Latest news with #contemporarydesign
News.com.au
2 days ago
- Lifestyle
- News.com.au
Quality craftsmanship dazzles at high-end Ocean Grove new build
This luxurious architectural home oozing contemporary coastal cool may seem a world away from Ocean Grove's beach shacks of old. But if you look closely, you can find the odd reference to the town's traditional timber and fibro houses in among the new build's sleek high-end finishes. It's there in the entrance hall where builder Michael Leake has used humble weatherboards to create something special in the form of a sculptural curved wall. 'I took the notion that we came down to the beach and we built timber or fibro cement shacks because it was cheap and readily available and I've turned it inside out,' he says. 'I've used those finishes internally so it's a timber weatherboard that I've stood vertically – it's an ode to yesterday.' The new five-bedroom, four-bathroom house at 57 The Terrace, Ocean Grove, is a masterclass in quality craftsmanship that draws on the combined talents of the builder's ML Constructions, Splinter Society architect Chris Stanley and interiors whiz Rebecca Boykett. Mr Leake says the brief was to maximise panoramic ocean and Barwon Heads bluff views from the 709sq m property's hillside position while creating secluded, warm open space. This is achieved by wrapping the upper level of the house around a central north-facing outdoor area featuring a self-cleaning swimming pool. Externally, the builder lent into his love of unfinished, durable materials – recycled timbers and copper that require no maintenance – to clad the solid concrete structure. Inside, a curved stone feature wall that divides the dining and living areas is complemented by European oak joinery, oak flooring, natural marble surfaces and pure wool carpets. Curves make regular appearances, in the island kitchen bench, in doorways, skylights, decks and even the striking hearth finished with traditional white set plaster that surrounds the lounge's open fireplace. The house is largely set on one level, save for a four-car garage with electric car charging and a an self-contained bedroom/office with its own ensuite and external access on the entry level. A lift provides easy access to the main living hub upstairs where you could lose hours gazing at the expansive ocean views. Stacker sliding doors link the central kitchen, fitted with premium Miele appliances, to the sheltered private deck overlooking the swimming pool and landscaped gardens. A second rumpus room is privately zoned with four further bedrooms at the rear of the house. Two of these bedrooms have ensuite bathrooms, including the main suite which also includes luxurious his and her walk-in wardrobes and direct pool access. 'It's really important to maintain the outside connection so we have got a view from the master bedroom so when you lie in bed you can see the ocean,' Mr Leake says. Bellarine Property agent Christian Bartley is handling the sale of 57 The Terrace, Ocean Grove. Price hopes are $4.5m to $4.9m.
Khaleej Times
31-05-2025
- Lifestyle
- Khaleej Times
Look: UAE expats create local plant-based leather, stunning mural of Emirati chants
In two quiet corners of Sharjah - one a white cube dedicated to contemporary design, the other an open-air amphitheatre bathed in wind and light - two women are creating spaces for cultural memory to breathe anew. Architect and material designer Nuhyar Zein, and muralist Fathima Mohiuddin (known as Fatspatrol), each bring a contemplative yet confident hand to the stories they choose to tell. Their works, realised respectively at 1971-Design Space and Flag Island Amphitheatre, are not merely aesthetic gestures. They are considered tributes to place, ecology, and identity -rooted in memory, but reaching forward. At 1971-Design Space, Zein's Leukeather installation presents not only a refined design practice, but a material innovation born of observation, patience, and deep care for the land. Leukeather - a plant-based, biodegradable alternative to exotic leathers - is crafted entirely in the UAE using discarded pods from a fast-growing native tree. "The idea came, to be honest, as a coincidence," Zein, an Egyptian artist born and raised in UAE, told Khaleej Times. "I took these pods and put them against the sun… they had the most beautiful translucent effect. I instantly grabbed them and wanted to create something out of them." From that moment, Leukeather began as an experiment and unfolded into a sustainable, scalable material with regional roots and global potential. Her contribution is not simply artistic - it is infrastructural. At a time when the UAE continues to declare bold ambitions around environmental stewardship, Zein's leather alternative becomes part of a national narrative - one where sustainable design is no longer imported, but locally conceived, produced, and celebrated. She explained, "The tree we use grows here in the UAE… It fixes nitrogen in the soil, and doesn't need much water. All of our materials are sourced here. The carbon footprint is minimal." Inside the exhibition, visitors are invited into a sensorial journey: reflective surfaces give way to soft textures and intricate joinery. "Sara'ir", a central cabinet, part-sculpture and part-story, anchors the installation. "The lower part represents the UAE - brass pins, Mandoos craftsmanship - while the upper part references Egypt with carved motifs and symbolic marks," she noted. Even the gazelle-shaped legs are deliberate, "They represent harmony, beauty, and strength... symbolic in both Emirati and Egyptian cultures." On naming the exhibition 'Niche', Noor Suhail, curator of the exhibition and of 1971–Design Space, explained, "I believe Nuhyar truly found her niche - both in the personal sense and in the physical form of the cabinet. The title Niche plays on the Egyptian word 'neesh', used for traditional display cabinets, which in this show becomes a vessel of memory and material - bridging heritage with contemporary design." Tribute to Emirati traditions Meanwhile, across the water at Flag Island Amphitheatre, Canadian artist Fathima Mohiuddin paints a different kind of tribute - this one sprawling across a public wall, rendered in stark black and white. Her mural Ahazeej (Chants) is a love letter to the rhythmic traditions of the Emirates: the dances, the verses, the fire-lit recitations that echo across generations. "I didn't know there were so many different kinds of poetry," she said, adding, "Poetry recited around fires, poetry in call and response, poetry chanted in unison..." She spent months learning the names and histories of these oral traditions: Al-Ayala, Al-Razfa, Al-Azi, Al-Tarruda, and Al-Nashat. Each movement, each chant, carries echoes of desert nights and community rituals. A figure in the mural - a woman with flowing hair - pays homage to Al-Na'ashat, where hair becomes the very instrument of dance. Around her, motifs of oud, drum, and Tribulus Omanis - the resilient national flower - compose a visual symphony of heritage. The mural is a study in discipline, not only in theme but in medium. She told Khaleej Times,"Painting black next to white in the wind is something you don't expect until you're on-site. The black blows into the white, and then the white into the black... you sort of learn to dance with the elements." For Mohiuddin, the mural becomes more than a static artwork - it is an invocation. "So many of these poetic practices happened around campfires," she explained. "This amphitheatre becomes that fire - it becomes the place of gathering and exchange." Shaikha AlBusmait, events coordinator at 1971-Design Space and the project manager of the latest Jedariya project under which Ahazeej was commissioned, reflects on the power of this transformation, "The amphitheatre is an ideal landmark to transform into a remarkable spot, considering it is located at The Flag Island. Fathima's work in itself is poetic, which aligned with our vision that aims to embrace UAE culture and traditional performances through her mural." To preserve and reimagine Together, the works of Zein and Mohiuddin remind us that to design or paint with intention is to preserve - and to preserve is to reimagine. Whether through the reinvention of material from Emirati trees or the revival of poetry once sung around desert fires, both artists create more than art. They craft spaces for cultural continuity and invite us to walk through them - curious, rooted, and awake. Niche: Leukeather Goods by Nuhayr Zein opened on May 18 and runs until October 23, 2025. It is presented at 1971-Design Space on Flag Island, an initiative by Sharjah Investment and Development Authority (Shurooq). The Jedariya project is another Shurooq initiative led by Maraya Art Centre that supports public art and emerging creative practices across the UAE.
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.
