Latest News

As the first company in the world to industrialise the production process of composite wood, ALPI S.p.A has maintained an unparalleled advantage in the wood materials sector; setting the reference point for material manipulation with an eye on environmental and social responsibility.

At the foundation of this joint venture’s success is its investment in technology and groundbreaking innovation. Kesseböhmer supplies elegant, high quality solutions for kitchens; helping end users to make the best use of available space and to streamline work processes. Simplified assembly and easy adjustment of pull-outs and other fittings saves installation time while ensuring the cabinetry fits both purpose and space accurately.

Consistently establishing new gold standards in the UAE and GCC interiors industries, the brand is home to some of the most qualified design professionals and a highly skilled labour force that ensure each project is delivered to the customer’s complete satisfaction - with an eye for detail, a commitment to quality and fulfilling the Baituti promise of on-time, on-budget completion.

From materiality and shape to innovation in engineering and production, the world’s leading design brands are taking cues from nature to deliver a new generation of mindful luxury. For its fifth edition, Downtown Design brings some of the most pioneering and eco-conscious brands to the fore.

Dubai- a global economy with boundless prospects, exemplary vision and world-class experiences is on an upward rise with a large number of projects due for completion including 140,000 hotel rooms gearing up for EXPO 2020, the Hyperloop by 2022 and the Floating Venice.

A rich tradition of handmade quality and craftsmanship allows the luxury furniture maker to develop collections that are true design investments. Vintage Baker furniture is highly sought-after, with the brand offering distinguishing facts regarding your piece as well as production dates and other authentication services.

Guided by the inspiration or idea to depict a defined statement; Roudha Alshamsi`s design proposal is a concept geared towards colour decisions, space circulation and principals of the design process.

For 35 years, Aati has nurtured the design sensibilities of the region’s discerning customers with its handpicked selection of international luxury design brands from Europe and America.

Colour, fluid forms and a deep understanding of materials – the cornerstones of the Moroso design code, have bolstered the manufacturer’s artisanal approach to furniture making since it was founded in 1952.

Noted photographer, award winning haute jewelry designer, co-founder of Design Ras Al Khor and founder of Bil Arabi, Nadine Kanso is modern Arabia’s creative ambassador to the world. Be it her calligraphy inspired precious adornments or gritty artworks depicting contemporary Middle Eastern life, her message remains constant: ‘Celebrate your Heritage’. Drawing from Nadine’s love for graphic design, collage work and a desire to present a contemporary view on what it means to be Arab in today’s world, Bil Arabi is known for its distinct aesthetic that combines precious metals and stones with stylised Arabic calligraphy. Having worked in various design-related fields along with several stints in journalism; Nadine Kanso has been recognised for her outstanding work and contribution to the design field.

Studio 971 launches their webshop, s971.com, at Downtown Design. Amongst the wide array of distinctive and hip designer products, the webshop will feature "The City Lights" collection by the renowned Dutch brand its About RoMi.

Founded in 1961 by Mário J. Pires, Serip’s early years were devoted to very classical concepts of lighting design and production. A gradual shift saw the studio embrace contemporary designs through the decades, eventually formalising its unique vision that underscores its latest collections. While the brand’s portfolio has grown from chandeliers to encompass monumental lighting installations and custom pieces, its commitment to the humanity of design remains consistent.

For more than a decade, this brainchild of Olivier Moyen has bolstered the vision of the regional and international design community through its comprehensive platform specialized in interior and outdoor lighting design. With more than 30,000 references from some of the world’s most coveted lighting designers and brands, I Light You has established itself as a resource and guide amongst interior design professionals.

Known as India’s ‘Lighting Boys’, KLOVE founders Prateek Jain and Gautam Seth might as well be the poster boys for globalising Indian design. One of the first design studios in the country to embrace atelier culture, they are known for their timeless and bold lighting art designed for the global citizen.

Nahoor takes its name from the Aramic word, symbolising the origin of light. Pianta’s works; since he re-launched the family-owned company in 2009, have centred on bringing the sacred meaning of the word to life with designs that explore the synergies of Italian traditions and the latest technology.

Since 1950, the Venice based studio has elevated the ‘Made in Italy’ mark with its custom-made creations that consistently present modern lighting design to architects, designers and design lovers across 90 countries.

Built on selecting brands that demonstrate design, quality and price; Apartment 51 founded in 2016 is the virtual doorway to accessible luxury home concepts in the Middle East. Ranging from kitchenware, home accessories and furniture; each piece is carefully selected to cater for different styles with an eye for design. With a retail presence carefully selected in prime locations and an ecommerce website Apartment51.com, it has ambitions to be a leading luxury home concept store offering refined designs with a modern twist.

Born in 1962, Sacha Walckhoff spent most of his childhood in Switzerland. He met Christian Lacroix and became his artistic consultant in 1992 and has since made his mark in the design industry. Sacha Walckhoff was then appointed Studio Director in 1996, and became the couturier’s right-hand man in 2002. When the couturier left the House of Christian Lacroix in 2009, Sacha Walckhoff was appointed Creative Director. Passionate about art, design and decoration, Sacha’s own apartment in Paris has been featured in many international interior design magazines.

Synonymous for opulence in design, The Chalhoub Group returns to Downtown Design 2017 with renowned brands Baccarat and Lladro.

Spanish brand, KriskaDECOR makes highly original metallic chain products to be used as architectural, lighting and interior designing solutions. Created with small interlinked pieces of anodised aluminuim, the pieces form a lightweight versatile mesh. Each creation can further be customized in size, volume, colour and to include personalised logos, patterns or images. Each piece can be used for indoor and outdoor spaces, lighting installations, decorative murals and divisions for offices, entrance halls, bars, restaurants, hotels, nightclubs, and large public spaces.

Founded by Sheikha Hind bint Majed Al Qasimi, a leading businesswoman from Sharjah, Designed by Hind celebrates the best of UAE handicrafts. Crafted entirely from porcelain, the brand fuses traditional Emirati elements with contemporary designs to create heritage inspired works for the 21st century.

Exposing the breadth and diversity of brands in the Middle East, Downtown Design recognizes the importance of locality in regional interior design. With the development of new hotels, commercial and public buildings, there comes a need for interior design to reflect the region’s graphic language, design narrative and love of color. Our exhibitors present a truly broad range of unique solutions to creating a distinctly local, contemporary space.

German brand Gaggenau is the leading brand for domestic appliances and pioneer in innovation and design. It success is attributed to the use of advances in technology and clear design language paired with perfect function. The brand has continued to set new standards in the private kitchen sector with its award winning products. Synonymous with exclusive culinary culture, the brand was founded in 1683 by Margrave Ludwig Wilhelm von Baden.

Established in 2004, MVP Appliance has grown to become one of the market leaders in kitchen appliances across the UAE.  MVP Appliances is the sole distributor of several leading European brands from Germany and Italy such as Liebherr, Elba, Elica, Foster and Algor in the United Arab Emirates. The products are known for their quality, elegance, reliability and have won several best design and quality awards. The product range includes built-in appliances, major domestic appliances, kitchen sinks and kitchen mixers taps of German and Italian origin.

Downtown Design, the leading design trade show in the Middle East for original, high quality design has announced its largest and most significant show to date. Showcasing 26 product categories – including furniture and lighting, textiles and accessories, and the latest in kitchen and bathroom technology – the fifth edition taking place in November at d3, will double in size to welcome more than 150 brands from 25 countries with 70 new high-end international and regional brands.

Since 1947, Zip Industries has been manufacturing and marketing Australian designed and made instant water systems. From the launch of Zip heaters in 1962; which was soon sold in over 70 countries; the brand has expanded its range by utilizing the innovative technology.

Positioned as a platform to showcase the best interior and architecture projects in the region, Love that Design highlight home grown designs while giving full insight on the different levels of design from designer/firm right down to the contractors and products. With an aim to create a visual mosaic of projects across the MENA region, Love that Design believes in admiring well designed spaces but also being able to discuss relevant design issues openly. They believe that this is the first step of many that will create the roadmap towards engaging the design community and lead potential customers to understand strength and execution capabilities of the resources involved.

With over 233 projects completed, Design Haus Medy use a bespoke approach for each client, rich in intellectual rigour and creativity; to develop inspiring places with a powerful visual impact. The company's multi-disciplinary practice includes planning, programming, architecture, and interior design. Working alongside international partners and VVIP clients including the likes of Emaar, Emirates Leisure, Forbes Client List, the Royal Family, Sofitel Hotels & Resorts, uniBank, Star assurance, The Cake Bar, Burj Khalifa, Dubai Tourism, Topaz Energy and Marine and many singers and footballers to name but a few, each discipline is built and supported by specialists with over a decade of experience.

Established in 2007; Office Inspirations has evolved from furniture supply to complete interior solutions along with workplace consultancy and design advisory services. With their premium and broad product portfolio including furniture, flooring, fabric and technology – the brand is committed to creating inspiring environments that innovate, motivate and attract the best people whilst reflecting the unique culture and brand of their clients.

Synonym for “modern” furniture, Herman Miller has had presence in the MEA region for over 30 years. Dating back to 1999, The Middle East and Africa regional office was first established in Dubai with a small four member team. Expanding since, the brand opened their regional design center in 2014 alongside a well-established dealer network. Herman Miller is committed to expanding its presence in the region and reinforcing its goal of being a global leader in furnishing spaces for the office, health, education, hospitality and home environments.

German brand and manufacturer Mobica + takes a wholesome approach to design by manufacturing furniture, doors, tables, wardrobes and vanity units combines with interior design services. The brand believes that workplaces have the power to create a happy and healthy office through design. At Mobica +, the team takes furniture pieces and makes them work positively within a space.

Bene defines the office as a living space and its concepts, products and services turn this philosophy into reality. Combining a 227 year heritage of quality design with award-winning innovation they focus on implementing individual requirements that reflect their customer’s vision in every design space.

With over 35 years of experience in design, DJ Armin’s extensive expertise includes the design and management of large scale, mixed-use, high rise and master planning for projects. DJ’s international experience has helped contribute to the successful completion of various cultural, corporate, institutional, residential, commercial and urban planning projects world over.

Humanscale® is the leading designer and manufacturer of high-performance products that improve the health and comfort of work life. Through leveraging new technology in functional yet minimal designs, the brand transforms traditional offices into active, ergonomic environments. Committed to making a net positive impact on the Earth, Humanscale offersaward-winning products that deliver performancefunction, simplicity and longevity.

Courtesy of Love that Design

In its fifth year, Downtown Design will take place from the 14th to 17th of November showcasing a large number of design brands from all over the world. Recognizing the needs of the commercial sector the fair presents a roster of office furniture brands that offer solutions for every project.

Downtown Design believes in the true influence of design and architecture in experiences, holidays and living. Providing inspiration for upcoming vacations Downtown Design selects the best designed vacation rentals from Airbnb- where you can book unique homes and experience your holiday like a local.

MERIDIANI interprets classic themes and tradition with contemporary style. Since its debut in the international markets in 2000, Meridiani has grown into a company that blends artisanal skills, technical know-how, deep knowledge of materials and manual processes to make up a curated 100% made in Italy furnishing collection with the design and art direction of Andrea Parisio.

As reported by Arabian Business, the Dubai ruler Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum launched the Dubai Harbour, a new waterfront destination that will feature the MENA region’s largest marina and the Dubai Lighthouse, on Monday.  A cruise ship port, shopping mall (covering over 3.5 million sq ft.), events arena, residential buildings, hotels, offices and shops are also included as a part of the mega project.

Established in Germany by Portuguese Industrial Designer, Rodrigo Vairinhos, NEO Studios aims to create a concept of everyday products with a strong character. The design language and quality are reflected throughout the creative collections by the designer. The creations unify functionality with aesthetics to feature multi-functionality with time-less elegance and freshness.

After gaining the world’s attention in 1970, with the opening of his namesake brand’s boutique in Paris, Kenzo Takada has taken to the world of arts and design.  Originally created by Hans Hopfer in 1971, Takada collaborated with Roche Bobois to redesign the brand’s most iconic ‘Mah Jong sofa’, resulting in it being one of his most impactful endeavors. Using jacquard fabric from his Nogaku Collection, Takada reimagined the piece in three colorways that symbolize morning (asa), afternoon (hiru), and evening (yoru). In addition, he designed a line of cushions, earthenware, side tables, and hand-tufted rugs. The result is a cohesive line of furnishings that blends Takada's expertise in pattern and texture with Roche Bobois's distinctive silhouettes.

This year, Downtown Design worked with Architectural Digest Middle East to identify and recognize the leading talents across the fields of architecture and interior design in the region, as part of their yearly AD50 list. With so many established firms creating new landmarks that define our cities, and increasing numbers of new international and homegrown talents entering the market, there is an even greater need to shine a light on those firms and individuals who show creative excellence.

Inspired by his fondness of the Mediterranean, lifelong traveler Elad Yifrach creates an entirely new echelon of artistry. Most evident in his use of porcelain, he infuses everything he does with a passion for innovation – in both technique and use of the highest quality materials.  Although their designs have modern aesthetics, the pieces are carefully created using ancient crafts. Elad selects his materials from regions best renowned for their production.

Working with Gensler, Yasmin is an interior designer has a keen sense of current trends and translating these styles into design language. Born and raised across Dubai, Canada and Milan Yasmin is needless to say international in her approach to both living and designing of spaces. With a passion for design in all forms: interior, furniture fashion or art she takes inspiration from the shared DNA of creating lasting impressions through her work.

Founded in 1968, Sultaco has earned an impeccable reputation for rendering high-quality and distinctive service. The brand has since grown in to a strong, versatile company that supports the demand for bathroom fixtures, ceramic surfaces, industrial and domestic kitchens, wood flooring, plumbing, waterproofing and allied materials. Amongst other recognized brands, Rational by Sultaco offers a complete design, supply and installation service to provide the user with their “dream kitchen”.