The Forum at Downtown Design Dubai

Hosting key speakers from around the world, The Forum features a series of live talks, panel discussions and keynotes featuring regional and international thought-leaders.

Fostering pertinent connections in a sought-after and fast-growing market, the programme was staged in an annually reconfigured setting promoting dialogue and open exchange. The space was conceived by Beirut-born interior designer Thomas Trad, drawing inspiration from minimalist, Japanese-inspired aesthetics, with the support of BSH Walls & Floors, Lutron, among others.

Featuring renowned global names from the global design industry over the years, the programme has lent its stage to international profiles such as Lidewij Edelkoort, Kelly Hoppen, Ini Archibong, Christian Louboutin, Sabine Marcelis and Sebastian Herkner to mention a few.

Announced as one of the key speakers, this year, architect and designer India Mahdavi hosted the opening keynote offering her insights on multicultural design and the fusion of identities in contemporary space. Other keynotes by prominent figures on the global scene, included Eames Demetrios, Karim Rashid, Nika Zupanc and Lina Ghotmeh.

The Forum 2024

editions: The New Collector's Playbook: Redefining the Art Landscape

Amid unprecedented economic, political, and social instability, art’s role as a cultural currency has become ever more relevant. How are today’s culturally conscious players breaking down the barriers of the art market? This talk delved into how a new generation is redefining art acquisition dynamics and reshaping the concept of ‘collectible.'

Speakers: Abdulla Al Kaabi (Film maker), Christiane Nasr (The Bowery Company), Souheil Soueid (Google Dubai)

Moderator: William Mullally, The National

Breaking Boundaries: Redefining Design with Karim Rashid

In a dynamic keynote, infamous industrial designer Karim Rashid took the stage for the first time at Downtown Design and shared insight into his design philosophy.

Keynote: Karim Rashid

In conversation with Rima Suqi, Journalist and Author

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Demystifying impact of design: How interiors of commercial spaces affects work culture and quality of life

A diverse panel of industry specialists broke down the key elements of interiors that affect us all, impacting our work culture and quality of life.

Speakers: Manjul Trehan (Lutron), Lucy d’Abo (Together), Agata Kurzela (Architect & Urban designer)

Moderator: Thomas Trad

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The transformative power of cross-cultural forms of expression

Affluent designers from around the globe met to explore the interplay between cultural fusion and neo-modernism in contemporary design, highlighting the ways in which global influences inspire new forms of expression; from innovative aesthetics to challenging traditional norms and redefining modernity.

Speakers: Nika Zupanc (Interior and Product designer), Jassim AlSaddah (Babnimnim Design Studio), Rabah Saeid (Styled Habitat), Jacopo Foggini (Designer), PJ Natuzzi

Moderator: Omar Al Gurg

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PRESERVATION AND IDENTITY

Drawing on the legacy of the Eames family, this address uncovered how we can protect and reinterpret our design narratives for future generations through the importance of preserving design heritage while fostering creativity and adaptability in an ever-evolving landscape.

Keynote: Eames Demetrios (Eames Foundation)

In conversation with dezeen

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OPENING KEYNOTE

Global design icon India Mahdavi hosted the opening keynote at The Forum 2024, sharing insights on her multicultural design philosophy and the fusion of identities in contemporary design.

Keynote: India Mahdavi

In Conversation with Nic Monisse, Monocle

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