conversed with striking textiles against the furniture.

Cosentino’s Conceptual Space: Spring by Summumstudio

Manantial recreates an atmosphere inspired by the essence of Éclos, Cosentino’s latest product made of 95% recycled glass. Here, the material acquires life and purpose through applications that balance functionality and symbolism.

PH Collection’s Living-Dining Room La vie chez nous by S de Studio

Wood and textile coverings enveloped the space, combined with carpeting and geometric patterns that evoke the spirit of the 70s. Orange and green tones conversed with furniture in caramel woods, while stone and artistic ceramics added texture, character and a contemporary dimension to the whole.

Nuet Ceramics’ Naked Terrace 

Here, walls, floors, and spaces emerge from a single construction system. A longitudinal courtyard organised a series of pauses where the pieces constructed walls, floors, and atmosphere. Light and shadow transformed the material throughout the experience, culminating in a framed view of the Madrid skyline.

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Structured as a progressive spatial journey, AXIS explores the intersection of material innovation, structural expression and sensory experience. Visitors move through a series of environments that transition from sculptural table landscapes to architectural applications and immersive rooms where light, sound and reflection shift the perception of surface and space.

Inside the AXIS Installation

Throughout this week, a programme called AXISTALKS, curated by Album, is taking place at the venue. The creative platform founded by the editors of Apartamento together with architect Paul Cournet brings together eight internationally renowned designers, among others Michael Anastassiades, Sabine Marcelis, Jaime Font and Enrica Cavarzan in conversations moderated by Cournet. The talks are aimed to provide a thoughtful platform for dialogue around design, materiality and contemporary practice.

What is AXIS?

AXIS is a table collection designed in collaboration with Cosentino and Tom Dixon. This collection has been unveiled for the first time in Milan. These pieces combine bold cross–leg geometries, precise engineering and the integration of advanced ĒCLOS® surfaces.

The structural development has been carried out in collaboration with ACTIU, which has translated Tom Dixon’s sculptural vision into an aluminium base of outstanding technical precision. Its design supports multiple configurations and guarantees stability, visual continuity and an impeccable industrial finish that reinforces the architectural character of the series.

New launch: ĒCLOS, the new in-layered mineral surface

The installation also introduces ĒCLOS, Cosentino’s new in-layered mineral surface developed with INLAYR technology—a layered design technology that, through advanced robotic engineering and integrated decoration techniques, creates a 3-D body integrated design. Unlike superficial designs, ĒCLOS achieves a level of depth, realism and tactile naturality that redefines the expressive possibilities of mineral surfaces. Its pioneering composition contains zero crystalline silica and incorporates more than 50% recycled materials, reaching almost 90% in some colours, while offering outstanding thermal performance with resistance up to 220 ºC. The result is a high-performance indoor surface that combines material innovation, sustainability and a distinctly architectural aesthetic.

Dekton series – Artik Nodes

Complementing this, the installation features Dekton Artik Nodes, part of Cosentino’s ultracompact Dekton surface series —an advanced material created through a high-tech sintering process that replicates the transformation of natural stone. Inspired by the shifting geometry of Arctic ice, Artik Nodes reinterprets its stonelike base into a distinctive structural language of irregular patterns that converge in subtle nodes. The result is a singular sense of visual depth: tones and textures that seem to emerge from within, creating a layered, 3-D effect where. Presented in Milano as a premiere of its first colours, Artik Nodes offers an initial glimpse into the expressive potential of the series.

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For Ennismore’s global brand design team, the ambition extended beyond reproduction and instead focused on capturing the distinct ‘feel’ of Delano while reimagining its design signatures for a new cultural and architectural context. As Mark Eacott, Global Vice President of Design at Ennismore, explains, “The key challenge was informing the next chapter of the Delano story, in a way that felt both respectful to the legacy of the original in Miami, and in tune with the energy and style of Dubai.”

Relaxed Waterfront Living

The resort features 251 guest rooms, including 84 suites, alongside six dining destinations, including reimagined versions of the storied Rose Bar and Blue Door Restaurant. Two pools anchor the outdoor spaces, while 250 metres of private beach offer a rare stretch of Dubai shoreline with sweeping views of the horizon and the city skyline. At its pinnacle sits the Delano Penthouse, spanning more than 850 square metres across its own floor. The residence features five bedrooms, a private terrace and pool, as well as panoramic views across the Arabian Gulf.

A Sensory Design Journey

To shape the design narrative, the team revisited archival photographs of the Miami property, long associated with glamorous parties and performances. Signature elements such as the iconic Delano white palette, sunken pool seating and billowing lobby curtains have been reinterpreted as contemporary design cues.

In the guest rooms, these references appear as subtle gestures. Framed archival images nod to the brand’s heritage, while sculptural glass apples recall the playful motif made famous in Miami. Monogrammed throw blankets, curated accents of colour, and natural stone-inspired Dekton countertops contribute to a sense of soft modernity.

Cosentino Delano Dubai

The spatial experience unfolds as a choreographed journey. Guests arrive through a dramatic curtain installation where white sheers, subtly illuminated by concealed lighting, introduce a feeling of movement and discovery. Dimly lit corridors open into luminous interiors defined by a chic, tonal palette. Curved furniture, cocoon-like seating arrangements and richly grained natural materials bring warmth and tactility, while the whimsical topiary and manicured greenery outside evoke Miami’s iconic green hedge.

Crafted Materiality

Materiality plays a defining role throughout the project. Dekton, the carbon-neutral, ultra-compact surface by Cosentino, was selected for bespoke furniture elements, including bar countertops, side and coffee tables, and console surfaces.

Durable yet refined, the chosen surfaces  – travertine-inspired Dekton Marmorio designed by Daniel Germani and Paonazzo stone-inspired Dekton Awake by Nina Magon – complement the hotel’s sculptural forms and tactile palette of finely crafted finishes.

 In a city known for its ever-evolving luxury hotels, Delano Dubai stands apart as an icon thoughtfully reimagined for a new era on the emirate’s shores.

Photography: Natelee Cocks

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This year, more of the Downtown Design exhibitors are experimenting with space, from immersive and experiential pop-ups to thematic, elevated environments that contextualise design in the region. Here are some of the exhibits that we are looking forward to visiting: 

Cosentino

Cosentino

Cosentino is partnering with award-winning Milan and Dubai-based studio Etereo to create ‘1930’, a contemporary lounge experience at Downtown Design 2025. Inspired by the design movement of the 1930s, a golden era that blended the glamour and sophistication of Art Deco with the functionality of Modernism, the installation captures the charm of private clubs and brings it to the heart of the fair. 

To develop the interior design concept, the firm took inspiration from the aesthetics of the decade, a style they believe to be a rare balance of opposites: industrial innovation and traditional craftsmanship. Turning to its own design heritage by drawing from the geometric harmony of Piero Portaluppi, the sculptural sensibility of Carlo Scarpa and the bold architectural gestures of Ettore Sottsass, Etereo sketched out a vision and titled it ‘1930’, a namesake that alludes to the spirit of the brand’s favourite design era. Crafted as a sophisticated balance of geometry, materiality and historical inspiration, the immersive installation will go beyond aesthetics to evoke sensory experiences. The space, a perfect place for soirées, will be composed of a sculptural bar serving signature mocktails, a piano lounge, a game table for playful moments, and a salon for animated conversations. A secret bathroom, inaccessible to enter but visible through a porthole, will add a sense of mystery to the narrative, referencing the covert and forbidden nature of speakeasies from the 1930s. Right from the refined vertical cladding to the ornamental flooring, countertops and bespoke furniture, the entire setting will be crafted in Cosentino materials.

Kohler

In collaboration with interior designer Marco Maximus, KOHLER will invite visitors to explore an enchanting booth inspired by the rich colours and adventurous spirit of a journey through the Arabian Desert. Visitors can experience KOHLER collections in rich, expressive neutral colours that complement any design expression alongside exclusive collaborations that bring global design perspectives to life. The brand will also host a series of talks during the fair.

Huda Lighting

At this year’s edition, Huda Lighting will present a curated selection of luxury decorative lighting from its internationally renowned brand partners, including Lee Broom, Tom Dixon, Articolo, Brokis, Rakumba, Penta, Luceplan, Italamp, Terzani, Bomma, Brand Van Egmond, Folio, Lodes and Panzeri. The collection reflects a balance of innovation, craftsmanship and timeless design, tailored to meet the needs of high-end residential, hospitality and commercial projects. Meet Huda Lighting at Stand D20.

Hands Carpet

At Downtown Design, Hands Carpets will launch the collection of Egyptian sister-design duo Doodle & The Gang. Making fine handcrafted carpets since 1881, Hands Carpets finds true expression in ‘art for the floor’. Each of the company’s carpets is woven by skilled artisans with techniques handed down by generations, crafted using some of the finest qualities of silk, wool and other man-made fibres.

Quooker

Quooker

Visitors to the fair can try the All-New Quooker Flex Square, the newest member of the Flex family – now with a straight spout and enhanced controls for boiling, chilled, and sparkling water and still, all from one tap.

Interiors from Spain

nanimarquina

Interiors from Spain will feature ten leading Spanish brands across furniture, lighting, rugs and tiles – including APE Grupo, nanimarquina and Ondarreta. Its booth, called ‘Espejos’ (Mirrors) and designed by Swiss Bureau Interior Design (SBID), will transform the space into a sensory journey, reflecting Spain’s bold, passionate and innovative spirit.

DEBUTS

ClayArk

The Dubai-based ceramics brand will be making its Downtown Design debut. Its 23+ years of experience offering premium porcelain tiles and slabs, and a blend of craftsmanship and modern design, enables it to provide innovative surface solutions.

Stellar Works

Calico x Stellarworks

Established in 2012, Stellar Works was founded to unite ideas from East and West, blending heritage with modernity, and craft with industry – bringing the best of the past into the light of the present. The brand set out to inspire a renaissance in Asian aesthetics, reinterpreting the forms, styles and motifs that have defined Japanese design through the lens of European tradition to create something both new and timeless. This path between the old and the new reflects a core belief: that good design is timeless – something that Stellar Works strives to embody.

At Downtown Design, Stellar Works makes its Dubai debut, presenting alongside Calico Wallpaper in a space designed by Emirati architect and designer Omar Al Gurg.

MisuraEmme

Now exclusively brought to the UAE by HMA Living by Al Shamsi, MisuraEmme is a symbol of Italian excellence with over a century of craftsmanship, design innovation and timeless elegance. At the fair, MisuraEmme will be presenting highlights from its latest collection, including designs developed in collaboration with Studio 63 Architecture + Design and other leading Italian creatives – offering a glimpse into timeless design tailored for modern living.

STRATA

STRATA

Strata is the studio of mother-son interior design team Saira Ahsan and Yousaf Shahbaz, who have been undertaking bespoke interior projects and producing handmade artisan furniture for over two decades.

All pieces are designed by the STRATA creative team and produced at their factory in Lahore, Pakistan, using a vast range of techniques which include hand carving, inlays and various types of metal casting.

At Downtown Design the brand will present three collections. The Contemporary Artisanal Collection features carved wood inlaid with mother of pearl and finished with handcrafted ornaments. The Sculptural Collection reimagines natural forms through diverse materials and casting techniques. The Period Study Collection pays tribute to centuries-old craft, revived with precision through more than 20 years of research and prototyping at STRATA.

The Forum, designed by Rola Salamoun

Lebanese architect and designer Roula Salamoun has conceived The Forum space this year. The space reflects her tactile, intuitive approach to combining material experimentation with the exploration of organic forms, often inspired by landscapes and natural morphologies. “The Forum is conceived as a living landscape for ideas, fostering exchange across disciplines, cultures and perspectives,” shares Salamoun. “It draws from the region’s longstanding traditions of gathering, where dialogue unfolds in an intimate and inclusive setting, and their strong connection to the region’s native environment, where people come together to sit, converse and connect. These references are reimagined for a global audience, merging the local spirit of hospitality and exchange with the dynamic energy of Downtown Design.” Designed as an internal courtyard, the space’s seating turns itself onto the stage to create a sense of a collective conversation.

Stéphanie Coutas to open new gallery during fair

Stéphanie Coutas, the acclaimed French interior designer known for her sophisticated blend of contemporary elegance and neo-classical romanticism, is announcing the opening of her new gallery in Dubai at Boxpark, Al Wasl Road. The launch coincides with her participation in Downtown Design 2025.

Coutas’s studio has collaborated with esteemed houses such as Baccarat, Promemoria, Tai Ping, THG Paris and Louis Vuitton. Stéphanie Coutas also creates collections of furniture, lighting and decorative objects. Following the success of her Paris gallery in the Golden Triangle, this new Dubai space introduces a refined evolution of her vision. Designed as a warm and curated environment, it invites visitors to discover the world of the designer through luxurious materials, French decorative arts and sensorial storytelling, brought to life in a vibrant new setting.

At Downtown Design, Coutas will unveil the third triptych created by the studio. Measuring 2.75 metres wide by 1.2 metres high, the wall composition offers a rich dialogue between texture, mineral intensity and artistic emotion. At its heart, a mesmerising micro-mosaic reveals a blooming core of emeralds and semi-precious stones, encircled by layers of turquoise and topaz.

Bureau of Innovation Marks a Debut at Downtown’s Editions

Bureau of Innovation (BOI) is a new hybrid curatorial platform founded by Holly Lucas and Sam Henley to orchestrate contexts for experiencing design. The duo will launch the new initiative at Dubai Design Week as part of Downtown’s Editions. Positioned between gallery, cultural salon and digital curator, BOI introduces a model where design is not distant or decorative, but lived with – bold, purposeful, enduring.

BOI presents an assembly of collectible works and thoughtful product design – objects to enjoy. Each designer has been selected for their distinctive material language and approach: from sculptural stone to expressive glass, from architectural furniture to hand-crafted forms. “I’ve come together with Sam Henley to shape the next chapter of BOI; his background in collectible furniture design and founding of the stone studio Agglomerati brings a grounding in materiality, while mine is rooted in curating experiences that turn hospitality into theatre,” shares Lucas. “We bounce off each other instinctively, building a curation that merges production with mood, and storytelling with substance. For our debut at Downtown Design, we’ve selected designers whose work is built to endure, but also to provoke. The pieces feel timeless yet daring, and the experience we’re creating is about intimacy, immersion and emotional pull.”

More interesting exhibits at Editions

Galerie GEEK/ART

Galerie GEEK/ART is an Indo-Japanese contemporary art gallery redefining visual arts by merging Asia’s evolving creative identity with global narratives. Grounded in the interplay between heritage and innovation, the gallery examines cultural shifts, offering a platform for exploration and dialogue.

Central to the gallery’s vision is fostering global interconnectedness. By collaborating with public and private institutions and providing bespoke advisory services, Galerie GEEK/ART bridges cultural and geographic divides, cementing its role within the global art ecosystem.

The gallery highlights visionary artists who challenge conventions and reimagine socio-cultural constructs through experimental practices. By curating spaces for meaningful exchange, Galerie GEEK/ART celebrates art’s ability to connect, inspire and provoke reflection, positioning itself as a dynamic nexus for cultural convergence. At Editions, the gallery will make its regional debut, showcasing a curated selection of Japanese artists.

Antilla Di Lauro

Antilla Di Lauro is an Italian designer and artist working across tapestries, rugs, carpets and ceramics. Her practice charts an intimate cartography of form and material, where her multi-layered works reflect the complexity of human experience. Trained in Sustainable Architecture at Politecnico di Milano, she began her career with Patricia Urquiola before moving into luxury hospitality with HBA/Hirsch Bedner Associates, and later contributing to the design of royal palaces for the Crown Prince of Saudi Arabia.

For Editions 2025, Di Lauro presents ‘Unbound’, a body of collectible tapestries shown alongside her first ceramic works. Woven in wool, bamboo silk, linen and recycled plastic, the tapestries stretch into irregular, multidimensional forms that resist convention and read as autonomous sculptural pieces. Alongside them, three ceramic vases stand like totems, guiding the audience’s gaze to discover and interpret Di Lauro’s multi-layered practice. Di Lauro lives and works in Dubai, creating bespoke commissions for collectors and royalty in the GCC. Her work is represented by Galerie Philia (USA) and Freeman Gallery (Australia & New Zealand).

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Combining the beauty and natural elegance of quartzites and granites with an exclusive anti-stain treatment that acts at the molecular level for minimal maintenance, the Sensa range offers an advantage unmatched in the market. 

To mark the occasion of its arrival into the Middle East, Cosentino is introducing four quartzites of high aesthetic and design value that, like the entire brand portfolio, feature the avant-garde Senguard NK anti-stain protection, developed exclusively by Cosentino’s R&D team. Thanks to this technology, the entire portfolio of Sensa by Cosentino offers a high level of protection against liquids and acids, is scratch resistant and enables easy maintenance. The collection carries a certified 15-year warranty.

This performance is accompanied by an incomparable aesthetic as evidenced by these new quartzites – Itara, Marau, Oihana and Cristalo – which provide designs full of personality, making them ideal for creating distinctive spaces. These quartzites also feature a ‘Mirage’ texture, which, thanks to an abrasive treatment, produces a glossy finish over the entire surface. Slabs are available in large formats (from a minimum of 2.8 x 1.8 metres / 110 x 71 inches) and in thicknesses of 20 and 30 mm.

Itara is an emerald green quartzite traced by white and copper accents that ripple softly across the surface in soft, peaceful waves. Marau offers a more intricate feel through its cool grey canvas, interwoven with hints of blue, gold, burgundy, and cream; its veins move between bold sweeps and precise lines. Oihana commands attention with a black surface streaked by white veins with touches of grey, cream and brown, evoking a sense of depth. Finally, Cristalo features calm tones, with its translucent whites and silvery veins reminiscent of expanses of ice and snow. 

Sensa by Cosentino is a perfect proposal for the most demanding users and professionals that are lovers of the unique beauty of natural stone, who also need a resistant material with outstanding performance.

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“Playing with texture is timeless, and it is so important in all materials, not just fabric,” Afshar shares. “I have always been inspired by the materials found in nature and [by] making the spaces I design as comfortable, warm and authentic as possible. UKIYO is calming yet simplistic, and the colourways and fluting are romantic, but also contemporary and masculine to achieve balance.”

One of the first ready-to-install fluted tile offerings in the industry, UKIYO is available in both Dekton and Silestone – two highly durable and design-forward surface solutions. Engineered specifically for vertical applications, the tiles are available in two fluting styles: GV2, with grooves spaced 25mm apart (5mm wide, 3mm deep), and GV3, with tighter grooves spaced 11mm apart (4mm wide and deep). Each tile measures 450mm x 3000mm (17.7″ x 118″), offering expansive coverage for large-scale installations.

With a matte finish and versatile design, the UKIYO collection is ideal for a range of vertical applications – from feature walls and fireplace surrounds to bespoke furniture and exterior façades. Its dimensional surface brings visual interest and tactile depth to any setting, whether residential or commercial.

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At its core, Moon Vignettes is a contemporary take on the Moon Gate, a mystical architectural motif of Oriental origin. These abstracted portals symbolise life’s cyclical nature and echo the “circularity” of Cosentino’s sustainable surfaces, Silestone® and Dekton®—materials that seamlessly clad the installation’s walls and floors. Rather than serving as mere cladding, Cosentino’s large-format slabs are transformed into sculptural, place-making elements, pushing the boundaries of materiality in design.

A hallmark of this installation is its commitment to sustainability: over 70% of the materials from the previous Downtown Design edition in Dubai have been repurposed for Riyadh, offering a tangible demonstration of circular design in practice. Jassim Alsaddah, Partner and Creative Director at BNN shared, “Usually, installations are built to last only a few days, and sadly, a lot of beautiful work ends up being discarded. From the start, we had designed Moon Vignettes to be easily disassembled and reassembled, so it is really meaningful that Cosentino has taken this initiative to bring it back. It feels like a small but important step toward being more mindful about waste, especially in an industry where so much is thrown away after such a short time.”

The most striking element of the design is undoubtedly its materiality and juxtaposition of different colourways from the brand’s extensive range of collections including: EARTHIC® by Silestone®XM, a capsule collection designed in collaboration with iconic Italian design studio Formafantasma, Dekton® Pietra Edition and Pietra Kode, a Mediterranean natural stone inspired collection by designer and architect Daniel Germani and Dekton® Ukiyo, a first of its kind fluted collection with designer Claudia Afshar.

Complimenting the structure is its interior, tastefully curated with the choicest of statement pieces: a bespoke table clad in Silestone® Jardin Emerald from Cosentino’s Le Chic Bohème and lighting novelties from Vibia. Phases of the moon captured through sculptural pieces made from offcuts, and the desert garden reimagined by Green Dunes, further roots the project in its Saudi context.

Cosentino, a global brand known for its collaborative projects with some of the region’s most well-known design practices, has over the last five years established a strong presence in the Saudi market with projects ranging from luxury residential to commercial and retail. The brand is also gearing up to open a showroom in Riyadh this summer with local partner Mase Gulf. Cosentino City Riyadh, as the showroom will be referred to, will be the brand’s 41st in the world, and second in the region after Cosentino City Dubai. 

Talking about the Kingdom’s rapidly evolving design scene, Cosentino’s Regional Director Middle East & India, Eddy Abou Khalil said, “Over the last few years we have witnessed a massive shift in momentum and creative energy. It is not only the most exciting time to be here in Riyadh in the midst of all this action, but also a privilege to contribute to the industry’s growth and engage deeply with a new generation of forward-thinking architects and designers shaping the future of this country.”

The brand’s timely presence at the inaugural edition of the fair at JAX District is just a precursor to the shape of things to come. 

Images credit: DUOCR8

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Enchanting Transitions at Next Place Hotel 

LA-based designer Cesar Giraldo, known for his ability to weave art, culture and architecture into breath-taking design concepts, brought Dekton® and his unique perspective to the bathroom space in a collaboration with Grohe Spa. Enchanting Transitions reimagines the bathroom as a sanctuary of pure design and quiet luxury. Conceived by Giraldo, the installation places Dekton® by Cosentino at the heart of the narrative — a carbon-neutral, ultracompact surface where beauty and performance coexist. Soft, mineral tones of Albarium and the bold, tactile depth of Kelya unfold across sculptural bathtubs, seamless countertops, and fluid flooring poetically — with each element a testament to Dekton’s versatility materiality.

This one-of-a-kind installation pushed the boundaries between scenographic art and functionality, blending tactile and visual sensations through Giraldo’s unique interpretation of space, materials, and colours. Combining materials from Cosentino, pieces from Grohe SPA, accessories by Hering Berlin, and sofas by Vetsak, Enchanting Transitions was a truly sensory journey that invited visitors to explore and interact with the environment.

Watch the video below:

Cosentino x Konqrit x Canteras – A Design by Celia Garcia Galofre at Rossana Orlandi Gallery

The immersive bath space explored a fusion of black and white

Celia Garcia Galofre

Argentinean textile designer and founder of Konqrit, Celia Garcia Galofre, presented Bathing Chamber at Rossana Orlandi Gallery, together with Canteras del Mundo and Cosentino. The immersive bath space explored a fusion of black and white through a chromatic and morphological dialogue inspired by tie-dye.

Cosentino’s hybrid mineral surface Silestone® was at the centre of the storytelling with three colourways: Green marble inspired Jardin Emerald accented the walls, while Eternal Statuario and Eternal Marquina were combined to create a bespoke vanity counter and bench, striking for its black and white striped details and soft curves.

Watch the video below

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“For this year’s collaboration at Downtown Design, we wanted to create synergies beyond the UAE and work with a regional design firm. Babnimnim Design Studio, a multi-disciplinary practice based in Kuwait, is known for their creative exploration of materials and forms, meticulous attention to the smallest of details and a contextual design approach – attributes that make them the perfect partner for this creative collaboration.” Shares Eddy Abou Khalil, Regional Director Middle East & India at Cosentino.

Drawing inspiration from the Moon Gate, a mystical architectural element of Oriental origin, the installation is a contemporary reinterpretation of the same. Reimagined as free-standing circular portals that appear to rise from the ground, the moon gates are symbolic of the cyclical nature of life. They also allude to the “circular nature” of Cosentino’s sustainable surfaces Silestone® and Dekton® – the brand’s large format hero materials that seamlessly clad everything from the walls to the flooring. The installation stands out for pushing the frontiers of materiality in design by using Cosentino’s impressively scaled slabs as place making elements rather than mere cladding.

“It started with a visual, a photograph of Beyond The Wall, a permanent outdoor sculpture by Architect Daniel Libeskind at Cosentino HQ. It was our open invitation to play with the large format monolithic scale of our materials to create something sculptural,” shares Abou Khalil.

Moon Vignettes, is an artistic composition of three elements: rectangular monolithic walls, circular cut-outs and intricate wooden joinery. The installation is visually stimulating for its play of earthy colours, textures – a juxtaposition of fluted, matte, high gloss and suede, and ever-changing views though the moon gates, each vignette more alluring than the other. Remarkably permeable, the design invites free flow through the portals on all four sides and a kaleidoscope of vistas both looking-in and looking-out as one walks through and around the installation.

“The installation aims to truly showcase Cosentino’s surfaces in their best light—demonstrating their versatility not only as flooring but also as seamless wall elements that can be cut and finished at the same level,” said Jassim Alsaddah, Partner and Creative Director at BNN. “The design adds a whimsical touch, displaying the surfaces against a skeletal structure inspired by Japanese joinery. From this framework, a cornucopia of diverse flora bursts forth, creating a dynamic contrast that highlights both the material’s strength and its potential for creative expression.”

Jassim Alsaddah, Partner and Creative Director at BNN

Some of Cosentino’s stand-out collections that are integrated into the design include EARTHIC® by Silestone®XM, a capsule collection designed in collaboration with iconic Italian design studio Formafantasma, Dekton® Pietra Edition, a Mediterranean natural stone inspired collection by designer and architect Daniel Germani and Dekton® Ukiyo, a first of its kind fluted collection with designer Claudia Afshar.

Visualised as a design gallery, the interior of Moon Vignettes features a carefully curated selection of statement pieces, including a bespoke table clad in Silestone® Jardin Emerald from Cosentino’s latest Le Chic Bohème collection, alongside iconic furnishings from Cassina and innovative lighting from Vibia. Among the Cassina collectibles are the Utrecht armchair, a 1935 classic by Gerrit Thomas Rietveld; Mario Bellini’s Cab Stools, the world’s first free-standing cowhide design stools; and Soft Corners, a versatile furniture collection by Dutch designer Linde Freya Tangelder. Lighting highlights include Vibia’s Array pendant lamps, an exploration of thread lighting by Umut Yamac, circular wall sconces from the Dots collection by Martí Azúa, and the Flamingo Mini, an intriguing piece reminiscent of a hovering bird. Partnering with landscape design company Secret Gardens, the installation also includes a variety of indigenous species and ornamental plants, enhancing the immersive experience with a lush, natural touch.

“Our goal was to create a holistic installation that invites interaction from all angles, breaking away from conventional booth designs that typically emphasise a front and back”, explains Alsaddah.

The installation invites visitors to slow down and immerse in a world where tradition meets modernity, celebrating the interconnectedness of life.

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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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