Latest news with #DowntownDesign
Zawya
23-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Zawya
Dubai Design Week announces themes, open calls, and programme For the 11th edition Of the Middle East's leading design festival in november
UNITED ARAB EMIRATES This year's programme reflects this theme through a focus on social cohesion PHOTO Held under the patronage of Her Highness Sheikha Latifa bint Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Chairperson of Dubai Culture and in strategic partnership with Dubai Design District (d3) Dubai Design Week 2025 will take place 4-9 November, following over a decade of global success as the region's premier design festival. Dubai Design Week brings together designers and creative practitioners to exchange ideas, collaborate and explore the evolving role of design in shaping a better collective future. With its largest ever presence across Dubai Design District, the 2025 edition of Dubai Design Week will explore a central theme of 'Community', in response to the UAE's wider 'Year of Community' initiative. Returning to d3 Waterfront Terrace for its twelfth edition from 5-9 November, Downtown Design will offer a line-up of international design brands, regional studios and creative concepts. Editions Art & Design will return alongside Downtown Design from 6-9 November (Preview, 5 November) as the Middle East's first fair dedicated to limited-edition and collectible art and design works. This year's festival will also see the return of the Abwab and Urban Commissions initiatives, designed to foster emerging talent and new voices in design and architecture. Dubai Design District (d3) will showcase the d3 Architecture Exhibition in partnership with RIBA UAE Designer Exhibition, supported by Dubai Culture, will return with a new format, showcasing works from the next generation of design talent from the Emirates. United Arab Emirates, Dubai: Dubai Design Week will celebrate its 11th edition from 4-9 November 2025 under the patronage of Her Highness Sheikha Latifa bint Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Chairperson of Dubai Culture & Arts Authority (Dubai Culture) and member of Dubai Council. As the region's leading design festival, this annual celebration of creativity and culture is held in strategic partnership with Dubai Design District (d3), a member of TECOM Group PJSC, and supported by Dubai Culture. Dubai Design Week 2025 coincides with the UAE's 'Year of Community'. This year's programme reflects this theme through a focus on social cohesion, participation and shared experiences. Design will be explored not only as a practice of innovation, but as a social connector, and as a civic and cultural tool that can shape how we live together, communicate, and build lasting systems of care. Since 2015, Dubai Design Week has grown into a global platform with a strong emphasis on cross-cultural exchange and on amplifying voices from West and South Asia, as well as the wider Global South (encompassing countries across Africa, Latin America, most of Asia and Oceania). Through exhibitions, fairs, large-scale installations, talks and workshops, the festival engages with the narratives of our time, creating a space for dialogue, experimentation and progress, harnessing its position as a regional melting pot and creative hub. Key venues are located across d3, a global creative ecosystem dedicated to design, fashion, architecture and art. PROGRAMME HIGHLIGHTS Urban Commissions Urban Commissions is Dubai Design Week's annual competition open to proposals from global practices, giving international architects and designers the opportunity to shape public spaces through thoughtful, community-driven design. Under the theme 'Courtyard', Urban Commissions calls on practitioners to reflect on this shared spatial form and explore its multifaceted role as a gathering place and community-led urban infrastructure. Abwab 2025 Abwab, meaning 'doors' in Arabic, is a long-running feature at Dubai Design Week. Newly expanded to welcome applicants from across West, South and East Asia, as well as the African continent, it reflects an ongoing commitment to surfacing design perspectives that can be often underrepresented on global platforms. This year's theme, 'In the Details', invites practitioners to create immersive spatial experiences, exploring ornamental details and engaging with historic cultural forms. Exhibitions, Installations, Workshops, Activations, Marketplace The Festival's programme of exhibitions serves as a platform for cultural organisations, educational institutions, collectives and individual designers to express unique cultural, social and environmental perspectives, showcasing cutting-edge design solutions across disciplines. Outdoor installations from designers, architects, collectives, creative practitioners, and design-led brands, will explore design's potential to foster inclusive, community-focused environments through the use of sustainable and socially responsible methods and materials. Independent makers and cultural and educational institutions will host the festival's programme of workshops held at Maker Space, offering visitors of all ages and skill levels the opportunity to engage and experiment with a diverse range of artistic mediums. Alongside this, the activations programme will unveil innovative and immersive projects, cross-disciplinary collaborations, pop-ups, and special presentations. And Marketplace offers a curated retail experience featuring high-quality and original products by the region's finest artisans, entrepreneurs and small businesses, alongside food experiences, children's activities and live performances. Downtown Design Downtown Design, the Middle East's leading fair for high-quality and contemporary design, returns to the d3 Waterfront Terrace from 5-9 November 2025, showcasing the latest collections and design innovations from around the world. Returning exhibitors including Lasvit, Kartell, Poltrona Frau, Obegi Home, Venini, and Vitra will present new concepts alongside new participants Roche Bobois, Stellar Works, FRAMA, Porada and Desalto. Designer duo Draga & Aurel will present a solo exhibition for Collectional, and French designer Stephanie Coutas will showcase high-end interiors and collectible design pieces. The fair will feature experiential concepts and immersive installations including the Solaire Lounge by Veuve Clicquot and a pop-up collaboration between Buccellati and design studio david/Nicolas. The Forum returns with live talks and keynotes, headlined by Tom Dixon who will make his Dubai debut. At the heart of Downtown Design, the UAE Designer Exhibition, supported by Dubai Culture, returns with an evolved format after five editions of significant growth, expanding mentorship for emerging creatives and international showcase opportunities. Details will be announced in September. Editions Art & Design Following a successful debut in 2024, Editions, the region's first fair dedicated to limited-edition art and design, will take place from 6-9 November 2025, with a preview on 5 November, at the d3 Waterfront Terrace. The fair will showcase 50 local and international galleries, design studios, and collectives across a diverse range of mediums including: artist multiples, ceramics, photography, works on paper, prints, editions, and contemporary design. Editions joins an expanding creative ecosystem that enhances access to quality art and design through varied price points and mediums, and engages the region's collector network through disciplines not widely showcased in the region. d3 Architecture Exhibition The 2025 d3 Architecture Exhibition, organised by d3 in partnership with Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) aligns with Dubai Design Week's theme in response to the UAE's wider 'Year of Community' initiative and will take place in a dedicated space in the creative district. Rooted in the UAE's values of resilience, ambition, and openness, the Year of Community is dedicated to fostering a united and empowered society. It aims to inspire behaviours that strengthen family and social ties, encourage shared responsibility, and unlock potential for sustainable growth. Dubai Design District (d3) is part of TECOM Group's business district portfolio, including Dubai Internet City, Dubai Media City, Dubai Studio City, Dubai Production City, Dubai Knowledge Park, Dubai International Academic City, Dubai Science Park and Dubai Industrial City. About Dubai Design Week Dubai Design Week is the region's design festival committed to amplifying talent from the region and presenting the possibilities of what can be achieved through design. Reflecting Dubai's position as the design capital of the Middle East, Dubai Design Week's varied programme includes installations, new commissions, exhibitions, talks, workshops, a marketplace, the leading fair for contemporary design, Downtown Design and the Middle East's first limited-edition art and design fair, Editions. Dubai Design Week is held under the patronage of Her Highness Sheikha Latifa bint Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Chairperson of Dubai Culture & Arts Authority (Dubai Culture), in strategic partnership with Dubai Design District (d3), a member of TECOM Group PJSC, and supported by Dubai Culture. About Dubai Design District Dubai Design District (d3), a member of TECOM Group PJSC, is a global creative ecosystem dedicated to design, fashion, architecture and art. In line with Dubai's position as the leading business destination for the region and beyond, d3 is an industry-pioneering concept that enables people and businesses to grow and co-create whilst simultaneously providing a solid platform for creativity. Strategically located in the heart of Dubai, d3 is one of the city's lifestyle and business districts that challenges thousands of people to rethink the regular. With state-of-the-art infrastructure designed to meet the needs of the industry and a business-friendly framework, the community offers creative talent the tools for collaboration and growth, further reinforcing Dubai's status as a UNESCO Creative City of Design. d3 is a cutting-edge retail district offering a variety of multi-brand boutiques, fashion brands, and art and design studios. The world's leading luxury brands, design companies and creatives, including architects, interior designers, photography studios, product and fashion designers, call d3 home. Some of the region's most popular events take place in d3 and attract international artists and audiences to cultural and fashion exhibitions and gatherings such as Dubai Design Week, Dubai Fashion Week and Sole DXB. The district also regularly hosts a roster of industry talks, workshops and educational programming, accessible to people of all ages. d3 is home to TECOM Group PJSC's business incubator – in5 – that aims to support the fashion and design industries by offering students and entrepreneurs the opportunity to transform their ideas into successful commercial ventures. This ecosystem is further supported by the Dubai Institute of Design and Innovation (DIDI), the region's only university exclusively dedicated to design and innovation, which offers a curriculum crafted with the prestigious Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) and The New School's Parsons School of Design. The district also features the city's first canal side recreational development, The Block. The open-air destination offers a range of different outdoor and leisure areas including a basketball and volleyball court, a skate park, outdoor gym and climbing wall. About Dubai Culture and Arts Authority Dubai Culture and Arts Authority (Dubai Culture), under the leadership of Her Highness Sheikha Latifa bint Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, is committed to enriching Dubai's cultural scene based on the UAE's heritage, and is building bridges of constructive dialogue between various cultures to enhance Dubai's position as a global centre for culture, an incubator for creativity, and a thriving hub for talent. Dubai Culture is keen on reviving and preserving the emirate's historical heritage and developing the regulatory frameworks for the cultural and creative sector in line with its strategic roadmap 2020 – 2025. The Authority also seeks to empower the enablers that support talent and stimulate active public participation by investing in the various assets under its remit, including the management of five heritage sites, five museums, Al Jalila Cultural Centre for Children, 17 archaeological sites and nine Dubai Public Library branches, all of which help contribute to creating an economic system that invigorates the cultural and creative industries. The Authority also offers 8 services and 26 sub-services. Send us your press releases to Disclaimer: The contents of this press release was provided from an external third party provider. This website is not responsible for, and does not control, such external content. This content is provided on an 'as is' and 'as available' basis and has not been edited in any way. Neither this website nor our affiliates guarantee the accuracy of or endorse the views or opinions expressed in this press release.
The National
23-07-2025
- Entertainment
- The National
Dubai Design Week returns in November with a community focus
Dubai Design Week will return in November with a renewed emphasis on community. Running from November 4 to 9 at Dubai Design District (d3), this year's programme will look at ways of building more inclusive and connected communities. The theme aligns with the UAE authorities' designation of 2025 as the Year of Community. A varied line-up is expected to include large-scale exhibitions, public discussions and workshops exploring how design can foster social cohesion and shared civic life. A decade since its launch, this year's Dubai Design Week will be the biggest to date, with more venues added across d3, including the return of popular fixtures such as Downtown Design, Editions Art & Design and the UAE Designer Exhibition supported by Dubai Culture. The latter is being reformatted to highlight emerging talent. Among the initiatives is Urban Commissions, an international design competition inviting architects and designers to reinterpret the courtyard as a public space. Meanwhile, Abwab, the festival's curated pavilion series, expands its geographic scope this year to include works from West, South and East Asia, as well as Africa. Presented under the theme 'In the Details', the pavilions will explore ornamentation and material culture through spatial design. The 2025 d3 Architecture Exhibition, a collaboration with the Royal Institute of British Architects, will also be on site, with projects reflecting on how architecture can support community well-being. Editions, the region's only fair dedicated to limited-edition design and collectable art, is also returning. It will feature works from 50 regional and international galleries and studios across mediums, including ceramics, photography and contemporary design. The full programme – including keynote speakers, installations and featured designers – will be announced closer to the festival's opening date.
Zawya
21-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Zawya
Inaugural Downtown Design Riyadh is now open
A section dedicated to high-end and limited-edition design features works by names such as Thomas Heatherwick, Draga & Aurel, Sabine Marselis and Naqsh Collective Saudi talent is at the heart of the fair, from the Designed in Saudi to independent exhibitors showcasing their latest collections, and bespoke collaborations with local design studios Programme highlights include an immersive public intervention hand-made from rammed earth, an insightful talks programme and engaging pop-up concepts, including a glow-in the dark culinary experience by Bompas & Parr Saudi Arabia, Riyadh: Downtown Design Riyadh has opened its doors, marking the Kingdom's first fair dedicated to contemporary, high-quality design. Set in the heart of JAX District, Riyadh's cultural quarter from 20-23 May, the fair is held in partnership with the Architecture and Design Commission of Saudi Arabia's Ministry of Culture. Committed to showcasing contemporary and high-quality design, the programme spans global brands, emerging talent from the region, and a programme activations and experiences staged throughout the district's indoor and outdoor spaces. Dr. Sumayah Al-Solaiman, CEO of the Architecture and Design Commission, said, 'Downtown Design Riyadh represents an important step in our efforts to build a design culture that stems from Saudi identity and engages openly with the world. Through its diverse programs, the exhibition focuses on this vision, bringing together the works of Saudi designers, both emerging and established, alongside prestigious international names, within a framework that supports creative production and stimulates knowledge exchange. Our strategic sponsorship of the exhibition embodies our support for the sector and our goal of attracting the most prominent international exhibitions and events specialised in architecture and design, strengthening our current position and future ambitions, at a time when design is becoming a pivotal element in the Kingdom's cultural and economic landscapes. Exhibitor Highlights Cosentino is presenting the Moon Vignettes installation by Kuwait-based Babnimnim Design Studio, Lasvit is featuring Splash, a glass lighting installation designed by Martin Gallo and Natuzzi Italia is debuting the Amama project in the region, a new double-sided modular sofa created in collaboration with Andrea Steidl. Maison Louis Drucker has launched a collaboration with digital fabrication platform TRAME and design studio Aranda\Lasch, merging algorithmic design with time-honoured craftsmanship. Jotun is staging an experiential colour exhibition with a local designer, while Klekktik and Assembly has joined forces in a curated display that merges modern design with iconic vintage collectibles. Making its debut at the fair, Grey Garden Plant Studio is presenting a collection of raw, handmade planters and vases. Jaipur Rugs is showcasing collections from Tatiana De Nicolay's Jardins Du Monde among others. Saint Louis is presenting Torsade, a collection created in collaboration with Italian artist Stefania Di Petrillo, while Iwan Maktabi is introducing its collaborations with Blu Architects, David / Nicolas and Roula Salamoun. Scarlet Splendour is debuting in the region with a bold presentation including pure brass pieces by Richard Hutten, and Serafini will showcase the best of Italian craftsmanship through exclusive furniture and functional design. In a multi-brand showcase, Huda Lighting is presenting leading architectural and decorative lighting brands, including Brokis, Italamp, Panzeri and Bomma while The Bowery Company is exhibiting modern Scandinavian brands Audo Copenhagen, GUBI and &Tradition. Mette Degn-Christensen, Director of Downtown Design, commented, 'This inaugural edition of our Riyadh fair brings together what Downtown Design does best - presenting a thoughtful mix of global brands, emerging talent and limited-edition design. We are proud to provide a platform for quality design in a local context. From installations and collaborations, to the wider programme of activities and pop-up concepts, Saudi creatives and the local burgeoning market are an essential part of the programme, helping to forge an experience that feels both rooted and forward-looking.' Exhibiting Saudi-based designers include Hobal, Lucas Barcelo, and the interior design studio co-founded by Saudi designer Noura Suleiman. Their work spans architecture, product and object design, with contemporary interpretations of cultural heritage. Alongside the Designed in Saudi initiative, which will highlight the development of the Kingdom's industrial sector and key initiatives, Saudi Arabia is hosting leading talent from the global and regional design communities at the Downtown Design Riyadh fair. In a dedicated section of the fair, collectible works and ultra-high-end design will be presented by international galleries, independent studios and manufacturers. Gallery COLLECTIONAL is showcasing limited-edition pieces by internationally recognised designers, including Christophe Delcourt, Apparatus Studio, Draga & Aurel, as well as names such as Laurids Gallée, Mario Tsai, Sabine Marcelis, Steven John Clark and Refractory. Venini's presentation includes glassworks made in collaboration with renowned names such as Michele De Lucchi and Peter Marino. Visionnaire highlights collections by designers including Alessandro La Spada and Marc Ange. Helen Chislett Gallery brings a breadth of leading design names from the UK, including works by Thomas Heatherwick, as well as pieces by Roome London, Tom Faulkner, Object Studio, and Atelier 001, while Italian textile studio Dinodo's limited-edition rugs and tapestries are making their regional debut, highlighting collaborations with renowned artists. Jordanian design duo Naqsh Collective blends contemporary aesthetics with traditional Arab craftsmanship, showcasing works that reflect cultural memory through modern form. Programme Highlights BMW Saudi Arabia will unveil a compelling spatial experience at the first-ever Downtown Design Riyadh. The BMW Lounge, a creative hospitality concept conceived by Saudi designer Amani Al-Ibrahim, Partner and Executive Director at Kristina Zanic Consultants, articulates BMW's progressive design language and ongoing dialogue with the world of design, architecture, and innovation. London-based Bompas & Parr, the creative duo known for crafting wild, immersive food experiences that blend art, science, and gastronomy, has collaborated with The Lighthouse to bring a multi-sensory experience to the fair. Delighting visitors with an offering of glow-in-the-dark sweet treats and conceptual mocktails, the pop-up concept, conceived by local design firm Laeta Interior, is influenced by the disciplined dreamers of Bauhaus. The programme also features a pop-up by Saudi specialty coffee brands Origin Roasters and Marble x Easy Bakery. Multidisciplinary studio Karim+Elias, led by Karim Tamerji and Elias Hage, is presenting Strata, a modular outdoor installation constructed from Saudi sand using the traditional rammed earth technique. Positioned in the main outdoor squares of JAX District, Strata blends traditional craftsmanship with contemporary design, offering visitors an immersive experience that connects Riyadh's past and present. The installation highlights Karim+Elias' commitment to material-driven artistry and site-responsive design. Furthermore, the fair will spotlight architectural installations and interactive works previously commissioned by local cultural institutions, emphasising the evolving creative scene of the Kingdom. Providing an immersive, yet educational moment for visitors of all backgrounds, the Architecture and Design Commission is presenting an exhibit shedding light on its diverse initatives alongside a collaborative installation titled Narrating Woven by Ruba Al Khaldi & Lujain Rafea, while Ithra is presenting Open Segments by SYN Architects, the Iwan Pavilion, and Adeem. The fair's thought-leadership platform The Forum brings together leading voices from across the design world to explore the ideas shaping the region's creative future. Designed as a platform for dialogue and discovery, a daily programme of panel talks, will explore how collectible design is emerging as a new cultural and economic force in the Middle East, the role of graphic design in preserving and reimagining regional heritage, and what it takes to deliver design excellence at scale across Saudi Arabia's fast-developing landscape, among others. Bringing together architects, designers, and cultural thinkers from across the Kingdom and beyond, The Forum offers a timely space for insight and exchange. The fair also features a selection of hands-on workshops by Ithra, including stool-making through folding techniques, an introduction to silk screening, and a sustainability-focused session exploring edible packaging as a creative response to global waste.
Trade Arabia
20-05-2025
- Business
- Trade Arabia
Downtown Design expo kicks off in Riyadh
Downtown Design Riyadh opened its doors today (May 20), marking the kingdom's first fair dedicated to contemporary, high-quality design. Set in the heart of JAX District, Riyadh's cultural quarter until May 23, the fair is held in partnership with the Architecture and Design Commission of Saudi Arabia's Ministry of Culture. Committed to showcasing contemporary and quality design, the programme spans global brands, emerging talent from the region, and a programme activations and experiences staged throughout the district's indoor and outdoor spaces. Dr Sumayah Al Solaiman, the CEO of the Architecture and Design Commission, said: "Downtown Design Riyadh represents an important step in our efforts to build a design culture that stems from Saudi identity and engages openly with the world." "Through its diverse programmes, the exhibition focuses on this vision, bringing together the works of Saudi designers, both emerging and established, alongside prestigious international names, within a framework that supports creative production and stimulates knowledge exchange," stated Al Solaiman. "Our strategic sponsorship of the exhibition embodies our support for the sector and our goal of attracting the most prominent international exhibitions and events specialised in architecture and design, strengthening our current position and future ambitions, at a time when design is becoming a pivotal element in the Kingdom's cultural and economic landscapes," he added. At the event, Cosentino is presenting the Moon Vignettes installation by Kuwait-based Babnimnim Design Studio, Lasvit is featuring Splash, a glass lighting installation designed by Martin Gallo and Natuzzi Italia is debuting the Amama project in the region, a new double-sided modular sofa created in collaboration with Andrea Steidl. Maison Louis Drucker has launched a collaboration with digital fabrication platform TRAME and design studio ArandaLasch, merging algorithmic design with time-honoured craftsmanship. Jotun is staging an experiential colour exhibition with a local designer, while Klekktik and Assembly has joined forces in a curated display that merges modern design with iconic vintage collectibles. Making its debut at the fair, Grey Garden Plant Studio is presenting a collection of raw, handmade planters and vases. Jaipur Rugs is showcasing collections from Tatiana De Nicolay's Jardins Du Monde among others. Saint Louis is presenting Torsade, a collection created in collaboration with Italian artist Stefania Di Petrillo, while Iwan Maktabi is introducing its collaborations with Blu Architects, David / Nicolas and Roula Salamoun. Scarlet Splendour is debuting in the region with a bold presentation including pure brass pieces by Richard Hutten, and Serafini will showcase the best of Italian craftsmanship through exclusive furniture and functional design. In a multi-brand showcase, Huda Lighting is presenting leading architectural and decorative lighting brands, including Brokis, Italamp, Panzeri and Bomma while The Bowery Company is exhibiting modern Scandinavian brands Audo Copenhagen, GUBI and &Tradition. Mette Degn-Christensen, Director of Downtown Design, said: "This inaugural edition of our Riyadh fair brings together what Downtown Design does best - presenting a thoughtful mix of global brands, emerging talent and limited-edition design." "We are proud to provide a platform for quality design in a local context. From installations and collaborations, to the wider programme of activities and pop-up concepts, Saudi creatives and the local burgeoning market are an essential part of the programme, helping to forge an experience that feels both rooted and forward-looking," he added. Exhibiting Saudi-based designers include Hobal, Lucas Barcelo, and the interior design studio co-founded by Saudi designer Noura Suleiman. Their work spans architecture, product and object design, with contemporary interpretations of cultural heritage. Alongside the Designed in Saudi initiative, which will highlight the development of the Kingdom's industrial sector and key initiatives, Saudi Arabia is hosting leading talent from the global and regional design communities at the Downtown Design Riyadh fair. In a dedicated section of the fair, collectible works and ultra-high-end design will be presented by international galleries, independent studios and manufacturers. Gallery Collectional is showcasing limited-edition pieces by internationally recognised designers, including Christophe Delcourt, Apparatus Studio, Draga & Aurel, as well as names such as Laurids Gallée, Mario Tsai, Sabine Marcelis, Steven John Clark and Refractory. Venini's presentation includes glassworks made in collaboration with renowned names such as Michele De Lucchi and Peter Marino. Visionnaire highlights collections by designers including Alessandro La Spada and Marc Ange. Helen Chislett Gallery brings a breadth of leading design names from the UK, including works by Thomas Heatherwick, as well as pieces by Roome London, Tom Faulkner, Object Studio, and Atelier 001, while Italian textile studio Dinodo's limited-edition rugs and tapestries are making their regional debut, highlighting collaborations with renowned artists. Jordanian design duo Naqsh Collective blends contemporary aesthetics with traditional Arab craftsmanship, showcasing works that reflect cultural memory through modern form. Programme highlights During the event, BMW Saudi Arabia will unveil a compelling spatial experience at the first-ever Downtown Design Riyadh. The BMW Lounge, a creative hospitality concept conceived by Saudi designer Amani Al-Ibrahim, Partner and Executive Director at Kristina Zanic Consultants, articulates BMW's progressive design language and ongoing dialogue with the world of design, architecture, and innovation. London-based Bompas & Parr, the creative duo known for crafting wild, immersive food experiences that blend art, science, and gastronomy, has collaborated with The Lighthouse to bring a multi-sensory experience to the fair. Delighting visitors with an offering of glow-in-the-dark sweet treats and conceptual mocktails, the pop-up concept, conceived by local design firm Laeta Interior, is influenced by the disciplined dreamers of Bauhaus. The programme also features a pop-up by Saudi specialty coffee brands Origin Roasters and Marble x Easy Bakery. Multidisciplinary studio Karim+Elias, led by Karim Tamerji and Elias Hage, is presenting Strata, a modular outdoor installation constructed from Saudi sand using the traditional rammed earth technique. Positioned in the main outdoor squares of JAX District, Strata blends traditional craftsmanship with contemporary design, offering visitors an immersive experience that connects Riyadh's past and present, said the organisers. The installation highlights Karim+Elias' commitment to material-driven artistry and site-responsive design. Furthermore, the fair will spotlight architectural installations and interactive works previously commissioned by local cultural institutions, emphasising the evolving creative scene of the Kingdom. Providing an immersive, yet educational moment for visitors of all backgrounds, the Architecture and Design Commission is presenting an exhibit shedding light on its diverse initatives alongside a collaborative installation titled Narrating Woven by Ruba Al Khaldi & Lujain Rafea, while Ithra is presenting Open Segments by SYN Architects, the Iwan Pavilion, and Adeem. The fair's thought-leadership platform The Forum brings together leading voices from across the design world to explore the ideas shaping the region's creative future. Designed as a platform for dialogue and discovery, a daily programme of panel talks, will explore how collectible design is emerging as a new cultural and economic force in the Middle East, the role of graphic design in preserving and reimagining regional heritage, and what it takes to deliver design excellence at scale across Saudi Arabia's fast-developing landscape, among others. Bringing together architects, designers, and cultural thinkers from across the Kingdom and beyond, The Forum offers a timely space for insight and exchange, stated the organisers.
Arab News
20-05-2025
- Business
- Arab News
Creativity and flair on show at Downtown Design's inaugural Riyadh event
RIYADH: Middle East design fair Downtown Design began on Tuesday at Riyadh's creative hub, JAX District. The fair, a showcase of contemporary design, has been a fixture on the calendar in Dubai since 2013 and has now expanded to the Kingdom for the first time, in partnership with the Saudi Architecture and Design Commission. The four-day event gives visitors the chance to get a close look at collectible works and ultra-high-end collections presented by international galleries, independent designers and manufacturers. 'What we're seeing here is obviously a very fast-changing landscape, very dynamic market and growing demand for access to quality and contemporary design, which is what we more or less live and breathe for,' Mette Degn-Christensen, the director of Downtown Design told Arab News. 'Our hope is to basically start by creating that kind of fundamental platform here, while thinking about the context, thinking about the local talent as well and the growth of the wider community. 'I think a lot of eyes are on this region and on Saudi Arabia. And what's happening here is there's a lot of new projects that are rising; whether it's residential or commercial or hospitality, we see a massive shift in aesthetics and longevity. There's a shift in looking at materials and for that, we need access. 'All of the different companies, developers, designers that are creating new projects here need access to what it is that we have access to worldwide, and can't necessarily travel all the time to source.' Organizers said they took a grassroots approach to the curation process when selecting the right exhibitors and speakers for the event. 'I think there's a major push to look at what design can actually do for society, for the economy, for all the different components that are all going into the direction of realizing Vision 2030 for the Kingdom,' Sumayah Al-Solaiman, CEO of the Architecture and Design Commission, told Arab News, referring to the national plan for development and economic diversification. The role of sustainability in design was another important factor. 'Everything we look at might be visually beautiful, but also we have to understand, you know, how these pieces go into production, how are the materials procured?' Al-Solaiman added. 'How do we think about sustainability and what is the afterlife of these products? All of that brings awareness to not just the importance of design, but also the importance of making the right consumer decisions.' Downtown Design continues in Riyadh until May 23. The next Dubai event will take place in November.
