How Alchemy Design Studio Is Conquering The Egyptian Design Scene

The Design Show, an architecture, interior design, and fit-out exhibition, is scheduled to take place at the Cairo International Convention Center from May 23rd to May 25th. This event aims to showcase a comprehensive array of design innovations and connect professionals and enthusiasts within the industry. The exhibition is positioned as a significant gathering for the design sector in Egypt and the wider Middle East, offering a platform for exploring current trends and future directions in design. The event will host numerous exhibitors, including architects, interior designers, lighting specialists, furniture manufacturers, landscape designers, and workspace solution providers. Notable participants include Shira Group, Smart Wood, Novi Design & Furnishing, Herman Miller, Smart Furniture, and Duravit. The inclusive nature of the exhibition allows any relevant company to register and participate, fostering a broad representation of the industry. Support for The Design Show comes from prominent industry sponsors such as Asfour Crystal, Mohamed Talaat Architects, Nadim Industries, and Villeroy and Boch. Their involvement underscores the event's importance and its potential to contribute significantly to the enrichment and advancement of the Egyptian design sector. The presence of these key players helps solidify the exhibition's reputation as a vital industry occasion. In addition to the traditional trade fair components, The Design Show will feature "live design talks" accessible to all visitors throughout the exhibition dates. These sessions are designed to provide insights and foster discussions on various design topics. Furthermore, "panel discussions" will be held specifically for professionals from June 1st to June 3rd. These specialized sessions offer valuable networking opportunities and a forum for in-depth exchanges among industry experts. Attendees, whether seasoned professionals or design enthusiasts, can anticipate discovering groundbreaking products, gaining new perspectives, and staying informed about the latest design trends and developments. #TheDesignShow #DesignExhibition #EgyptianDesigners #InteriorDesign #Architecture #FurnitureDesign #CairoEvents #DesignTrends #Networking

The Nakhla Brand Store is a retail pavilion situated within the Grand Egyptian Museum, designed by Yasmina Makram. This project represents an expansion for Nakhla, a long-standing family-owned jeweler, establishing a presence in a prominent cultural location. The design for this 55 square meter space, completed in 2023, was undertaken by Yasmina Makram's architectural firm, with key contributions from Mohamed Nour and Samir Aiyad for concept and layout, and Hana Faltas for construction drawings. Nour El Refai provided the photography. The store's design brief focused on creating an inviting atmosphere that blends the brand's heritage with contemporary aesthetics. The material palette includes wood, steel, and stone, contributing to a sophisticated and enduring character. The lighting design, handled by Enlighten, plays a crucial role in highlighting the jewelry and creating a warm, engaging environment for customers. MEP design was managed by Hassan Allam, ensuring functional efficiency within the space. A distinctive element of the store is a headlight piece designed by Omar Chakili and a sculpture by Nathan Doss Artist, adding unique artistic touches. The interior layout was carefully planned to optimize the customer experience and showcase the jewelry effectively. This involved strategic placement of display cases, seating areas, and interaction points. The use of natural materials aims to create a connection to the brand's authentic craftsmanship and the cultural context of its location. The design team also focused on ensuring the retail space is both elegant and practical for daily operations. The project underscores a commitment to detailed interior design, integrating architectural elements with artistic installations to create a cohesive brand environment. The choice of materials and the collaborative effort of various designers and consultants reflect a comprehensive approach to retail space development. The store is located in Kafr Nassar, Egypt, aligning with its presence in a significant national museum. Overall, the Nakhla Brand Store exemplifies a harmonious blend of historical context, brand identity, and modern retail design principles. #RetailDesign #InteriorDesign #JewelryStore #MuseumsAndExhibit #CommercialArchitecture #YasminaMakram #EgyptArchitecture #BrandExperience #ModernDesign

The Middle East possesses a rich and diverse cultural heritage, which significantly influences its approach to interior design. This region's aesthetic often blends historical elements with modern design principles, creating a unique style distinct from other parts of the world. Many individuals aspire to transform their homes into works of art, incorporating varied color palettes, distinct furniture pieces, and designer rugs to achieve an artistic interior. This article highlights several prominent Arab interior designers who are actively shaping contemporary design with their innovative and unique visions. Rabeh Geha, a Lebanese interior designer and the principal of Rabeh Geha Architects, leads a team dedicated to crafting inspiring spaces across residential, retail, commercial, and recreational sectors. His design philosophy centers on capturing the inherent mood of a venue and translating it into his creations, resulting in a signature style that elevates each project to a work of art. Omar Abdelghafour, a Dubai-based interior designer, is the owner of Light Space Design, an award-winning firm offering comprehensive architecture, interior design, and planning services. Established in 2004, the company, which also maintains an office in China, has completed a wide array of projects, from small installations to large-scale cultural endeavors. Richard Yasmine, a Lebanese interior architect and product designer, is recognized for his simplistic yet bold designs and original concepts. His work aims to integrate the fresh perspectives of contemporary culture with traditional aspects, utilizing technology and methodology to produce perceptional spaces that are both unique and culturally resonant. Laila Al-Yousef, a senior interior designer, earned the Young Interior Designer of the Year award in 2014 at the age of 30. Based in the Middle East, she is celebrated for her well-balanced designs, which are characterized by exceptional creativity and a playful approach. Her expertise extends to creating office environments that foster positive atmospheres and enhance brand identity. Rania Hamed, an interior architect, is renowned for her inventive interiors and superior quality designs. She is also the founder of VSHD Design, a multi-award-winning boutique firm situated in Dubai. Hamed's design approach prioritizes timeless and enduring creativity over fleeting trends, ensuring her projects have lasting appeal. Helen El-Mettouri, an experienced business leader, operates her brand from Dubai, specializing in branding and interior design solutions. Her focus is on clients within the food and beverage, lifestyle, and hospitality sectors across the Middle East, offering intuitive and strategic design services. Mustafa Khamash, an architect, founded his Dubai-based firm in 2004. His designs are rooted in the interplay of air and water with the surrounding environment, incorporating his distinctive furniture designs. His overarching goal is to create designs that promote enhanced living experiences. Mona Hussein, an acclaimed designer, has significantly influenced numerous elegant interior projects in Egypt. She leads an ambitious team, encouraging them to stay abreast of the latest developments and to draw inspiration from intricate details. Her objective is to develop unique and impactful spaces for her clients, covering residential, commercial, hospitality, and architectural projects. Nihal Zaki is known for her bold design aesthetic, skillfully blending diverse styles with subtle execution. Her work has been showcased in Andrew Martin International Interior Design, a publication featuring top global interior designers. Zaki specializes in modern and contemporary interiors for both residential and commercial ventures. Nihal Leheta and Karim Hayawan, the talented Egyptian duo behind Design Point Egypt, effectively combine their distinct design philosophies despite their individual differences. Their style is characterized by a blend of vintage and classic elements infused with an artistic touch, creating cohesive interior and architectural projects. #ArabInteriorDesigners #MiddleEasternDesign #InteriorArchitecture #LuxuryInteriors #DesignInnovation #CommercialDesign #ResidentialDesign #ArchitecturalDesign #DesignTrends

House of Two, an interior design studio founded by Mai Elagizy and Sara Soliman, aims to challenge stereotypes and deliver high-quality design services. Both founders are interior designers and entrepreneurs who were friends since their university days where they studied interior design. They accumulated a decade of experience working together in two different companies in Dubai, handling projects across various international locations including the Gulf, the United Kingdom, and Azerbaijan. Identifying a market gap and significant growth potential within Egypt's real estate sector, Mai and Sara decided to bring their expertise back to their home country. They observed an issue with consistency in the Egyptian interior design market, noting that many companies initially perform well but eventually lose their quality. To address this, they established House of Two with a strong focus on maintaining quality and meticulous attention to detail. A common misconception the founders seek to dispel is that high-quality interior design is an unaffordable luxury. Through House of Two, they strive to offer excellent quality services at reasonable prices. While their work encompasses retail, hospitality, and food & beverage sectors across the region, their primary focus in Egypt is residential projects. They believe in the limitless potential of creativity to realize a client's vision, viewing creativity as a fundamental aspect of their approach. The designers also firmly believe that the aesthetic quality of one's surroundings significantly impacts mood and overall quality of life, particularly within the home. This perspective leads them to view their role as akin to therapists, guiding clients towards spaces that enhance their well-being. Despite their success, they have faced challenges, particularly being undermined due to their age and gender. They observe that, contrary to popular belief, the interior design industry is not exclusively female-dominated. They have learned to be assertive, demonstrating that youth does not equate to a lack of experience, and being a woman does not diminish their professional credibility; their extensive portfolio serves as proof. Mai and Sara's ambition is to expand House of Two into a comprehensive one-stop shop for all aspects of space development. This vision includes offering not just design services but also encompassing lighting, artwork, branding, and other client needs, eliminating the necessity for clients to consult multiple specialists. Their commitment is to cater to clients' specific requirements across various project types, whether residential, commercial, or hospitality, prioritizing client needs above all else, which they consider a hallmark of effective entrepreneurship. #InteriorDesign #EgyptianDesigners #Entrepreneurs #CreativeDesign #QualityDesign #ResidentialProjects #FemaleEntrepreneurs #DesignStudio #CairoDesign

Don Tanani, a new brand and design gallery, has emerged from a collaboration between Egyptian interior design firm Living in Interior and wood producers Ar-Co. This brand aims to offer a fresh perspective on contemporary furniture, interpreting Egyptian design and identity in a timeless manner. The inaugural collection, designed by Lina Al Orabi and titled Duality, features wooden furniture, including tables, consoles, and seating. These pieces are characterized by their curved lines and are crafted using traditional joinery and carving techniques rooted in ancient Egypt. The founders of Don Tanani, members of the Tanani family, express their intention to address a gap in the MENA region and Egyptian design market by elevating design made in Egypt and the Middle East. Their goal is to push the boundaries of Egyptian design and functional art, creating products that blur the line between utility and artistic expression. The brand plans to expand its collection through future collaborations with more Egyptian designers. The Duality collection, a result of a two-year development process, showcases a contemporary design approach deeply embedded in local traditional crafts. The collection draws inspiration from ancient Egyptian beliefs, where objects and art were considered living images, preserving likeness for future generations. The artisans of ancient Egypt imbued static materials with warmth, movement, and life through carving, effectively encapsulating moments in time. This historical reverence for craft is evident in Don Tanani's creations. The furniture pieces in the Duality collection feature sleek wooden forms with curved silhouettes and substantial volumes. Subtle patterns are integrated into the designs, adding a sense of lightness to the wooden structures. The collection skillfully combines natural woods with wood veneer techniques that mirror those employed in ancient Egypt. Furthermore, oxidized wood inlaid with camel bone is utilized to create compelling visual contrasts. This intricate detailing pays homage to ancient Egyptian craftsmanship, where similar inlay techniques were used with precious stones. Ultimately, the Duality collection endeavors to rekindle cultural memories and bridge centuries of craft and design with contemporary aesthetics. It represents the beginning of Don Tanani's journey to elevate Egyptian design and celebrate the creative talent within the region. The brand's commitment to both historical authenticity and modern interpretation positions it as a significant contributor to the evolving landscape of Egyptian design. #EgyptianDesign #FurnitureDesign #ContemporaryDesign #TraditionalCraftsmanship #LinaAlOrabi #DonTanani #InteriorDesign #Woodwork #CulturalHeritage

The 9th Cut, a concept steakhouse at Novotel, Al Barsha, Dubai, exemplifies a fusion of culinary artistry and immersive design, transforming dining into a theatrical experience. Designed by B3 Designers, the restaurant's narrative is conveyed through textures, materiality, light, and form, with Aujan Interiors executing the fit-out alongside YANU to ensure aesthetic and operational goals were met. The project highlights significant technical expertise, perseverance, and collaborative effort to bring a bold vision to life. One of the primary design challenges involved the service counters, particularly the central live cooking station. The initial intent was to use real stone materials to achieve a natural, raw, and tactile appearance. However, the weight and logistical complexities of sourcing and installing natural stone posed considerable limitations. Aujan Interiors' team, in collaboration with artisans, innovated a hand-carved decorative plaster finish. This technique successfully mimicked the richness of natural stone while being lightweight and durable, thereby becoming a defining textural element across all service counters and engineered for modern hospitality operations. Another iconic feature is the sculptural metal ceiling element above the live cooking station, designed to symbolise rising smoke from sizzling meats. This element was conceived as a symbolic and sculptural piece rather than a functional extractor. Achieving the smoky illusion proved technically intricate, with initial lighting simulations falling short. The solution emerged through collaboration with an Australian metal artist who employed advanced parametric modeling to create a curved metal panel with precision-cut perforations. When combined with a bespoke lighting system, this feature effectively simulates the ethereal movement of smoke, drawing the eye upward and anchoring the space. The engineering involved precise alignment of lighting, curvature, and perforations. Functionality and innovation are also evident in the custom tiltable wall panels. These interactive architectural elements were designed to tilt forward, revealing integrated lighting and enhancing light layering while maintaining a stone-like appearance. Aujan's team developed a proprietary mechanism for controlled tilting and applied a textured travertine paint finish to replicate the look and feel of stone without the weight. These panels dynamically play with depth, dimension, and light, showcasing a blend of design and engineering ingenuity. Attention to detail extends to the flooring, which incorporates inset panels with decorative features, and the sweeping curved ceiling that seamlessly conceals diffused lighting and MEP services. The ceiling's continuous flow demanded precise coordination between fit-out teams and engineers, integrating air conditioning diffusers, lighting fixtures, and structural framing. Lighting throughout the project was carefully chosen to accentuate material textures and frame spatial experiences, elevating its role beyond mere utility. Collaboration among Aujan Interiors, B3 Designers, YANU, and the client's team was central to the project's success. This synergy facilitated a solutions-driven approach to complex elements, with repeated mock-ups, material sampling, ergonomic testing, and design reviews ensuring a functional and beautiful outcome. YANU's expertise in back-of-house efficiency and customer flow was crucial for optimizing layouts and operational functionality. Value engineering focused on intelligent execution methods and alternative materials to maintain cost-efficiency without compromising the design vision. This involved redesigning lighting mounts, simplifying joinery, and refining fabrication techniques. Durability was a core principle, with choices such as solid timber joinery and high-performance finishes ensuring the space withstands the demands of a high-traffic hospitality environment while retaining its luxurious appeal. The 9th Cut stands as a testament to the achievements possible when design, craftsmanship, and execution are meticulously aligned, setting a new standard for immersive dining experiences. #RestaurantDesign #InteriorDesign #FitOutExecution #HospitalityDesign #CustomFabrication #MaterialInnovation #CollaborativeDesign #DubaiProjects

African design is increasingly gaining global recognition for its unique magnetism and rich heritage, shifting from a previously overlooked status on the international stage. This burgeoning movement is championed by a new generation of designers who are skillfully blending traditional African craftsmanship with contemporary aesthetics, bringing a fresh perspective to furniture, textiles, and art. Among these prominent figures is Chrissa Amuah, founder of Amwa Designs, a London-based studio that creates textiles, furniture, and art inspired by Ghanaian sensibilities. Her 'Asanka' table, for instance, incorporates a jesmonite interpretation of a traditional West African grinding bowl under a glass top, with its wooden base drawing from the Ghanaian Adinkra symbol Adinkrahene, representing authority and leadership. Amuah's designs often feature vibrant color combinations and off-center silhouettes, embodying a balance of strength and vulnerability. Another notable presence is Altin Studio, founded by Mehdi Kebaier and Yasmine Sfar in Tunisia. This studio celebrates local design by utilizing native materials like sea rush, clay, and palm wood. They reinterpret age-old techniques through a contemporary lens, evident in pieces like the 'Ganymede' cabinet, which contrasts woven sea-rush panels with earth-red metal, referencing satellite patterns. Their 'Petite Ourse' seat, hand-carved from palm wood, also draws inspiration from celestial themes, alluding to the 'Little Bear' constellation. From Lagos, Nigerian designer Nifemi Marcus-Bello leads Nmbello Studio with an ethos rooted in empathy and respect for people and places. His work, developed over the past decade, has garnered several awards, including the Hublot Design Prize and the Curator’s Choice: Design for Good Award. His 'Oríkì' series, particularly 'Act 1: Friction Ridge', explores materiality and form through bronze sculptural benches, named after the Yoruba practice of praise poetry, and launched with an immersive installation featuring a soundscape of his mother reciting his personalized oríkì. In Johannesburg, Thabisa Mjo, the creative force behind Mash.T Studio, produces furniture, lighting, and homeware that celebrate South Africa's diverse cultural tapestry. Collaborating with artisan communities, she incorporates materials such as colored beadwork and repurposed telecommunication wire, traditionally used by Zulu watchmen, into pieces like her 'Bright Light' pendant and '4Kona Light'. Her recent lighting collections honor Xhosa customs and circular architectural forms found in rural areas, employing vibrant palettes that signify abundance and festivity, thereby promoting local crafts globally. Rich Mnisi, a Johannesburg-born designer, initially made his mark in fashion before venturing into collectible furniture. His work bridges the gap between function and art, drawing inspiration from the women in his life, queerness, and heritage. Pieces like the 'Nwa-Mulamula' chaise, displayed at Southern Guild’s ‘Mother Tongues’ exhibition, reflect the reclining body of his great-grandmother, showcasing a striking fluidity and organic elegance. His new work, ‘Vutlhari (Wisdom)’, a light crafted from bronze and resin, also features sweeping silhouettes. Zimbabwean artist Xanthe Somers draws on her homeland's customs for her hand-built ceramic sculptures, often functional as lighting and vases. Her 'In Bad Taste' collection challenges the political aspects of design, critiquing Western overconsumption and the impact of eco-racist practices on the global South. Her work, displayed in prestigious venues like London’s V&A; Museum, features vivacious colors, exaggerated silhouettes, and thought-provoking narratives. Don Tanani, a contemporary Egyptian brand, aims to redefine Egyptian design and showcase local talent. Collaborating with designers like Lina Alorabi, whose work has been exhibited internationally, the brand focuses on reclaiming Egyptian identity through sophisticated pieces. Alorabi’s 'Moruna' collection features a conversation chair, a curvaceous sun lounger, and coffee tables with tile patterns, reflecting the dynamism of Cairo and collaboration with craft experts. Finally, South African ceramicist Chuma Maweni began his journey crafting vessels using a pit-firing technique intrinsic to the Nguni people, developing a distinctive aesthetic of dark, porous surfaces and hand-formed sculptural outlines. After opening his Cape Town studio in 2016, his work, including the 'Imbizo' dining table and stools, has been exhibited globally and acquired by institutions like the Metropolitan Museum of Art, continually celebrating traditional craft through a fresh, contemporary lens. #AfricanDesign #Craftsmanship #ContemporaryDesign #FurnitureDesign #TextileDesign #CeramicArt #CulturalHeritage #EmergingDesigners #GlobalDesign

The article explores the collaboration between designers Stephen Burks and Malika Leiper of Stephen Burks Man Made, and the Italian wood veneer company Alpi, to translate the intricate patterns of Kuba cloth into a contemporary design product. Kuba cloth, a raffia textile handcrafted by the Kuba people of the Democratic Republic of Congo, originated in the 17th century and served as a significant status symbol among the ruling class. While it was once thought that the tradition of Kuba cloth declined after the kingdom's fall due to internal rebellions and colonization, Burks and Leiper discovered during a visit to Kinshasa that this ancient art form is, in fact, thriving among a new generation of artists and makers in villages. Burks clarifies that the perception of Kuba cloth as a 'dying artform' is a Western misconception, often influenced by the commodification of 'prestige cloths.' His and Leiper's practice, Stephen Burks Man Made, is dedicated to demonstrating the current vitality of Kuba art, emphasizing that for Kuba to have a future, it must have a present. Their efforts include producing a documentary, curating an exhibition in Japan, and designing the scenography for an upcoming show at the Mint Museum in Charlotte, North Carolina, all centered on their research into Kuba cloth. A pivotal project in their endeavor is the collaboration with Alpi, a company established in 1919 and renowned for its designer collaborations with figures such as Ettore Sottsass, Alessandro Mendini, Konstantin Grcic, Patricia Urquiola, and Ron Arad. Alpi's president, Vittorio Alpi, expresses a passion for experimentation and invites designers to create unique pieces that push the boundaries of industrial production, granting three-dimensionality to Alpi surfaces. At Design Miami 2025, Burks and Leiper unveiled their collection of sculptural furnishings, titled 'Lost Cloth Object,' which translates the geometric patterns of traditional Kuba textiles. This collection, presented as part of the fair’s 2.0 section curated by Glenn Adamson, serves as a conceptual starting point for a commercial veneer that will be developed with Alpi. Burks highlights that their practice consistently investigates the intersection of craft, community, and industry. The design process involved creating a Kuba-inspired motif using thousands of laser-thin sheets of FSC-certified poplar veneer, a technique that embodies both repetition and variation, mirroring the inherent qualities of Kuba cloth. Leiper explains that each motif in Kuba cloth carries social meaning, indicating the maker or wearer, and often mimics natural shapes, acting as a language in itself. The use of variegated veneers from Alpi’s Legacy Collection adds another layer of significance, as these veneers replicate the appearance of endangered wood species like ebony, teak, rosewood, and zebrawood, without contributing to deforestation. Vittorio Alpi notes that this collection allows for the reproduction of rare woods sustainably. The 'Lost Cloth Object' collection features a curved platform, round stools, and a circular partition with integrated shelving, designed to evoke both Alpi’s postmodern collaborative tradition and the sacred, ceremonial contexts in which Kuba cloth is traditionally used. While the specific sculptural objects will not be mass-produced, the 'Lost Cloth Object' pattern is intended for further development as a commercial veneer. Burks concludes that the project honors the traditions of the Kuba Kingdom by combining African patterns with natural wood in a sculptural, modern application, connecting to Alpi's legacy of surface design. #AfricanTextile #KubaCloth #StephenBurksManMade #Alpi #DesignCollaboration #VeneerDesign #Craftsmanship #DesignMiami #CulturalPreservation

The article delves into the creative journey of Abdallah Alayan, a Tāmaki Makaurau-based architect, and his collaboration with GH Commercial to explore the capabilities of their new Designer Jet technology. Alayan, known for his innovative approach to craft and creativity, was initially recognized for his profound master's thesis project at the University of Auckland School of Architecture and Planning. His thesis, titled 'Faith in Fiordland,' proposed architectural interventions along a pilgrimage route from Te Anau to Milford Sound, aiming to foster spiritual engagement in an increasingly secular society. The project focused on architecture's potential to evoke poetry and heighten spirituality within the natural landscape by spatially abstracting common practices from various faiths, creating inclusive interventions that unified religious and non-religious individuals through a shared connection to nature's spiritual weight. This work earned him the 2019 Te Kāhui Whaihanga New Zealand Institute of Architects Resene Student Design Award for its clarity, sensitivity, inclusivity, and optimism. Five years later, Alayan embarked on a personal pilgrimage through the Middle East and Mediterranean, visiting remote Greek monasteries. During this journey, the Monastery of Varlaam, perched above Kastraki village in Thessaly, particularly captivated him. He was struck by the visual tapestry formed by the lush greenery, terracotta roofs, and muted rock formations. This experience later influenced his design work. Currently, as an associate at Monk Mackenzie, a multidisciplinary architecture practice, Alayan engages in both commercial and residential projects, exercising a high degree of creativity and craftsmanship. His involvement extends to bespoke furniture and product design, broadening his expertise beyond traditional architecture. Additionally, he runs his eponymous practice, founded in 2019, specializing in boutique architectural and spatial concepts. When GH Commercial introduced its Designer Jet technology to the Australasian market, they presented Alayan with an open-ended brief. This custom carpet technology allows for endless color and bespoke design possibilities, enabling the transfer of patterns, drawings, or images onto carpets with precision engineering. Alayan's objective was to showcase the technology's vast potential while honoring the traditions of tapestry and printing. He identified directionality as a common thread between tapestry, which generates complex images through sequential linear knotting, and digital printing, which applies color directionally. This insight led him to develop a design featuring fine horizontal lines, abstracting traditional processes. To inform the color scheme, Alayan chose to manipulate a photograph from his trip, specifically the image captured at the Monastery of Varlaam, which depicted both architectural and natural elements. This choice resonated with the tradition of incorporating natural and architectural motifs in carpet designs across various cultures, adding another layer to his design's inspiration. Through digital manipulation—selectively expanding and contracting image portions and adjusting color saturation—he achieved his desired outcome. The design features a composition of lines that subtly fade inwards, in both color and visibility, towards a central point where the original image is almost discernible, yet remains open to interpretation. This effect then blurs and fades outwards again, referencing how individual threads or lines in tapestry and printing converge to form larger images. The final custom carpet, a six-meter-long piece, was produced using the cut pile option, which Alayan found best demonstrated the Designer Jet technology's capability to print thousands of colors with impressive precision, creating unexpected color bleeds that added depth. The end result was a striking, vibrant, and evocative piece of art, showcasing the technology's advanced capabilities with minimal pixelation, proving how far this technology can push creative boundaries. The Designer Jet Carpets boast several key features: an ACCS Rating 4 Star for Contract Extra Heavy Duty performance; texture options including cut pile (17oz for standard feel, 26oz for superior comfort) and loop pile (22oz and 24oz for distinctive texture); and size options like rolls (1.96m wide), carpet tiles (500mm x 500mm), or planks (250mm x 1000mm) for flexible installation. From a sustainability perspective, the carpets are Declare Red List Free, Green Building Council compliant, hold Environmental Certification Level 4 (maximum level), and are ISO 9001, ISO 14001, and ISO 45001 certified, as well as PVC, BPA, and Phthalate Free. They also offer fast and cost-effective production in an Australian factory, with no design fees, smaller minimum orders, and flexible pricing. #AbdallahAlayan #DesignerJetTechnology #CustomCarpet #ArchitecturalDesign #TextileInnovation #MonasteryOfVarlaam #AbstractArt #SustainableDesign #InteriorProducts

The article explores the evolving landscape of furniture shopping in Egypt, highlighting the shift from traditional showrooms to a digital marketplace. It introduces several prominent online furniture platforms, each offering unique features and catering to diverse design preferences and budgets. This digital transformation allows consumers to furnish their homes with ease and convenience, accessing a wide array of styles from minimalist Scandinavian designs to opulent Egyptian craftsmanship. Efreshlii is presented as a comprehensive solution for interior design, offering curated services, ready-made mood boards, and furniture sets tailored to individual styles. The platform simplifies the design process, enabling users to shop for entire room looks. Ariika specializes in comfortable and stylish indoor/outdoor furniture, including bean bags and pool loungers, with a focus on bold colors, textures, and modular designs, ideal for creating ergonomic and visually appealing home office spaces or general living areas. Belong emphasizes customization, allowing customers to personalize furniture dimensions, fabrics, and finishes to match their specific visions, thus fostering a creative approach to interior design. IKEA Egypt, a globally recognized brand, provides its signature flat-pack furniture and intelligent designs, with a localized approach that includes delivery-friendly pricing and products relevant to the Egyptian market, suitable for various living spaces from first apartments to family villas. Mobica, initially known for office furniture, has successfully expanded into the residential sector, offering high-quality, durable, and sophisticated pieces characterized by clean lines and professional finishes. Chic Homz caters to those seeking a luxurious aesthetic, providing collections that combine timeless elegance with plush comfort, transforming homes into stylish sanctuaries with items like velvet ottomans and sleek console tables. Manzzeli addresses the need for affordable yet trendy furniture, offering a broad selection of sofas, beds, and dining tables. The platform is noted for its commitment to quality and its continuous updating of collections to align with the latest design trends, making it an ideal choice for budget-conscious consumers who still desire a fashionable living space. The article concludes by emphasizing the accessibility and innovation within Egypt’s online furniture scene, asserting that the dream home is now just a few clicks away, encouraging readers to embrace the convenience of online shopping for their furniture needs. #OnlineFurniture #EgyptShopping #HomeDecor #InteriorDesign #FurnitureShopping #EgyptianBrands #Efreshlii #IKEAEgypt

This article features an interview with designer Omar Chakil, who has dedicated nearly a decade to reintroducing Egyptian alabaster onyx into contemporary design. Chakil, a French Egyptian Lebanese artist, describes himself as a self-taught natural aesthete driven to bridge cultural divides through his work. He is recognized for introducing the concept of collectible design to Egypt, with his pieces exhibited globally in Dubai, Brussels, New York, St Moritz, Venice, Athens, Cairo, and Paris. The interview delves into Chakil's unconventional entry into design, his affinity for indigenous materials and craftsmanship, his approach to overcoming design limitations, and his philosophy on uniting people through embracing individual uniqueness. Chakil’s journey into design began unexpectedly, influenced by his architect mother. Initially a singer, he found himself redesigning his studio in Paris, which led to decorating gigs despite lacking formal design education. A pivotal moment occurred when he was forced to return to Egypt, halting his singing career and prompting him to focus on product design. This redirection led him to explore traditional Egyptian crafts, eventually discovering the potential of alabaster, a material he initially disliked due to its common, unappealing market appearance. A friend, knowledgeable in history, convinced him of alabaster's significance, highlighting its endemic nature to Egypt and its historical use by pharaohs who valued its translucence as a symbolic gateway to the afterlife. His creative process is characterized by meticulous research and a focus on creating enduring, high-quality pieces rather than mass-produced items. Chakil emphasizes the importance of each object, intending for them to be cherished across generations, thereby fostering a deeper appreciation for the object’s story and the craftsmanship involved. Working with alabaster presents unique challenges; it is a hard stone but scratches easily, exhibits varying veining, and its quarries are largely inaccessible in Upper Egypt. These limitations necessitate building personal networks for sourcing and transportation, directly influencing his designs and pushing him to adapt to circumstantial constraints. He values collaboration with skilled craftspeople, believing that their expertise is essential for realizing his visions. Chakil discusses his unintentional but significant role in bringing collectible design to Egypt. His first collection, exhibited at the Beirut Art Fair in 2017, surprised many who couldn't believe the pieces were made from Egyptian alabaster, showcasing his ability to transform traditional materials into contemporary art. He aims to elevate Egyptian craft globally, drawing parallels with French and Italian design traditions that gained recognition through international exposure. Currently, Chakil is reinterpreting ancient Egyptian iconography, such as canopic jars, transforming their historical purpose of preserving organs for the afterlife into containers for hopes, wishes, and dreams. His recent exhibition at PAD Paris 2025 with Galerie Gastou further explores ancient Egyptian themes. Collaborating with Victor Gastou, Chakil was encouraged to use his unique design language to reference Egyptian history, particularly its impact on French culture. This exhibition marks his first venture into incorporating different types of marble alongside alabaster, as seen in pieces like the “Resurrection Table.” This scarab-shaped table combines Egyptian alabaster, Italian bianco, and Iranian onyx, symbolizing rebirth and humanity's shared connection to foundational civilizations, with an inscription that reads: “Like the scarab, guide me towards the light.” Chakil continues to seek new directions in his work, exploring other materials while maintaining his commitment to telling meaningful stories through endemic, local resources, with an upcoming show in We Design Beirut featuring no alabaster at all. #OmarChakil #EgyptianAlabaster #CollectibleDesign #ProductDesign #InteriorDesign #Craftsmanship #CulturalBridge #AncientEgypt #ModernDesign

The article outlines ten prominent interior design trends for homes in Egypt, drawing inspiration from the country's rich cultural heritage and dedicated craftsmanship. Kenda Interiors by NADIM, an established design company, provides insights into these trends, which range from contemporary geometric patterns to traditional Egyptian artistic techniques. The first trend emphasizes bold geometric patterns, lines, and slices. These can be incorporated in various ways to suit individual tastes, adding sophistication, visual harmony, and rhythm to interiors. Kenda Interiors' "Pyramidion" collection exemplifies this by using geometric shapes inspired by ancient obelisks and the gold-covered uppermost parts of pyramids to evoke opulence and modernity. The company suggests pairing these patterns with bold colors to create focal points within a room. The second trend highlights comfort and functionality, stressing the importance of making a home livable and customized to personal needs. Kenda Interiors prioritizes creating spaces that are both aesthetically pleasing and serve as an escape from daily stresses. An example is their "Tetris" room, which features comfortable seating and convenient amenities like charging stations. The advice given is to select items that are personally appealing and to consider bespoke pieces for a unique touch. Sleek and modern high-gloss finishes represent the third trend, which aims to elevate interiors with a luxurious appearance. This material can be applied to walls, furniture, and surfaces to draw attention. Kenda’s “Illusion” dining table, with its ocean-like high-gloss finish paired with walnut burl wood, is presented as an example of this trend. Elegant gold leaf is the fourth trend, connecting contemporary design to Egypt’s historical association with gold. This allows for the incorporation of a sense of history, rarity, and purity into homes. Kenda demonstrates how to integrate gold elements tastefully by combining them with glossy black materials and paintings that feature gold leaf accents. Traditional carving techniques constitute the fifth trend, promoting the preservation of Egypt’s artistic legacy within modern home designs. Intricate carvings and traditional ornaments can add a refined artistic touch. Kenda Interiors merges ancient crafts with modern designs, such as their replica carving of a Fatimid horse panel on a statement side lamp. The sixth trend focuses on stunning artwork that personalizes a home and reflects the inhabitants' identity and aesthetic. Art is seen as a means to introduce color, life, and narrative into a space. Kenda showrooms collaborate with Samah Art Gallery to offer curated artworks that either complement or become central pieces in any room. Varied lighting, including glass chandeliers, salt lamps, and candles, is the seventh trend. Lighting is crucial for setting the ambiance and mood of a room. Kenda Interiors suggests incorporating Egyptian motifs and creating tailored spaces with thoughtful lighting choices, using custom chandeliers, warm salt lamps from Oasis Salt Lamps, and aromatic candles from Candle Connection. The recommendation is to plan lighting early in the design process, considering the room’s function and desired atmosphere. Handmade ceramics are the eighth trend, celebrating Egypt’s skilled artisans. Historically functional, these pieces now bring cultural heritage into modern homes. Kenda Interiors collaborates with Runk Ceramics to produce unique, handmade tiles, such as those used in their “Luster” dining room set, showcasing the beauty of expressive and iridescent ceramics. Unique handmade textiles and decorations form the ninth trend. Textiles like pillows and throws are used to personalize spaces, adding color, texture, and detail. Kenda Interiors highlights the importance of supporting local artisans, featuring "Nebu" pillows that combine kheyameya applique with eclectic designs. The design tip suggests using an odd number of pillows for an artful arrangement and experimenting with different colors, textures, and shapes. Finally, beautifully crafted kilim and rugs represent the tenth trend. These patterned and colorful rugs, while a trend that emerged some years ago, continue to be popular, complementing minimal furnishings and serving as a simple way to incorporate ancient Egyptian motifs symbolizing fertility and familial protection. These trends are available for viewing at Kenda Interiors showrooms located in Concord Plaza, Mall of Egypt, and Dandy Mall, and further information can be found on their website and social media platforms. #InteriorDesign #EgyptianCraftsmanship #HomeDecor #GeometricPatterns #GoldLeaf #TraditionalCarving #ArtInDesign #LightingDesign #HandmadeCeramics #TextileDesign #KilimRugs #KendaInteriors

The Immobilia apartments in Cairo offer a unique and immersive experience for travelers seeking an alternative to conventional luxury hotels. Located in the bustling center of Cairo, near Tahrir Square and the Egyptian Museum, the Immobilia building is a historic Art Deco skyscraper, once the tallest in the Middle East and Africa. Constructed between 1938 and 1940 by industrialist Ahmed Abboud Pasha and designed by Max Edrei and Gaston Rossi, the building was a pioneer in modern Egyptian architecture, attracting Cairo's elite with its elegant design and views of the Nile. Today, the building houses four recently renovated apartments, part of the Egypt Beyond portfolio, offering a stay that blends historical charm with contemporary comfort. The apartments, overseen by Ali, a former butler to the American ambassador, provide a distinct Cairene experience. Upon arrival, the building's exterior and dimly lit lobby, flanked by various small businesses, offer little hint of the luxurious and serene spaces within. However, stepping into apartments like "Leila’s Apartment" reveals a hidden sanctuary, a peaceful retreat above the city's din. These spaces are meticulously restored and decorated by lawyer and hotelier Florian Amereller, with contributions from designer Zeina Aboukheir. The interiors honor the building's original Art Deco style while incorporating a mix of antiques, objets d’art, and custom-sourced furniture, reflecting a romanticized vision of the past. The process of furnishing these apartments involved an extensive treasure hunt for unique pieces, utilizing Cairo's network of antique dealers. Leila’s Apartment, named after Egypt's famed singer and actor Leila Mourad, features three bedrooms and multiple living areas with high ceilings, parquet floors, and marble tiles. A light-filled winter garden, complete with a chequered terrazzo floor and a vintage steamer trunk repurposed as a cocktail cabinet, serves as an ideal spot for relaxation and work. A sunny terrace adorned with cacti and desert roses offers an inviting space for evening drinks. The dining areas are furnished with mid-century chairs upholstered in periwinkle moiré silk around a white marble table. The walls display original etchings of Ancient Egyptian heritage sites and works by contemporary Egyptian artists. The guest bedroom includes a 19th-century silver bed from the Royal Abdeen Palace, complemented by ceramic lamps and antique crystal chandeliers. Rich colors are introduced through carpets sourced from Istanbul bazaars and suzanis from Madu, a homeware store in Cairo’s Zamalek neighborhood. The bathrooms are retrofitted to reflect the original mood while incorporating modern amenities, including robust water pressure. Ultra-soft bathrobes from Cairo-based brand Malaika, made from brushed cotton, and hand-embroidered bedding by artisans from Threads of Hope, Malaika's social enterprise, enhance the luxurious experience. Each of the four apartments possesses its own unique personality, unified by a common thread of thoughtful design and comfort. Guests benefit from personalized services, including daily housekeeping, laundry, and the option to arrange for private chefs. Each apartment also comes with a car and chauffeur, facilitating stress-free exploration of Cairo's galleries, bazaars, and cultural sites. Immobilia also provides curated guides with recommendations from local tastemakers, covering everything from neighborhood pizzerias to lesser-known museums and antique dealers. Egypt Beyond plans to expand its offerings within the Immobilia building, with intentions to add more apartments and an Immobilia House, a clubhouse for guests. The Immobilia apartments are tailored for the design-driven traveler seeking an authentic and intimate experience of Cairo, allowing guests to immerse themselves in the city's pulse and live like an inhabitant. This unique hospitality concept offers a hidden sanctuary within the intoxicating city, providing a memorable stay that goes beyond typical tourist accommodations and fosters a deep connection to Cairo’s vibrant culture and history. #CairoTravel #ArtDecoArchitecture #HistoricHotel #LuxuryApartments #EgyptBeyond #InteriorDesign #ArchitecturalRenovation #BoutiqueHotel #CulturalImmersion

The interior design landscape in Egypt has undergone significant evolution, embracing modern trends while meticulously preserving the nation’s rich cultural heritage. This transformation is characterized by the integration of global aesthetics with distinct Egyptian colors, textures, and traditional elements, marking a new era in contemporary interior design. Many interior design companies in Egypt are adept at merging functional contemporary design with cultural nuances, effectively blending traditional Egyptian elements with international styles. This approach is further reinforced by collaborations between construction companies and interior designers, resulting in spaces that are both culturally relevant and visually appealing, incorporating both modern and modern classic interior design principles. There is a growing demand in Egypt for spaces that seamlessly integrate modern and cultural elements, driven by increasing urban development. Clients are seeking not only functional structures but also environments that reflect their local heritage while offering the conveniences and aesthetic appeal of contemporary design. Leading construction companies in Egypt are responding to this demand by collaborating closely with interior designers to ensure architectural designs align with the envisioned interior aesthetics. Modern interior design in Egypt is distinguished by clean lines, open spaces, and minimalist details, often enhanced by unique local elements. This harmonious blend of local and global styles is a hallmark of these memorable spaces. Several key trends define modern interior design in Egypt. The fusion of natural materials and textures is prominent, with designers incorporating wood, stone, and metal, alongside materials that evoke the Egyptian landscape, such as stone textures inspired by the desert or the Nile. Egyptian patterns, including geometric designs from Islamic art and Pharaonic motifs, are strategically integrated into decor elements like tile designs and wall murals, adding a sense of cultural continuity. Modern classic interior design, which combines timeless elegance with modern functionality, is also popular. This style often features arches and grand staircases alongside minimalist layouts. The design approach prioritizes open spaces and natural light, utilizing large windows and skylights, particularly in coastal areas, to connect indoor environments with outdoor views. Sustainability is another crucial trend, with Egyptian designers adopting eco-friendly materials and energy-efficient practices, including the use of local resources, energy-efficient lighting, and sustainable furniture. Construction companies are increasingly prioritizing green building practices in alignment with interior designers to ensure project longevity and environmental responsibility. The successful integration of interior design is often achieved through close collaboration with construction companies from the initial stages of a project. This partnership ensures that all elements, from building layout to window placement, align with the intended design aesthetic, a critical factor in high-end residential and commercial developments. Egyptian interior designers adeptly adapt global trends, such as Scandinavian minimalism and industrial design, by infusing them with warmth and personalization to suit local climate and cultural preferences. For instance, industrial design elements like exposed steel and concrete are often softened with warmer tones and textures. Modern interior design in Egypt extends beyond aesthetics, enhancing the quality of life by creating spaces that foster comfort, productivity, and a connection to local culture. By blending global trends with indigenous culture, Egyptian interior design firms are establishing high standards for modern living, catering to the strong demand for contemporary design with an Egyptian flair in both commercial and residential projects. #ModernInteriorDesign #EgyptianCulture #GlobalAesthetics #CulturalHeritage #SustainableDesign #NaturalMaterials #GeometricPatterns #OpenSpaces #ModernClassicInteriorDesign

The United States is recognized globally for its diverse and innovative architectural landscape, featuring everything from towering skyscrapers to avant-garde community spaces. This rich environment is shaped by numerous architecture and design firms that continuously push the boundaries of design. This article highlights 15 leading firms across the USA, each contributing significantly to modern architecture through their unique philosophies, approaches, and iconic projects. Skidmore, Owings & Merrill (SOM), based in Chicago, is a multidisciplinary firm established in 1936, known for seamlessly integrating architecture and structural engineering. Their collaborative approach focuses on creating sustainable and iconic buildings with a commitment to achieving zero carbon emissions. Olson Kundig, founded in Seattle in 1966, emphasizes designing for human experience and balancing rational and intuitive thinking in projects ranging from museums to residential spaces, with a strong focus on sustainability. Perkins & Will, established in 1935, is a global design practice dedicated to creating harmonious spaces that integrate humanity and nature. They are recognized for high-performance and sustainable architecture, driven by creativity, research, and technology. Gensler, headquartered in San Francisco and founded in 1965, is one of the world's largest architecture and design firms. They specialize in diverse projects, including commercial offices, retail centers, and urban complexes, aiming to enhance human experiences through well-being and inclusivity. Steven Holl Architects, with offices in New York and Beijing, is celebrated for its innovative blending of architecture, emotion, and urban design. The firm's projects are characterized by dynamic forms, masterful use of light, and contextual sensitivity. Kohn Pedersen Fox Associates (KPF), established in 1976, is a preeminent global firm known for architecture, interiors, and master planning, with a strong emphasis on contextual sensitivity. HOK, founded in 1955 in St. Louis, combines art and science to address design challenges, focusing on creative expression and sustainable building optimization across three continents. ZGF Architects LLP, based in Portland, Oregon, and founded in 1942, is a pioneer in sustainable and regenerative design. Their work emphasizes the relationship between buildings, people, and the environment. Gehry Partners LLP, a Los Angeles-based firm founded by Frank Gehry in 1962, is renowned for its extensive experience in design and construction, with Frank Gehry directly involved in each project, fostering deep client collaboration. Weiss/Manfredi, a New York-based multidisciplinary practice founded in 1989, integrates architecture, landscape, art, and infrastructure, recognized for bold, iconic forms and clear design vision. Rockwell Group, an interdisciplinary firm with offices in New York, Los Angeles, and Madrid, specializes in creating extraordinary experiences across hospitality, culture, healthcare, and residential sectors, driven by curiosity and innovation. Feldman Architecture, a San Francisco-based studio established in 2003, focuses on creating soulful and site-sensitive residential and commercial architecture that harmonizes with natural contexts, emphasizing modern aesthetics and problem-solving. Perkins Eastman, a global firm founded in 1981 in New York City, aims to positively impact human lives and the built environment through sustainable and resilient designs, supported by extensive research and innovation. Sasaki, founded in 1953 by landscape architect Hideo Sasaki, is an international firm with offices in Boston, Denver, and Shanghai. It specializes in interdisciplinary design, integrating people, buildings, land, and context. SHoP Architects, established in 1996 in New York City, operates across five continents, offering architectural services for large-scale master plans, residential, and commercial structures. Their design philosophy, "Our Work is in the Future," anticipates and designs for future architectural trends. #ArchitectureFirms #DesignFirms #USArchitecture #ModernArchitecture #SustainableDesign #ArchitecturalInnovation #UrbanPlanning #ContemporaryArchitecture #ArchitecturalGiants

The interior design world is currently embracing a unique and whimsical trend: hidden doorways. This design element, once associated with haunted houses, is being recontextualized as a sophisticated feature that offers both aesthetic appeal and practical benefits. Unlike traditional design approaches that emphasize bold statements through dopamine decor, color-drenched spaces, or intricate patterns, hidden doorways introduce an element of surprise and privacy, allowing homeowners to create a sense of intrigue and functionality within their living spaces. Clara Jung, principal of Banner Day Interiors, highlights the fantastical aspect of hidden doorways, emphasizing the universal appeal of whimsy and surprise in design. She notes that this trend allows designers to channel fun and unexpected joy into a home. Jenn Feldman, a Los Angeles designer, echoes this sentiment, referring to hidden doors as a 'wink in the room.' Beyond their playful nature, Feldman underscores the practical advantages, particularly in terms of privacy and maintaining visual flow in a home. In an era where personalization is a key design trend, these secret passages enable homeowners to achieve an efficient living environment without compromising on beauty. They are especially useful for concealing utilitarian spaces or storage areas that might otherwise detract from a room's overall aesthetic. Feldman implemented this trend in her own dining room to address a lack of symmetry and a significant need for closed storage. To preserve the room's formal and regal ambiance, she opted for a custom jib door, which is flush-mounted into the wall to create a seamless, barely-there appearance. While custom jib doors offer a tailored look, readily available bookcase doors can be purchased from retailers like Wayfair and Home Depot, providing accessible options for those looking to integrate this trend into their homes. Jung also utilized a hidden library door in a client's living room, transforming a previously unused open space into a functional and magical listening room tailored to the clients' audiophile interests. This secret room was designed with psychedelic wallpaper, captivating art, and a dedicated seating area, creating a 'jewel-box moment' within the property. Regardless of the specific use, the element of surprise is paramount to the success of a hidden doorway. Jung advises strategic placement in discreet areas that align with both function and design. For instance, a hidden bookcase in a hallway or a cabinet door leading to a secondary butler's pantry are ideal locations, as placing a hidden door where a conventional door would typically be expected diminishes its novelty. Additionally, practical considerations such as measurements and the door's inswing are crucial. Since most hidden doors swing inward, it is important to ensure that the functionality of the hidden room is not compromised. While professional installation is recommended due to the complexity of integrating jib doors, homeowners can actively collaborate with designers on wall treatments, paneling, cabinetry, or wallpaper to effectively camouflage the area. Coordinating millwork and hardware from the outset is also vital to achieve a seamless result, as retrofitting often falls short of the desired integration. Ultimately, the destination behind the hidden door is left to the homeowner's imagination, adding to the allure and personalized charm of this design trend. #DesignTrend #InteriorDesign #HiddenDoorways #HomeDecor #ArchitecturalDesign #ResidentialDesign #SpaceOptimization

Daniel Lalonde, CEO of Design Holding, a prominent luxury multibrand group in the high-end interiors market, outlines his strategic vision for the company's future, focusing on making the experience of purchasing high-end interior products more accessible. Design Holding, established through Investindustrial's acquisitions of Flos (2014), B&B Italia (2015), and Louis Poulsen (2018), has expanded its portfolio to include nine brands, such as Maxalto, Azucena, Arclinea, Fendi Casa, Audo, and Lumens. This consolidation has positioned the group as a significant entity in design-led, luxury interior products, operating in over 130 countries with ten manufacturing facilities. Lalonde, who assumed the CEO role in late 2021, brings extensive experience from luxury multi-brand companies like LVMH, Louis Vuitton, Ralph Lauren, and SMCP. He acknowledges the transition from high fashion to interiors as a "leap of faith" but recognizes commonalities in heritage, craftsmanship, and the use of top designers. The company's brands collectively boast an extensive collection of works from celebrated designers, including modern classics by Achille and Pier Giacomo Castiglioni, Poul Henningsen, Arne Jacobsen, and contemporary pieces by Tobia Scarpa, Antonio Citterio, Philippe Starck, Naoto Fukasawa, Jasper Morrison, and Piero Lissoni, among others. The group also actively seeks emerging design talent. A key aspect of Lalonde's strategy involves shifting the sales model to be more consumer-centric. Historically, over half of Design Holding's business relied on wholesale channels. To address this, the company has opened a 25,000 sq ft retail center at 135 Madison Avenue in New York. Designed in part by Lissoni & Partners, this flagship store provides distinct spaces for each brand, offering a comprehensive multibrand experience. This move aims to engage architects and designers, who significantly influence furniture sales (up to 45% in the US), by providing an immersive environment for both professionals and consumers to make informed decisions. Technological advancements are also integral to the strategy, with new e-commerce platforms and a configurator app being developed for individual brands. However, Lalonde emphasizes the importance of physical interaction with products, which the Madison Avenue store facilitates. The company is also exploring other innovative showcases, such as the West Coast model home at the Mandarin Oriental Residences in Beverly Hills, which features B&B Italia products exclusively. Lalonde's role includes maintaining the distinct identity and character of each brand while fostering collaboration. He highlights the complimentary nature of the brands, noting, for example, the different design DNA between a B&B Italia sofa and a Maxalto sofa. Collaborative efforts among contract teams across brands are encouraged, especially for large projects. The group includes Italian brands (B&B Italia, Maxalto, Azucena, Flos, Arclinea, Fendi Casa), Danish brands (Louis Poulsen, Audo), and the San Francisco-based Lumens. Sustainability and ethical practices are central to Design Holding's environmental, social, and corporate governance (ESG) strategy. The company prioritizes product longevity, quality, ease of maintenance, and repairability. They also focus on sourcing sustainable and ethical supply chains, with benefits extending across all nine brands, such as sourcing wood from certified forests. The preservation of traditional manufacturing techniques and skills is also a priority, with investments in technical schools in Italy to ensure the continuity of craftspeople. The company is also targeting expansion into new markets, particularly Asia, where there is a large luxury market but a relatively nascent high-end design market. Plans are underway to open stores in China, as Design Holding aims to bring the enduring value of design to a global audience. #DesignHolding #LuxuryInteriors #FurnitureBrands #RetailStrategy #DanielLalonde #SustainableDesign #GlobalExpansion #DesignInnovation #Craftsmanship