Latest news with #DowntownDesignRiyadh
Gulf Today
25-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Gulf Today
Ithra makes its mark at inaugural Downtown Design Riyadh in KSA
As Saudi Arabia asserts itself as a global hub for contemporary design, the King Abdulaziz Center for World Culture (Ithra) showcased its impact on the Saudi creative ecosystem at the inaugural Downtown Design Riyadh, until May 23. From being a key voice in one of the fair's most thought-provoking panels to delivering the fair's only hands-on workshops, Ithra spotlighted the power of design to foster creativity, community and cross-cultural exchange. Three Ithra-backed installations were put on view. They were developed through Tanween, Ithra's flagship annual design event and included Adeem, a sculptural work reflecting on memory and materiality; IWAN Pavilion, an architectural structure rooted in Islamic design principles; and Open Segments, a modular exploration of space, movement, and reuse. Previously exhibited in Milan Design Week, Concentrico International Festival of Architecture and Design in Spain and Dubai Design Week, the works were shown in Riyadh to engage new audiences and spark fresh dialogue in the local design scene. In the workshops, Ithra offered sessions in silkscreen printing, sustainable packaging, and modular folding. Open to all ages and backgrounds, they invited participants to experiment with technique and explore design as a tool for creative problem-solving, reflecting Ithra's engagement-led approach to inspiring creativity. The workshops also offered participants opportunities to experiment with technique, explore form, and consider the role of design in addressing contemporary challenges. King Abdulaziz Center for World Culture (Ithra). As part of the public programme, Ithra's Head of Creativity & Innovation, Sultan Albadran, took part in a panel titled 'Fostering Community in a Fast-Forward Market'. Joined by representatives from the Diriyah Biennale Foundation, Saudi Artisanal Company and Iwan Maktabi, Albadran discussed Ithra's role in strengthening the design community in Saudi Arabia. The session explored the importance of building a vibrant design community and emphasised the role of creative education, mentorship, institutional support and cross-sector collaboration, in empowering emerging designers as they shape the Kingdom's design landscape. Albadran touched upon Ithra's ongoing efforts to create opportunities for designers to push their creative boundaries, engage across disciplines, and explore new forms of expression. He spoke of the contributions made through Ithra's programmes such as Tanween, Ithra's annual flagship design event, which, he said, have created spaces where experimentation is not only encouraged, but translated into real-world outcomes. Some of the results were on view for audiences to experience at Downtown Design Riyadh, in the form of the three installations, each piece exploring the potential of design to bridge references from Saudi material culture with globally resonant ideas in spatial and product design. Reflecting on the fair, Albadran said: 'Ithra is honoured to contribute to the inaugural edition of Downtown Design Riyadh, a historic milestone in the Kingdom's emergence as a global cultural hub. Our participation reflects Ithra's role within this thriving ecosystem, nurturing creativity and offering meaningful opportunities for designers to engage with global audiences.' Albadran has been working in the culture and arts industry for more than 10 years, and was named an ambassador for the King Salman Charter for Architecture and Urbanism. He is a member of the Al Khobar Art Committee and the Saudi Society for Urban Sciences. Panelists at the panel discussion. He has contributed to developing the strategy of Ithra's Idea Lab and the Tanween creativity conference and has represented the Center at many local and regional events. Albadran has been selected as a trainer, creative arbitrator, jury member and developer of programmes such as the F1 in Schools national competition, hosted annually at Ithra. As the Saudi debut of the Middle East's leading contemporary design fair, Downtown Design Riyadh provided the ideal setting for Ithra to showcase its efforts towards building a rich creative ecosystem, with design serving as a medium for meaningful storytelling, material exploration, and dialogue across sectors and borders. The King Abdulaziz Center for World Culture (Ithra) is a leading cultural destination located in Dhahran, Saudi Arabia. It focuses on enriching people's lives by offering impactful cultural and creative programmes and initiatives. Since its opening in 2018, it has become a distinguished architectural landmark which houses the Idea Lab, Library, Theater, Museum, Cinema, Great Hall, Energy Exhibit, Children's Museum and Knowledge Tower. Tanween is Ithra's annual flagship design event, dedicated to motivating and inspiring a new generation of innovators. Through an industry-focused roster of workshops, courses, and a design competition, it offers professionals and enthusiasts, opportunities to network, discuss, and collaborate. It is a key pillar that cements Ithra's position as a beacon of culture that nurtures creativity and promotes cross-cultural exchange. Downtown Design Riyadh (May 20 — 23) at JAX District, marked the debut of Saudi Arabia's first fair dedicated to contemporary and quality design. Held in partnership with the Architecture and Design Commission of Saudi Arabia's Ministry of Culture, it brought together a curated selection of international brands, regional studios, and emerging creative talent, reflecting the Kingdom's growing position in the global design landscape. The fair was complemented by a collateral programme, including creative installations, engaging activations and pop-up experiences, alongside a line-up of talks tailored to the local context and burgeoning design scene, catering to a high-calibre audience, from industry professionals and developers to local homeowners and design enthusiasts, looking to discover, buy or commission. JAX District has successfully transformed the industrial heritage site in Diriyah, Saudi Arabia, into a vibrant hub for artists and creatives. What was once known for unique mud-brick architecture, has now been reborn as the creative hub of the Saudi capital, beckoning talents to showcase their work. Muhammad Yusuf, Features Writer
Web Release
15-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Web Release
The Inaugural Downtown Design Riyadh Opens Next Week
Downtown Design Riyadh's inaugural edition will take place from 20-23 May 2025 in the creative hub of JAX District. Held in partnership with the Architecture and Design Commission of Saudi Arabia's Ministry of Culture, the fair marks a defining moment for the Kingdom's evolving creative landscape. Committed to showcasing contemporary and high-quality design, the programme spans global brands, emerging talent from the region, and a spectrum of immersive cultural experiences that will unfold across the district's indoor and outdoor spaces. Dates & Timings VIP preview: Public Days: 21 May 2 PM – 10 PM 22 May 4 PM – 11 PM 23 May 4 PM – 11 PM Tickets General admission tickets are available at Highlights Downtown Design Riyadh's exhibitor line-up includes Huda Lighting, Saint Louis, Natuzzi, Scarlet Splendour, Visionnaire and more Dedicated section for limited-edition design will feature 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 showcase to a cultural offer provided by local initiatives and institutions Programme highlights include a daily programme of panel talks, alongside workshops and live activations Creative F&B including a collaboration from London-based Bompas & Parr and The Lighthouse who will bring a multi-sensory culinary experience to the fair with glow-in-the-dark sweet treats and conceptual mocktails, alongside Saudi specialty coffee brands Origin Roasters and Marble x Easy Bakery Exhibitor Overview Cosentino will present the Moon Vignettes installation by Kuwait-based Babnimnim Design Studio, Lasvit will present Splash, a glass lighting installation designed by Martin Gallo and Natuzzi Italia will debut the Amama collaboration with Andrea Steidl in the region. Maison Louis Drucker will launch a collaboration with digital fabrication platform TRAME and design studio Aranda\Lasch, merging algorithmic design with time-honoured craftsmanship. Jotun will stage an experiential colour exhibition with a local designer, while Klekktik and Assembly will join forces in a curated display that merges modern design with iconic vintage collectibles. Making its debut at the fair, Grey Garden Plant Studio will present a collection of raw, handmade planters and vases. Jaipur Rugs will showcase collections from Tatiana De Nicolay's Jardins Du Monde among others. Saint Louis will present Torsade, a collection created in collaboration with Italian artist Stefania Di Petrillo, while Iwan Maktabi will introduce its collaborations with Blu Architects, David / Nicolas and Roula Salamoun. Scarlet Splendour is set to debut 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 will present leading architectural and decorative lighting brands, including Brokis, Italamp, Panzeri and Bomma while The Bowery Company will exhibit modern Scandinavian brands Audo Copenhagen, GUBI and &Tradition. 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 poised to host leading talent from the global and regional design communities at the Downtown Design Riyadh fair. Limited-Edition Design 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 will showcase 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 will include glassworks made in collaboration with renowned names such as Michele De Lucchi and Peter Marino. Visionnaire will highlight 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 will make its 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. Immersive Installations, Pop Ups, Talks and Activations 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, will collaborate with The Lighthouse to bring a multi-sensory experience to the fair. Set to delight 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, will present 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. The fair's thought-leadership platform The Forum will host a daily programme of panel talks, alongside workshops and live activations across topics such as architecture, materials, sustainability, and regional innovation. The talks programme spans a wide range of themes, from nurturing creative communities and exploring the growing market for design, to examining future directions in contemporary practice. It also highlights cross-disciplinary collaboration, regional exchange, and the evolving role of design in shaping social environments and wellbeing. A dedicated panel will spotlight the impact of women leading the design of our surroundings, emphasizing inclusive and forward-thinking approaches. Saudi Spotlight The fair will include a special feature of 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, ADC will also proudly present a collaborative installation titled Woven by Ruba Al Khaldi, which includes an interactive loom used live during the fair. Ithra will curate presentations including Open Segments by SYN Architects, the Iwan Pavilion, and Adeem.
Gulf Today
28-04-2025
- Business
- Gulf Today
Design debut: Highlights of inaugural Downtown Design Riyadh announced
The inaugural Downtown Design Riyadh, the Kingdom's first fair for original and high-quality contemporary design (May 20 — 23), has announced a line-up of exhibitors and fair highlights. Held in partnership with Saudi Arabia's Architecture and Design Commission of the Ministry of Culture, the fair takes place at JAX District. It will offer design professionals and industry leaders as well as design enthusiasts and the culturally curious, direct access to contemporary and limited-edition design from around the world, with a spotlight on local talent. Marking a milestone for the Kingdom's evolving creative landscape, Downtown Design Riyadh presents a new platform for the unprecedented demand for high-end interiors to serve the rapidly growing market and active projects across the Kingdom. Dr. Sumayah Al-Solaiman, CEO of the Architecture and Design Commission said that 'Saudi Arabia's design sector is witnessing significant and accelerated growth and we are committed to supporting this progress by showcasing local creative excellence and attracting leading international design exhibitions. 'One of our key objectives is to position the Kingdom as a global destination for design by welcoming world-class exhibitions and fostering cross-cultural exchange. Downtown Design Riyadh, with its thoughtfully curated programme and blend of local and global expertise, reflects our vision to build a dynamic design community that embodies the Kingdom's rich and diverse cultural identity.' Exhibition highlights include the large-scale multi-brand exhibit, Huda Lighting, which will introduce 10 leading architectural and decorative lighting brands, including Articolo, Brokis, and Tom Dixon. The Bowery Company will feature modern Scandinavian furniture brands Audo Copenhagen, GUBI and &Tradition. Design from Teeb Made. Scarlet Splendour will mark their debut in the region with a presentation that includes pure brass pieces by Richard Hutten. Kuwaiti Babnimnim Studio's architectural installation for Cosentino bridges heritage and innovation, while an experiential colour exhibition staged by Jotun, features collaborations with local designers. Maison Louis Drucker will launch their digital collaboration with TRAME and ArandaLasch, merging the algorithmic potential of digital design with time-honoured craftsmanship. Teeb Made will showcase a contemporary take on culturally rooted design objects from Saudi Arabia, and the Designed in Saudi initiative will highlight the development of the Kingdom's industrial design sector. In a dedicated section, visitors can explore collectible works and ultra-high-end collections, presented by international galleries, independent designers and manufacturers, showcasing exceptional craftsmanship and contemporary creativity. Gallery COLLECTIONAL presents a curated showcase of limited-edition pieces by internationally celebrated names, including Christophe Delcourt, known for handcrafted furniture that blend natural materials with minimalist design; iconic sculptural lights by New York-based Apparatus Studio; and experimental duo Draga & Aurel, recognised for their bold, vintage-inspired work, among others. Mumbai-based Aequo Gallery will make their debut in the Middle East, presenting a new body of work by Dutch designer Linde Freya Tangelder, highlighting Indian craftsmanship through a collaborative process with artisan Jeevaram Suthar. Other highlights include Venini's presentation of hand-blown glassworks in collaboration with Michele De Lucchi and Peter Marino, among other renowned names. Visionnaire's fine artistry and Serafini's functional furniture, will highlight Italian heritage in a multi-dynamic showcase. A Karim+Elias design. Throughout JAX District pavilions, Downtown Design Riyadh will offer a programme of experiences and pop-ups, from creative cuisine concepts to cultural exhibits and a line-up of talks and panel discussions. Multidisciplinary design studio Karim+Elias, spearheaded by Karim Tamerji and Elias Hage, will unveil Strata, a modular, outdoor intervention handcrafted from Saudi sand, using rammed earth technique. Mette Degn-Christensen, Director of Downtown Design, said: 'Our first edition of Downtown Design Riyadh will present a selection of some of the most innovative and sought-after names of the international design scene, alongside emerging designers, and creatives from around the Middle East. 'Our dynamic programme will offer guests a journey of discovery and an unparalleled experience of a highly curated line-up, from global design brands and limited-edition works to bespoke installations and creative concepts. With the rapid expansion of Saudi Arabia's design market, we are seeing increasing interest from across the world. Downtown Design Riyadh will create a new annual meeting point, in one immersive setting.' Fuelled by the rising number of luxury real estate projects and landmark developments in Saudi Arabia, the demand for high-end interiors is growing exponentially across the country. The curated selection of international brands at the fair, including regional studios and emerging creative talent, reflects the Kingdom's noticeable position in the global design landscape. The fair is complemented by a collateral programme, including creative installations, activations and pop-up experiences, alongside a line-up of talks tailored to the local context and burgeoning design scene, catering to an audience ranging from industry professionals and developers to local homeowners and design enthusiasts, looking to discover, buy or commission. Supporting Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030 to offer the highest in cultural quality, Downtown Design, the leading fair for contemporary and high-quality design in the Middle East, is bringing over a decade of expertise in curating leading design platforms, to the first edition of Downtown Design Riyadh. For over a decade, Downtown Design has played a vital role in shaping the region's design industry. With Riyadh in its portfolio, it is now expanding its reach, through an established curatorial approach, global network, and regional insight to Riyadh, offering a focused gateway to Saudi Arabia's fast-evolving design market, aligned with the Kingdom's large-scale development goals and demand for contemporary, high-quality interiors.
Emirates Woman
23-04-2025
- Entertainment
- Emirates Woman
Saudi Arabia's design revolution begins with Downtown Design Riyadh
News by Aminath Ifasa 40 seconds ago Saudi Arabia's design landscape is undergoing a seismic shift with Downtown Design Riyadh. With Vision 2030 fueling a cultural renaissance, the Kingdom is emerging as a global hub for creativity, architecture, and high-end interiors. Now, the arrival of Downtown Design Riyadh – the country's first fair dedicated to original and contemporary design, signals a defining moment for the region's burgeoning creative economy. Held at JAX District from May 20-23, in partnership with Saudi Arabia's Architecture and Design Commission, the fair is set to become an annual anchor for the industry, bringing together international design powerhouses, regional studios, and rising Saudi talent under one roof. But beyond the glamorous showcases and limited-edition collections, what makes this event truly groundbreaking? Saudi Arabia's rapid urban transformation, from NEOM's futuristic architecture to the luxury real estate boom in Riyadh, has created unprecedented demand for high-end interiors and bespoke design. Downtown Design Riyadh arrives at the perfect moment, offering a curated platform where global brands and local creatives can converge, collaborate, and shape the future of design in the region. Dr. Sumayah Al-Solaiman, CEO of the Architecture and Design Commission, emphasizes this vision, 'We aim to position the Kingdom as a global destination for design, fostering cross-cultural exchange while celebrating our rich identity.' Global Icons Meet Saudi Innovation The exhibitor lineup is a testament to the fair's ambition. Huda Lighting will present 10 leading brands, including Tom Dixon and Brokis, while The Bowery Company brings Scandinavian elegance with GUBI and &Tradition. Meanwhile, Scarlet Splendour makes its regional debut with bold brass designs by Richard Hutten, and Maison Louis Drucker merges digital innovation with traditional craftsmanship in a groundbreaking collaboration. But the real stars? Saudi designers taking center stage. Teeb Made reimagines culturally rooted objects with a contemporary twist, and the Designed in Saudi initiative spotlights the Kingdom's growing industrial design sector. Where Art Meets Function For those seeking one-of-a-kind pieces, the fair's limited-edition design section is a treasure trove. Gallery COLLECTIONAL presents works by Christophe Delcourt and Apparatus Studio, while Aequo Gallery (making its Middle East debut) showcases Dutch designer Linde Freya Tangelder's collaboration with Indian artisans. Italian heritage shines through Venini's hand-blown glassworks and Visionnaire's artful furniture—proving that Riyadh is now a must-watch destination for collectors. Downtown Design Riyadh isn't just about browsing—it's about immersion. Attendees can explore rammed-earth installations by Karim+Elias, indulge in creative F&B concepts, and dive into thought-provoking talks on design's evolving role in Saudi society. As Mette Degn-Christensen, Director of Downtown Design, puts it, 'This is a journey of discovery—where global trends and local creativity collide.' Saudi Arabia isn't just building skyscrapers; it's crafting a new design identity. With events like Downtown Design Riyadh, the Kingdom is asserting itself as a cultural force—one that honors tradition while embracing the avant-garde. For design enthusiasts, investors, and creatives, this is where the future is being shaped. Tickets are now available at
The National
22-04-2025
- Business
- The National
What to expect at the inaugural Downtown Design Riyadh: Lights, glassworks and rammed earth installations
Saudi Arabia is getting its own version of Downtown Design. The inaugural Downtown Design Riyadh will take place at the Jax District from May 20 to 23. It is being held in partnership with Saudi Arabia's Architecture and Design Commission of the Ministry of Culture. Much like its parent counterpart in Dubai, Downtown Design Riyadh will feature innovative works by designers from across the world. It will also have a special dedication to local designers. 'Saudi Arabia's design sector is witnessing significant and accelerated growth and we are committed to supporting this progress by showcasing local creative excellence and attracting leading international design exhibitions,' says Sumayah Al-Solaiman, chief executive of the Architecture and Design Commission. "One of our key objectives is to position the Kingdom as a global destination for design by welcoming world-class exhibitions and fostering cross-cultural exchange. Downtown Design Riyadh, with its thoughtfully curated programme and blend of local and global expertise, reflects our vision to build a dynamic design community that embodies the Kingdom's rich and diverse cultural identity.' Highlights include a sweeping exhibition by Huda Lighting that includes well-known brands from the lighting industry, including Articolo, Brokis and Tom Dixon. The Bowery Company will highlight modern Scandinavian designs by Audo Copenhagen, &Tradition and Gubi. Scarlet Splendour will present pure brass pieces by Richard Hutten in their regional debut. Some works, meanwhile, will present interesting mergers between digital technology and craftsmanship, such as a collaboration between Maison Louis Drucker, a company known for their rattan chairs, and studios Trame and Aranda/Lasch. There will also be a dedicated focus on home-grown designs. Teeb Made will exhibit designs that are rooted in Saudi culture, whereas Designed in Saudi will showcase a diverse collection of pioneering designs. International galleries and designers will also present limited-edition works and collectibles in a special section of Downtown Design Riyadh. Gallery Collectional, meanwhile, will present works by renowned designers including Christophe Delcourt, who is famous for using natural materials in his minimalist designs; Apparatus Studio, known for their sculptural lights; and Draga & Aurel, a studio named after its founders Draga Obradovic and Aurel K Basedow, who are known for their experimental takes. Other highlights include a collaborative series of works by Dutch designer Linde Freya Tangelder and Indian artisan Jeevaram Suthar. Venetian glassmakers Venini will present glassworks produced in collaboration with Italian designer Michele De Lucchi and US architect Peter Marino. There will be other aspects of Downtown Design Riyadh. These include food pop-ups and cultural exhibits, such as a modular, outdoor installation that is handcrafted from Saudi sand. It will be presented by the UAE studio Karim+Elias, which is headed by Karim Tamerji and Elias El Hage. 'Our first edition of Downtown Design Riyadh will present a selection of some of the most innovative and sought-after names of the international design scene, alongside emerging designers, and creatives from around the Middle East,' says Mette Degn-Christensen, director of Downtown Design. 'Our dynamic programme will offer guests a journey of discovery and an unparalleled experience of a highly curated line-up, from global design brands and limited-edition works to bespoke installations and creative concepts. With the rapid expansion of Saudi Arabia's design market, we are seeing increasing interest from across the world. Downtown Design Riyadh will create a new annual meeting point, in one immersive setting.'
