The Inside Scoop to Downtown Design 2024

Can you tell us what you are most excited about for this year’s Downtown Design?

I very much look forward to the UAE debut of The Conran Shop, as well as the long list of prominent brands joining us this year, including B&B Italia, Poltrona Frau, Preciosa, Saint-Louis, Venini and Audo Copenhagen. I’m also eager to see the showcases of less widely known names like Atelier Vierkant, Jacopo Foggini, Serafini and Haberdashery, as well as the launch of JNF’s innovative range by Ross Lovegrove. One of the very exciting aspects is always the UAE Designer Exhibition – this year in its fifth iteration – which has grown as a platform over the years, and I can’t wait to explore what our participating designers have created, in person. There will also be a lot to discover among our group exhibitions like Tanween by Tashkeel, who are with us every year to unveil the designs of their cohort, as well as Designed in Saudi and the Dutch Collective who are both back for a second showcase this year. It’s shaping up to be an inspiring and dynamic edition and a special moment where creativity comes together! 

What’s the central theme for Downtown Design this year?

Connectivity is at the heart of everything we do; rather than promoting one specific theme, Downtown Design consistently produces a dynamic environment where design meets opportunity and forges foundational conversations, reinforcing Dubai’s position as a global hub for creativity and design. Our focus lies on fostering collaboration, discovery and creative exchange to ensure that Downtown Design continues to act as a vital hub for the region’s emerging talent as well as established designers.

What can one look forward to in the talks programme?

This year, The Forum will again bring together some of the most influential voices in the industry for thought-provoking discussions. Designed by Lebanese talent Thomas Trad, the space itself will be an embodiment of minimalist, Japanese-inspired aesthetics, creating a refined and engaging atmosphere.

Iconic designer and architect India Mahdavi will kick off the talks with an opening keynote. Eames Demetrios will share his insights on preservation and design identity, while Lina Ghotmeh will uncover the importance of craft and community in architectural heritage. Also joining the programme are leading voices, such as: Magnus Ström, who will speak about bringing a modern, cutting-edge flair to the UAE; Nika Zupanc, whose rebellious elegance in design continues to captivate; and Peter Eland, the founder of Norm Architects. The Forum offers an unparalleled opportunity to engage with the industry’s brightest minds, making it an essential stop for anyone eager to stay ahead of the curve in the world of design.

Tell us about some of the exciting first-time entrants this year.

We are welcoming a number of incredible first-time participants, bringing fresh perspectives and innovative projects to Downtown Design. 

Another first-time highlight is de Gournay, globally renowned for hand-painted wallpapers, who will be producing an exquisite lounge for the fair. Rooted in centuries-old chinoiserie traditions, de Gournay’s creations often feature lavish, vibrantly coloured garden scenes that are at once timeless and contemporary. At the fair, visitors can step into the de Gournay lounge, offering a visual feast that marries artistry with interior design.

Tell us more about your curation  process with Pablo del Val for Editions. What can visitors expect at this debut and how is it being made accessible?

We are very excited about Editions, which will have its inauguration in November alongside Downtown Design and will be the Middle East’s first fair dedicated to limited-edition art and design. Visitors can explore a mix of contemporary design, photography, prints, ceramics and works on paper, all curated from galleries, design studios and collectives from around the world. What’s great about it is its variety; it’s designed to provide a showcase of discovery, both to seasoned collectors and those who are just curious, offering the chance to discover a diverse selection of high-quality pieces and talent that is not yet widely exposed. We have focused on selecting works that are pushing the boundaries of design and craftsmanship; for the art side of Editions, Pablo has worked with the galleries to ensure an entirely different selection of works to what one might expect when going to Art Dubai. I already have my eye on some personal favourites, such as Elsa Foulon’s stunning ceramic light sculptures and a striking armchair by Nian Architects, made from polished iron and lacquered wood, paired with a vibrant fabric seat from Pierre Frey. I’m also looking forward to seeing the serigraph works by DotPigeon, which bring a bold, modern touch; and Nat Bowen’s resin works are on my shopping list! Editions will offer all visitors access to diverse works in a wide range of price points, inviting a broader audience into the world of collecting, and offering a new take on art and design that hasn’t been widely showcased in this region before.