C0mmercjal Jnter

An ITP Business Publication March Vol.
7 Issue 3
Designer heals
HOW HEALTHCARE DESIGN
CAN MAKE ALL THE DIFFERENCE
Chance encounter
MEET REBECCA GERNON
OF SERENDIPIT Y BY DESIGN
Dubai kesta
APID OFFICIALLY LAUNCHES
THE FESTIVAL OF DESIGN
INSIDE THE PAVILION, A NEW HOME

FOR DUBAI’S ARTISTIC COMMUNIT Y
CONTENTS
March 2011
VOLUME 7 ISSUE 3
05 DESIGN UPDATE
20 PROFILE
Find out more about Finasi,
the UAE arm of Italian furniture
company Molteni&C and Dada.
23 DESIGNER Q&A
CID speaks to Rebecca Gernon
of Serendipity by Design about
her 18 years designing for the
20 23 38
Dubai market.
30 CASE STUDY
The Pavilion Downtown Dubai
is fresh, modern and unlike any
other space in Dubai. CID talks
to interior architect Abboud
Malak and project manager
Mohsin Jawaheri about this
unique project.
38 CASE STUDY
Drop, a new addition to
Shanghai’s highly competitive
club scene, was designed by
Oobiq Architects.
44 FEATURE
Effective healthcare design can
make an enormous difference
to the patient experience, not to
mention that of care givers.
53 FURNITURE COMPANIES
YOU SHOULD KNOW
A selection of furniture
companies that that you can’t
afford to ignore.
61 PRODUCTS
New products on the market.
69 CONTRACTS
Contract tenders in the region.
72 OPINION
British photo-artist Michael
Banks on the importance of art.
30
www.constructionweekonline.com Commercial Interior Design | MARCH 2011 1

COMMENT
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Time for change

ITP BUSINESS PUBLISHING
CEO Walid Akawi
Managing Director Neil Davies
Managing Director ITP Business Karam Awad
Deputy Managing Director Matthew Southwell
Editorial Director David Ingham
W
EDITORIAL
Senior Group Editor Stuart Matthews hen I wrote my jrst editor’s letter for CID back
Tel: +971 4 444 3476 email: stuart.matthews@itp.com
Editor Selina Denman
in 2008, the industry was booming. Designers
were either turning projects around in record
ADVERTISING
Sales Director, Construction Group Yazan Rahman time or turning them away. Design was churned
Tel: +971 4 444 3351 email: yazan.rahman@itp.com
Sales Manager Leigh Roche
out rather than crafted and a host of sub-standard interiors
Tel: +971 4 444 3679 email: leigh.roche@itp.com were spawned across Dubai.
Business Development Manager, Saudi Arabia
Rabih Naderi As I come to write my jnal editor’s letter for CID, I can only
Tel: +966 1 2068697 email: rabih.naderi@itp.com
marvel at how much things have changed. Projects such
STUDIO
as this month’s case study, The Pavilion, provide ample
Group Art Editor Daniel Prescott
Art Editor Simon Cobon evidence of how much the industry has evolved. A fresh, unique interior brimming
PHOTOGRAPHY with wit and creativity, it is testament to the kind of design that the region can
Chief Photographer Jovana Obradovic create when it puts its mind to it.
Senior Photographers Isidora Bojovic, Efraim Evidor
Staff Photographers Lester Ali, George Dipin, Juliet Dunne, In the past, Dubai’s design industry has come under jre – rightfully, I might add
Murrindie Frew, Lyubov Galushko, Verko Ignjatovic, Shruti Jagdesh,
Stanislav Kuzmin, Mosh Lafuente, Ruel Pableo, Rajesh Raghav – for being far too reliant on the ‘copy-paste’ function. But times are changing, as
PRODUCTION & DISTRIBUTION
a new generation of interior designers, eager to create work that is both different
Group Production & Distribution Director Kyle Smith and meaningful, begins to make its mark.
Deputy Production Manager Matthew Grant
Production Coordinator Nelly Pereira There’s no denying that things have been, and continue to be, tough. For many
Managing Picture Editor Patrick Littlejohn
Distribution Manager Karima Ashwell
of the region’s smaller design jrms, the last couple of years have been a simple
Distribution Executive Nada Al Alami case of survival. Many didn’t make it through the storm.
CIRCULATION But there has also been an upside to that struggle. For the jrst time, Dubai’s de-
Head of Circulation & Database Gaurav Gulati
sign industry is starting to behave like a community. And although this is a move-
MARKETING ment that is still very much in its infancy, there are dejnite signs that the industry
Head of Marketing Daniel Fewtrell
Marketing Manager Annie Chinoy is coming together, recognising that there is safety and strength in numbers.
ITP DIGITAL
The number of familiar faces at last month’s APID gala dinner makes me hope
Director Peter Conmy that it was a turning point for the industry. APID used the occasion to ofjcially
Internet Applications Manager Mohammed Affan
Web Designer Meghna Rao
launch the Festival of Interior Design, which will present the industry with further
opportunity to rally round and prove its mettle. A tie-up between APID and Index
ITP GROUP
Chairman Andrew Neil means that the right people are working together and leading by example. This
Managing Director Robert Serafin
Finance Director Toby Jay Spencer-Davies
can only be a positive thing for design as a whole.
Board of Directors K M Jamieson, Mike Bayman, It has been thrilling watching this evolution occur. As I move on to pastures new,
Walid Akawi, Neil Davies, Rob Corder, Mary Serafin
I would like to thank you for providing me with the opportunity to be a part of this
Circulation Customer Service Tel: +971 4 444 3000
Certain images in this issue are available for purchase. progress, in whatever small way. It has been a true pleasure, and I look forward to
Please contact itpimages@itp.com for further details or visit
www.itpimages.com continuing to watch you all grow from strength to strength.
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The publishers regret that they cannot accept liability for error or omissions
contained in this publication, however caused. The opinions and views contained
in this publication are not necessarily those of the publishers. Readers are advised
to seek specialist advice before acting on information contained in this publication
which is provided for general use and may not be appropriate for the reader’s SELINA DENMAN, EDITOR
particular circumstances.
The ownership of trademarks is acknowledged. No part of this publication or any

selina.denman@itp.com An ITP Business Publication March Vol.7 Issue 3
part of the contents thereof may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system or Designer heals
transmitted in any form without the permission of the publishers in writing. An

HOW HEALTHCARE DESIGN
CAN MAKE ALL THE DIFFERENCE
exemption is hereby granted for extracts used for the purpose of fair review. Chance encounter
MEET REBECCA GERNON
OF SERENDIPIT Y BY DESIGN
Dubai Fiesta
APID OFFICIALLY LAUNCHES
THE FESTIVAL OF DESIGN
Receive Commercial Interior Design Cover image:

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DESIGN UPDATE
APID launches Festival of Design

THREE-DAY EVENT WILL HIGHLIGHT THE VALUE OF INTERIOR DESIGN
UAE: APID used its annual gala Milan and London. They have partnerships with like-minded jlms, and other parallel events.
dinner on February 10 as a plat- created the kinds of festivals interior design groups and Ultimately, the event will aim to
form for the launch of the Festival where there is a core event and associations. “It’s not just for increase the visibility and credibil-
of Interior Design 2011. then the city gets on board. So the interior design community,” ity of APID as an organisation.
The three-day design fest we are creating a platform with explained Karen Hay, founder of “APID has done some great
will run from October 22 to 24 the website and with the logo and Stickman Tribe, who is also on the things but it does not have the
and will consist of a series of basically all kinds of events are organising committee. visibility that it should. The
design-related events, anchored going to grow from there.” “It is for the whole community. Festival of Design will give it that
by a one-day congress. A pavilion The event is underlined by It is really to create awareness visibility,” said Merieau.
at Index will act as the home of j ve primary objectives. ‘Educate’ and put a value on the services So far, response to the launch
the festival and a lynchpin for will increase awareness of the that we provide,” she said. has been positive, said Merieau
various activities. interior design industry amongst The festival will feature a and Hay. “The feedback that
APID will provide a framework the general public and industry number of events, including we’ve had so far is that everybody
for the festival, in the form of a professionals; ‘Celebrate’ will exhibitions of design portfolios; wants to be a part of it,” said
brand identity and website. From pay homage and celebrate the city centric design trails and Merieau. “If we create a platform
there, the event will evolve organi- signijcance of the industry in visits to key landmarks, hotels, that is reassuring enough, that
cally into a city-wide celebration both traditional and modern Arab schools and art galleries; lectures doesn’t cost much and is eas-
of design, explained Christian culture; ‘Encourage’ will promote from world-renowned designers; ily accessible, people will be
Merieau, managing director, and discover emerging talent in open masterclasses; workshops; interested. Of course, in order to
Middle East, of Samuel Creations, interior design; ‘Highlight’ will professional and student competi- obtain the log and access to the
who is a member of the festival’s provide the necessary attention tions; an interior design award website, each project has to be
organising committee. and focus on innovation and new programme aimed at honouring validated by the committee. We
“We looked at other such design trends; and ‘Collaborate’ innovative designers; screening will sure that it adds value to the
events in Singapore, Brighton, will promote and strengthen sessions of interior-design based overall event.”

DESIGN UPDATE
Summertown to go all green for 2020

DUBAI-BASED FIT-OUT COMPANY LAYS DOWN PLANS TO BE CARBON NEUTRAL BY 2020
UAE: Summertown Interiors has form the basis of the company’s continually improve what we do,” as the UAE moves towards its
launched a green committee – a carbon neutral strategy. These commented Marcos Bish, manag- goal of creating a platform for a
dedicated association of company are: clients, suppliers, people, ing director, Summertown. greener future” he continued.
employees who will be responsi- operations and measurement. “At Summertown, we recognise The Green Committee comes as
ble for creating a plan of action to The committee has engineered that there are noteworthy cost im- a result of a series of successful
make the company carbon neutral a series of specijc objectives and plications and time requirements green initiatives at Summertown.
by 2020. The jt-out contractor is activities based on each of these that come with implementing such Strategies such as the LEED Gold
already the jrst in the UAE to pillars. “The establishment of the environmental standards, as the certijcation of its own showroom
occupy LEED-certijed interiors. Green Committee is an incred- market looks towards solutions and ofjce premises, promoting
The committee is tasked with ibly important initiative for the such as renewable energy. the usage of cradle-to-cradle
creating a strategy that speaks of company as a whole – throughout “Therefore, the basis behind furniture and materials, and its
Summertown’s social responsibil- our projects and services we are our decision-making has been to Green in Action workshops have
ity but also stays true to jnancial consistently advocating a greener develop a realistic line of attack been the driving force behind
realities and objectives. In this workplace and considering our with achievable goals that keeps Summertown’s success in ce-
vein, the Green Committee has experience in this domain we Summertown in line with the pace menting its position as a market
established jve pillars that will have a key responsibility to at which the market is developing leader in this jeld.
6 MARCH 2011 | Commercial Interior Design www.constructionweekonline.com

DESIGN UPDATE
Zen-like charm
THE RECENTLY-OPENED CHI’ZEN IS NO
RUN-OF-THE-MILL CHINESE EATERY
UAE: Unlike many Chinese res- dining rooms offer an interesting

taurants, which tend to be quite dimension to the design. The jrst
casual, the newly-opened Chi’Zen is dark and moody, with high-
at Dubai Festival City offers Can- backed chairs and striking gold
tonese jne dining. The interiors Murano lights dropping dramati-
of the space had to effectively cally from the ceiling. The back
communicate this unusual brand wall is emblazoned with a simple
positioning, explained Rashida gold motif, creating an almost
Rajkotwalla, lead designer, De- regal feel.
sign Work Portfolio (DWP). The second private dining room
“Chi’Zen is a concept that works with a completely different
already exists in China and Hong palette. Sumptuous, dusky pink
Kong. It is Cantonese food but seats are set against a textured,
jne dining. When we talk about off-white wall. An oversized
Chinese food, we often associate lantern-inspired light j xture
it with casual dining, but the koats elegantly overhead. “The
experience at Chi’ Zen had to be second private dining room is
very high end. So we were trying slightly more toned down. There
to create a very luxurious kind is a really nice contrast between
of atmosphere. That was the the two,” said Rajkotwalla.
main theory behind the whole At the heart of the main restau-
concept,” she explained. rant is a central, curved seating
The restaurant is one of a new element – representing the Yin
breed of high-end, more evening- and the Yang. An elaborate chan-
orientated venues emerging at delier hangs overhead. “That’s
Dubai Festival City. The brief from our point of origin. The outlet
the client, Foodmark, was very radiates out from here.”
open, Rajkotwalla explained. “It The restaurant is also home
was our task was to create an to over 200 pieces of authentic
identity for this outlet. What we Chinese art, selected by art
did inherit from the brand was the consultant, Nimmi Aunger. These
colours. We were given a palette include traditional Chinese tea
with very strong red and black pots, over-sized matchboxes and
elements. So our challenge was colourful hats, often set into the
to achieve a balance between the walls for added drama.
very strong colours and a very Furniture was predominantly
soft, rejuvenating experience in custom-made. In some areas,
terms of justifying the name Zen.” walls are covered in a gold wall-
Red is used predominantly as paper with a gentle koral pattern,
an accent colour, in cushions and supplied by Warps and Wefts. The
lighting elements. This ensures space is divided by a series of
that the colour does not become metal rods, set at varying angles
too overpowering. Rajkotwalla to resemble bamboo.
also played around with differ- “The initial inspiration was
ent, more muted shades of red bamboo, but you see bamboo
to counterbalance the brighter so often so we wanted to move
‘Chinese’ red. away from that and do something
The restaurant has a capacity different. This way is also more
of 160 people and is open for cost-effective and lasts longer,”
lunch and dinner. Two private Rajkotwalla concluded.

DESIGN UPDATE

DESIGN UPDATE
Duravit celebrates a
new era of opulence
GERM AN BAT HROOM M ANUFACT URER
UNVEIL S FOUR NE W DESIGN LINES

DESIGN UPDATE
GERMANY: The concept of Discussing the concept of opu- devices used by Ethiopian herds-
opulence was put at the heart of lence, Tchoban said: “It’s luxury in men to keep their heads away from
Duravit’s 2011 Design Days in a very reasonable way. So it’s not the ground while sleeping.
Germany last month, where the lavish or over indulgent. It’s a very Another aspect to the design is
company unveiled new products kexible and nice design that jts technological. The set up includes
from a slew of designers including into different environments. a Bluetooth music system which
Philippe Stark, Sergei Tchoban and “Contemporary opulence is allows an iPod to play music both
Matteo Thun. about allowing that little bit more, above and under water.
Franz Kook, CEO, Duravit told de- yet keeping one’s feet jrmly on the Matteo Thun’s new range was
signers, customers and journalists ground,” he said. unveiled next. Wood is the most
gathered at the company’s factory Speaking to CID on the sidelines important feature of the Onto
and showroom in the Black Forest of the event, Tchoban said that range, with consoles and the
that the term opulence meant qual- as an architect his belief was in fronts of tall cabinets, low cabinets
ity and value rather than lavish maintaining the human scale of and vanities all made of plywood.
and over-indulgent design. He also designs, a fact that architecture Thun believes that cost engi-
said that Duravit had never had so had increasingly forgotten. neering dejnes the aesthetics of
many designers working for the “We have lost our love of the de- the 21st century, and that wood is
company at the same time. tail. We think of everything in big a cheap but attractive material to
“We’ve never had such an ar- forms and big plans and designs, serve this dual purpose.
mada of new bathroom concepts”, but we don’t think any more about Last up was designer Philippe
said Kook. “We’ve done some the human scale. We need to come Starck, who was in Germany to
quite far-reaching research and, back to the small elements.” unveil his new range of washba-
in collaboration with high-projle Tchoban’s new range, Espla- sins, coming in circular, square
international designers, have nade, aims to recreate the tradition and triangular forms. Starck’s new
developed concepts that introduce of baths, cabinets and sinks geometric approach also redejnes
a new style direction, and not just being furniture as well as being the mirrors and mirror cabinets. All
for the luxury sector.” functional. In this respect, the variants feature a “light square”
There are 14 new projects in Esplanade range has a very old- which provides for a very soft light
total – including four new design fashioned feel. diffused through a special jlm.
lines. The jrst new line to be Next up was the new Nahho “It’s unusual today to buy some-
revealed was by Russian-German range by the EOOS design group, thing and after six years the style
architect Sergei Tchoban, known which incorporates a large koating is still good and the quality is still
for his high-projle projects in bath tub and head rest to enable good. But the idea now is to keep
Germany and Russia, including the total immersion in the water. everything for a long time. Now we
Federation Tower, which is due to Nahho is the old German for ‘dug- don’t only buy for ourselves, we
be the tallest building in Europe out canoe’. Part of the design is buy for our children and grandchil-
when completed. a wooden head rest inspired by dren,” Starck said.

DESIGN UPDATE
Zumtobel launches Light Centre

NEW FACILIT Y WILL ACT AS A HUB FOR DUBAI’S DESIGN COMMUNIT Y
UAE: Zumtobel celebrated the hotels. “We also have ofjce and However, it is not great for the into the back of the centre can host
launch of its dedicated Light communications application patients. So we have introduced a events of all descriptions.
Centre on March 2. rooms, in two different styles. One touch panel which allows patients “We will run a programme
Located in Dubai’s Al Quoz area, room has recessed jttings within to alter the light once their doctor of regular events where we will
the new 750m² facility was de- the ceiling and in the other, the has left the room. either target one design jrm and
signed to showcase the breadth of jxtures are suspended,” explained “The patient can switch to a invite them to hold their internal
Zumtobel’s product offering. The Gabriel Abdelhakmi-Gaisne, more comfortable coloured light, workshops here, or we will bring
space is home to a range of differ- marketing manager, MENA region, with a range of different scenarios in a mix of jrms so that they can
ent lighting scenarios, highlighting Zumtobel Group. on offer. The light can even follow network. We also intend to have a
the various applications that Zum- On show are some of the most their circadian rhythm.” research hub here because we are
tobel can cater for. For example, innovative technologies on the Also present in the new Zumto- developing products all the time
the new showroom features an market, including LED and RGB bel Light Centre are examples from and we want to hear the voice of
area highlighting Zumtobel’s retail luminaires. In the dedicated health the company’s Masterpiece collec- our customer,” he said.
offering, which includes special- and care area, Zumtobel is show- tion, including the LQ Chandelier. “We will also look at co-brand-
ised jbre optic solutions for the casing Ceilos, a special ceiling However, the centre was ing opportunities with brands that
food and cosmetics industry. Next application that can help stimulate envisaged as much more than have the same values but not the
up are the education and science the recovery of the patient. a simple showroom for lighting same products as us – brands
rooms, which present solutions for “Very often in a healthcare solutions. The space will also act such as Bentley, Porsche, Louis
schools and universities. setting you have very blue light, as a hub for the design community, Vuitton and Wilkhahn. We want
Also on show are lighting which is excellent for the doctors Abdelhakmi-Gaisne explained. A to use this as a hub to enhance
options for museums, spas and because they can see everything. large multi-purpose space tucked knowledge across the board.”

DESIGN UPDATE
Upgrading a Dubai icon
RE
FO
BE
OVER 20 YE ARS AF T ER IT FIRST DESIGNED T HE EMIR AT ES
GOLF CLUB, BSBG WA S C ALLED BACK IN TO GIVE IT A REFRESH
UAE: The story of the Emirates Golf “Now, when you come into the A new SensAsia Spa, a more
Club renovation contains a certain Emirates Golf Club, you experi- resort-type pool and an upgraded
symmetry. The original club was ence the tent structure and you gym are amongst the sporting and
designed by Brewer Smith Brewer can see the entire golf course, wellness facilities now on offer
Gulf (BSBG), the same company which is a fantastic experience. at the club – meaning that sports
that was called in to give it a “Before, you came in and you members need no longer feel like
revamp some 23 years later. couldn’t orientate yourself, and second-class citizens.
Originally designed to resemble you didn’t really know where the The club’s family restaurant has
a cluster of Bedouin tents, the golf course was. We thought it also been upgraded, as part of
Emirates Golf Club is amongst the was important to draw the build- plans to make Emirates Golf Club
most recognisable landmarks in ing and the course together.” more of a destination, particularly
international golf. Wasl, the asset Another priority was enhancing in the evenings. The lower level
management company that owns the kow of movement through of the club, which is home to the
the club, wanted BSBG to mod- the clubhouse. “Something that Pro Shop and additional food and
ernise the facility but retain its I always found difjcult was the beverage outlets, has also been
Bedouin-inspired structure. “This route through the building. So we extended, meaning that the output
is an iconic building for Dubai,” tried to make sure that the routes of the club’s hospitality operations
noted Alistair McMillan, managing were much clearer and kowed has more than doubled.
partner, BSBG. “It is a building through the building much better,” “We wanted to add some
with lots of character so we were McMillan explained. value at the lower levels, which sit
conscious of the fact that we Routes around the building within a concrete parapet. We’ve
shouldn’t tamper with its shell.” also had to be reconsidered. In its tried to put a lot of glass in there,
McMillan approached the former guise, the club’s members we’ve opened it up, and we’ve
project as an architect, a golfer had to shufke around the outside tried to create a feeling of space.
and a father. He has been a of the building in order to get to One of the ways that we did that is
member of the Emirates Golf the sports facilities. “We extended the frontage to the Spike Bar and
Club for 13 years, and was well and developed the sports side of to the central areas are completely
acquainted with its various things as a separate entity. We retractable. We tried to create
strengths and weaknesses. also devised a new route around more intimate spaces that people
One of those weaknesses was the building, said McMillan. could identify with.”
the arrival experience. “Previous-
ly, when you came into the front
door, because of the nature of
the design, there was a reception
desk and you were almost over
the top of it by the time you could
orientate yourself,” he said.
Overhead, a mezzanine koor
meant that you couldn’t appreci-
ate the clubhouse’s tented struc-
ture – its dejning feature. “We
were conscious that we wanted
an arrival point coming into the
building. We wanted some sort of
experience. So we took the mez-
zanine koor away.”
In addition, BSBG introduced
a double-height, spider-glass
exterior wall, which offers uninter-
rupted views over the golf course.

DESIGN UPDATE

DESIGN UPDATE
Heightened appeal
ADAM TIHANY TALKS TO CID ABOUT DESIGNING
THE HIGHEST RESTAUR ANT IN THE WORLD
UAE: When Adam Tihany came from a private dining room and
to design At.mosphere, the high- offers guests a discreet glimpse
est restaurant in the world, he into the art of culinary creations,”
recognised the need to make it Tihany detailed.
comfortable. Located on the 122nd In the lounge, deeper shades
koor of the Burj Khalifa, the res- of amethyst, in a combination of
taurant was already brimming with patterned velvets, natural woven
‘wow’ factor. It needed an interior textiles and leathers, create an ef-
that would counter this with a fervescent effect. “Here, the pol-
sense of warmth and intimacy. ished wood beams and panelled
“Being situated on the 122nd walls and ceilings gently undulate
koor is exhilarating so my design upward, suggesting a lighter,
concept caters to making everyone more animated atmosphere,”
comfortable. The extensive use Tihany explained.
of wood, both on the walls and The undulating wooden panels
ceilings, creates a very soothing and glass railing add a sense of
mood, promoting a sense of softness to the design, and pay
comfort and security,” said Tihany, homage to the curved architecture
founder of the New York-headquar- of the Burj Khalifa itself. Mean-
tered Tihany Design. while, custom-designed light
Tihany’s brief was to create a jxtures, furniture and carpets
world-class, highly-memorable all speak of the bespoke, unique
restaurant and lounge. He was nature of the project.
asked “to leverage the full advan- The lounge and its surroundings
tage of the altitude and views, and rest on a marble-clad, elevated
at the same time offer a warm and platform. Within the area is a VIP
soothing ambience, suitable for section decked in steel blue, choc-
day and night”, he explained. olate and caramel, complemented
The space is divided into the with a touch of cream.
At.mosphere Grill, which can “Late at night, second to the
accommodate 80 guests and mood and occasion, the DJ trans-
includes a private dining room forms the windows into canvases
with a Chef’s Table that can seat onto which dynamic contemporary
12 people, and the At.mosphere images are projected from
Lounge, a chic venue that can concealed state-of-the-art video
cater for 170. projections – all while overlooking
For the restaurant, Tihany the Dubai skyline, a totally singular
favoured the calm shades of sensation,” Tihany said.
amethyst and cocoa, in sumptuous But designing a restaurant 442m
materials such as silks, velvets, above ground, in a building as dis-
and leathers. Hand-polished wood tinctly shaped as the Burj Khalifa,
panels clad the walls and arch up also presented its fair share of
across the ceiling, drawing the eye challenges, Tihany admitted. “The
to the ubiquitous koor-to-ceiling centre core of structure, elevators
windows. These bold architectural and stairs represented a planning
forms evoke an vault-like feeling. challenge which we have overcome
“Composed of marble and sur- by designing all the public spaces
rounded by glass, a sleek exhibi- around the perimeter of the koor,
tion grill at the back of the room taking full advantage of the spec-
separates the main dining area tacular 360 degree views.”

DESIGN UPDATE

DESIGN UPDATE
Hadid takes centre stage

HADID-DESIGNED PAVILION TO PLAY HOST TO LEADING PERFORMERS AT ABU DHABI FESTIVAL
UAE: A pavilion designed by for each performance experience. Excellency Hoda Al Khamis Kanoo, Zaha Hadid’s striking pavilion is
‘starchitect’ Zaha Hadid will play The installation takes the form of founder and artistic director of the described as ‘the perfect union of
host to a number of leading Arab an extraordinary chamber music Abu Dhabi Festival, which is tak- sound and space’.
performers during the Abu Dhabi hall. A voluminous ribbon swirls ing place from March 22 to 29. “Within this beautiful structure
Festival 2011. within the room, carving out a “Together with our international we hope to explore the legacies of
The pavilion is a touring venue spatial and visual response to the partners, we have developed this Arab art and music, and rekect on
that will showcase dynamic cross- intricate musical compositions beautiful organic space with the its power to inspire future genera-
cultural projects under the theme being performed. express aim of providing a place tions of young Arab artists, poets
Arab Creativity in the Architecture As the ribbon careens above where people can come together and musicians.
of the Future. To date, the pavilion the performer, cascades into the from diverse backgrounds and “Our commitment to preserving
has also made appearances at the ground and wraps around the cultures to explore the breadth our own musical heritage will
Manchester International Festival audience, the room is sculpted and depth of the arts in all its be reinforced this year with the
and Holland Festival. into a kuid space. forms,” she added. beginning of a long-term project
An intimate venue with a “We are thrilled to host the Co-commissioned by the Abu to archive our traditions and build
capacity of just 200, the pavilion Zaha Hadid Pavilion at the Emir- Dhabi Festival with its partners, a library of written work that will
was designed to guarantee an ates Palace as part of the Abu the Manchester International document our history for future
acoustically superior environment Dhabi Festival 2011,” said Her Festival and the Holland Festival, generations,” said Kanoo.

PROFILE
Finasi LLC
W H O?
Finasi LLC is the UAE arm of
Molteni&C and Dada, part of the
Molteni Group. It is among the
few designer furniture brands that
provides a wide range of modular
furnishings, to create a home brim-
ming with sophisticated elegance.
Apart from the individual charm of
each piece, it offers the possibility
to dejne – with a wealth of choices
but a singular good taste – your
lifestyle. The philosophy behind the
products is to satisfy the customer’s
needs, not only in terms of design
but also in terms of functionality,
quality and reliability.
W H AT ’ S N E W ?
For Molteni&C, a decennial
collaboration with Cartier has
recently been expanded with an
important programme of new bou-
tique jttings scheduled worldwide
over the next few years. For Dada,
the Armani Group and the Molteni
Group have recently announced the
formation of a joint partnership for
the production and distribution of
kitchen systems under the brand
name Armani/Dada. The new
Armani/Dada Checkers Kitchen,
for the jrst time, will be available
in our Finasi showroom.

PROFILE
B R A N DS ?
Finasi functions as the local arm of
Molteni&C SpA, Dada, showcasing
their products in our showroom.
P RO J E C T S ?
One of the most noteworthy projects
executed recently is the development
of 144 exclusive Armani Residences
inside the Burj Khalifa, the tallest
building in the world.
US P s?
Finasi brings Molteni&C Group’s
signature features – design and inno-
vation – to this market. Their designs
and original solutions incorporate
tradition with technology, and blend
attractiveness with functionality. They
facilitate the life of the user without
being ostentatious.
The projects and products are
innovative on a formal, technical and
typological level. They are developed
through intense research and experi-
mentation, carried out in partnership
with internationally-acclaimed
architects and designers such as
Jean Nouvel, Sir Norman Foster and
Patricia Urquiola, who have all de-
signed successful products belonging
to the collection.
Molteni&C Group has developed a spe-
cial relationship with important archi-
tects and designers, evaluating every
single project in terms of functionality,
innovation, use of material and design,
so as to consistently match the cus-
tomers’ expectations of its products.
CO N TAC T ?
Finasi, Al Ittihad Road,
PO Box 118508, Dubai, UAE.
Tel: +971 (0)4 297 1777; Email:
jnasi@jnasi.ae; Web: www.jnasi.ae
and www.molteni.it.

DESIGNER Q&A
From the inside out

REBECC A GERNON H A S SPENT 18 Y E A RS DE SIGNING IN DUBA I.
SHE SH A RE S HER E X PERIENCE S WIT H CID
R
ebecca Gernon arrived in
Dubai 18 years ago, a fresh-
faced architecture graduate
in a country where op-
portunity was as abundant as female
professionals were rare. In a story that
reads like an architect’s dream, she
found herself working on one of the
most iconic buildings of all time, the
Burj Al Arab. One of her most visible
contributions was the hotel’s helipad,
a structure that was inspired, quite ac-
cidentally, by the Starship Enterprise.

DESIGNER Q&A
1 After her stint with Atkins, Gernon Wright was the main architect and he saw this sketch on my desk. When
Gernon was joined Italy-headquartered interior there were two other English architects, he called the meeting, he brought the
responsible for design jrm Decorpoint, where she was as well as myself. It was an amazing sketch with him and said: ‘Look guys,
designing Burj Al tasked with heading up the company’s experience for me – I was straight out this is the helipad, isn’t it amazing!’
Arab’s helipad. Dubai ofjce and developing its com- of college and working on this amaz-
mercial interior design portfolio. In ing, iconic building. This was also my How did you make the move into
2&3 this capacity, Gernon worked on a jrst insight into interior design on an interior design?
Although she trained series of high-projle hotels, includ- international level, and all of the drama I worked at Atkins for a year and then I
as an architect, ing The Fairmont Dubai, Grand Hyatt that goes with it. was approached by Decorpoint, which
Gernon’s portfolio Dubai, Meridien Mina Seyahi and Le I worked for Atkins for a year, and wanted to open an ofjce here. That was
includes plenty of Royal Meridien. my claim to fame is that I designed the the start of my interior design career.
interiors projects. In 2001, she launched her own jrm, helipad at the Burj Al Arab. Tom was I studied architecture and master
Serendipity by Design, which specialis- my idol at the time. I was 24 and he planning but I always had an interest in
es in master planning, architecture and was designing this incredibly iconic interiors. I lived in Paris for six months
interior and landscape design. While building. He asked me have a crack at and my katmate at the time was a stage
the Dubai-based company has a satel- designing the helipad and I was terri- set designer for the Opera House in
lite ofjce in Manila, Gernon remains jed because it was such a prominent Paris. They were always behind sched-
lead designer on all projects. thing on the building. ule so I used to help him out, painting
Commercial Interior Design caught up I tried lots of designs, but nothing the sets and so on. So there was
with Gernon to jnd out more about her was coming to me. I sat there for three always an interest in interiors. And my
very Middle Eastern career, and about days. I remember the night before I was design style is quite theatrical, which I
transitioning comfortably between supposed to present my idea, it was get- think comes from there.
interior design and architecture. ting later and later, and I had nothing. I was responsible for the Decorpoint
Eventually I sketched the Starship Enter- ofjce. They already had clients here
Tell us about your career so far. prise, out of Star Trek, as a joke. I left it but they were mostly residential clients.
I came to Dubai 18 years ago. Archi- on my desk and went home, wondering They wanted me to set up the commer-
tecture is my background, so I started whether there was any point going into cial side of things. At that stage, hotels
working for Atkins as an architect on the ofjce the following day. When Tom were just starting to be built here. They
the Burj Al Arab. There was a three- came in the next day, he had to walk were building the Meridien Mina Seyahi
man design team on that project. Tom pass my desk to get to his ofjce. And and the Meridien at the airport and they

DESIGNER Q&A
were also building lots of shopping 3

centres. So there was a lot of work.
I did all of Decorpoint’s commercial
design work, so I was responsible for all
of the Meridien hotels that were being
built at that stage. I was with Decorpoint
for eight or nine years and then I decided
to open my own company.
Why did you branch out on your own?

I’d been with Decorpoint for a long
time. The ofjce grew from two
people to 55 people over that period
of time. Also, I wanted the company
to branch out into architecture and
masterplanning but they weren’t inter-
ested in that – they wanted to stay with
interior design.
So we parted ways. But they were
like my family here, so I didn’t want to
steal clients from them either. As such,
in the beginning I concentrated more
on masterplanning and architecture. I
got my own clients. And it was the right
time for it. Dubai was going into the real
estate market and all these develop-
ments were starting to come up.
I’ve been doing that since 2001.
We’ve been very lucky. We’ve worked on
great projects, from masterplanning all

DESIGNER Q&A
the way down to interiors. I think what professionals here. I remember the jrst exaggerating. At the moment, it is still
our ofjce offered, which wasn’t really project management meeting that I went about survival. But we were here before
available then, and still isn’t available to for Meridien. the boom, when there was half the
now in most jrms, is we could take a The existing hotel was there and they population, and there was work then,
project from a blank piece of paper, were building an extension. I went to so I’m hopeful.
right until someone moving in. this site meeting and there were 25 men
We do everything from masterplanning sitting in this portacabin, all Arabic. Does this region offer greater
to landscaping, to architecture and One of them said: ‘Excuse me madam, opportunities to smaller krms than
from interiors to jt-out. We do the the hotel is over there’. I explained that other markets, would you say?
whole realm. We’ve done that on quite actually I was the interior designer and The experience encompasses a lot more
a few projects. the project manager and they were here. The client trusts you more in this
all stunned. But I found that once you part of the world. I would also say that
Do you do much commercial work? gained their respect, they had the it is less competitive here. It is not like
At the moment, interiors wise, we are utmost respect for you. Europe where the big jrms are the gods
mostly doing residential. Architecture- When I jrst came to Dubai, there and they get all the projects. Here even
wise, we do resorts and residential was no design style. It was only once the smaller companies have a chance.
resorts. We have one job that was the hotels came in that interior design- A lot of the bigger jrms here have a
awarded to us in Egypt but we are ers started coming in. Also, the Inter- very cookie-cutter style. I think that’s
obviously not sure what’s happening net wasn’t really in existence then, so because the principal designer is no
with that now. The project included two it was a real challenge jnding brands. longer designing, so their style is being
shopping centres in Cairo. replicated by the rest of the employees.
To what extent has Serendipity With principles that are still designing,
4 How difficult was it setting up a by Design been impacted by the their style and work is constantly evolv-
A private villa business on your own in Dubai? economic slowdown? ing. My style has changed dramatically
designed When I jrst came here, it was very It is still a challenge getting work. Any- over the last 18 years. With smaller
by Gernon. difjcult. There were very few female one who tells you that they are busy is jrms you get that variety.

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DESIGNER Q&A
5&6 You started out as an architect, then has dejnitely impacted my approach to be successful you need to get that
Gernon also designed moved into interior design and even- to architecture. We design from the emotional response.
these signature villas tually went back to architecture. How inside out – and we create much better People generally try and play it safe
for The Palm, Jebel Ali. easy is it to switch between these designs as a result. with interiors. But I always say that
two disciplines? Architects don’t always consider how interior design needs to be theatrical
Architects do have a certain snobbish- people will use a space. Interior design – and it has to be right for the space.
ness when it comes to interior design. is the human scale of a building. The It is all about the ambience that you
When I moved into interiors, my peers human experience of a building is at create. People do not have to remem-
at college didn’t really understand why. the interior design level. ber the colour of the floor, but they
But moving into interior design has People have an emotional response need to remember how a space made
taught me a lot about architecture. It to interiors, and for an interior design them feel.

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CASE STUDY: THE PAVILION DOWNTOWN DUBAI
Creative freedom
THE PAVILION IS A SPACE LIKE NO OTHER
IN DUBAI, SAYS SELINA DENMAN

T
he design of The Pavilion
Downtown Dubai is summed
up by the solid oak shed that
sits at its centre. Simple but
also heart-warmingly creative, it’s that
rare kind of design feature that inexpli-
cably makes you want to smile.
“The shed is very playful,” said Ab-
boud Malak, who was responsible for
the design of The Pavilion. “It’s very
cheeky. Everybody always talks about
bringing the outdoors in – and we’ve
literally brought the outdoors in.”
The shed is a semi-private space
furnished with a long oak table and
chairs. Behind it, a towering vertical
garden adds another unexpected
dimension to an already intriguing
design. It introduces life, texture and
movement to what would otherwise
be an over-sized, overly imposing wall
surface. It is elements like this that
make The Pavilion unlike any other
space in Dubai.
ARTISTIC CONVERGENCE
The Pavilion was envisaged as a place
where the artistic community, in its
very broadest sense, could congregate.
A brainchild of Ahmed and Rashid bin
Shabib of Shelter fame, it will act as a
platform for creativity and a facilita-
tor of artistic expression. The facility
is anchored by two gallery spaces,
complemented by a library, screening
room, lounge area, restaurant and
espresso bar.
Located in what was formerly the
Downtown Living Sales Centre, The Pa-
vilion sits on Emaar Boulevard, directly
opposite the Burj Khalifa. As the build-
ing is almost entirely glass fronted, 2

striking, uninterrupted views of the

Burj become almost an extension of
the interior, building on the ‘outside
in’ theme epitomised by the shed and
vertical garden.
In order to attract the attention of
Dubai’s creative community, Malak
knew that he had to design a space
that was unique and inspiring. After
all, he was designing for some of the
most discerning and design-conscious
people in the city. “We felt that if we
were going to get those people inter-
ested in this space, we really had to
grab their attention,” he said.
The bin Shabib brothers gave Malak
free rein; their only request was that
he create something that would make
an impression. “They very much let me
loose,” he said. “And that’s why The
Pavilion looks the way it does. I wasn’t
restricted. The less interference there
is and the less resistance there is, the
faster we can do things and the better
we can do them.”
In many ways this was a dream
project, but it also came with its fair
share of challenges. The contract was
awarded to Malak in October and
The Pavilion was operational by early
February, which made for a highly ac-
celerated design-build programme.
“The challenges were with the bud-
get and the timetable,” said Mohsin
Jawaheri, who was responsible for
project management. “It was being
designed as it was being built, which
was very hard. We were told, this is the
budget and you can’t go over. And we
didn’t. But we also didn’t compromise
on quality,” he added.
Luckily, Jawaheri was able to enlist
the help of an “awesome” contractor
in the form of AMBB. “The whole team
was strong,” said Malak. “Architectur-
ally we were strong, project manage-
ment was strong and the contractor
was strong. We didn’t cut corners.”
T R ANSFORM AT ION
When the team jrst took hold of the
former sales centre, it had been lying
unused for a couple of years. As a jrst
step, the structure was completely
gutted, leaving little but the shell. Next
up, the building was repainted, the
3 landscaping was reconjgured and the


6
interiors were cleaned up. Malak had came up with the interesting solution
his blank canvas. of cutting into the slanted wall and
Given the purpose of the space, carving a kat wall space out of it.”
Malak opted for a basic, understated At the end of Gallery One, the
palette of materials, dominated by space leads off to the left, into a
concrete and wood. “We wanted to more enclosed, sheltered area that is
go back to basics. We wanted it to be home to the reception. “In terms of an
timeless and we wanted it to be as entry sequence, we felt it was strong
pure as possible. The oak looks very because you walk in and there is that
natural and raw, and concrete is a very sense of anticipation. There is this long
honest product. It’s very durable and it gallery space that you have to walk
doesn’t require a lot of love,” he said. through before you actually reach the
The Pavilion experience starts with reception,” said Malak.
Gallery One, a 30m-long space that Immediately after the reception,
acts as the main gallery and entrance the space opens up into a cavernous
area. The extended, corridor-like space open-plan area that is drenched in
is kanked on one side by the glass natural light. This is the heart of The
exterior wall and on the other by a bare Pavilion and home to a lounge, library,
white wall, which came with its own restaurant and the much-loved shed
unexpected quirk. “We inherited a wall and vertical garden.
that sloped outwards – and we actually In the lounge, modular sofas by
loved it,” said Malak. “We could have Cassina have been set up to point in
very easily demolished it but we liked a number of different directions. “We
it so much that we kept it. It had that wanted to create these seating pods
bunker-like feel to it.” where people can have very different
Malak felt that this was a strong visual references. Not everybody has
statement to kickstart the design with. to face the Burj, or the restaurant, or
At the same time, he recognised that a the library – people have a choice.”
slanting wall is not the most conducive Malak was keen to use furniture
to effectively-displayed art. “So we brands that weren’t already part of the

region’s design vocabulary, such as cater to that. There’s nothing j xed – them in from Holland. You didn’t only 1,2&3
Foscarini, E15, Academia, Riva, Modu- everything is loose.” have to be careful with the choice of A solid oak shed
lar, Pianca and Magis. This generates plants; you also had to be careful with sits in the centre
visual interest and introduces a further CUS TOM M ADE which plants were sitting next to each of The Pavilion,
layer of uniqueness. When it came to the restaurant, all other, because of their proximity. kanked by
Tucked off to the side, behind a veil furniture was custom-made by AMBB. “One plant could completely over- a vertical garden.
of bookcases brimming with art and Five metre-long solid oak tables, take the one next to it. Another chal-
design books, is the library, which bench-style seating and high-backed lenge was choosing suitable lighting,” 4
according to Malak is more of a “work banquets make for a highly sociable Jawaheri detailed. Gallery One
space”. “We created it for all those eating and seating area for up to 50 The Pavilion is also home to the opened with an
nomad artists that don’t have an ofjce people. Overhead, clusters of Torch espresso bar, a 12m counter that installation by
and are working from home. We’re say- lights from Established and Sons’ faces an open kitchen. This builds an James Clarr.
ing, get out of your house, come and Principal Collection drop dramatically element of activity – and interactivity –
sit here, work out of this space, meet from the ceiling. into the design. 5&6
other people that are in your jeld or All the while, the vertical garden Malak opted for
other jelds, and maybe that will help towers enticingly overhead. The wall BROADENING HORIZONS furniture brands
you to grow and learn.” is composed of some 2,000 plants, The F&B areas make the space more that were not part
Furniture plays a key role in dividing representing 60 different species. accessible to a wider range of people. of the region’s
up the different spaces. In what is “It has a great tropical feel to it. It’s Because although The Pavilion was design vocabulary.
essentially an oversized container, an evolving wall, and we love that,” envisioned as a haven for Dubai’s cre-
there are no dejnite walls telling you Malak commented. ative community, it was not designed 7
that you have moved from one space to But it also represented a consider- to be in any way exclusionary. The reception area.
the next. The furniture is the only real able logistical challenge, Jawaheri Its role is more that of a community
spatial indicator. explained. “Nobody could do it locally. centre. “It is for all walks of life. Your 8
This also builds a level of kexibility That was the challenge. Because, average person is also more than A 12m espresso
into the design. “Our main concern actually, it would have been a liability welcome,” said Malak. “This is why counter overlooks
was that we wanted the design to be if we j xed it up and in the short term we brought in the element of the res- the open kitchen.
versatile,” said Malak. “So if you have it looked good and in the long term it taurant and the espresso bar and the
an event and you don’t want all that failed. We had to k y in a specialist. He lounge. If you were just limited to the
furniture in the middle, the design can selected the right plants and he kew galleries and the library, it might seem

a little more forbidding. You might feel

like there is a kind of velvet rope that
you can’t get past. That is certainly
not the case.
“The Pavilion is open for breakfast,
lunch and dinner. You are more than
welcome to come in, read your newspa-
per and order a croissant and a coffee.
You can make it what you want it to
be,” said Malak.
Leading on from the espresso bar is
Gallery Two, a larger space that can be
seen from the main road. “We’d like
it to be a little more experimental as
a space,” said Malak and, indeed, the
jrst installation being shown here is by
street grafjti artist, The Bow Terrorist.
The jnal component of The Pavilion
is a screening room for 35 people,
which was created as a platform for
more interesting, independent jlms,
something sorely lacking in Dubai.
Here, Malak created a highly inti-
mate space, with lounge-style seating
rather than the typical fold up variety.
Coupled with a striking lagoon-blue
colour scheme and a goat-hair carpet,
the space is sumptuous and inviting.
For both Malak and Jawaheri, The
Pavilion represented a unique oppor-
tunity to do something truly different.
“These opportunities come rarely,”
Malak admitted. “And you know when
you are faced with such an opportunity
so you take advantage of it. That’s
exactly what happened.”
SOURCES
Vitra
Foscarini
Cassina
E15
Established & Sons
Magis
Academia
Kettal
Pianca
Riva
Modular

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CASE STUDY:
T DY DROP
OOBIQ ARCHITECTS
HAS CRE ATED A STRIKING
ADDITION TO SHANGHAI’S
COMPETITIVE CLUB SCENE
Shanghai
38 MARCH
C 2011
01 | Commercial Interior Design www.constructionweekonline.com
CASE STUDY: DROP
www.constructionweekonline.com Commercial Interior Design | MARCH

C 2011 39
CASE STUDY: DROP
W
hen Hong Kong-based Oo- it up, Martelli explained. “Before our
biq Architects came to de- renovation, there was a Chinese res-
sign the interiors of a new taurant located here for several years.
nightclub in Shanghai, The original decoration was hidden by
it was tasked with creating a space that a false ceiling as the owner was not at
was trendy enough to attract attention all interested in showing it off. Once the
in a highly competitive market, but not false ceilings were removed, we decided
so trendy that it would date prematurely. to preserve these decorations, mainly
Ultimately, the client wanted a club that on the columns and on the beams, and
would stand the test of time. let them become one of the key design
Oobiq dejned the client’s desired elements,” he continued.
style as ‘contemporary classic’ and Retaining the original character of the
built the design scheme around this building was central to Drop’s contempo-
basic premise. In the eyes of the Oobiq rary classic style. Carefully-selected furni-
designers, this translated to mean ture pieces set the tone for the rest of the
classic textures, shapes and materials, scheme. “A contemporary classic design
intelligently adapted to create a more led us to our jrst choice in terms of furni-
international feel. ture: the Chesterjeld sofa was used for
2
The club’s location played a key role all the seating. It is a classic design, but
in shaping the design, explained Giam- with a contemporary shiny colour, with a
battista Burdo and Samuele Martelli, European feel,” Burdo said.
directors of Oobiq Architects. The club is Also reminiscent of Europe is the
located in Shanghai’s Bund area, which wooden boiserie panelling on the walls.
is tucked into a bend of the Huangpu In this instance, the ornate, intricately-
River and is one of the city’s most popu- carved panelling is detached from the
lar tourist destinations. According to wall, creating more of a koating element.
Martelli and Burdo, this is one of the few Set on the walls are two custom-made
parts of the city where traditional design installations. Famous European paint-
and architecture have been maintained. ings have been pixelated to create a
As an Italian-led architecture and three-dimensional effect. This is a strik-
design studio, restoration and reuse ing example of the interplay between tra-
are a key part of the company’s design ditional, contemporary and international
vocabulary. Both directors are graduates design elements.
of the University of Florence and both are For the koor, Oobiq took inspiration
members of the Unesco Forum. “General- from the concept of a kaleidoscope.
ly speaking, Shanghai is an international “From this idea we created a sort of
city, and only a few projects are really hexagonal pattern made of marble.
3
linked to its tradition. The area of the This feeling reminded us a lot of Arabic
Bund, where the Drop project is located, decoration, especially Moroccan tiles.
4
is the only one where you can jnd good The koor has a strong impact when you
examples of projects that have a special enter the club, and at the same time
1 relationship with history,” said Martelli. when you are on the crowded dance koor
The new club “Shanghai has a deep tradition, his- it presents something of a surprise when
is located in tory and heritage. Unfortunately often you look down and your eyes discover
Shanghai’s it is not shown enough or it is totally this decoration,” said Martelli.
Bund area. forgotten,” Burdo added. “Not all clients The hexagonal patterning has also
are interested in telling the story of been taken from the koor and imposed
2 Shanghai and its history. We were lucky onto the stainless steel bar and DJ
The client wanted as our client was interested when we booth, to become a recurring motif
a concept that mentioned preserving the building and throughout the club. The bar and the
wouldn’t date. showing off its true character.” DJ booth are striking in their modernity,
The building acted as the headquar- creating a stark contrast with some of the
3,4&5 ters and storage facilities for a British more traditional elements in the design
Oobiq Architects company during the 19th century. The scheme. Both were envisaged as
responded with a original decoration of the ceiling and stainless steel sculptures in a cham-
contemporary classic walls had been retained, although the pagne jnish. They are covered in a three-
design scheme. previous tenant had opted to cover dimensional patterning, creating warm

CASE STUDY: DROP

CASE STUDY: DROP
6 and vibrant surfaces that rekect light in a often located near the river. You can And it was essential that the design
The bar and DJ myriad ways. see this in the architectural style of the was truly striking, Burdo concluded.
booth take the form Creating a sense of warmth was building. It is a mix, inkuenced by all the “In a city such as Shanghai, the club
of stainless steel integral to the success of this interior. different companies, of various nationali- market is quite tough, so it was impor-
sculptures. Drop was designed to exude a sense of ties, operating in this area,” said Burdo. tant for Drop to launch itself with an
sophistication and grandeur but, at the Creating any successful club environ- outstanding design.”
7 same time, offer an aura of intimacy. ment presents a number of inherent
Famous The space is organised on a series of challenges, Martelli noted. “Designing a
European different levels, with VIP rooms and seat- club where hundreds of people can be
paintings have ing areas set on platforms. This creates hosted is not an easy task, because you FAST FACTS
been pixelated to layers of interest within the space and always have to match the design with Project: Drop
create a 3D effect. ensures that people can see and be seen the functionality of the space. Also, from Location: Bund, Shanghai
– a key requirement in any club environ- a construction point of view, it was a big Designed by: Oobiq Architects,
10 ment! The VIP room was designed as a challenge. Sometimes in Asia the quality an award-winning architectural and
The Chesterjeld box and is dejned by a mix of soft and of construction is not that high. design krm based in Hong Kong,
sofa reappears hard materials. “Luckily we worked with both Italian with partner ofkces in Florence,
throughout It is this mixing of materials and styles and local contractors, and the result was Beijing and Tehran. Oobiq Architects’
the club. that dejnes the Drop interior. And this, great. Sculpture-like elements such as founding partners are the Italian
too, links back to the club’s location. the bar and the DJ booth, or the decora- architects Giambattista Burdo and
“This area of Shanghai has always been tion of the VIP rooms, could have come Samuele Martelli, graduates of the
one of the most international, as the out terribly if the contractors weren’t University of Florence.
headquarters of foreign companies were skilled enough.”
7 8

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FEATURE: HEALTHCARE DESIGN
Designer heals
WHEN IT COMES TO HE ALTHCARE DESIGN, ITS TIME TO PUT THE PATIENT FIRST

O
f all the commercial design Healthcare design has traditionally and architects also always looked at
disciplines, it is healthcare, been very equipment-centric, suggest- localities and what departments should
arguably, that allows de- ed Phyllis Goetz, global director, A&D be close to each other. But I’m not sure
signers to most genuinely and networks, Nurture by Steelcase, that we really, as an industry, clearly
impact the lives and experiences of but change is afoot. “When you are understood the journey of the patient,”
those they are designing for. It is not planning a hospital, there is so much Goetz suggested.
often, after all, that interior designers large, heavy equipment involved that However, a shift towards the creation
can honesty say that their work is a you really have to look at the right way of more patient-centric facilities is un-
matter of life and death. to handle that. Of course, designers doubtedly underway. Public awareness 1

of the number of patients that die from Al Mafraq, Tawam and Sheikh Khalifa also address the prequalijcation of
medical error has increased, as has Medical City. In addition, the company healthcare design consultants.
awareness of the potential for improve- is involved in the design of a number of According to HAAD, the standards
ment. This has led to growing demand community hospitals serving the outer aim at improving medical outcomes
for more effective medical facilities. communities of Abu Dhabi, and is ac- and minimising errors caused by inap-
“There is dejnitely a strong trend tive in Saudi Arabia, Qatar and Kuwait. propriate healthcare facility design.
1 towards patient-friendly healing Governments in the region are “All healthcare design consultants who
Nurture by Steelcase environments,” agreed Norman Soto, looking to radically enhance their wish to design and submit projects for
is committed to senior principal, director of healthcare, healthcare offering over the next few licensing applications will need to be
creating patient- MENA region, Burt Hill. “Not only is the years, and are taking tangible steps pre-qualijed in accordance with the
friendly solutions. patient’s perception of their surround- to ensure that this is done in the most standards,” said Adeeb Al Zaabi, man-
ings very important, but the families effective way possible. ager of Health Facility Licensing, HAAD.
2,3,4&5 and friends that visit a healthcare The Health Authority of Abu Dhabi “Owners and operators of healthcare
Burt Hill has facility should also enjoy a pleasant (HAAD), which is the emirate’s health- facilities will need to be familiar with
designed a number experience,” he said. care sector regulator, recently unveiled the new standards as they engage con-
of healthcare facilities Burt Hill is currently working on the the new Healthcare Facility Design sultants and embark on new projects.”
in the region, Al Mafraq Hospital, a 750-bed facility Standard for the capital. The new stan- The new standards are divided into
including a Dialysis under construction in Abu Dhabi, and dards set out requirements for health jve parts: administrative provisions;
Centre at Al Mafraq. on three prototype Dialysis Centres at facility design and construction, and health facility briejng and planning;
3 4 5

6 7
6&7 ergonomics, occupational health and ensures an evidence-based approach the company has introduced lights be-
Solutions from safety; infection control; and building to healthcare design that will result neath its monitor arms, to ensure that
Philips Healthcare. services and environmental design. in a better building and better patient medical errors aren’t occurring simply
“These standards place emphasis outcomes,” he insisted. because nurses can’t see properly.
on achieving health facilities that Hospitals are at the frontline of the American Specialties Inc has
rekect current healthcare functions and age-old battle between aesthetics recognised that washrooms can often
procedures in a safe and appropriate and functionality – taken to the very be cold, overly sterile, uninviting
environment. They represent patient nth degree. Ultimately, designers are places, and has launched its Roval
focused, research based, modern and tasked with creating facilities that Collection in response. Available from
efjcient planning principles,” said Ala- enable doctors and nurses to do their Bagno Design, this new assortment of
din Niazmand, global director of TAHPI job properly, and at the same time put accessories offers clean lines and a
Health Facility Planners. patients at ease. As Nurture by Steel- compelling, curved design, as well as
‘Patient-focused’ and ‘evidence- case’s Goetz pointed out, if patients ease of installation and maintenance,
based’ are the buzz words when it are placed in an environment that looks and fully removable waste receptacles
comes to current healthcare design. like it might harm them, or that they are for easy cleaning. Meanwhile, Enware’s
“In recent years, the medical profession not entirely comfortable with, they will New Leva Tapware, which can be
has been adopting evidence-based be less open to healing, even with the teamed up with the Roval Collection,
medicine that uses research jndings to right medicine. helps reduce the risk of cross contami-
guide best practice, rather than simply “The primary challenge one needs nation when hand washing, by offering
accept expert opinion, the traditional to address when designing healthcare easy elbow operation.
route towards clinical decisions,” noted facilities is to get the balance right be- Beyond providing a softer koor for
Andrew Sibley, sales director of inter- tween functionality, ensuring that the healthcare workers or using different
national carpet manufacturer, Desso. facility is jt for its intended purpose, carpet colours to help patients jnd
“Architects and interior design- and emotion, ensuring the facility pro- their way around a foreign and often
ers have come to recognise that a vides the correct emotional re-assur- bewildering place, Desso has identijed
healthcare facility is more than just ance to the patients and users that is it two main areas where its products can
its component parts. Good healthcare safe, relaxing, efjcient and effective. make a difference to the healthcare en-
design, based on empirical evidence, Finding this balance is where the skill vironment – air quality and acoustics.
aims not only to make the patient ex- of designers comes to the fore,” agreed As Sibley pointed out, indoor air
perience better but to improve patient Sean Hughes, vice president and chief has been named as one of the top ten
outcomes,” he contined. design ofjcer, Philips Healthcare. health risks of the modern world, and is
It’s all about putting the patient jrst, Luckily, even the smallest of design particularly perilous in a healthcare en-
said Sibley. “Our view, based on long features can have the most far-reaching vironment. “Indeed, The World Health
design experience, is that healthcare of consequences. For example, Nurture Organisation (WHO) estimates that
facilities should be designed with the by Steelcase has recognised that the indoor air pollution is one of the most
user in mind, rather than simply de- average age of nurses is climbing and important risk factors to health and
signed for its use. Putting patients and that, as a result, their eyesight may not is responsible for 2.7% of the global
staff centre-stage in the design process be as good as it once was. In response, burden of disease,” he said.

Desso has long recognised that car- that this is true. For example, the that addresses the very specijc needs
peting can improve indoor air quality by Karmanos Cancer Institute in Detroit, of both patients and care givers. But
capturing and holding allergen-causing Michigan, saw a 30% reduction in there is still much progress to be made.
substances, keeping them from be- medical errors in one unit after it “Evidence-based design puts patients
coming airborne and minimising their installed acoustical panels and intro- jrst, by respecting their privacy and
circulation in the breathing zone. duced decentralised nursing stations. creating environments that are comfort-
As a result, the company has de- Meanwhile, research carried out in able, clean and aimed at reducing lev-
veloped AirMaster, a next generation Stockholm among coronary intensive els of stress. However, it’s an approach
carpet with a unique yarn structure care patients found that, when sound- not being observed universally,” Sibley
that captures even more harmful dust reducing strategies were introduced, pointed out.
particles from the air. According to patients slept better, were less Collaboration is key, he suggested.
independent tests, AirMaster is eight stressed and reported that nurses gave Designers must work with medical
times more effective in capturing and them better care. staff and representatives from patient
retaining jne dust than hard kooring In response, Desso has developed a groups to ensure that as wide a range
– and four times more effective than new carpet backing called SoundMas- of perspectives as possible are being
standard carpeting. ter, which has impact sound reduction built into the design. It is essential that
“That, however, was only half the properties of 10 decibels or more, everybody involved appreciates the
challenge that we gave ourselves, compared to the standard average complexity of the task at hand.
because the other problem in a busy of between 20 and 30 decibels. “Im- Never has it been more important to
hospital or healthcare facility is acous- portantly, we can also now offer both reassess how we treat those that are
tics, and noise can be distracting, products in one carpet tile – a carpet suffering, and those tasked with heal-
intrusive – and detrimental to health,” that will both help to clean indoor air ing them, said Philips’ Hughes. “As so-
said Sibley. and reduce sound. In a healthcare ciety changes, so too must the health-
The predominance of hard materials environment, that’s a winning combina- care system supporting it. People are
in many healthcare environments, tion,” said Sibley. living longer, and with chronic disease,
which generally rekect sound rather Also recognising the benejt of re- lifestyle-related disease and different
than absorb it, means that sound levels duced noise in the healthcare environ- types of cancer on the rise, the number
remain high. “For many health profes- ment, Nurture by Steelcase developed of people requiring medical attention is
sionals, the everyday sounds of a the lightweight Pocket cart with one increasing. Expectations are high – pa-
hospital are entirely normal. However, very specijc aim in mind. “We were tients expect and are demanding jrst
the experience of patients is quite very selective in how it was designed class medical care. All this, combined 8&9
different, jnding themselves in unfa- and the castors that we use. Silence with a shortage of qualijed staff, is Zumtobel
miliar and stressful surroundings. For was our goal,” said Goetz. putting hospitals under pressure to also offers
patients, the evidence is that reducing Healthcare design is evolving rapidly. jnd a new balance between efjciency, specialised
sound in a healthcare environment can Forward-thinking manufacturers and effectiveness and medical excellence solutions for
have signijcant benejts,” said Sibley. designers are using evidence-based in the changing healthcare landscape the health and
Evidence-based research conjrms design to create products and spaces of the twenty-jrst century.” care sector.
8 9

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THE LIFELINE AUTOALERT

Philips has recognised that health- healthcare solution that we offer
care design reaches far beyond is Philips Lifeline with AutoAlert
the physical walls of a hospital Help Button.” The AutoAlert button
environment. According to Sean is a pendant worn 24 hours a day.
Hughes, vice president and chief It contains a series of sensors and
design ofkcer, Philips Healthcare, an advanced algorithm that can
an already overstressed healthcare accurately depict when the wearer
system, coupled with an ageing has fallen, sending notikcation
population, is driving demand for to the Lifeline service. “The small ASSISTED BATHS BY BAGNO DESIGN
home care. “At Philips we have unobtrusive pendant provides a The assisted bathing range from mobility. If low water pressure is
taken up that challenge and are direct connection to help in case of Bagno Design is designed to suit a problem, an optional booster
innovating to bring healthcare solu- an emergency,” said Hughes. people who have difkculty using a pump is available to ensure
tions to people’s homes. A good The Lifeline AutoAlert has received standard bath. There are a range trouble-free bathing. The options
example of a people-focused home an iF Product Design Award 2011. of options that are suitable for are unique in the assisted bathing
nursing and residential homes or market, offering not only deep
hospitals. These award-winning baths but also airbath hydrothera-
baths use water pressure to lift py spa and chromotherapy, which
the seat out of the bath and are offer massage and relaxation –
suitable for varying degrees of key for the patients’ recovery.
CONBOARD MEDICAL
SUPPLY SYSTEM
The Conboard Medical Supply
System by Zumtobel is a supply
unit that not only responds lex-
ibly to technical and functional
requirements, but at the same
BALSAN SILVERCARE time blends into any architectural
Messara has launched Balsan works by kghting bacteria, for environment. A supplier of lighting
SilverCare, a looring solution that example staphylcoccus aureus solutions, Zumtobel also offers a
offers effective protection against and klebsiella pneumoniae; by tar- range of medical units embedded
bacteria, unpleasant odours and geting unpleasant odours linked with moisture-proof luminaires.
dust mites in carpets. Balsan to fermentation, decomposition Conboard is made of extruded
SilverCare is a protection system caused by certain bacteria, and aluminium sections and concen-
containing a base of silver ions. the activity of certain germs; and trates all supply outlets required
Silver occurs in nature and is a by tackling dust mites indirectly by in a patient room in one location.
raw material of mineral origin, cutting off their food supply. Silver Several supply lanes can be
long used for its antibacterial ions may also help in reducing the individually composed and ktted,
properties. Balsan SilverCare longevity of dust mite allergens. either horizontally or vertically.

SUPPLIERS YOU SHOULD KNOW
FURNITURE SUPPLIERS
YOU SHOULD KNOW
W
hen it comes to furniture, in their choice of interiors, and to in tough competition in the project
suppliers are dealing ultimately select a piece of furniture as business. The budgets on projects are
with an increasingly unique as they are, while maintaining being reduced and this affects FF&E
discerning client base. the high-quality jnish you would packages. However, this has also
And as awareness of design grows, expect from handcrafted, European made business more interesting and
clients will only becoming more and furnishings,” Boettcher explained. demanding as there are few projects
more demanding. “Furniture buyers Successful furniture companies must and many competitors! It’s a market
are becoming more adventurous with keep abreast of the market’s rapidly- where the jttest will survive,” said
their choices, moving towards glamour changing needs. “A business is like a Prashant Sharma, manager, Alshaya
and edgy styles to replace the boring, living being that must keep evolving Trading Co, Furniture Division.
austere, mass-produced looks of the with the times, registering information New entrants to the market that
last decade,” suggested Atieh Sabbar, and actual and potential demands that are willing to re-engineer at cut-throat
marketing and sales manager, Beby Italy come from the market,” said Roberto prices present a major challenge for the
& Diluce. “Vibrant colours, Venetian Garcia, sales area manager, Andreu region’s furniture suppliers. Getting
mirrored jnishes, clean sinuous lines, World. “Observing what happens paid is another bugbear, noted Joe
and the piecing together of old and new around us is not a passive attitude, but Hepworth, general manager, Middle
styles are some of the new trends.” a way to create opportunities and carve East, Indigo Living. “Sadly, some clients
Recognising that clients are looking out new market niches.” still think that payment for project work
for something a little different, Patricia Recent years have seen the UAE is optional,” he said.
Boettcher last month launched B5 The furniture sector become increasingly Over the next few pages, CID speaks
Art of Living, a collection of high-end, competitive, a trend that shows no sign to a selection of furniture suppliers to
fully customisable European brands. of abating. “Due to the jnancial crisis, jnd out more about the challenges they
“The B5 philosophy encourages its a few markets like the UAE have been face – and how they are overcoming
clients to be creative and innovative adversely affected. This has resulted these obstacles.
www.constructionweekonline.com
By Prashant Sharma, manager, Alshaya the organisation. It is among very few

Trading Co, Furniture Division. organisations that continues to invest
heavily in infrastructure and people,
Tell us about your company. in businesses and countries where we
The furniture division of Alshaya see opportunities in the long run. We
Trading Co specialises in providing the represent some of the best brands in
jnest ofjce furniture from Europe. We the industry, dedicating state-of-the-art
represent some of our industry’s most showrooms with an area of between
reputed brands, like Estel, Sedus, 800m² and 1,500m² in markets like Ku-
Nowy Styl and Boss Design, supplying wait, Qatar, the UAE and Saudi Arabia.
demountable partitions, executive and
operative desks, task seating and soft Key challenges?
seating. From humble beginnings in Due to the jnancial crisis, a few markets
Kuwait, the Alshaya Group now spans like the UAE have been adversely
11 countries. affected. This has resulted in tough
competition in the project business. The
What projects have you worked on? budgets on projects are being reduced
We have worked on prestigious projects and this affects FF&E packages. How-
in the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait and ever, this has also made business more
Qatar. To name but a few: Zayed Uni- interesting and demanding as there are
versity, the media ofjces of HH Sheikh few projects and many competitors! It’s
Mohammad Bin Rashid Al Maktoum and a market where the jttest will survive.
the Mohammad Bin Rashid Establish-
ment For Young Entrepreneurs. How do we contact you?
Alshaya Trading Co, Furniture Division,
Recent developments? Salahuddin Street, Deira, Dubai; Tel:
Alshaya Trading Alshaya Group’s history spans more

than 100 years and there are always
new developments underway within
+971 (0)4 6074200; Fax: +971 (0)4 269
2346; Email: furniture@alshayauae.ae;
Website: www.alshayatrading.com.
By Joe Hepworth, general manager, Recent developments?

Middle East, Indigo Living.
Tell us about your company.

There’s lots going on! We’re opening a
new kagship store in April on Sheikh
Zayed Road, near Safa Park, having
Indigo Living
Indigo Living has a 30-year history and closed our Al Quoz branch at the end
we’ve been operating in Dubai since of February. It’s a great space in a great
2006. We’re specialists in custom FF&E location and we’re going to have the
design and manufacture for the hos- Kelly Hoppen Home and Esquire Home
pitality industry. We are also retailers, collections in store, which we expect to
with three stores in Dubai and seven in be a major hit with the interior design
Hong Kong. We’re known for the fresh community here. On the projects side,
and on-trend seasonal collections that we’ve just hired a new project sales
we launch four times per year. The third director to take advantage of the un-
string to our bow is furniture rental doubted demand that’s out there. We’re
– you can lease anything you see in also casting a wider net around the GCC.
our stores for up to two years. This is
popular both with the UAE’s transitory Key challenges?
expat community and interior designers Sadly, some clients still seem to
for show kats and mock-ups. think that payment for project work
is optional.
What projects have you worked on?
Over the last jve years we’ve completed How do we contact you?
some big jobs in this part of the world: The Indigo website is a good source of
The Westin Dubai, The Address Dubai info: www.indigo-living.com. Otherwise,
Marina, Traders Hotel in Abu Dhabi, I’m always available on email:
Yas Links Golf Club and Dubai Marriott jhepworth@indigo-living.com. For
Harbour Hotel and Suites. We’ve also project specijc enquiries, speak to
delivered around 4,000 units of staff ac- Gavin, our new project sales director:
commodation for Emirates Airlines. gmcdonald@indigo-living.com.

Andreu World
By Roberto Garcia, sales area manager. collection of wooden seats, all designed
by Lievore, Altherr and Molina. Also,
Tell us about your company. we are presenting new jnishes for our
Andreu World is a leading international Zarina Collection, designed by William
company operating in the jeld of pro- Sawaya. In terms of tables, mention
duction and sales of designer tables must be made of a table base designed
and chairs. The primary focus of Andreu by Piergiorgio Cazzaniga and belonging
World since its creation as a workshop to the Reverse collection, and the Pure
in Valencia, Spain, in 1955, has been to table, designed by Joan Lao. Finally,
unite industry and design. Nowadays it Andreu World Outdoor combines all the
has a team of over 230 highly-qualijed natural elements of outdoor products
professionals with a clear vocation to- with the comfort of interior products. An-
wards design and quality. Today Andreu dreu World Outdoor is made with highly
Word is well placed to interpret the resistant and sustainable materials.
requests and trends of the international
market with a varied range of chairs and Key challenges?
tables which are suited for the residen- Innovation, design, quality, comfort,
tial, contract and ofjce sectors, as well technology and sustainable develop-
as outdoor use. ment are our unique selling points. At
Andreu World we believe in constant
What projects have you worked on? work, consistent with our planned
In Dubai, our furniture is present in the strategy, and with a positive attitude,
Fairmont, Hilton Creek, Novotel World so that we can learn and improve each
Trade Centre and Jumeirah Beach hotels, day. A business is like a living being
and restaurants such as the Noodle that must keep evolving with the times,
House, Bella Donna, Japengo, Havana registering information and actual and
and Mosaico. One of our latest projects potential demands that come from the
is the Jal Hotel on Sheikh Zayed Road. market. Leadership comes as the result
of this working process. Observing what
Recent developments? happens around us is not a passive at-
This year, we have launched some titude, but a way to create opportunities
new collections based on innovative, and carve out new market niches.
sustainable materials. In 2011, Andreu
World will present its latest collections How do we contact you?
of chairs and tables, including the new Contact Roberto Garcia, sales area
upholstered version of some collec- manager, at r.garcia@andreuworld.com
tions, like Nanda, and the new Vogue or +346 3696 4384.

By Ole Dahlsen, managing director. Dhabi, Centro hotels, as well as all of

the Noodle House restaurants through-
Tell us about your company. out the MENA region.
Our core strength is working closely
with our suppliers and interior design Have there been any recent
companies, providing hotels and res- developments at your company?
taurants with the optimal solution for We have strengthened our ability to
furnishing their restaurants, lobbies, offer competitive furniture packages
guestrooms and outdoor areas. For for furnished and serviced apartment
restaurant furniture we work closely towers, and we have a close co-opera-
with Andreu World from Spain, for tion with manufacturing experts in
whom we have been the exclusive this jeld.
agent in the UAE since 2004. We are
also the exclusive agents for a number Key challenges?
of leading brands offering a wide range 2009 and 2010 have been a challeng-
of lighting, outdoor furniture, rugs and ing period for Four Frontiers and for
wallpaper for hotels, restaurants and most of our colleagues in the business.
the residential market. The UAE has fewer projects than previ-
ously, all of which have substantially
What projects have you worked on? lower budgets, meaning that we very
We furnish mainly jve-star hotels, often come up against new competitors
restaurants and beach clubs, but are who are willing to re-engineer at cut-
also able to offer excellent solutions throat prices.
for projects with entry level budgets.
Some of the projects we have worked How do we contact you?
on lately include the Movenpick at Four Frontiers JLT, PO Box 454617,
Four Frontiers JBR, the new Jal hotel on Sheikh Zayed

Road, Staybridge Hotel in Abu Dhabi,
and the new Holiday Inn in Danet, Abu
Fortune Tower, Jumeirah Lakes Towers,
Dubai. Email: admin@fourfrontiers.
com; Website: www.fourfrontiers.com.
CID speaks to Suood Abdul-Rahman, Mega Mall. It offers our complete range
general manager, 2XL Furniture and
Home Décor.
of products – furniture, furnishings,
home décor art and kitchenware. 2XL
Tell us about your company. Have there been any recent
2XL is a world where elegant design developments at your company?
combines effortlessly with comfort We have opened our kagship store
and support to bring a home furniture in Sharjah which has over 100 room
concept that is attractive, inspi- settings, along with a dedicated acces-
rational and practical. At 2XL, we sories area that allows our customers to
understand that our customer requires take time in choosing their style.
furniture that not only jts the physical
dimensions of the room, but a com- What are the key challenges facing
plete furniture solution that conveys a your industry?
message about their lifestyle. We offer With the inkux of new international fur-
variety, style, comfort, convenience, niture brands in the UAE over the past
inspiration and value that sets new two years, we are expecting tougher
standards in home furniture. Our competition in the furniture sector,
range is stylish, versatile and afford- which we are prepared for.
able, but most importantly adds a
touch of personality and uniqueness. How do we contact you?
We have jve stores in the UAE: two
What projects have you worked on? in Abu Dhabi at Mina Centre and Abu
We have an ofjce design team that Dhabi Mall; two in Dubai, at Al Ghurair
takes care of commercial requirements. City and Uptown Mirdif; and one in
One of our recently completed projects Sharjah in the Regus Building, behind
is the recently reopened kagship store Sharjah Mega Mall. We can also be
of 2XL in Sharjah, which is approximate- contacted through our toll free number:
ly 5,000m² in size and located behind 800 2XL (295).

Beby Italy & Diluce

CID catches up with Atieh Sabbar, collections, each with a distinctive
marketing and sales manager, Beby personality, while always keeping in
Italy & Diluce. line with the company’s heritage of jne
Italian craftsmanship.
Tell us about your company.
Beby Italy & Diluce, recently launched When it comes to furniture, what are
and exclusively distributed through RA the key trends right now?
Middle East, is an Italian ultra-luxury Furniture buyers are becoming more
furniture and lighting company, dedi- adventurous with their choices, moving
cated to master Italian craftsmanship towards glamour and edgy styles to
and style. Founded in 1960, it has replace the boring, austere, mass pro-
emerged as an Italian renaissance ate- duced looks of the last decade. Vibrant
lier for the new millennium, integrating colours, Venetian mirrored jnishes,
high artistry, workmanship and quality clean sinuous lines, and the piecing to-
with technology and research. While gether of old and new styles, are some
the heritage collection, Beby Italy, of the new trends.
has since 1960 been producing highly
exclusive and magnijcent lighting, Have there been any recent
catering to elite hotels, resorts and developments at your company?
world-renowned theatres such as The The company has recently introduced
Fenice theatre in Venice and the Scala the Stone lifestyle collection by Diluce,
theatre in Milan, to mention a few, the and the Platinum lifestyle collection by
company has taken its art further into Beby Italy. Meanwhile, it is currently
the new generation with the Beby Italy working on a children’s line, Beby
Light and Living collections and DiLuce Baby, to be launched in April. We are
Living Design collections. also expanding our distribution within
the Middle East and will be relocating
What sets Beby Italy & Diluce apart to our kagship showroom on Sheikh
from the competition? Zayed Road very soon.
Beby Italy & Diluce is about designing
and delivering total luxury lifestyles How do we contact you?
through co-ordinated lighting and Beby Italy Diluce, Showroom No. 5
furnishings. Our creative director, Silvia 364, Road 15A, PO Box 34514, Al Quoz
Broggian’s vision of each lifestyle, her Industrial 1, Dubai, UAE.
attention to the smallest details and Tel: +971 (0)4 323 3681; Email:
the mastery of the artisans, all work sales@bebydiluce-me.com; Website:
together to create unique lifestyle www.bebygroup.com.

B5 The Art of Living

and Asia. Brand new to the Middle East
market, B5 opened its doors in Dubai
at the end of February and is looking
forward to introducing its concept to
interior designers in the region.
Have there been any recent

developments at your company?
B5’s brand new 6000ft² showroom
recently opened in Dubai, showcasing
the luxury European bespoke interior
By Patricia Boettcher, founder, B5 The furnishing brands. The showroom
Art of Living. beautifully demonstrates founder
Patricia Boettcher’s desire to create an
Tell us about your company. individual living space that embraces
Drawing its inspiration from the j ve both luxury and creativity yet remains
principles of art and interior design, comfortable and functional.
B5 The Art of Living is a new concept in
bespoke interior furnishings. Bringing What are the key challenges facing
the art of customisation to contempo- your industry?
rary interiors in the region, B5 repre- The demand for individual, high-quality
sents Europe’s most innovative brands interiors means that designers and cli-
on the bespoke interiors scene, includ- ents are becoming more discerning. The
ing kitchens by Eggersmann, beds B5 philosophy encourages its clients
by Jensen, luxury safes by Döttling, to be creative and innovative in their
wood kooring by Junckers, furniture by choice of interiors, to ultimately select a
Lambert, rugs from Casador, lighting piece of furniture as unique as they are,
and furniture by F+M Fos, cabinetry by yet maintaining the high-quality jnish
Schmalenbach and mirror televisions you would come to expect from hand-
by Ad Notam. crafted, European furnishings.
What projects have you worked on? How do we contact you?

All B5 brands are globally respected B5 The Art of Living showroom: ground
and considered innovators in their koor, Sidra Tower, Sheikh Zayed Road,
jelds, having been commissioned Dubai. Tel: +971 (0)4 447 3973; Email:
for both commercial and residential info@b5living.com; Website: www.
projects throughout Europe, the US b5living.com.

For sponsorship opportunities please contact: For nomination enquiries please contact: For table bookings and further information please contact:
Yazan Rahman, Sales Director Shishir Desai, Sales Manager Jennifer Eagle, Deputy Editor Annie Chinoy, Marketing Manager
Tel: +971 4 444 3351 Tel: +971 4 444 3694 Tel: +971 4 444 3363 Tel: +971 4 444 3353
Email: yazan.rahman@itp.com Email: shishir.desai@itp.com Email: jennifer.eagle@itp.com Email: annie.chinoy@itp.com
PRODUCTS
New on the market

DREAMCATCHER
Kenneth Cobonpue’s new seating steel, Dreamcatcher stools come KENNETH COBONPUE
option, Dreamcatcher, sees the in various sizes. Every piece in +351 2297 41542
Filipino furniture designer draw the Kenneth Cobonpue collection www.kennethcobonpue.com
inspiration from a traditional is handmade by Filipino artisans,
native American charm. Made of using skills passed down from
polyethylene jbres, nylon and generation to generation.

PRODUCTS
CRYSTAL FOUNTAINS
Designed for swimming pools Crafted from a variety of materials Middle East. Fire-Water Bowls
and commercial fountains, including hand-hammered copper require low water kow (10-12gpm)
this latest technology from and coloured concrete, these to work and are CSA approved.
Crystal Fountains provides water features come in various
a dramatic focal point and shapes and sizes and have proved CRYSTAL FOUNTAINS
is pre-engineered to popular with architects designing +971 (0)4 430 9443
make it easy to install. luxury resorts in Europe and the www.crystalfountains.com

PRODUCTS
CREATION CLIC SYSTEM

Gerkor has launched the revolutionary 17.2cm x 100cm planks with bevelled edges.
Creation Clic System. The new vinyl kooring The interlocking planks can be laid without
system has the appearance of wood and adhesives, allowing for easier installation.
is waterproof, easy to maintain, quick to
install and 100% recyclable. The Creation GERFLOR
Clic System is a synthetic, decorative, kex- +971 (0)4 295 4443
ible, anti-static koor covering available in www.gerlor.com
THE RUG COMPANY

The Rug Company has teamed up with Spanish using a new weaving technique. Silhouette fea- THE RUG COMPANY
designer Jaime Hayon to create a new collec- tures an intricate and highly decorative design +971 (0)4 323 1161
tion, which consists of three rugs, Captione, that demands the use of an extremely jne knot www.therugcompany.ae
Silhouette and Vases. Captione is a sumptuous, count. With Vases, the vase motif is translated
textural rug with a diamond design, created into a subtle but dynamic rug.

PRODUCTS
LMW LIGHTFORMS
The Collection by LMW Lightforms is
inspired by Philip Johnson’s Glass House,
Mies van der Rohe’s Farnsworth House
and Frank Stella’s early black paintings.
With its clean, clear lines and shapes,
this contemporary lighting collection
features crystal elements from the Crys-
tallized – Swarovski Elements collection,
hand glued onto glass panels, and LED
illumination integrated into the frame.
The Square Table Lamp measures 25 x
25 x 60cm, with an aluminium frame and
choice of jnishes.
LMW LIGHTFORMS
+49 3425 905 1920
www.lmw-lightforms.com
CARRÉ MODUL AR
In keeping with efforts to reduce its carbon
footprint, Danish carpet manufacturer Ege
has launched a new collection, Carré Modular,
which is made of materials recycled from the
company’s own waste products. The Carré
Modular collection is an addition to
Ege’s sustainable Ecoline range.
EGE
+1 45 97 11 88 11
www.egecarpets.com

PRODUCTS
L AFLEUR
Villeroy & Boch’s LaFleur col- pure, undecorated white porcelain
lection of jttings is a modern handle. LaFleur encompasses a
interpretation of classic koral- total of jve different jttings for
style elements. Villeroy & Both washbasins and a large selection
is expanding its existing LaFleur of tap jttings, shower mixers and
range, adding three new jttings valves for bathtubs and showers,
that combine a range of dif- as well as one bidet jtting.
ferent materials: a Strass
Swarovski crystal handle, VILLEROY & BOCH MIDDLE EAST
a clear crystal glass version +971 (0)4 364 2613
with a soft, frosted jnish, and a www.villeroy-boch.com
MÓZ DESIGNS
US-headquartered Móz Designs, of gray, pewter, ice blue, ice
a supplier of wall surfaces and green and silver rose. All Móz
trims for hospitality, healthcare architectural metals are com-
and commercial installations, is posed of 80% post-industrial
promoting products in two new recycled aluminum and contrib-
colour streams. Móz’s trendy ute to LEED 2.0 MR Credit 4–
new tones include the Minerals Recycled Content.
Collection with its vivid accent
colours and cool neutrals. Mean- MÓZ DESIGNS
while, the bold new Arctic Blue +1 510 632-0853
series offers shimmering shades www.mozdesigns.com
ARCHET TO
To celebrate the 70th edition to recharge mobile phones and
of Pitti Uomo, architecture jrm computers, Archetto is simulta-
Marzorati Ronchetti entrusted neously open and closed, and
Sybarite with the task of creat- visible and private. Archetto is
ing a design concept that would made of high density polysty-
furnish an area while combining rene covered in jbreglass with a
aesthetics and multi-function- gloss paint jnish.
ality. The result, Archetto, is an
organic and free-kowing form. MARZORATI RONCHETTI
Designed to be an autonomous +971 (0)56 759 2012
island, equipped with sockets www.marzoratironchetti.it
www.constructionweekonline.com
PRODUCTS
OPUS ROMANO
Bisazza is expanding its popular 15x15mm respectively. The
Opus Romano collection. The existing 12x12mm size will
latest edition of Opus Romano remain unchanged.
will feature new rectangular tiles
measuring 20x41.5mm, along with BISAZZA
two new sizes in the classic square +39 02 7602 1313
shape, measuring 8x8mm and www.bisazza.com

PRODUCTS
GIÒ
The Giò hanging light was de- and support function. The body
signed by Angeletti Ruzza Design comes in chromed aluminium or
for Nemo Cassina Lighting. De- a smooth white matt varnish.
materialised to its very essence,
Giò incorporates the electric NEMO CASSINA LIGHTING
cable within the lamp structure +39 3 175 7571
so that it serves a dual supply www.nemo.cassina.it
BL ACKLIGHT & DESCRIPT

This year’s edition of Big Boys Toys since 1857. BlackLight, which can Big Boys Toys 2011 is DeScript, a which will then form an inimitable
will showcase the ultra luxurious also be turned into a dining table, Russia-based company specialis- graphic pattern unique to each
billiards table, BlackLight. The features a high-quality Atoa audio ing in graphic DNA portraits. The individual customer. Big Boys
tailor-made, atypical billiard system and a unique DiscoLight DNA scripting process starts with Toys will run from March 16 to 19,
table is designed and created in system which synchronises built- the harvesting of the cells by 2011 at the Abu Dhabi National
collaboration with six designers in lights with the music being scraping at the inner part of the Exhibition Centre.
from the French Institut Supérieur played. The table is currently cheek with a special brush. A solu-
du Design and Billiards Toulet, available in two versions, standard tion saturated with millions of DNA BIG BOYS TOYS 2011
which has been producing bil- and luxury, and in more than 30 copies will be applied to a gel and +971 (0)4 321 4747
liards, snooker and pool tables different colours. Also present at run through an electric current, www.bigboystoysuae.com

PRODUCTS
MOUNTAIN DIVA
Mimicking the way water and natural warmth of wood with the available, in ash grey or a natural JORDI MILA
wind shape nature in smooth and delicacy of its handcrafted curves. wood colour. The Jordi Mila col- +971 (0)4 338 8276
gentle forms, even in the most The seat’s organic feel contrasts lection will be showcased at Big www.jordimila.com
inhospitable environments, Jordi with its thin stainless steel legs. Boys Toys 2011, taking place from
Mila’s Mountain Diva combines the Two and four seat models are March 16 to 19.
AFRO FABRIC
The latest product from local
ceramics giant RAK Ceramics,
Afro Fabric was one of four new
ranges unveiled at the Cevisa-
ma exhibition in Valencia. Afro
Fabric brings a touch of African
culture to tiling, with kora and
fauna playing a prominent role
in the design. Meanwhile, RAK
Ceramic’s Fossilwood Collec-
tion draws inspiration from
historic fossilised wood.
RAK CERAMICS
+971 (0)7 2445046
www.rakceramics.com

CONTRACTS
Project Focus
COMMERCIAL INT ERIOR DESIGN IS COMMIT T ED TO HELPING ITS RE ADERS GROW T HEIR BUSINESSES, SO WE HAVE T E A MED
UP WIT H VENT URES MIDDLE E A ST TO BRING YOU T HE L AT EST T ENDERS FROM AROUND T HE REGION ON A MONT HLY BA SIS.
B A H R A I N P R O J EC T S D ATA B A S E
PROJECT TITLE CLIENT CONSULTANT MAIN CONTR ACTOR VALUE / PROJECT STATUS PROJECT
VALUE RANGE T YPE
(US$. MN)
Ajmera Mayfair Tower Ajmera Group Mohamed Salahuddin Not Appointed 101 - 250 Project under design Mixed Use
Consulting Engineering Bureau
Awal Gulf Warehouse in BLZ Awal Gulf Alhandasah Centre Not Appointed 31 - 100 Project under design Industrial Park
Zawia 03 Nardin Properties Mohamed Salahuddin Charilaos Apostilides 16 - 30 Project under Residential
Consulting Engineering Bureau construction Buildings
Jeyoun - Phase 1 Alargan International Real Estate City Engineering Abdulla H. Al Darazi & Sons 16 - 30 Project under Residential
Company construction Development
Al Matrook Tower Mr. Faisal Ali Al Matrook Mohamed Salahuddin Charilaos Apostilides (Chapo) 19 Project under Commercial
Consulting Engineering Bureau construction Buildings
Apartment Building in Juffair The Islamic Association Modern Architects Middle East Contg. & Trade 16 - 30 Project under Residential
Center construction Buildings
Sarat Tower in Seef Savah Almoayyed Arab Architects Al Qaed Contractors 30 Project under Mixed Use
construction
Muharraq Mall Muharraq Mall Company Leigh and Orange Architects Not Appointed 64 Award awaited for Shopping
the main contract Centre
DCR Apartments in Juffair Mr. Yousef Gulub Architectural World Bassman Contracting 13 Project under Residential
construction Buildings
Relections of Bahrain Ithmaar Development Company DP Architects Not Appointed 101 - 250 Project under design Mixed Use
Six Villas in Saar - Pack 2 Mr. Turani City Engineering Not Appointed 2.5 - 15 Project under design Residential
Development
Light of Bahrain Ithmaar Development Company DP Architects Not Appointed 101 - 250 Project under design Residential
Buildings
Jeyoun - Phase 2 Alargan International Real Estate City Engineering Not Appointed 16 - 30 Award awaited for Commercial
the main contract Buildings
Frsan Palace Hotel in Hoora Mr. Fadel Al Bado Arab Architects Not Appointed 20 Award awaited for Hotel
the main contract
156 Townhouses at Darkulaib Ministry of Housing In House Abdulla H. Al Darazi & Sons 13 Project under Residential
Company construction Development
Ajyaal Residence Al Dahiya Constructions & Real Estate Middle East Architects Bassman Contracting 16 - 30 Project under Residential
Riffa Views- The Lagoons Estate Riffa Views Mohamed Salahuddin Terna Contracting/PCC 114 Project under Residential
Consulting Engineering Bureau construction Development
Amwaj Gateway Amwaj Gateway Company Davenport Campbell Middle Garantikoza/Cukurova 183 Project under Mixed Use
East, Bahrain Construction construction
Injaz Building in Juffair Ms. Haifa Architectural World Al Dahiya Constructions and 16 Project under Residential
(Archworld) Real Estate construction Buildings
34 Storey Building in Seef Mr. Essa Bukhowa Arabian East Bureau Al Ghanah Contracting 31 - 100 Project under Commercial
Amwaj Waves Lona Real Estate Davenport Campbell Middle Charilaos Apostilides (Chapo) 396 Project under Residential
East construction Buildings
Renaissance Bahrain Hotel at Amwaj Ossis Property Developers Davenport Campbell/MSCEB Charilaos Apostilides (Chapo) 16 - 30 Project under Hotel
construction
Future Bank Head Quarters Future Bank Middle East Architects Al Ghanah Contracting 16 Project under Commercial
Academic Building in Sanad Ministry of Education In House Saraya Contractors 1 Project under Educational
Elementary School construction Facilities
21 Storey Residential Building in Sea Star Propeties Modern Architects Juma Construction Company 16 - 30 Project under Residential
Juffair construction Buildings
Albaraka Banking Group Head Albaraka Banking Group (ABG) MGA+C Not Appointed 31 - 100 Award awaited for Commercial
Quarters in Bahrain Bay the main contract Buildings
BFB Tower Bin Faqeeh Investment Company Andalus Engineering Master Construction & 80 P[roject under Commercial
Consultancy Maintenance Co. construction Buildings
Car Park & Ofkce Building in Seef Stratum Mazen Al Umran Consulting Abdul Rahman Al Mansoori 9 Project under Commercial
Engineers Contracting construction Buildings
Dream Tower - II Orchid Akbari Architects/Arsinal Orchid Construction 31 - 100 Project under Residential
Consulting construction Buildings
Note: The above information is the sole property of Ventures Middle East LLC and cannot be published without the expressed permission of Ventures Middle East LLC, Abu Dhabi, UAE

CONTRACTS
S A U D I A R A B I A P R O J EC T S D ATA B A S E
VALUE RANGE T YPE
(US$. MN)
Taibah University in Madina - College Taibah University Zuhair Fayez & Partners Ahmed Al Hurak Company 31 - 100 Project under Educational
of Science For Men construction Facilities
8000 Residential Units - North Kinan/Savola Group/Eleba Company Not Appointed Not Appointed 640 Project in concept Residential
Jeddah stage Development
Al Barari - Luxury Villas in Jeddah Al Barari Not Appointed Not Appointed 27 Project in concept Residential
stage Development
100 Bed Hospital in Qatif Ministry of Health Beeah Planners Saeed Radad Al Zahrany 17 Project under Hospital
construction
Prince Mohammad Bin Abdulaziz General Authority for Civil Aviation Zuhair Fayez & Partners Not Appointed 2,400 Project under design Airport
Airport Expansion in Madina - Phase1 (GACA)
Taiba Aramas Hotel in Madina Taiba Investment / Al Aqeeq Real Dar Al Riyadh El Khereiji Company 16 - 30 Project under Hotel
Estate construction
Dar Al-Qeblah Complex Munshaat Real Estate Projects Zuhair Fayez & Partners Saudi Binladin Group 180 Project under Commercial
Company construction Buildings
Ministry of Hajj Complex in Makkah Ministry of Hajj Dar Al Omran Projects & Trading Company 150 Project under Commercial
- Phase 1 construction Buildings
Alesayi Tower in Downtown Jeddah Saudi Real Estate Development Innovators Consulting/Said Al International Center for 28 Project under Commercial
Company Elsaei Engg. Commerce & Contr. construction Buildings
Olaya Towers in Riyadh General Organization for Social Zuhair Fayez & Partners Nesma & Partners Contracting 250 Project under Commercial
Insurance (GOSI) Company construction Buildings
King Fahd National Library Arriyadh Development Authority/King SaudConsult/Gerber Saudi Binladin Group 78 Project under Recreational
Fahd National Library Architects construction Facilities
King Faisal University in Al Ihsa - King Faisal University Zuhair Fayez & Partners Al Arrab Contracting Company 31 - 100 Project under Hospital
University Hospital construction
Tabuk Domestic Airport Expansion General Authority for Civil Aviation Saudi Consolidated Saudi Binladin Group 59 Project under Airport
Engineering Co; construction
ITCC Park in Riyadh Phase 1 The Public Pension Agency Zuhair Fayez & Partners Al Rajhi Projects/Al Yamamah 1,500 Project under Mixed Use
/CCE construction
King Abdulaziz University - Nuclear King Abdulaziz University Not Appointed Not Appointed 150 Project in concept Others
Research Facility stage
South Obhur Project Rayadah Investment Company Sulaiman Al Khorashi Ofkce Not Appointed 15,000 Project under design Mixed Use
Three 100-Bed General Hospitals Ministry of Health Al Naem Engineering/Arclane Saudi Pan Company for 70 Project under Hospital
Engineering Trading & Contracting construction
Pediatric & Maternity Hospital in Ministry of Health Al Mashriq Contracting Al Mashriq Contracting 53 Project under Hospital
Rafha construction
Imam Islamic University in Riyadh - Imam Islamic University Tibsa Al Fouzan Trading & General 133 Project under Educational
Phases 1 & 2 Construction construction Facilities
Souq Okaz in Taif Supreme Commission For Tourism Not Appointed Not Appointed 50 Project in concept Shopping
stage Centre
Laboratory for General Products in Authority for Management & Soleiman Abdullah El Kheraiji Naif Abo Ryash Est. 3 Project under Commercial
Jeddah Specikcation Consult. construction Buildings
King Saud University For Health Saud National Guard Health Affairs Dar Al Handasah Shair & Saud Binladin Group 101 - 250 Project under Educational
Science Partners construction Facilities
Nasamat Al Riyadh Talaat Moustafa / Aloula Development Zuhair Fayez & Partners Saudi Constructioneers 2,700 Project under Residential
Co; Establishment construction Development
Sheikh Saleh Al Rajhi Center Ministry of Health Al Majaz Engineering Ofkce Al Areel Contracting & 10 Project under Hospital
Industrial Co. Ltd. construction
Princess Noura Bin Abdulrahman Ministry of Finance Dar Al Handasah Shair & Saudi Bin Ladin/Saudi Oger/ 3,332 Project under Educational
University Partners El Seif Eng. construction Facilities
Industrial Institute in Dammam Zamil Industrial Investment Company Al Awami Planners & Amjad Shami Contracting Est. 20 Project under Educational
Consulting construction Facilities
Business Village at Jeddah Omar Kassem Alesayi Group ERGA Art & Design Not Appointed 80 Project under design Mixed Use
Al Rajhi Landmark Tower in Riyadh Saleh Bin Abdul Aziz Al-Rajhi Atkins Not Appointed 266 Award awaited for Mixed Use
Business Council the main contract
Central Hospital in Arar Ministry of Health Al Mashriq Contracting Al Mashriq Contracting 53 Project under Hospital
Company construction
Umm Al-Qura University Expansion Umm Al Qura University SaudConsult Al Arrab Contracting Company 41 Project under Educational
in Makkah - Female Campus - Phase construction Facilities
Lamar Towers in Jeddah Cayan Investment/Zahran Real Estate Saudi Diyar/RMJM Arabtec Construction 504 Project under Mixed Use
construction
Durrat Arriyadh Project Durrat Arriyadh Company Abdulelah Al Mohanna Dallah Developments/Addax 810 Project under Residential
Engineering Cons. Group construction development

CONTRACTS
O M A N P R O J EC T S D ATA B A S E
VALUE RANGE T YPE
(US$. MN)
World of Salalah Ministry of Tourism / United Real Option One Wara Construction Company 101 - 250 Project under Shopping
Estate Company construction Centre
Renovation of Intercontinental Hotel Omran Ofkce Pentago Spowers International Not Appointed 31 - 100 Project under design Hotel
in Muscat
Radisson SAS Hotel & Resort at Al Nabri Global Investment Atkins Not Appointed 101 - 250 Award awaited for the Hotel
Sohar construction contract
Al Bustan Residences at Muscat Silver Circle Overseas ME Design Not Appointed 50 Award awaited for the Residential
construction contract Development
M.E.D.C Headofkce at Azaiba Muscat Electricity Distribution Abdullah Mukadam & Partners Not Appointed 2.5 - 15 Project under design Commercial
Company Buildings
Development of Jabal Al Akhdar Omran Ofkce AW2 Not Appointed 31 - 100 Project under design Hotel
Resort Hotel
Fairmont Hotel Fairmont Hotel & Resorts/The Wave Echo Designer Consultants Not Appointed 101 - 250 Project under design Hotel
Muscat
Crowne Plaza Duqum Hotel Omran Ofkce/Inter Continental Hotel KEO International Not Appointed 251 - 500 Award awaited for the Hotel
Group construction contract
Beyout Al Faye Project Alargan Towell Investment Al Abraj Consulting Engineers Juma Al-Sadoon Trading & 80 Project under Residential
& Architects Contracting construction Development
Psychiatric Hospital at Al Amerat Ministry of Health Khatib and Alami Bahwan Contracting Company 107 Project under Hospital
construction
Renovation of Sheraton Hotel Al Hasher Group Atkins Zubair Furnishing 25 Project under Hotel
construction
The Malkai at Barka Al Maeen Real Estate Services Company Triad Oman/AW2 Not Appointed 250 Project under design Mixed Use
Musandam Airport Ministry of Transport & Not Appointed Not Appointed 101 - 250 Award awaited for the Airport
Communication consultancy contract
Commercial Building in Saham Mr. Rashid Al Kalbani Abdullah Mukadam & Partners Century Harwes Trading and 6 Project under Commercial
Contracting construction Buildings
Residential/Commercial Building at Al Taqdeer Al Saqf Consulting Technical Trading Company 10 Project under Mixed Use
Wadi Kabir construction
National Cardiology Centre at Royal Ministry of Health Asi Etudes Galfar Engineering & 21 Project under Hospital
Hospital Contracting construction
Redevelopment of the Crowne Plaza Ministry of Tourism Consulting Engineering Not Appointed 31 - 100 Project under design Hotel
resort Salalah Services
Court Complex at Al-Buraimi Ministry of Justice Sundaram Architects Al Adrak Trading & Contracting 15 Project under Others
construction
Natural History Museum in Muscat Ministry of Heritage & Culture Consulting Engineering Not Appointed 16 - 30 Project under design Recreational
Services Facilities
Cultural Village at Ghala Ministry of Heritage & Culture Dar Al Mahara Engineering Not Appointed 75 Project under design Mixed Use
Designers
State Audit Institute State Audit Institute National Engineering Ofkce Abu Hatim Co 2.5 - 15 Project under Commercial
Khasab Family Resort Majan Gulf Properties Not Appointed Not Appointed 779 Project in concept Hotel
stage
Commercial Building for Al Noor Al Noor Association Muamir Design & Engineering Atlas Integrated 8 Project under Commercial
Association construction Buildings

OPINION
Artwork
for hospitality
BY MICHAEL BANKS
I
t is ironic, and somewhat paradoxi- have become more of a norm; it is taken the same. Try to specify early in the
cal, that the specijcation of poten- for granted that they will be supplied. design process, be clear on whether you
tially the most visible element in a As such, the importance of the visual are looking for local kavour or a more
hotel guestroom – the artwork – is, experience, and the design experience, internationally-generic theme, and pay
for a number of reasons, often left until has risen. The offering of beautiful things attention to the basic issues of appropri-
the last minute and therefore selected in – shapes, forms, colours, sensuality – is ateness of media for the environment,
a rushed manner. now a fundamental part of the guest’s ex- durability, ease of maintenance, and
A recent survey asked over 1,000 hotel pectations. So, returning to the perceived security requirements.
guests who had stayed in an interna- visibility level of different guestroom
tional four- or jve-star hotel environment items, artwork is now more important WHAT KIND OF ART WORK?
in the last 12 months what item they than ever. In a guestroom interior, the usual choices
noticed most in a room interior. The an- are between painting, drawing, print, tap-
swer, in order of perceived visibility, was WHY SPECIF Y ART WORK? estry or photography. In the early years
jrst, the artwork, second, the bed, third, Much research has been done over the of this century, there has been a discern-
window treatments and fourth, furniture. years on the relevance of artwork in any able rise in the use of photographic art,
From this simple analysis, it can be interior space. The most commonly drawn since it is viewed, perhaps, as a modern,
presumed that artwork selection is conclusions are that artwork jnishes and 21st century media. It also has obvious
fundamental within an interior design completes an interior environment, gives advantages in terms of reproducibility,
FF&E scheme, and should not be left until it more personality, makes it friendlier and with new print technologies avail-
last. Indeed, considering the artwork at and, ultimately, a more stimulating space able, it has high creative potential, as
an early stage in the design process will to be in. Clients have been known to ask, images can be printed onto a host of
result in a more cohesive scheme. in a guestroom that has no artwork: Why exciting substrates, including fabrics,
Artwork has, historically, often been isn’t this room jnished? Artwork can be wood, aluminium and even ceramic tiles.
given lower importance in a hotel interior highly important in determining mood So, enjoy the process of artwork speci-
because it is perceived as having less and atmosphere, and can even dictate jcation. From primeval cave drawings to
value in the ‘functional’ scheme of whether customers will return. the latest digital art, the creation of art and
things. More importance was placed on the visual pleasure derived from it, is one
supplying a comfortable bed, adequate HOW TO SPECIF Y? of our most basic human instincts.
lighting, relevant furniture items and an Artwork can be sourced in a variety of
enjoyable bathroom experience. ways, including using an art consultant, For more information, see http://www.
Of course, all of these items are critical purchasing from an art gallery, or direct michaelbanksart.com, or contact British
to the success of the client experience. from an artist supplier. Whatever the photo-artist Michael Banks directly on
However, in recent years, these things source, the fundamental issues remain michael@michaelbanksart.com.

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An ITP Business Publication March Vol.

INSIDE THE PAVILION, A NEW HOME

www.constructionweekonline.com Commercial Interior Design | MARCH 2011 1

Registered at Dubai Media City

Time for change

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Audited by: BPA Worldwide

The ownership of trademarks is acknowledged. No part of this publication or any

transmitted in any form without the permission of the publishers in writing. An

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APID launches Festival of Design

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Summertown to go all green for 2020

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UAE: Unlike many Chinese res- dining rooms offer an interesting

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Zumtobel launches Light Centre

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Upgrading a Dubai icon

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Hadid takes centre stage

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From the inside out

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were also building lots of shopping 3

Why did you branch out on your own?

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striking, uninterrupted views of the

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a little more forbidding. You might feel

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Your single source solution for Washroom Accessories,

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