Gid 10th issue

APRIL 20, 2016

PAGE 26

COVER IMAGECOURTESY: BRIGITTE LACOMBE

26 THE FOCUS “QUALITY IS THE ONLY THING

THAT MATTERS” The architect duo behind Peia

Associati talk about the direct relationship between space and material in their body of work that spans continents while it takes centre stage in Qatar.

32 GID REGIONAL FOCUS TALES OF DESIGN Known for his ingenious

combinations of traditional elements and contemporary product design, UAE-based designer Khalid Shafar’s approach encompasses a personal expression of form, movement, emotion and the tale of objects.

38 GID REGIONAL FOCUS DUBAI DESIGN DAYS SPOTLIGHT GID takes its picks of the best

from the region’s most popular design extravaganza.

PAGE 48

12 GID MIX THE STYLE RE-DEFINED A potpourri of home accessories

sourced from around the country and some from beyond.

24 GID DECONSTRUCT WORK IN STYLE

If you were one among those who thought that Doha had no choices when it comes to interior solutions, think again. GID brings to you those designs that are available in the country and created in a backdrop that can be easily replicated in your houses. Go ahead, deconstruct…

56 GID GLAMOUR LOUD AND BOLD IKEA brings glamour to our houses

with these beautiful imagined home accessories designed by a fashion designer.

14 GID MASTERMIND THE GENIUS OF CURVES GID pays its tribute to the master

architect whose designs have always taken precedence in its pages.

RIP Hadid.

52 GID GLAMOUR THE DESIGN ALCHEMIST We visit some stunning spaces

designed by London-based interior designer Laura Marino, of Alchemi group.

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MANAGING EDITOR SINDHU NAIR

DEPUTY EDITOR EZDHAR IBRAHIM ALI

SENIOR CORRESPONDENT AYSWARYA MURTHY

KARIM EMAM

UDAYAN NAG

SPECIAL CORRESPONDENT AARTHI MOHAN

CORRESPONDENT KEERTANA KODURU

PHOTOGRAPHER ROBERT ALTAMIRANO

SENIOR ART DIRECTOR VENKAT REDDY

DEPUTY ART DIRECTOR HANAN ABU SIAM

ASSISTANT ART DIRECTOR AYUSH INDRAJITH

SENIOR GRAPHIC DESIGNER MAHESHWAR REDDY B

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MANAGER – MARKETING SAKALA A DEBRASS

ASSISTANT MANAGER – MARKETING MATHEWS CHERIAN

SONY VELLATT

IRFAAN A H M

SENIOR MEDIA CONSULTANT DENZITA SEQUEIRA

ANIS MANSOURI

SENIOR ACCOUNTANT PRATAP CHANDRAN

SENIOR DISTRIBUTION EXECUTIVE BIKRAM SHRESTHA

DISTRIBUTION SUPPORT ARJUN TIMILSINA

BHIMAL RAI

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PRADEEP BHUSAL

PUBLISHER AND EDITOR–IN–CHIEF YOUSUF JASSEM AL DARWISH

GLAM INTERIORS + DESIGN 7

“Integrity is the ability to stand by an idea.”

I have always followed Zaha Hadid’s work and now, looking back, I feel it was more for the news factor that each of her designs racked up rather than for the value she added to the world of architecture with her uncompromising ability to stand for her designs. But it is a trap each of us has fallen into as we were captivated by the forms she created: the sweeping curves of the buildings, the undulations of the roof, that replaced rectangular forms when designed by architects who played it safe. Each take off from the norm, had a science behind it or a design problem that it was solving. While she mocked the geometry of buildings since “the world is not a rectangle”, she tried to use her buildings to engage people, to excite them and to elicit a response with their exuberant, swooping forms and sharp, slashing angles, to make a connection, making the building more than a physical structure but an important link in the place that it is. She saw architecture as a social art, and not purely as a matter of form making. She was fascinated by urban density and she wanted to use the early modernist forms that had inspired her as the basis for a new architecture that would reflect the complexity of contemporary urban life.

She paved the way for women architects by being an exceptional architect first, in a field that was dominated by male signature architects. While she came across as a powerful lady in self-designed dresses that billowed out as a halo over her, she was said to be gentle in the way she dealt with others. Cross her the wrong way and there was no fiercer woman than Hadid as we saw a few months back when she reacted to a BBC reporter’s insistent questioning about the supposed death of migrant workers at the stadium in Wakrah that was designed by her.

The world of design is still to come to terms with her death, which came so abruptly, unlike her designs, all of which were fluid, continuous and everlasting…

This issue as it mourns the loss of Hadid, also celebrates design in various ways: through the Design Days Dubai’s best solutions in avant-garde designs; through an architect duo’s work which has brought to life many beautiful projects in the country; and through an innovative Danish home store’s interplay with fashion and home accessories.

Happy Reading.

SINDHU NAIR

FROM THE DRAWING BOARD

The two vases designed by Zaha Hadid for Alessi are cut from a single block, and scored along

two diagonal lines, creating a warped, inverted surface. They can be assembled together in

alternative configurations, creating solid forms, or they can stand alone as distinct objects or more

can be accumulated as a jigsaw puzzle.

E D I TO R ’ S C H O I C E

10 GLAM INTERIORS + DESIGN

GID GRAPEVINE

Doha’s Aiana Hotels & Resorts, recently unveiled the design and architectural elements of the “Aiana Suites and Residences”, a 180-key luxury property that will be located in West Bay in Doha.

On the occasion of its first anniversary, Sheikh Turki bin Faisal Al Thani, Chairman of Al Sawari Holding, Amruda Nair, Joint Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Aiana Hotels & Resorts L.L.C., and Mohammad Shafiek, Managing Director of Al Sawari Holding announced the opening of Aiana Makkah, a 611-room hotel in the Holy City of Makkah. Aiana’s first hotel in the Kingdom Of Saudi Arabia is scheduled to open in Q3 2016. Aiana Suites and Residences Doha are designed by Lisbon-based Portuguese interior design firm Promontorio and will include all hotel services and branded amenities. The residences will exude an authentic local vibe, intelligent design and intuitive management with a strong Indian service ethos. “Today we celebrate a defining moment in the Aiana brand journey. The announcement of Aiana Makkah is a key milestone for the brand and it is an honour to bring the Aiana experience to the Holy City. We are looking forward to opening the first Aiana hotel in the Middle East in 2016.” said Amruda Nair. “We are also delighted to unveil the first look of Aiana Suites and Residences, Doha and are confident that our unique product and service ethos will address the growing demand for value-added offering in the upper upscale hospitality segment.”

INGVAR KAMPRAD TURNS 90 When he was just 17 years old, he founded IKEA where he sold household goods, like matches and pens, at reduced rates. Cut to the present and Ingvar Kamprad celebrates his 90th birthday after building a global business empire in flat-pack furniture which now has over 375 stores in 47 countries. The acronym IKEA is made up of the initials of his name. His vision has always been to offer a wide range of well-designed, functional home furnishing products at low prices so that many people will be able to afford them. A revolutionary in interior design and one of the most successful entrepreneurs in the world, his story of success is truly inspiring. Happy birthday to this enigmatic founder!

AIANA UNVEILS _NEW DESIGNS


Ayah Al Bitar’s work brings together design and function.

Her new Wisada collection is designed with the help of orthopedic doctors and psychologists to ensure that not only your home is filled with beautiful artwork but your body enjoys optimum comfort for muscles and bones, and your mind is at ease. It is a sculptural floor cushion set inspired by the difference between Eastern and Western transportation cultures, and encourages social dialogue in a traditional, yet contemporary environment. Formed in the shape of an enlarged bicycle seat and illustrated with Saudi women’s stories, Wisada is unique in its concept and aesthetic and works best when placed in multiples.

MIND AND BODY

REDEFINING BATHROOM SOLUTIONS Ideal Standard has carved a niche with a unique range of innovative, award-winning bathroom solutions designed for projects across the Middle East region.

Whether it is residential, commercial or public facilities, each project varies in purpose, design and size, but the company can accommodate all requirements through its wide array of products and world-class brands such as the flagship Ideal Standard, Armitage Shanks, Jado, American Standard and more. Ranges like DEA, with its warm, curved, flowing surfaces is a perfect combination of chic, high-end design and functionality; Tonic II, with its clean cut-lines and soft edges, provides elegance and impeccable ergonomics; and Strada offers the best of contemporary geometry, functionality, and ease of use. Ideal Standard has something for everyone and has offered its products for commercial projects as well as public facilities such as hospitals, offices, hotels, schools, stadia and public bathrooms.


Qatar has achieved a major breakthrough with nine projects named as national winners at the MEED Quality Awards for Projects, in association with Mashreq.

The winning list included, Al Rayyan Hospitality’s Banana Island Resort Doha by Anantara Project (entered by UrbaCon Trading & Contracting) as Leisure & Tourism Project of the Year; Ashghal Public Works Authority’s Doha South Sewage Treatment Works Phase II Expansion Project (entered by Galfar Al Misnad and Larsen & Toubro) as Power and Water Project of the Year; the Private

Engineering Office’s Grand Mosque Project (entered by Contraco) as Social, Culture & Heritage Project of the Year; Gulf Drilling International’s Warehouse Project as Industrial Project of the Year; Consolidated Contractors Company’s Lusail Sports Arena Project (entered by Astad Project Management) as Sustainable Project of the Year, sponsored by Besix; and Dolphin Energy’s Export Gas Compression Upgrade Project (entered by Al Malki Trading & Contracting) as Small Project of the Year.

Also joining the list were Qatar Foundation’s Construction of Main

Works for Male and Female Student Housing for Qatar Foundation Project (entered by Joannou & Paraskevaides) as Residential Project of the Year; as well as its Headquarters Project as Building Project of the Year. Meanwhile, a collaborative project by the New Doha International Airport Steering Committee, Hamad International Airport and Civil Aviation Authority – the Hamad International Airport Passenger Terminal Complex – Retail, Food & Beverage Fit-out Construction Project (entered by Parsons)– was named Qatar’s Retail Project of the Year.

GID GRAPEVINE

BIG LEAP _FOR QATAR

NEW INNOVATION _FROM JOTUN

Jotun has introduced, the Aurora collection, a new range in powder coatings. With new technological advances, this innovation provides sustainable and environmentally friendly solutions in powder coating technology.

Inspired by the enchanting Northern Lights, The Aurora Collection is useable on both aluminium and steel. The coatings provide a metallic effect and consistency in application, hiding any substrate imperfections, whilst being eco-friendly. Using 40 times less water, 10 times less electricity and 20 times less gas, the production process saves time and natural resources to maintain a high-performance and consistent finish. The collection is available in 11 captivating colours and sets a benchmark for high-quality and durable products.


S T Y L ER E - D E F I N E D !

Whether you’re traditional, and love timeless style, or

glam, and need more embellishments, step out of

your comfort zone with these statement pieces.

GID MIX

A R A B E S Q U E C H A R M

The set of side tables from Al Mana Galleria adds character to your space with its size and

arabic-inspired design.

O N E W I T H N AT U R E

Be inspired by nature with this set of side tables from Midas.

D U A L P U R P O S E

Original oak barrel staves function as both the soul and the formative design details. Create

a series of contrasts with this piece by Peter Marino.

R E F L E C T I O N O F L I F E

This piece from Nodus is a round dynamic rug that forms a crown

of immutable, unchanged life, representing the cycle of life.

E T H N I C P I E C E

Moderiental pieces from Artikkan Gallery

evokes the taste of a well travelled curator.

V I N TAG E LO V E

Reflect the growing trend for vintage with this piece from Midas.

E Y E - C ATC H I N G

Either as a pair at both ends of a sofa or on a console table, this lamp’s unique shape and vibrant hue proves an accent

can still make a big impact.

A RT I S T I C E Y E

A pretty painting worthy of a piece of art from Midas.

M I N I M A L I S T I C E L E G A N C E

Balance burnished metals and contemporary inlay work with

this piece from Artikkan Gallery.

C L E A N L I N E S

Keep it simple with this unique bronze table by Osanna Visconti di Modrone for Bottega Veneta.

S H I F T FO C U S

Add a focal point to your space with this abstract wall art from Midas.

F U N K Y AC C E N TS

Go bold with this quirky timepiece from Midas.

P E R F E C T A LC H E M Y

Make a marriage of mother-of-pearl and gold with this side

table from Living In Interiors

B E DA Z Z L I N G E F F E C T

Mirrored artifacts like this piece from Swarovski add personality

to your interiors.


GID MASTERMIND

GID MASTERMIND


GID PAYS TRIBUTE TO THE ARCHITECT PAR EXCELLENCE, DAME ZAHA HADID, WHOSE UNTIMELY DEATH SHOCKED THE ENTIRE DESIGN COMMUNITY. WE LOOK AT SOME OF HER DESIGNS, FROM CREATIVE FLUID FORMS TO BUILDINGS THAT LEAN PRECARIOUSLY, AND WONDER HOW THESE CREATIONS THAT CLEARLY DEFY ALL LAWS OF GRAVITY REMAIN

STANDING IN PERFECT HARMONY WITH THEIR SURROUNDINGS. HADID’S WORK WILL REMAIN A LEGACY, FOR BREAKING FREE OF CONVENTION AND CONFORMITY. R.I.P HADID.

ZAHA HADID:

THE GENIUS OF CURVES


GID MASTERMIND

Guangzhou Opera House, China

Opera houses have long been a symbol of a city’s culture, and today a Zaha Hadid opera house is the cultural symbol of choice for a new world city. Dubai had to cancel theirs in the financial crisis; Abu Dhabi are still building theirs; but Guangzhou have completed theirs, to justified critical acclaim. The Guangzhou Opera House is the third largest theater in China, for what is, by some measures at least, China’s third largest city. While there is some commonality to the fluid, amorphous forms of Hadid’s opera house designs, the Guangzhou Opera House stands out as the least organic. The building sits in the urban centre of Guangzhou close to the Pearl River, and Hadid’s metaphor for the building is a pair of water-smoothed pebbles in the flow of the river.

Heydar Aliyev, Azerbaijan

The Heydar Aliyev Center in Azerbaijan is a cultural centre, in a futuristic monument designed by architect Zaha Hadid.

Since its independence in 1991, Azerbaijan has invested heavily in modernising and developing its capital Baku’s infrastructure and architecture, departing from its legacy of normative Soviet modernism.

The design of the Heydar Aliyev Center establishes a continuous, fluid relationship between its surrounding plaza and the building’s interior. The plaza, as the ground surface, accessible to all as part of Baku’s urban fabric, rises to envelop an equally public interior space and define a sequence of event spaces dedicated to the collective celebration of contemporary and traditional Azeri culture. Elaborate formations such as undulations, bifurcations, folds, and inflections modify this plaza surface into an architectural landscape that performs a multitude of functions: welcoming, embracing and directing visitors through different levels of the interior. The Center, designed to become the primary building for the nation’s cultural programs, breaks from the rigid and often monumental Soviet architecture that is so prevalent in Baku, aspiring instead to express the sensibilities of Azeri culture and the optimism of a nation that looks to the future.


GID MASTERMIND

The Wangjing SOHO, China

The Wangjing SOHO building complex is a beacon along the way to Beijing’s modern gateway, the Capital Airport, and the journey of transition to and from the city. The project acts as a welcoming post to the city and a gesture of farewell when departing Beijing. The buildings achieve this by reading differently when transitioning in either direction, leaving distinctly different impressions on those who pass by. Like Chinese fans, the volumes appear to move around each other in an intricate dance, each embracing the other from a continuously changing angle. This interplay creates a vibrant architectural complex that is enhanced by an equally dynamic external skin, which continuously varies in density to create a shimmering, exciting presence.


Dongdaemun Design Plaza, Seoul, South Korea

The Dongdaemun Design Plaza is a major urban development landmark in Seoul designed by Hadid, with a distinct neofuturistic design characterised by the powerful, curving forms of elongated structures. Brought to life using five construction technologies, it was the first public project in Korea to utilize the 3-Dimensional Building Information Modelling (BIM) and other digital tools in construction.


GID MASTERMIND

Bergisel Ski Jump, Austria

The Bergiselschanze Ski Jump Stadium is a pilgrimage site for winter sports enthusiasts. The Bergisel has seen two Olympic Winter Games and is the venue of countless international competitions attracting spectators from all over the world. Its ski jump installation, designed by Hadid in 2001, is a triumph of style and structure. The sinuous and dynamic form of the main tower accommodates a restaurant, viewing terrace and the ski jump starting ramp, and offers a breathtaking view of Innsbruck.


Abu Dhabi Performing Art Centre

A new performing arts centre having five theatres, a concert hall and opera theatres. Hadid’s performing arts centre emerges from the ground like a futuristic running-shoe. It will house a music hall, a concert auditorium, one of the world’s largest opera houses, and theatres for up to 6,000 people.

Al Wakra Stadium, Doha.

This must have been the most controversial buildings so far for Hadid, with ridicule heaped on its structure resembling a woman’s body part to the death of workers in the construction of this site. Hadid had even reacted angrily to the latter, saying to the journalist who interviewed her, “We sued somebody for writing that, and saying that, and it had to be withdrawn from the press. It is absolutely inaccurate,” said the architect. “There are no deaths on our site whatsoever.”

T H E U N B U I LT


THE THING


NATURE’S REVENGETHIS EXPERIMENTAL YET FUNCTIONAL PROJECT FROM GEORGES AMATOURY STUDIO IS THE ULTIMATE ECO-TERRORISM FANTASY.

Too long has Earth allowed her forests to be mowed down to make way for urban sprawl. Too long has mankind pointlessly debated climate change while continuing its destructive ways even as sea levels rose, droughts spread and species went extinct. Now, the time of judgment is upon us, at least within this glass-encased world. Both angry and beautiful, Green Pompeii is a limited-edition console; each of the eight pieces created is stacked with a unique combination of mineral materials (brushed brass, concrete, polished stainless steel, gun metal, silver leaf patine), portraying the skyline of a 21st-century city, drowning in organic, green resin. Estimated cost: QR70,000

W O R K I N S T Y L E

CREATE AN UNCONVENTIONAL HOME OFFICE BY MIXING DIFFERENT TEXTURES, STYLES AND PRINTS AND PICK UNUSUAL FURNITURE: AN ARABESQUE-INSPIRED DESK LIKE THIS AND A COZY NICHE WITH A TUFTED BACKDROP AND EXOTIC PILLOWS FROM

AL MANA GALLERIA ADD A PERSONAL TOUCH WHICH GIVES JUST THE RIGHT INSPIRATIONAL

BOOST.

GID DECONSTRUCT

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4

6

7

9


(ALL PRODUCTS ARE FROM AL MANA GALLERIA. THE LOOK IS CREATED BY ARCHITECT BUKET TANRIKULU)

1 PAINTING: QR4,100 2 RHAPSODY DESK: QR13,166 3 OTTOMAN ARMCHAIR, MOBI: QR3,920 4 CARPET, ELEMENT: QR12,050 5 MONTE CRISTO ARMCHAIR, KOLEKSIYON: QR6,110 6 NEW YORKER COFFEE TABLE: QR6,102 7 BIBLA LIBRARY, MOBI: QR19,922

8 PILLOW ESTIK DÈCOR: QR543 9 STATU 2 SEATER SOFA, CASA: QR9,354 10 VASE, CASA SET: QR306

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GID ARCHITECTURE

A COMPLETE

AND CONSCIOUS DESIGN PRACTICE

THE ARCHITECT DUO FROM PEIA ASSOCIATI, GIAMPIERO PEIA AND MARTA NASAZZI DISCUSS GIVING A SECOND LIFE TO PROJECTS AND WEAVING A STRONG STORY OF AESTHETICS THROUGH THEIR BODY OF WORK.

BY AARTHI MOHAN


While every married couple’s dynamic is unique. Giampiero Peia and Marta Nasazzi represent a husband and wife collaboration that is changing the traditional definition of architectural partnerships. Giampiero has been in the architecture and design industry for many years, studying his craft alongside luminaries such as Ignazio Gardella and Piero Lissoni. He has worked on a multitude of projects ranging from retail, hospitality and residential.

He was nominated by Casabella magazine as one of the best 40 Italian “under 50” architects. Marta, on the other hand, is an interior designer and has always had that special eye for style and good taste. As husband and wife they have had the luxury of time together and after realising that their combined wealth of experience could develop, create and sustain a business that would fulfill their design expectations, they have now cemented their partnership with Peia Associati. Covering areas of architecture, interiors, industrial design, master planning and product design services, the firm was started in 1995 in Milan and has now diversified with varied projects scattered in many countries across the globe. Fuelled by a spirit of constant transversal research in different fields of design, this duo likes to say that their artisanal approach is more an ethos than a style. Their spaces are atmospheric with

emphasis on detailing and intelligent use of materials, and reflect a sense of belonging.

Context plays a big role in the design practice of Peia Associati. “Our projects are born out of a direct relationship to space and materials. What we are trying to create is honest architecture. Because of that, in terms of material compatibility and being sustainable, it becomes an experiential process in and of itself,” says Giampiero. The couple love what they do and it is reflected in their designs. These days, the practice is primarily involved

CONTEXTUAL FOCUSLeft: the Centre for peace Ikeda in Milan. Below: The Shanghai Towers and the Coca Cola pavilion at the Expo Milano 2015.

SIMPLY UNIQUEPeia Associati’s signature is the patterns that they create exclusive for each project. Above: A private villa in Doha and the Qatar Chamber. Left: The Coca-Cola pavilion at the Expo Milano 2015.

“It is about long-term relationships and blurring the

lines between architecture and interiors, so that there is complementary vision.”



with residential and hospitality projects. To make a residential design perfect, every detail needs to be specifically designed according to the client’s needs and so, by default, they become an extension of the Peia family. “It is about long-term relationships and blurring the lines between architecture and interiors, so that there is complementary vision,” Marta explains. The projects are all about textures. I love working with different materials in all my projects”.

Distinct from an architectural firm, the couple is less concerned with planning, designing, and building physical structures than with developing an architectural language that is autonomous, intuitive, and everlasting. In the duo’s work a physical structure arises from a narrative that engages the design by telling stories.

“For me, importance is more on the richness of architecture and expression of the space. Details relating to the culture, understanding of the natural surroundings, doing research with artistic creativity, etc., is imperative when taking up a project. We try to apply a style that is subtle with elements from different cultures. Our signature is the geometric patterns that we create exclusively for each space,” says the architect.

Inspiration for these artistic minds comes not only from their extensive

travels and books but also from Giampiero’s love for cinema. He says, “cinema is the closest thing to architecture. We are like movie directors, from coordination to execution we are involved in all the disciplines. If you read the biography of Stanley Kubrick, he was a maniac for details. This is the same wisdom we share with our students as well”.

Their varied palette of interior projects includes the new Italian Centre I.B.I.S.G.

GID ARCHITECTURE

“Cinema is the closest thing to architecture. We are like movie directors, from coordination to execution we are involved in all

the disciplines.”


in Corsico-Milan, a complex for cultural and conference centre including new and ancient buildings; the Coca-Cola Pavilion for Expo 2015 in Milan and suites in Shanghai. The prominent projects in Doha include: The Oyster at The Pearl; the 62-storey Kempinski Residences and Suites and its new Z lounge (the tallest bar in Doha) and Alfardan Towers which offers twin offices and residential towers, the BMW showroom and the Guerlain Spa, winner of the 2008 Middle East Spa award. “We also work as consultants for Qatar Rail, infrastructure and interiors to help public and private companies. The new showroom and office for Lexus is under construction. Hospitality is our core business. We have designed residential projects such as private villas for many influential clients. Peia

Associati has also been shortlisted for the competition for a new Qatar National Bank headquarters on the Corniche and the Doha Yacht Club Hotel and Marina,” says the proud couple.

The firm believes in giving a second life to any project they work on, that is the idea of approaching design as an operation of re-assembly, by taking parts from one world and transferring them into another. To exemplify the current dimension of reuse, Giampiero feels that the focus should be shifted from a single result of the design assemblage to a strategic creative process of infinitely possible solutions, where the attention is focused on the concept of manufacturing.

“Architecture now has become more environmentally conscious. Interiors

are less durable but for the time that has to be used, we as architects have a responsibility to create an environmentally- friendly project. I do not believe in the term ‘wastage’. Every architect should keep in mind not to waste material irrespective of the budget one works with. We believe ecologic is economic.”

“Quality is the only thing that matters, be it by signature architects or not,” says Giampiero. With a new resort in the Maldives under construction, the future looks interesting for this design duo. Their combined passion for design and each others interests ensures that the two spheres of work and play merge seamlessly by re-interpreting their roots with a contemporary and sustainable vision based on experiences.

VARIED PROJECTSCentre: A luxury hotel in the Maldives which is the duo’s upcoming project. Left: The Guerlain Spa at the Alfardan Towers. Below: The Z lounge, Doha by night.


GID REGIONAL FOCUS

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KNOWN FOR HIS INGENIOUS COMBINATIONS OF TRADITIONAL ELEMENTS AND CONTEMPORARY PRODUCT DESIGN, UAE-BASED DESIGNER KHALID SHAFAR’S APPROACH

ENCOMPASSES A PERSONAL EXPRESSION OF FORM, MOVEMENT, EMOTION, AND THE TALE OF OBJECTS.

BY AARTHI MOHAN

telling tales

of design


GID REGIONAL FOCUS

The objects that inhabit his world make an impression of stills dredged from a tale, a reflection of his thematic choices and the way in which he realizes them by using different techniques and narratives, which makes Khalid's aesthetically functional designs one-off pieces.

Sparked by a long-term personal and professional goal to be a designer, Khalid is qualified in two disciplines, marketing and fine arts and interior design. He obtained both his degrees from the American University in Dubai but his passion was always in furniture design. "I developed more interest while doing my Interior Design degree and a furniture design course. By then, I had decided that I wanted to build my own brand and have my own designs. I don't regret my corporate life. It taught me discipline, management skills, and leadership,” he says.

His approach to design embraces the golden triangle of creativity, practicality and functionality. "Functionality is the key to all my creations and I consider myself a functional designer. I ensure that my work is valid and purposeful", says the designer. His products serve a multitude of purposes and spaces. Many objects have been designed to function in more than one mood, depending on the tales they tell.

A designer is always sensitive to the beauty of things around him and for this designer, inspiration lies in many things such as architecture, crafts, art and people. Simple yet avant-garde, each product pictures a revival of the 50s, 60s, and 70s sleek styling which is then re-interpreted with contemporary flair. Designed to fit individualistic interior spaces, they are fuelled with the energy and passion of Khalid's own lifestyle and life stories.

"It is the 'tale' that is the aesthetic side of each object and what creates the attachment with all my pieces. Whether you belong to the tale or not, you still react towards it when you read or listen to it," he says.

Following specific trends of design does not interest this artist; he believes

CULTURALLY INCLINED

Khalid Shafar’s connection with the

rich past of his native region is highlighted in works such as his Palm collection, Flame-ingo

project for DRAK 2015 and the Seats collection.


that in the world of product design, we are less restricted to trends than in fashion. The Campana Brothers are Khalid's global design idols and he has a lot of admiration for their work. He also enjoys the works of Martino Gamper, Konstantine Grcic and Maarten Baas.

Designed with a conscious use of form, materials and texture encapsulated in functional objects, this designer’s repertoire highlights the rich past of his native region which he achieves by employing dying crafts, including weaving and embroidery. He explores the area of the genesis of forms depending on the practical conditions of utility and possibility.

Khalid's internationally acclaimed work “telltale objects”, includes his Palm collection, a series of stools, tables, coat stands and coffee tables. Pine and ash blocks face upwards in a graphic representation that explores the bark found on the trunk of a palm tree, a popular sight in the designer's home country. Continuing upward, the surfaces of the tables are woven out of

dried leaves, creating colourful patterns while the handle pays homage to wicker baskets woven in a similar way. "I also recently started using the Agal (the black woven cord that Arab men wear to secure their head covers) in my latest installations, The Cabin and Forma which is very unique to me,” says the artist.

FLAME-INGO is another popular project by Khalid which was presented during DRAK 15. Exploring the relationship between material and form through mass-produced industrial materials such as interlocking pavement blocks, he reinterpreted the material to create a functional object, in this case a candleholder. His design drew inspiration from the body shape of the flamingos of Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary. The different kinds of interlocking blocks retain their original variety of shape, form and finish to reinforce the value of such material when put into a design. The candleholder's components correspond to various parts of the flamingo's body. The tall,

“It is the ‘tale’ that is the aesthetic side of each object and what creates the

attachment with all my pieces. Whether you belong to the tale or not, you still react

towards it when you read or listen to it.”


GID REGIONAL FOCUS

slender shape of the candlestick, for example, makes reference to the bird's long neck. The candle burns and melts over the interlocked body leaving a sculptured layer of wax which suggests the flamingo's feathers.

Timber is a dominant medium in most of Khalid's collections. "It is true to say that I have an affinity with this material. As a medium, it has a reaction from the moment you cut it. When I finish the piece and oil it, it is not the end. It comes alive, it moves. It reacts towards heat, humidity and cool weather. It's something to take care of," he says.

Khalid has also been a part of varied collaborations. He says, "I love collaborating with other brands. One of the simplest but most challenging was the COS collaboration where I and five other international designers each had to use one square metre of white sheet paper to create something. It was a medium that I used for the first time within a limited quantity and specific brief. For me it was one of the nicest projects I was involved in".

Simple lines mixed with rich detail and fine materials are the hallmarks of a Khalid Shafar design. Being conscious of his motto, “Think Global, Act Gobal”, his future projects include a couple of collaborations which are in the pipeline and a new product line under his label which is set to be launched during the first quarter of 2017.

ARTISTIC COLLABORATORAbove: The Cabin, an interactive space which is an experience between sea and land. Below: Nakkash Gallery paired-up with Shafar for the 5th Edition of Design Days Dubai.


GID REGIONAL FOCUS

ART OF


GID PRESENTS THE EDITOR’S PICKS OF SOME OF THE MOST STUNNING PIECES FROM THE FIFTH EDITION OF DESIGN DAYS DUBAI. THE CAREFULLY CURATED EXHIBITOR’S LIST WAS RICH WITH DESIGN TALENT FROM ACROSS THE GULF AND THE REST OF THE WORLD, ESPECIALLY FROM HOTSPOTS LIKE BEIRUT AND MILAN. THE EXHIBITION SPACE FELT MORE LIKE A GALLERY FOR HIGH ART, ALTHOUGH HERE ONE COULD TOUCH THE ARTWORKS, EVEN SIT ON THEM, BE ENVELOPED BY THEM AND BECOME ONE WITH THEM.

LIVING


Beirut-born Vick Vanlian is bringing steampunk back. His pieces for the

exhibition revolved around love, power and copper. An interesting piece from the refuse

collection (which used already-produced industrial elements that produces 80% less waste than recycling) was this unique sofa. On this particular design, they used bicycle parts–wheels, chains and pedals–high quality foam and feather for the seat and back and

top-quality vintage leather.

The Crafts Council will take eleven UK-based contemporary designers to Design Days

Dubai. One of them is Fay McCaul, whose specialism lies in uniting modern materials with age-old knitting techniques to forge a diverse range of luxury interiors from lights

and tables to screens and tapestries.Textiles that shimmer in response to movement and light are created when she inserts thousands

of metallic squares into individually knitted pockets

GID REGIONAL FOCUS


Coral Wal1 by Zuleika Penniman is a room divider that connects more than it divides.

Coral, which shelters a rich variety of marine life, has historically been used in

construction of traditional dwellings in the UAE. These delicate slices of coral rocks, reclaimed from buried mortar and plaster, are each unique and exquisitely patterned

and are arranged within a slender gold frame that bends.

Barcelona Design Gallery’s Amarist Studio collection challenged visitors with provocative concepts presented through practical pieces. An example of this is the

coffee table called “Too Much? II”. This functional sculpture is essentially a neatly stacked pile of burnt or partially burnt 50 Euro bills (each note hand painted by the artist) encased in a glass cube, with a thin

biofuel film rising above its surface.


Aljoud Lootah reintroduces the Unfolding Unity stool, designed to explore the

versatility of the structure by experimenting with various materials. While patterns, folds

and geometric shapes are at the heart of her inspiration, she composes her creations by mixing traditional silhouettes and concepts

with modern elements.

The Cities exhibits shared the concept of Orientalism Reinterpreted. Each designer

chose a recognizable design, structure, or motif that has been traditionally associated with

Khaleeji culture and offered a reinterpretation. Shown here is Amal de Luce’s “Enxoval”, a cabinet made of Corian, Palissandro wood,

Swarovski crystals and gold leaf.

Traditionally the Midkhan has been used on a daily basis around the house; however, their

form has remained unchanged, regardless of age and use. Aisha Al Sowaidi harnesses

memory and nostalgia to rework these objects using materials inspired by the fast-developing

metropolis around her.

Binôme designers Ingrid Michel and Frédéric Pain stole the show with the elegance and simplicity of Megalithe. This work focused on the object

while following the guiding line of sculptural design. The form is taut but the angles still have a certain

roundness, along with organic shapes and concrete providing a mineral element. Balance is also one of the subjects addressed in the piece, with a primary

volume supported by a secondary volume that affirms the whole.

GID REGIONAL FOCUS


Fadi Sarieddine’s booth revolved around upcycled objects splattered across walls and expanding

through neglected spaces. The Swaddle chair was the designer’s favourite; “the star of the show,” as he put it. The cone-shaped leather chair engulfs the sitter in an attached cotton quilt. Should the sitter prefer to lie down, the excess fabric can also be pooled down the legs of the chair for a tent effect. The no-frills approach is to pull the

fabric through the back of the seat.

“Hiraeth” by Coalesce Design Studio: a yearning for a past that you never want to forget. That’s

the feeling that our spinning Lattoo seats will evoke. That experience that enlivens a moment of your long-forgotten childhood. Five Pakistani designers, each with their own interpretations.

Traditional, contemporary, whimsical, deconstructed, and futurist...each Lattoo is a dialogue between different materials, forms,

space, and motion.

Milan’s Camp Design Gallery is barely a year old, but its young owners have a great eye as evidenced by “Where the Rain Stops”. A

prospective game deforms the projection of one of the panels, and invites the viewer to look for a point of view from which the circle enters into a dynamic relationship with this work. The result is a drawing deep and valuable, delimited by a brass wire that separates the world of representation

from the real one.

The transcontinental Carpenters Workshop Gallery exhibited a signature piece by Frederik Molenschot. “Citylight 2 – The Wall” is inspired

by the intensity of cities, especially at night when they seem like immense galaxies that criss-cross

endlessly and at random. The artist worked with bronze for the first time, using an ancestral

technique and the piece took three years to make.


Art Fulcrum Gallery’s mission to bring contemporary design to the international stage has introduced the likes of Carla Baz to the audiences at Design Days

Dubai, where she presented Mandolin, a light fixture made of brushed brass, mirror and LED lights.

Loulwa Al Radwan’s style is mainly influenced by Islamic and traditional

designs with a modern twist, This year, however, her work for Design Days

Dubai has been exceptionally different. Her work is inspired by the natural

beauty of peacock’s feathers, which includes a bookshelf, a mirror and a table all made from Carrara marble and brass.

Lebanese furniture producer Squad Design pressed its designers into action on the concept of Intensified Lightness-

one malleable object altering its appearance to serve different functions with lightness and grace. The Game Box

personifies this philosophy. Endlessly diverting, the object of this 3D Tetris is to create wonderfully bizarre (and stable) creations from the different

shapes available in the box (that forms a perfect block when assembled correctly;

should you be someone with more conventional sensibilities).

GID REGIONAL FOCUS


A century-old business based out of Kuwait, Samovar Carpets knows its stuff. Where they shine is by mobilizing this timeless

tradition into creating evocative modern images that bring any wall or floor to life. This limited-edition piece (only one of which was created) by German designer Michaela Schleypen is called “Floor to Heaven” and is hand-tufted and made from

New Zealand wool.

Mechanical Art Devices or M.A.D Gallery presented a range of kinetic art sculptures where one could step through the looking glass and experience art from an alternate universe. Notable pieces were Berlin-based artist Frank Buchwald’ s “Machine Lights” ; striking

metallic sculptures by Chinese artist Xia Hang; cheeky kinetic creations crafted by UK-based artist-engineer team Laikingland; and French-born Quentin Carnaille’s

intricate pieces created using thousands of vintage watch components.


Advertorial

New upgrades from Hempel

With a range of emulsions, enamels and texture paints, Hempel has launched an upgraded version of the Topaz range of decorative paints with superior performance, as well as PureEarth, a five-point strategy aimed at developing sustainable and eco-friendly products.


Wall paints and colours have become an intrinsic part of our lifestyles and an extension of our personalities. Paints can affect indoor environments such as homes and offices, so our choices not only make a significant impact upon the construction cost but can also influence the health and comfort of the people using the building.

Hempel’s superior decorative coating range, TOPAZ, has developed products which offer superior performance with various finishes and textures. The range offers endless possibilities with thousands of shades that can be customised and tinted to meet every client’s choice.

Topaz comes in a wide range of colours to suit your home styles. The collection comprises a range of emulsions, enamels and waterborne texture paints and is the perfect choice for those who appreciate a touch of art and sophistication to their interiors. The emulsions possess a high scrub resistance, low VOC and help to restrain spreading of flame in case of fire. The TOPAZ upgraded emulsions possess opacity, whiteness and colour retention properties. The TOPAZ texture range is equally good for interior and exterior and is available in four variants: multi, fine, medium and coarse. The TOPAZ enamel range is available in matt, gloss

and silk gloss finishes which require very low maintenance and has superior whiteness and colour retention properties. All the products within the range can be applied through normal application techniques using widely available application tools.

Hempel supports the cause of sustainable development and has recently adopted a five-point strategy, Hempel PureEarth, which underlines Hempel’s commitment towards developing sustainable and eco-friendly products with zero-VOC green coatings within the TOPAZ range. TOPAZ Zero is the new green generation of paints which redefines environmental friendliness, combining high-performing coatings with VOC-free and formaldehyde-free technology. TOPAZ Zero offers anti-mould and anti-bacteria properties, making this product ideal for kitchens, hospitals, schools and any other environment where there are strict hygiene regulations. It is 100% pure acrylic, formulated with no organic solvents. Topaz Zero retains improves the indoor air quality, giving you the possibility to paint with reduced risk of asthma-like respiratory problems, skin irritation and allergic reactions. It also has opacity, washability and colour retention properties.


GID CELEBRITY

THE MAN OF

_DETAILS

JAY STRONGWATER, THE EPONYMOUS DESIGNER OF THE BRAND, WAS IN DOHA VISITING HIS PARTNER STORE TANAGRA WHERE

A GROUP OF WOMEN FROM ALL WALKS OF LIFE GATHERED TO SEE THE

NEW JAY STRONGWATER COLLECTION.


Middle East customers are... appreciative of my love for our strong

colours, patterns and exuberant designs with myriad of intricate details.

My visit to Qatar can be described

as.... Fast and Fabulous

“I’m fascinated by the idea of taking everyday objects around us and turning them into jewels for the home,” he says. “Beauty

shouldn’t be tucked in a drawer.” Instead, he’s put it on display through his handcrafted creations. His background as a high-

fashion jewellery designer is evident in the details of each piece he creates. “The canvas is growing and at the end of the day we want

to make beautiful products that captivate everyone,” says this unpretentious designer. He tells GID a little more about his passion.

Design to me is ....

being able to bring our dreams to life.

What I loved most about the country?Meeting such warm,

wonderful people.

Inspiration comes from...

Taking a walk, through a park,

down a street, in a museum...

I believe

in.... Love


Colours enhance your mood. That’s why selecting the best paint colours when painting your favourite room is important. They have that intuitive power to improve the quality of life as well as make your space visually appealing. The colours that surround us influence our moods and perceptions in the most powerful way. They can either make us feel comfortable or disconnected. To create a sense of continuity and harmony throughout

your home, you need a good colour flow–a balanced colour scheme that seamlessly connects one space to the other.

Spring is all about making that fresh start. inspired by the elements of the bright season, Jotun has introduced six colours for a new spin on your interiors. They are fun and energetic with sophistication and refinement. The colour palette becomes bolder with lively and bright colours. The new collection is a

From fun textures to eclectic colour groupings, usher in this spring season by bringing in warmth and vibrancy with Jotun’s Spring Summer 2016 Collection.

Advertorial

Colours for the Season


Pretty in PinkUsed with metallic tones, like antique brass or bronze, this fun and fresh shade of pink is versatile and works very well in combination with the other colours in the range. You can add a pop of colour to a monochromatic set-up with this shade.

Sun-kissed Yellow Soft and subdued, yellow is often used in children’s rooms and kitchens to create a calm, quiet place to begin a new life or to start the morning. The colour looks best when merged with Grey or Green.

Sporty GreenA blend of balance and harmony, green used along with blues and neutral shades is reminiscent of the serenity of nature, whereas when used in combination with bold and dark colours like black and yellow, it creates the perfect sporty, outdoor feel.

Jurassic GreyIt is elegant and is a safe choice for stylish, contemporary interiors or a room with rural elegance.

Lounge effect Warm and elegant, the Lounge effect is a combination of different tones of green. The colour adds a lot of character and makes a room come alive.

So capture the change of the seasons and create a refreshing palette in your home with these statement colours from Jotun.

The Spring and Summer collection 2016 is available

across all Jotun stores in the region

tribute to spring season’s upbeat colours and combinations that exude positivity and happiness. Reminiscent of the crisp scent of the air, warm rays of sunshine and fresh blooms, this range energises the home and gives any space a much-needed spruce-up.

“There is a tendency in the time that we want to bring nature into our homes. Green hues have been in trend for a while, and now it’s the flowers that are of great inspiration–both in patterns or even just as bold colours”, says Lisbeth Larsen, Global Colour manager and Creative Director, Jotun. “The Spring/Summer collection 2016 is youthful and reflects the shades of the season. When combined

with colourful detailing and floral fabrics, they can perk up any mood. This will also appeal to those who believe ‘less is more’, because when the shades are combined with white tones or black, it gives a very elegant and sophisticated touch to the interiors,” added Larsen.

Jotun’s latest interior paint innovation “Fenomastic My Home Rich Matt” gives walls personality. It offers a rich colour experience, providing the most accurate colour match. Strong colours look soft, deep colours look rich; it is the perfect choice for creating beautiful homes and professional interior design projects. Rich matt finish is trending and is also a popular choice.


GID GLAMOUR

THE DESIGNER SPACESInterior designer Laura Marino and a Westbourne house designed by her.


THE

DESIGN

ALCHEMIST

INTERIOR DESIGNER LAURA MARINO IS ALWAYS PASSIONATE ABOUT THE CRAFT, BE IT DESIGNING FOR A LARGE CORPORATE OR FOR A QUAINT INTERIOR SPACE.

BY DENISE MARRAY.


GID GLAMOUR

Talking to the interior designer Laura Marino is a stimulant; this is because her love of all aspects of the craft of designing comes right from the heart and it's easy to gauge her excitement at the myriad possibilities of creating beautiful living spaces.

She's used to handling big, commercial projects in her capacity as co-founder and creative director of Alchemi Group.

What is endearing about Marino is that she can move from big projects to small and personal ones with the same enthusiasm. When she talks about her own home in Connecticut, USA, you get a feel for the kind of imaginative thought process that drives her vision.

"In my home I have used real hardwood floors running throughout in a custom stain. Then I mix a lot of natural stone and hand-glazed ceramics. I like authenticity in materials and hence use a lot of handcrafted materials," she said.

The Alchemi Group has been shortlisted in two categories for the 2016 International Design and Architecture Awards for Interior Design. Westbourne House, one of the award-winning projects, has a link to Qatar as well, with the Westbourne House being owned by Westbourne House Ltd, and Qatar First Bank as the primary investor.

She has an eclectic taste in furniture. "I love mixing eras and materials. You can build personality through the textures. I use a lot of vintage 70s and 80s furniture now and mix it with some mid-century modern. I use classical pieces as well- so that it is not all vintage collection from one particular era. Perhaps some Regency or Georgian furniture mixed with streamlined modern pieces."

She reveals that she has always been and remains a big fan of wallpaper.

"I know that wallpaper is having a moment now but I have never seen it as being 'out'. There are so many artisans doing hand-painted wallpapers. For natural fabrics, I like to use Phillip Jeffries. They have a wonderful range and I use a smaller supplier for wallpaper with textures. For printed, hand-blocked wallpaper I use a lot of Schumacher Wallpaper and Brunschwig & Fils. I look all over - I am always reading and researching - there are so many great manufacturers and designers."

It's especially interesting talking to Marino because she is happy to talk about the brands and suppliers she favours. She is not the type of person who talks in flowery generalities, leaving the listener drowned in a sea of adjectives. So, for example, when she talks about carpets or

“I love mixing eras and materials. You can build personality through

the textures. I use a lot of vintage 70s and 80s furniture now and mix it with some mid-century modern.”

LOVING EACH FRAMELaura Marino’s love for materials makes her look deep into detailing of each of the materials to make the best feature shine.


rugs she imparts useful information."For carpets and rugs I buy a lot of

Jan Kath from Front, London. They are expensive but absolutely stunning. Jan Kath started off doing a take on traditional Persian and Oriental carpets and then reinvented them in a modern way– and he called that line 'Erased Heritage'. I also use The Rug Company," she said.

In Alchemi's recently launched 55 Victoria Street project in London, Marino has used special ceramics and tiles. "I have used Zellige tiles from Morocco; beautiful, hand-cut terracotta glazed tiles in wonderful colours–really rich jewel tones as well as more neutral- based colours. There is such a fantastic range and the specialty about these particular tiles is that every single one is unique because they are hand cut and hand glazed. When you see a full wall of them it is not just one tone–there are variations of tone in whatever colour you are using. Also, the joints are much thinner so you have this wonderful irregular effect on the wall and it looks as though it has been there for centuries," she observed. At the moment, in addition to working on major development projects

in London, she is finding the time to work on her own home. She is focusing on her bathrooms right now and is finding joy in creating spaces that are a private oasis with a design flair and an element of surprise.

"I am using a silver Travertine limestone with more of a white background with grey and blue veining in it; I am mixing that with navy tiles. I am also using Arabescato and an Aurora marble which is all white mixed with a lilac marble. I'm really attracted to strong veining and colour; I think bathrooms are places where you can show a lot of personality."

As she put it: "I like to open the bathroom door and be surprised and look at it like a little jewel box."

Marino understands that, for many people, using an interior designer for the first time can be quite daunting. To take the pressure off the client she is going to take a flexible approach through her soon -to-be-launched Studio L in London.

This will be a separate design studio as a subsidiary to Alchemi offering a diverse range of work, from consultancy, private residential design, FF&E (furniture, fixtures and equipment) to styling.

THE LIVING ROOMSLaura spends a lot of time on bathroom design as she wants it to reflect a jewel box.

58 GLAM INTERIORS + DESIGNERIORS + DESIGN

GID GLAMOUR


LOUD AND

BOLD D E S I G N S C O M E H O M E

LONDON-BASED FASHION DESIGNER KATIE EARY LOVES FURNITURE ALMOST AS MUCH AS FASHION. THAT IMMEDIATELY MAKES HER

A GID FAVOURITE; WE LOVE DESIGNERS WHO DO NOT LIVE WITHIN CONFINED BOUNDARIES OF VOCATIONS AND ARE CONSTANTLY STRADDLING DIFFERENT SPHERES OF DESIGN. AND THEN KATIE

PARTNERED WITH IKEA, A DANISH DESIGN BRAND THAT WE LOVE FOR ITS SWEEPING

DESIGNS AND AFFORDABLE FORMATS. KATIE PARTNERS WITH IKEA TO CREATE GILTIG, A LIMITED-EDITION COLLECTION THAT IS ALL ABOUT LIVING LOUD. WITH THE LAUNCH OF GILTIG, IKEA ENTERS NEW TERRITORY. THE COLLECTION IS THE FIRST IN A SERIES OF

COLLABORATIONS WITH FASHION DESIGNERS–AND A WAY FOR IKEA TO EXPLORE NEW WAYS OF THINKING.


GID GLAMOUR

"We can learn a lot from how fashion designers work with colours, prints, patterns and shapes. They constantly have to re-invent themselves and what they do and are used to work in the forefront of pattern and colour development", says Henrik Most, Creative Leader, IKEA of Sweden.

As a menswear designer Katie always pushes the boundaries–exploring new ways of looking at men's wear using unique patterns and colour mixes –all made possible through digital printing. And now she has moved with her colourful craziness into our homes, an entirely unknown territory for her.

"I've learnt loads through working with IKEA–it's great to see my designs in a totally different context. There's so much you can do within home furnishing and so many boundaries to break still", she says.

We ask her what sets GILTIG apart

from other home collections and she says, "GILTIG is a print-based collection. The idea of creating something amazing on screen and knowing it's going to look the same when you put it on a product is very appealing to someone like me. Digital print is photo-real–2D-print is just so basic and boring. I want the colour to make the eyes hurt, that's what I always say." With the GILTIG collection she puts her loud and screaming patterns into a completely new context.

Since IKEA hadn't defined the GILTIG products beforehand, Katie grabbed her chance and went straight into the kitchen. From there she worked her way through the flat, and ended up with a collection that's based on a mad dinner party with fish that jump off the plates, bowls that look you in the eye and cups brimming with cats.

Just like with her menswear collections, her three younger brothers served as her muses–in this case supported by Johnny Depp in Fear and loathing in Las Vegas.

“I love dark literature, anything sort of desperate. There’s no point

pretending misery and poverty don’t exist.”

between. But after having seen it, I just had no idea what I could contribute with as far as art goes. I didn't want to be an add-on. I wanted to create my own waves. So, what to do?"

"When I applied for college it was a toss-up between design technology and fashion. I ended up doing contour design in Leicester, things like swimwear and underwear. But I found it too boring and unchallenging so I went to my course leader and said that I wanted

to do fashion instead. At the time no one wanted to do menswear, so he said that in that case I had to do that. And it turns out that I was pretty good at it."

Later, Katie did a Master’s at the Royal College of Art in London. Even before she left Uni, Katie was making noise. "People weren't doing what I did. I used fur and glitter, really feminine materials, but in a masculine way. It was new at the time, I suppose."

Whereas a London fashionista probably would describe her style as glamorous street wear, Katie herself describes her work as "in your face, with the saturation turned right up." Bold patterns, super-vivid colours and elegant silhouettes are her trademarks.

"I'm an image-maker and I like to create the full look. I create a world and fill in all the blanks with patterns." With GILTIG she sees her work in a completely different context for the first time. Being a print girl there was no question that this was going to be a print-based collection. And it's all digital.

"I want people to get excited and feel they just need to have everything, not out of necessity or for the function, but because it's so different and so cool. I'm so excited to bring a bit of vibrancy into people's homes. It's fantastic that I can contribute with that bit of personality."

"I find inspiration almost everywhere, especially in films and books. I love dark literature, anything sort of desperate. There's no point pretending misery and poverty don't exist."

Katie has firsthand experience when it comes to the latter, to an extent at least. "We were quite poor when I grew up and I always wanted what I couldn't have. Fashion is kind of unavailable, almost otherwordly, and for someone like me, who had nothing as a kid, it stood for something I wanted to be part of." To work with IKEA, or whatever inspiring collaboration is in the pipeline, is a lot about outreach– and in that sense linked to Katie's own childhood and youth. "I always think that collaboration is the best way to get my products out to many people to a reasonable cost. I don't choose to have my own prices set as high as they are, but there's no other way, really."

Another reason for Katie's career path is a life-changing experience at the 1995 Saatchi exhibition featuring Damien Hirst and Sarah Lucas. "It completely blew me away. It was a slap in the face, so provocative. You either hate an exhibition like that or you love it, there's no in-

“Fashion is kind of unavailable, almost

otherwordly, and for someone like me, who had

nothing as a kid, it stood for something I wanted to

be part of.”


The Imam Abdul Wahhab Mosque, or Qatar State Grand Mosque, was built with a fascinating mix of traditional Arabic and modern architecture with

sparkling half-moons, a minaret and large open outdoor space.

It has a very modern feel to it with crisp lines and also preserves some of the traditional Islamic architectural elements. The distinguishing feature of the mosque is the domed

roof. The sandstone facades, building height and ninety smaller domes mimic the building constraints which were present in the early years. The grand mosque is a

stunning example of architectural magnificence and landmark construction in Qatar.

A MASTERPIECE _OF MODERN

GRANDEUR

THE SPACE

Documents

Gid 10th issue